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But what exactly is llms.txt, who’s using it, and—more importantly—should you care? llms.txt is a proposed standard for helping LLMs access and interpret structured content from websites. You can read the full proposal on llmstext.org. In a nutshell, it’s a…Read more ›View the full article

Francesco Ferretti had a problem. His research expedition to track white sharks in the Mediterranean was suddenly adrift—the boat he’d arranged had vanished into the pandemic’s chaos of canceled plans and family emergencies. With scientific equipment packed and a team of seven researchers ready, the marine biologist found himself scanning the horizon for solutions. It was then that Ferretti turned to six-year-old Yachts for Science, a matchmaking service linking wealthy boat owners with cash-strapped researchers. Soon, an owner of a private yacht offered to help. Though weather conditions limited their time on the water and forced a relocation between countries, the expedition pressed on, with the yacht’s crew eagerly assisting with scientific operations. The unusual collaboration—luxury yacht meets marine research—proved successful despite the compromise of working on a vessel not specifically designed for scientific work. “Whenever the crew was there, and we were actually doing science, they were available to help,” says Ferretti. “Sometimes you need hands, or you need other people to do stuff for you, to facilitate even the most trivial things, like organizing buckets or helping with sampling.” Ferretti’s experience represents a growing movement in marine research, where luxury meets necessity. There are dozens of research vessels registered in the U.S., far more than any other country, including NOAA’s fleet of 15 research and survey ships, but availiablity can be scarce, and they aren’t cheap. Renting one of those vessels for an oceanographic expedition like this can cost upwards of $50,000 per day, according to Ferretti, a huge sum to raise for many scientists facing budget constraints. Meanwhile, the world’s ultra-wealthy use their multimillion-dollar yachts just a few weeks each year, with vessels sitting idle while still incurring substantial crew and maintenance costs. Organizations like Yachts for Science, the International SeaKeepers Society, and the Pink Flamingo Society aim to bridge this gap, turning underutilized pleasure craft into platforms for discovery, whether by donating full research expeditions or simply collecting ocean data during regular voyages. For scientists, these collaborations provide vital access to remote, understudied regions; for yacht owners, they offer tax benefits, meaningful engagement for crew, and the satisfaction of contributing to ocean conservation without necessarily sacrificing privacy or comfort. Rob McCallum, who helps facilitate these matchmaking arrangements through Yachts for Science, describes his organization as “the Tinder of the seas.” McCallum says they are on track to make about a dozen matches this year—amounting to about $1.4 million in vessel time for researchers—with plans to ramp up to hundreds of collaborations over the next few years, generating about $15 million in vessel time per year. “We’re just approaching some of our funders at the moment asking for $600,000 a year for three years to actually fund taking the brakes off,” says McCallum. “My belief is that it’ll grow almost to an infinite extent, because once you have yachts getting out there and doing science, it will become the thing discussed at cocktail parties.” The yacht owner who answered Ferretti’s call was Frank Peeters, a Belgian businessman whose vessel, Blue Titan, is what he calls “an adventure yacht” built for crossing oceans rather than hosting parties. “The boat is not fit for that many people,” says Peeters of the 27-meter (88-foot) yacht. “Normally we sail with 6 people and the crew, and here we were sometimes 12, 13, 14 people.” The expedition quickly faced challenges. After two days off the Tunisian coast, military officials intercepted the craft, claiming the research team lacked proper permissions. What followed was a bureaucratic struggle that lasted two weeks, with permits granted then mysteriously revoked. At one point, the boat was even briefly confiscated. Despite complications costing Peeters between 10,000 and 20,000 euros (about $11,000 to $22,000) out of pocket, he has no regrets. “Would I do it again? Yes, I would do it again immediately,” he says. “I know they have to work on very small budgets, and we could help there.” The scientists eventually redirected their shark-tracking expedition to Italian waters near Lampedusa, where they continued their research. While the team didn’t directly observe white sharks, they detected white shark environmental DNA (eDNA) at multiple sites, confirming the species’ presence in the area. This helped identify one of the last strongholds of the Mediterranean white shark population and marked a key step in launching a multi-institutional conservation program. Peeters, who describes himself as “kind of retired” and sails Blue Titan with his wife about 16 weeks a year, now follows the researchers on Instagram, occasionally receiving video updates about their work. He was also acknowledged in the scientific paper that resulted from the expedition—a form of compensation he finds “definitely worthwhile.” For researchers like Ferretti, these collaborations involve compromise. Scientists must adapt their methodologies for yacht environments, working carefully in spaces designed for luxury rather than research. But with U.K. research grant success rates dipping below 10% and U.S. government funding for the sciences increasingly uncertain, these adaptations reflect a persistent reality. Beyond donating entire vessels for expeditions, yacht owners can contribute to science with minimal effort by installing simple data collection technology on their luxury vessels, which often venture into remote, understudied areas where scientific data is scarce. “A lot of these boats are going into data-poor regions where there isn’t a lot of information,” says Roman Chiporukha, who co-runs Roman & Erica, a travel company for ultra-wealthy clients. “They could be mapping ocean floors where it hasn’t been done in the past.” For yacht owners, these donations can also yield financial benefits. “When you’re donating the boat, it acts as a donation from a philanthropic institution,” says Chiporukha. “If I charter my boat for half a million dollars a week, I just wrote off half a million dollars [in taxes].” Yachts are, of course, not typically associated with ocean protection or environmental stewardship: A 2018 study found that the world’s top 20 billionaires emitted around 8,000 metric tons of CO2 annually, compared to the average citizen’s carbon footprint of around 4 tons, or 15 tons in the United States; and that a staggering two-thirds of these emissions were created by their superyachts. And not all ocean inhabitants welcome the presence of luxury vessels: See the Iberian orcas that have taken to ramming yachts off the Spanish coast since 2020. Researchers have used eyewitness reports to study these encounters—another way yacht owners can contribute to marine science—and have speculated that the behavior may be juvenile whales using boat rudders as target practice for bluefin tuna.) The luxury vessels participating in this scientific matchmaking vary widely. Turkey-based international company Bering Yachts found an opportunity not just in donating yacht time but in experiencing extraordinary research firsthand. “I felt very privileged to be there,” says Bering Yachts founder Alexei Mikhailov, who joined an expedition last year to Silver Banks in the Dominican Republic, a whale sanctuary that permits only about 500 visitors annually. “When you’re surrounded by thousands of whales and mothers with babies, action around you 360 degrees, 24/7, it’s insane.” The research trip utilized a customer’s 30-meter steel-and-aluminum yacht, positioning scientists 80 miles offshore in consistently rough seas. Despite 5- to 7-foot waves that would typically cause severe discomfort, the vessel’s dual stabilization systems created a comfortable platform for the researchers and their sensitive equipment. For Mikhailov, whose early career was dedicated to environmental protection, the expedition reconnected him with scientific pursuit in a profound way that he hopes he can help replicate with Yachts for Science again. “It was very interesting to talk to these people and share stories,” says Mikhailov. “I hope we’ll have another chance to visit a place like this in the future.” View the full article

Discover how to gather metrics for local SEO success and learn how to optimize your efforts. View the full article

There’s a new star in the firmament of fake new: White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. Known for her combative press conferences, Leavitt is at the center of a tornado of misinformation that is being spread on both sides of the political spectrum. To set the record straight on two of the most viral fake Leavitt stories: She did not say people will love tariffs if they “avoid woke things like math.” And she did not appear on the Stephen Colbert Show. So if you believed either of these things, you’re wrong, Before you feel too bad for the lies being told about Leavitt, she is okay with spreading fake news of her own, so it's a huge mess. Karoline Leavitt did not say math is woke This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. The above image has been shared and re-shared on Instagram, BlueSky, Reddit, and probably Friendster, so basically everyone has seen it. The X post above has been viewed over 2.6 million times alone. But Leavitt never said math is woke. This is a doctored version of an actual screenshot from Fox News, so it's fake. It's actually a joke, but judging from comments like these... This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. ...a lot of people didn't see the humor in it. It's not just people on the left who missed the mark; presumed defenders of Leavitt felt the need to refute the picture with political "whataboutism" like this: This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. While the creator of the image is unknown, it was created as satire—but political parody is nearly impossible to pull off these days. This is a perfect example of Poe's Law in action. Poe's law states, basically, "any parodic expression of extreme views can be mistaken by some readers for a sincere expression of those views." That tracks. Karoline Leavitt did not debate Stephen Colbert The fake news from the other side of the aisle can't hide behind "It's just a joke." The above YouTube video isn't meant to be funny. It looks and sounds like a straight-forward news story recounting Karoline Leavitt appearing on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert and completely owning the late night host in a debate. "I know what Americans want more than some ivory tower news outlets or millionaire hosts like you," Leavitt supposedly said, "The President's working for the people, not for you guys." Except Leavitt has never been on The Late Show. Everything about this clip was generated by AI, from the video footage of Leavitt, to the voice-over, to the content. It's a crude fake—as far as I know, the real Karoline Leavitt only has five fingers on her hands, and news anchors don't pronounce "asterisk" aloud when it appears in their scripts unless they're Ron Burgundy—but it's been viewed over 60,000 times. In the comment section, opinions are divided as to its reality, despite a disclaimer reading "Sound or visuals were significantly edited or digitally generated." The video was posted by a channel called "Phantom Stories," which, until very recently, only posted AI-generated videos about cars and trucks, dozens of them, like this one. Eleven days ago, something changed at Phantom Stories, and the accursed algorithm that chooses its content went all in on Karoline Leavitt. According to Phantom Stories, Leavitt has: Appeared on Anderson Cooper's show and debated Michelle Obama. (Spoiler: Leavitt won the debate.) Debated Jasmine Crockett on Live TV. (Spoiler: Leavitt won this debate also.) "Destroyed" Robert DeNiro on Live TV. (You know the drill.) Was kicked out of a car dealership, only to return the next day with her husband driving a Rolls-Royce. Was fined in court for wearing a cross necklace. She then started an advocacy group that ended up inspiring a bi-partisan bill allowing religious expression. According to the video, in the future, Leavitt will tell her daughter about this. Made Steve Harvey cry. Stay tuned for more news on fake Karoline Leavitt as it develops. View the full article

"Too often, we're stepping over dollars to pick up pennies." The Disruptors With Liz Farr Go PRO for members-only access to more Liz Farr. View the full article

"Too often, we're stepping over dollars to pick up pennies." The Disruptors With Liz Farr Go PRO for members-only access to more Liz Farr. View the full article

Here is a recap of what happened in the search forums today...View the full article

The partnership between the customer contact software provider and the operator of the Empower loan origination system was announced nearly one year ago. View the full article

Walgreens has agreed to pay up to $350 million in a settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice, who accused the pharmacy of illegally filling millions of prescriptions in the last decade for opioids and other controlled substances. The nationwide drugstore chain must pay the government at least $300 million and will owe another $50 million if the company is sold, merged, or transferred before 2032, according to the settlement reached last Friday. The government’s complaint, filed in January in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, alleges that Walgreens knowingly filled millions of illegal prescriptions for controlled substances between August 2012 and March 2023. These include prescriptions for excessive opioids and prescriptions filled significantly early. “We strongly disagree with the government’s legal theory and admit no liability,” Walgreens spokesperson Fraser Engerman said in a statement. “This resolution allows us to close all opioid related litigation with federal, state, and local governments and provides us with favorable terms from a cashflow perspective while we focus on our turnaround strategy.” Amid slumping store visits and shrinking market share, Walgreens announced it was closing 1,200 stores around the country last October. Rite Aid filed for bankruptcy at the end of 2023 as it was also dealing with losses and opioid lawsuit settlements. The U.S. Department of Justice filed a similar lawsuit against CVS in December. The complaint says Walgreens pharmacists filled these prescriptions despite clear red flags that the prescriptions were highly likely to be invalid, and the company pressured its pharmacists to fill them quickly. The government alleges Walgreen’s compliance officials ignored “substantial evidence” that its stores were filling unlawful prescriptions and withheld important information on opioid prescribers from its pharmacists. Walgreens then allegedly sought payment for many of the invalid prescriptions through Medicare and other federal healthcare programs in violation of the False Claims Act, according to the government. The U.S. Justice Department has moved to dismiss its complaint in light of Friday’s settlement. “Pharmacies have a legal responsibility to prescribe controlled substances in a safe and professional manner, not dispense dangerous drugs just for profit,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi in a statement. “This Department of Justice is committed to ending the opioid crisis and holding bad actors accountable for their failure to protect patients from addiction.” Walgreen has also entered into an agreement with the Drug Enforcement Administration to improve its compliance with rules around dispensing controlled substances, maintain policies and procedures requiring pharmacists to confirm the validity of controlled substance prescriptions, and maintain a system for blocking prescriptions from prescribers that are producing illegitimate prescriptions. With the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Walgreen has agreed to establish and maintain a compliance program that includes training, board oversight, and periodic reporting to the agency regarding the pharmacy’s dispensing of controlled substances. “In the midst of the opioid crisis that has plagued our nation, we rely on pharmacies to prevent not facilitate the unlawful distribution of these potentially harmful substances,” said Norbert E. Vint, Deputy Inspector General of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, in a statement. The settlement resolves four cases brought by former Walgreens employee whistleblowers. In 2022, CVS and Walgreens agreed to pay more than $10 billion in a multi-state settlement of lawsuits brought against them over the toll of the opioid crisis. Over the past eight years, drugmakers, wholesalers and pharmacies have agreed to more than $50 billion worth of settlements with governments—with most of the money required to be used to fight the opioid crisis. —Jaimie Ding, Associated Press View the full article

Discover the easiest way to add your business to Google Maps to reach more customers. View the full article

Key Takeaways Significance of a Strong Name: A well-chosen construction business name establishes brand identity and conveys trust, crucial for attracting clients in a competitive market.Prioritize Simplicity and Clarity: Names should be easy to pronounce and spell, enhancing memorability and reducing miscommunication with potential customers.Ensure Relevance: The business name should reflect the services offered, incorporating industry-specific terms to improve clarity and aid in search engine optimization (SEO).Engage in Market Research: Testing name ideas with potential customers gathers valuable feedback, ensuring the name resonates with the target audience and enhances brand loyalty.Avoid Common Pitfalls: Steer clear of generic names that dilute brand identity and conduct thorough trademark research to avoid legal issues that can hinder business growth.Incorporate Location-Based Elements: Using location in your business name can enhance local recognition and visibility in search results, fostering trust within the community. Choosing the right name for your construction business is crucial. It sets the tone for your brand and can make a lasting impression on potential clients. A strong name not only reflects your expertise but also conveys trust and reliability in a competitive market. You want a name that resonates with your target audience and highlights your unique services. Whether you’re focusing on residential projects or commercial builds, the right name can help you stand out. In this article, we’ll explore creative ideas and essential tips for crafting a memorable construction business name that captures your vision and attracts customers. Importance Of Choosing The Right Construction Business Name Choosing the right construction business name establishes your brand identity and creates a strong first impression. It conveys trustworthiness, which is essential in the competitive construction market. A well-thought-out name reflects your expertise and resonates with your target audience, whether in residential or commercial construction. A memorable name functions as a foundational element of your branding strategy. It influences customer acquisition and can enhance your marketing efforts. Consider how the name aligns with your business model and growth strategy. A name that highlights your unique services or specialties sets the stage for effective product development and innovation. Legal considerations come into play when selecting a business name. Ensure the name you choose has not been trademarked or used by another entity. Registering your business name as an LLC, sole proprietorship, or corporation can provide legal protections and benefit your branding. Incorporate the name into your digital marketing strategy early. Use it on your website, social media platforms, and email marketing campaigns to build recognition. A cohesive branding approach increases visibility and reinforces your business goals. Your name can enhance SEO and contribute to a successful sales funnel. Invest time in market research to understand what appeals to your target audience. Test different name ideas with potential customers to gather feedback. This process not only helps ensure that your name connects with your community but also fine-tunes your branding efforts for better engagement and loyalty. Selecting a strong business name for your construction startup is crucial for setting your venture up for success. Prioritize this decision as it can significantly affect your financing options, investor pitches, and overall growth strategy. Key Elements Of Effective Construction Business Names Creating an effective construction business name involves specific key elements that resonate with your target audience. Focus on simplicity and relevance to ensure the name leaves a strong impression. Simplicity And Clarity A good construction business name is easy to pronounce and spell. Simplicity reduces the risk of miscommunication, allowing clients to remember and recommend your services. Memorable names enhance word-of-mouth marketing and improve online visibility. For example, names like “BuildPro” or “DesignCraft” epitomize clarity and are straightforward, making them easier for potential customers to recall. Aim for a name that avoids complexity, ensuring that clients can easily recognize and engage with your brand. Relevance To Services Offered The name should reflect the services you provide. Incorporating construction-specific words such as “build,” “design,” or “architecture” helps set clear expectations for clients. For instance, “Concrete Solutions” conveys specialization in concrete work, which can attract clients actively seeking those services. Clear relevance not only strengthens your brand identity but also aids in search engine optimization (SEO), enhancing discoverability online. Choose a name that aligns with your core business model and showcases your expertise. Creative Strategies For Naming Your Construction Business Naming your construction business requires creativity and strategic thinking to ensure your name stands out in a competitive market. Here’s how to effectively approach the naming process. Combining Industry Terms Combining relevant construction industry terms makes your business name clear and memorable. This method highlights the services you provide and attracts your target audience. Consider these examples: Precision Builders: Emphasizes quality and accuracy. Reliable Roofing: Clearly states roofing services while conveying dependability. Solid Edge Construction: Suggests strength alongside construction services. Incorporating terms like “builders,” “contractors,” or specific services like “renovations” aids client recognition. A simple, relevant name gives the impression of professionalism, boosting branding efforts, especially in digital marketing and SEO. Using Location-Based Names Using location-based names connects your business to your community. This approach enhances local recognition and builds trust among potential clients seeking nearby services. Here are some examples: Chicago Custom Homes: Targets homeowners in a specific city. Miami Renovation Experts: Clearly indicates service scope and location. Including your city or region in your business name can also improve your visibility in local search results, making it easier for clients to find you. This tactic aligns with practical marketing strategies, especially for small businesses focusing on customer acquisition and growth strategies. Incorporating these strategies helps in crafting a distinctive business name that aligns with your vision while appealing to your audience’s needs. Common Mistakes To Avoid When Naming Your Construction Business Naming your construction business requires strategic thinking to avoid pitfalls that can hinder your brand’s growth and legal standing. The following key mistakes can affect your venture’s reputation and visibility in the market. Overshadowing Brand Identity Using overly descriptive or generic names can dilute your brand identity. Names like “The Construction Company” or “General Builders” fail to distinguish your business from others. Such names blend with many competitors, reducing memorability and recognition among your target audience. Unique and catchy names, such as “Precision Builders” or “Reliable Roofing,” enhance brand visibility and attract clients. A clear brand identity strengthens your marketing efforts and helps convey your business model and services effectively. Infringing On Existing Trademarks Not researching existing trademarks can lead to costly legal issues. Before settling on a name, conduct a thorough search across business registries, online domains, and trademark databases. Failure to do so may result in trademark disputes, forcing you to undergo expensive rebranding processes. Protecting your intellectual property through proper research helps you secure funding options and fosters trust among customers. Seeking legal advice on trademark registration can safeguard your business and ensure compliance as you navigate growth strategies. Conclusion Choosing the right name for your construction business is more than just a branding exercise. It’s about establishing trust and making a memorable impression on potential clients. A well-crafted name not only reflects your expertise but also resonates with your target audience. As you navigate this important decision, remember to consider creativity and clarity. Your name should be easy to remember and relevant to your services. Conducting market research and testing ideas with potential clients can provide valuable insights. Ultimately, a strong business name can set the foundation for your success and growth in a competitive industry. Take the time to get it right, and you’ll pave the way for lasting recognition and customer loyalty. Frequently Asked Questions Why is choosing the right name important for a construction business? A strong name establishes your brand’s identity, builds trust with potential clients, and differentiates your business in a competitive market. It should reflect your expertise and resonate with your target audience, setting the foundation for effective marketing and customer acquisition. How can I create a memorable name for my construction business? To create a memorable name, focus on simplicity, clarity, and relevance. Use industry-specific terms, ensure it’s easy to pronounce and spell, and test ideas with potential customers. Combining creative strategies can help you stand out and attract your ideal audience. What legal aspects should I consider when naming my construction business? Ensure the name is not already trademarked by conducting thorough research. Registering your business name and considering legal protection can prevent potential conflicts and support your branding strategy. Consulting a legal expert may also be beneficial. How does a business name impact SEO? A well-chosen business name, particularly one that includes relevant keywords, can improve your online visibility and search engine rankings. Incorporating the name into your digital marketing strategies early on helps in building brand recognition and attracting customers. What common mistakes should I avoid when naming my construction business? Avoid using generic or overly descriptive names, as they can dilute your brand identity. Additionally, steer clear of names that infringe on existing trademarks to prevent legal issues. Conduct proper research to ensure uniqueness and marketability. Can location-based names enhance business visibility? Yes, using location-based names can increase local recognition and trust among potential clients. A name like “Chicago Custom Homes” not only highlights your services but also emphasizes your local presence, making it easier for customers to find you. How can I test name ideas for my construction business? Gather feedback from potential customers or focus groups to assess their reactions to your name ideas. This insight can help refine your branding and ensure your name resonates with your target audience before making a final decision. Image Via Envato This article, "Creative Construction Business Names That Build Trust and Stand Out" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Key Takeaways Significance of a Strong Name: A well-chosen construction business name establishes brand identity and conveys trust, crucial for attracting clients in a competitive market.Prioritize Simplicity and Clarity: Names should be easy to pronounce and spell, enhancing memorability and reducing miscommunication with potential customers.Ensure Relevance: The business name should reflect the services offered, incorporating industry-specific terms to improve clarity and aid in search engine optimization (SEO).Engage in Market Research: Testing name ideas with potential customers gathers valuable feedback, ensuring the name resonates with the target audience and enhances brand loyalty.Avoid Common Pitfalls: Steer clear of generic names that dilute brand identity and conduct thorough trademark research to avoid legal issues that can hinder business growth.Incorporate Location-Based Elements: Using location in your business name can enhance local recognition and visibility in search results, fostering trust within the community. Choosing the right name for your construction business is crucial. It sets the tone for your brand and can make a lasting impression on potential clients. A strong name not only reflects your expertise but also conveys trust and reliability in a competitive market. You want a name that resonates with your target audience and highlights your unique services. Whether you’re focusing on residential projects or commercial builds, the right name can help you stand out. In this article, we’ll explore creative ideas and essential tips for crafting a memorable construction business name that captures your vision and attracts customers. Importance Of Choosing The Right Construction Business Name Choosing the right construction business name establishes your brand identity and creates a strong first impression. It conveys trustworthiness, which is essential in the competitive construction market. A well-thought-out name reflects your expertise and resonates with your target audience, whether in residential or commercial construction. A memorable name functions as a foundational element of your branding strategy. It influences customer acquisition and can enhance your marketing efforts. Consider how the name aligns with your business model and growth strategy. A name that highlights your unique services or specialties sets the stage for effective product development and innovation. Legal considerations come into play when selecting a business name. Ensure the name you choose has not been trademarked or used by another entity. Registering your business name as an LLC, sole proprietorship, or corporation can provide legal protections and benefit your branding. Incorporate the name into your digital marketing strategy early. Use it on your website, social media platforms, and email marketing campaigns to build recognition. A cohesive branding approach increases visibility and reinforces your business goals. Your name can enhance SEO and contribute to a successful sales funnel. Invest time in market research to understand what appeals to your target audience. Test different name ideas with potential customers to gather feedback. This process not only helps ensure that your name connects with your community but also fine-tunes your branding efforts for better engagement and loyalty. Selecting a strong business name for your construction startup is crucial for setting your venture up for success. Prioritize this decision as it can significantly affect your financing options, investor pitches, and overall growth strategy. Key Elements Of Effective Construction Business Names Creating an effective construction business name involves specific key elements that resonate with your target audience. Focus on simplicity and relevance to ensure the name leaves a strong impression. Simplicity And Clarity A good construction business name is easy to pronounce and spell. Simplicity reduces the risk of miscommunication, allowing clients to remember and recommend your services. Memorable names enhance word-of-mouth marketing and improve online visibility. For example, names like “BuildPro” or “DesignCraft” epitomize clarity and are straightforward, making them easier for potential customers to recall. Aim for a name that avoids complexity, ensuring that clients can easily recognize and engage with your brand. Relevance To Services Offered The name should reflect the services you provide. Incorporating construction-specific words such as “build,” “design,” or “architecture” helps set clear expectations for clients. For instance, “Concrete Solutions” conveys specialization in concrete work, which can attract clients actively seeking those services. Clear relevance not only strengthens your brand identity but also aids in search engine optimization (SEO), enhancing discoverability online. Choose a name that aligns with your core business model and showcases your expertise. Creative Strategies For Naming Your Construction Business Naming your construction business requires creativity and strategic thinking to ensure your name stands out in a competitive market. Here’s how to effectively approach the naming process. Combining Industry Terms Combining relevant construction industry terms makes your business name clear and memorable. This method highlights the services you provide and attracts your target audience. Consider these examples: Precision Builders: Emphasizes quality and accuracy. Reliable Roofing: Clearly states roofing services while conveying dependability. Solid Edge Construction: Suggests strength alongside construction services. Incorporating terms like “builders,” “contractors,” or specific services like “renovations” aids client recognition. A simple, relevant name gives the impression of professionalism, boosting branding efforts, especially in digital marketing and SEO. Using Location-Based Names Using location-based names connects your business to your community. This approach enhances local recognition and builds trust among potential clients seeking nearby services. Here are some examples: Chicago Custom Homes: Targets homeowners in a specific city. Miami Renovation Experts: Clearly indicates service scope and location. Including your city or region in your business name can also improve your visibility in local search results, making it easier for clients to find you. This tactic aligns with practical marketing strategies, especially for small businesses focusing on customer acquisition and growth strategies. Incorporating these strategies helps in crafting a distinctive business name that aligns with your vision while appealing to your audience’s needs. Common Mistakes To Avoid When Naming Your Construction Business Naming your construction business requires strategic thinking to avoid pitfalls that can hinder your brand’s growth and legal standing. The following key mistakes can affect your venture’s reputation and visibility in the market. Overshadowing Brand Identity Using overly descriptive or generic names can dilute your brand identity. Names like “The Construction Company” or “General Builders” fail to distinguish your business from others. Such names blend with many competitors, reducing memorability and recognition among your target audience. Unique and catchy names, such as “Precision Builders” or “Reliable Roofing,” enhance brand visibility and attract clients. A clear brand identity strengthens your marketing efforts and helps convey your business model and services effectively. Infringing On Existing Trademarks Not researching existing trademarks can lead to costly legal issues. Before settling on a name, conduct a thorough search across business registries, online domains, and trademark databases. Failure to do so may result in trademark disputes, forcing you to undergo expensive rebranding processes. Protecting your intellectual property through proper research helps you secure funding options and fosters trust among customers. Seeking legal advice on trademark registration can safeguard your business and ensure compliance as you navigate growth strategies. Conclusion Choosing the right name for your construction business is more than just a branding exercise. It’s about establishing trust and making a memorable impression on potential clients. A well-crafted name not only reflects your expertise but also resonates with your target audience. As you navigate this important decision, remember to consider creativity and clarity. Your name should be easy to remember and relevant to your services. Conducting market research and testing ideas with potential clients can provide valuable insights. Ultimately, a strong business name can set the foundation for your success and growth in a competitive industry. Take the time to get it right, and you’ll pave the way for lasting recognition and customer loyalty. Frequently Asked Questions Why is choosing the right name important for a construction business? A strong name establishes your brand’s identity, builds trust with potential clients, and differentiates your business in a competitive market. It should reflect your expertise and resonate with your target audience, setting the foundation for effective marketing and customer acquisition. How can I create a memorable name for my construction business? To create a memorable name, focus on simplicity, clarity, and relevance. Use industry-specific terms, ensure it’s easy to pronounce and spell, and test ideas with potential customers. Combining creative strategies can help you stand out and attract your ideal audience. What legal aspects should I consider when naming my construction business? Ensure the name is not already trademarked by conducting thorough research. Registering your business name and considering legal protection can prevent potential conflicts and support your branding strategy. Consulting a legal expert may also be beneficial. How does a business name impact SEO? A well-chosen business name, particularly one that includes relevant keywords, can improve your online visibility and search engine rankings. Incorporating the name into your digital marketing strategies early on helps in building brand recognition and attracting customers. What common mistakes should I avoid when naming my construction business? Avoid using generic or overly descriptive names, as they can dilute your brand identity. Additionally, steer clear of names that infringe on existing trademarks to prevent legal issues. Conduct proper research to ensure uniqueness and marketability. Can location-based names enhance business visibility? Yes, using location-based names can increase local recognition and trust among potential clients. A name like “Chicago Custom Homes” not only highlights your services but also emphasizes your local presence, making it easier for customers to find you. How can I test name ideas for my construction business? Gather feedback from potential customers or focus groups to assess their reactions to your name ideas. This insight can help refine your branding and ensure your name resonates with your target audience before making a final decision. Image Via Envato This article, "Creative Construction Business Names That Build Trust and Stand Out" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Is SEO enough for ChatGPT visibility? New data says: not always. See where SEO and LLM overlap and where they don’t. The post How Is Answer Engine Optimization Different From SEO? appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

It's the old days of Twitter all over again: Bluesky is launching an official verification process for awarding the blue check mark to "notable" user accounts, adding to the platform's existing option to self-verify using an owned domain. Since 2023, Bluesky has allowed individuals and organizations to "verify" their own accounts by setting their domain as their user name—NPR is @npr.org, for example, and NPR journalists are on the subdomain @name.npr.org—in a decentralized approach to signaling authenticity and building trust. Because connecting a domain required users to own or have access to that domain, this was one way of proving identity. However, Bluesky still saw a rash of fake and impersonator accounts, as self-verification required users to know (or investigate) which domains were real and trustworthy. Bluesky will soon launch a more centralized verification process that requires accounts to be reviewed and approved by platform moderators. Verification exists in various forms across other social platforms, ranging from pay-to-play on X (replacing the legacy verification process for notable and authentic accounts) to Instagram's applications for accounts representing a "well-known, highly searched-for person, brand or entity" that has been featured in multiple news sources. How Bluesky verification worksAccording to a blog post announcing the change, Bluesky's moderation team will "proactively verify authentic and notable accounts," which will then have a blue check mark displayed next to their names. In addition, select organizations will have the power to issue blue check marks directly through the Trusted Verifiers feature—for example, The New York Times will be able verify its individual journalists. Bluesky's moderators will still review each verification, and other users will be able to see which organization granted it by tapping on the blue check. For now, individuals and organizations cannot apply to be verified, though Bluesky expects to open requests for verification and Trusted Verifier status at some point in the future "as this feature stabilizes." Users can still self-verify using domain names. If you prefer, you can hide verification in the Bluesky app under Settings > Moderation > Verification Settings. View the full article

The Education Department will begin collection next month on student loans that are in default, including the garnishing of wages for potentially millions of borrowers, officials said Monday. Currently, roughly 5.3 million borrowers are in default on their federal student loans. The The President administration’s announcement marks an end to a period of leniency that began during the COVID-19 pandemic. No federal student loans have been referred for collection since March 2020, including those in default. Under President Joe Biden, the Education Department tried multiple times to give broad forgiveness of student loans, only to be stopped by courts. “American taxpayers will no longer be forced to serve as collateral for irresponsible student loan policies,” Education Secretary Linda McMahon said. Beginning May 5, the department will begin involuntary collection through the Treasury Department’s offset program, which withholds government payments—including tax refunds, federal salaries and other benefits—from people with past-due debts to the government. After a 30-day notice, the department also will begin garnishing wages for borrowers in default. The decision to send debt to collections drew criticism from advocates, who said borrowers had experienced whiplash and confusion with the changing student loan policies between the Biden and The President administrations. “This is cruel, unnecessary and will further fan the flames of economic chaos for working families across this country,” said Mike Pierce, executive director of the Student Borrower Protection Center. Already, many borrowers have been bracing for obligations coming due. In 2020, President Donald The President paused federal student loan payments and interest accrual as a temporary relief measure for student borrowers. The pause in payments was extended multiple times by the Biden administration through 2023, and a final grace period for loan repayments ended in October 2024. That meant tens of millions of Americans had to start making payments again. Borrowers who don’t make payments for nine months go into default, which is reported on their credit scores and can go to collections. Along with the borrowers already in default, around another four million are 91 to 180 days late on their loan payments. Less than 40% of all borrowers are current on their student loans, department officials said. Layoffs at the Federal Student Aid office at the Education Department have made it harder for students to get their questions answered, even if they wanted to pay their loans, said Kristin McGuire, executive director for Young Invincibles, a group that focuses on economic security for younger adults. And questions are swirling about certain income-driven repayment programs after a February court ruling blocked some of the payment plans. Borrowers in the more lenient, Biden-era SAVE Plan were placed in forbearance, in which borrowers receive relief from payments but still accrue interest. The Education Department in February took down applications for income-driven repayment programs—which tie a monthly payment to a person’s income level—only to bring them back online a month later. “Things are really difficult to understand right now. Things are changing every day,” McGuire said. “We can’t assume that people are in default because they don’t want to pay their loans. People are in default because they can’t pay their loans and because they don’t know how to pay their loans.” For borrowers in default, one step to avoid wage garnishment is to get into loan rehabilitation, said Betsy Mayotte, president of The Institute for Student Loan Advisors. Borrowers must ask their loan servicer to be placed into such a program. Typically, servicers ask for proof of income and expenses to calculate a payment amount. Once a borrower has paid on time for nine months in a row, they are taken out of default, Mayotte said. A loan rehabilitation can only be done once. Biden oversaw the cancellation of student loans for more than 5 million borrowers. Despite the Supreme Court’s rejection of his signature proposal for broad relief, he waived more than $183.6 billion in student loans through expanded forgiveness programs. In her statement Monday, McMahon said Biden had gone too far. “Going forward, the Department of Education, in conjunction with the Department of Treasury, will shepherd the student loan program responsibly and according to the law, which means helping borrowers return to repayment—both for the sake of their own financial health and our nation’s economic outlook,” she said. Associated Press writer Adriana Morga in New York contributed to this report. The Associated Press’ education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org. —Annie Ma AP, Education Writer View the full article

Fund lowers outlook for G7 nations and major economies including China and India as trade conflict hits growthView the full article

Inflation surge expected to be temporary, allowing scope for three more rate cuts this year View the full article

There are now useful language translation features everywhere you look, whether they're built into your web browser or available through your AI assistant of choice. If you own a recent Google Pixel phone (the Pixel 6 or later), you've also got access to a suite of features known as Live Translate, which work across calls, texts, and media. This functionality works separately from Google Translate, and is actually built right into Android on Pixel devices. It means you can understand conversations you're having or videos you're watching in a foreign language without any additional apps, and it's straightforward to set up and use. Live Translate works quickly, too, leveraging the processing power of Google's Tensor chips (which is why you need a Pixel phone to make use of these features). Similar features have appeared on other Android phones: If you have a Samsung Galaxy handset, you can make use of Galaxy AI for live translations. Note that only a limited number of languages are supported at the time of writing, when it comes to on-board, local conversions without any data being sent to the cloud for processing. For audio translations, for example, you only have access to French, German, Italian, Spanish, and Japanese. Configuring Live Translate Languages need to be downloaded to your device. Credit: Lifehacker Live Translate should actually be on by default on your Android phone. You can check this is the case and configure the features by opening Settings, then tapping System and Live Translate. There's a toggle switch here for turning Live Translate on or off, and a toggle switch for restricting language downloads to times when you're on wifi. Part of what makes Live Translate so straightforward to use is that it'll automatically detect languages you come across as you use your phone, and prompt you to download the necessary data files. Unlike Google Translate, you must have languages downloaded locally for the feature to work. If a language isn't downloaded automatically for whatever reason, or you want to make sure it's prepared in advance, tap Add a language and make your choice. This Live Translate settings screen is where you can access your downloaded languages: Use the toggle switches to enable and disable them, or tap a language and then choose Remove language to delete it. Using Live Translate for messages Enabling Live Translate in Google Messages. Credit: Lifehacker One of the apps Live Translate will work in is Google Messages. If the app detects that someone is messaging you in a different language, you should see a pop-up inviting you to use Live Translate. If it doesn't appear, try tapping and holding on a message, then selecting the copy button at the top (the two rectangles)—you should then see a prompt to turn on translation. With Live Translate enabled, incoming messages will show up as English (if that's your default language)—exactly as if you were messaging with a native English speaker. You'll also be prompted to translate your English texts into whatever the relevant language is, before you send them, so you can be understood. You'll get a persistent toolbar at the top of a chat when Live Translate is running, and you can tap on this for further options—including the option to translate all the messages in a conversation. If you want to switch off the feature permanently for a chat, choose Don't translate again; to temporarily disable it, choose Hide translations for now (you can enable translations again using the copy trick above). Using Live Translate for audio The Live Caption button during a phone call. Credit: Lifehacker You can also get Live Translate working for any audio—phone calls, video dialog, podcasts, and so on. This overlaps with the Live Captions feature in Android that you can configure separately—the difference being that the Pixel Tensor chips can do translation work quickly, on your device, without needing the cloud. When you're in a phone call or listening to audio, tap either of the volume buttons to bring up the volume slider on screen, then tap the three dots underneath it. You should then see a Live Caption button you can tap. Once the captions are on screen, and a foreign language is detected, you get a prompt to translate the text to English (or the default language for your device). To get further options, tap the text on screen—here you can force a translation to English if it isn't happening automatically, or turn translations off again. You will also see an icon that looks similar to a painter's palette, and if you tap on this you can configure how the captions appear in terms of size and color. Other uses of Live Translate Live Translate through the camera, via Google Lens. Credit: Lifehacker You're also able to use Live Translate through your camera, though this isn't much different to using Google Lens on any Android device: The only advantage you have with Live Translate is the local processing, which may come in handy if you're abroad and have limited access to cell networks or wifi. Tap the Google Lens button in the Google search bar on your Pixel home screen—it's the one that looks like a colorful camera—then point your camera at something like a sign or a menu written in a foreign language. If you then switch to the Translate mode on screen, the text should be translated almost instantly on your phone display. In addition, Google has previously advertised an interpreter mode, where live conversations are translated in real time. However, this originally worked via Google Assistant, and given the switch to Google Gemini that's now happening, it now seems to have been disabled (it's not functioning for me, at least). You can use the Conversation mode built into Google Translate for this instead: Just tap Conversation inside the app. View the full article

Educational videos are among the top 10 most-consumed video content formats globally, according to Statista. And it makes sense. Video is one of the fastest, most engaging ways to teach, demonstrate, and connect. But for creators and businesses alike, making a video that actually works (as in: educates, retains, or converts) requires more than hitting “record.” I’ve been creating online content for years, so I know what works and what doesn’t. Our online SEO training has helped thousands of marketers level up their skills through self-paced modules, monthly live Q&A webinars, and on-demand videos. Our “Ask Us Anything” video series and SEO agency commercials are produced with the help of our award-winning video producer. Our YouTube channel continues to serve as a central hub for sharing educational content. Whether you’re creating onboarding tutorials, educational content for your audience, or a course you plan to sell, below are tips I’ve seen succeed across every stage of the video creation process, from concept to camera to clicks. Define the purpose and audience through a clear strategy. Craft content around in-demand topics and the type of video. Script and storyboard to ensure clarity of the message. Select the right tech stack for your needs. Focus on production fundamentals for effective videos. Optimize for search when visibility is a priority. Publish, promote, and measure success to track performance. 1. Define the purpose and audience through a clear strategy Every great educational video starts with a clear strategy. Before you pick up the camera or open your editing software, you must know who you’re creating for and what you’re trying to achieve. Clarify the purpose Just like SEO, intent is everything in video production, so clarify the purpose upfront. Are you aiming to solely educate or train, or will your video have an element of conversion? Maybe your education video is meant to retain your existing audience instead. Whatever the purpose, the objective shapes the video’s content, tone, and structure. For instance, an SEO training module will differ significantly from an educational demo intended to convert prospects.​ Understand your audience Understanding your audience is equally important. Consider their goals, challenges, skill levels, and preferred learning styles. Are they beginners looking for foundational knowledge or advanced users looking for in-depth insights? Tailoring your content to meet their needs will make your video more effective.​ Free or paid? Consider whether your content will be free or paid. Free videos can build brand awareness and provide value to a broad audience, while paid content often offers in-depth training or exclusive insights. Knowing the role of videos within your broader content strategy, SEO initiatives, and customer journey will help you incorporate free and paid content where it makes the most sense. 2. Craft content around in-demand topics and the type of video Whether you’re creating a one-off tutorial or a full training series, the key is to start with a clear plan of attack for the content. Coming up with video topics Your videos should align with either audience intent (what they’re searching for) or a structured curriculum (what they need to learn over time). Here are some ways to generate topic ideas: If your videos support a product or service, look at keyword intent and customer FAQs to generate topics. What questions are coming up in comments, sales calls or support tickets? If you’re building an online course or internal training program, outline a logical progression. You can also use keyword tools, YouTube’s autocomplete, or even generative AI to help brainstorm ideas around a theme. For more inspiration, you can spy on competitors’ educational videos. If you already have blog content or written guides, repurposing those into educational videos is another easy place to start. Define the video format Choosing the video format dictates the rest of the video creation process. For example, how-to videos are great educational formats that provide step-by-step guidance. Plus, you can increase your chances of showing up in the search results for target “how to” queries with YouTube videos. In 2023, more than 30% of Google desktop SERPs in the U.S. featured a video carousel, video result or featured video, according to Semrush. People watch more of a how-to video than any other type of video, per Wistia’s “2025 State of Video Report.” Another thing to consider is how you’ll deliver the content in the video. Some companies prefer talking head videos, which add a personal touch and are a great way to build a brand when internal folks serve as educators on camera. Others prefer animations, which can help simplify abstract concepts. Webinars ​are another great way to help educate your audience. The majority of businesses (60%) use webinars for training or coaching sessions, followed by thought leadership events (50%), per Wistia. We’ve seen great success with a monthly live Q&A webinar on my SEO training membership site. In fact, many of our students become our clients after spending time with our training videos. Structure each video Most high-performing videos follow a similar structure: Hook. Introduction. Main content. Recap. A call-to-action (CTA). This is true whether you’re publishing on YouTube or delivering a paid course. You’ll need to adjust the pacing for training modules versus a marketing video. The hook is especially important. We’ve found the most success when you can capture interest within the first five seconds of the video. This could be done through a surprising fact, a visual teaser, or a question the viewer wants answered. From there, keep the pacing tight. Avoid over-explaining and cut the fluff where possible. Even long-form training videos should feel intentional and well-paced. Length matters Not all videos perform equally – and much of it comes down to how long they are. Based on Wistia’s analysis of over 100 million videos (linked earlier), viewer engagement varies significantly by duration. Under one minute Short videos work – especially on social or as top-of-funnel content – but they need to get to the point fast. Wistia found that videos under one minute had the highest average engagement rate at 50%. Short videos can be ideal for quick social snippets or teasers for longer video content. . One to five minutes Videos in this range also held attention fairly well. One to three minutes: 46% average engagement. Three to five minutes: 45% average engagement. Wistia notes that how-to videos under five minutes were especially strong performers, with viewers watching more than two-thirds of the way through, on average. Five to 30 minutes Once videos pass the five-minute mark, engagement starts to dip. Wistia’s data shows: Five to 30 minutes: 38% average engagement. 30 to 60 minutes: 25%. 60+ minutes: Just 17%. That doesn’t mean you should avoid longer videos entirely – just be intentional. We have found that shorter videos (like reels) tend to get more views because they’re something somebody can watch quickly. But long-form videos tend to have higher conversion rates because they demonstrate more knowledge and authority on a topic. What about course modules? The most profitable online courses are typically between 10 to 25 hours in total length, per Thinkific’s data from 40,000 course creators. The data suggests that five- to 10-hour courses are about 75% as profitable, and longer courses – 25 to 100 hours – are slightly less profitable than those. Regardless, the advice is that the ideal course length is the shortest time required to achieve the learning objectives. Sequence for learning If you’re creating educational content, sequencing matters. Build with progression in mind, with lessons getting slightly more advanced over time. Use reinforcement techniques like callbacks, visual repetition, or simple recap slides to help learners retain key points. The flow should feel intuitive and purposeful. 3. Script and storyboard to ensure clarity of the message Scripting and storyboarding help you organize your message and plan how it will appear on screen. Start with a script Whether you’re creating a tutorial or building an online course, scripting keeps your message focused and easy to follow. If the video is structured – like a course module or product walkthrough – a full script is ideal. It helps you stay on track and hit all the key points without rambling. But not every video needs a word-for-word script. If you’re podcasting, recording a founder Q&A, or filming a talking-head update, a loose outline with bullet points works better. You still need to know where the conversation is going, but it should feel natural, not rehearsed. Visual planning Once you have your script or outline, translate it into a visual plan. This is where storyboarding comes in. A storyboard helps you map out what will appear on screen and when. It’s helpful if your video includes product walkthroughs, charts, or training steps that build on one another. This part doesn’t have to be complicated. You’re simply matching the visuals with your message to make the content easier to understand. Add visual cues that stick Visual cues matter more than most people realize. On-screen text, callouts, arrows, annotations, and simple scene transitions help guide the viewer’s attention and reinforce key points. For most educational videos (excluding longer formats like podcasts or webinars), aim to change the visual every five to 10 seconds. That could mean: Switching camera angles. Zooming in slightly at the same angle. Cutting to a supporting visual. It might feel like a lot, but those subtle shifts keep viewers engaged. Also, this may be obvious, but if you’re including a screen recording with a voice-over, make sure what’s happening on-screen matches what’s being said. Use tools to perfect the process There are plenty of tools out there to help you organize and visualize your ideas before you record. Tools like Boords and Storyboarder are great for visualizing a scene-by-scene breakdown. Even Canva can work well for rough storyboarding if you’re already using it for design. You don’t need anything fancy, just something that lets you sketch things out before you press record. And when you’re ready to record, you can use teleprompter apps to help you deliver your message smoothly. 4. Select the right tech stack for your needs Whether you’re recording a quick tutorial or producing a full online course, choosing the right gear, software, and hosting platform will save time, improve quality, and keep your process sustainable. Match the tools to your goals You don’t need the most expensive gear to make great video content. What matters most is choosing tools that match the type of content you’re creating and the audience you’re serving. If you’re a solo course creator, a smartphone camera, lapel mic and natural lighting can go a long way. For internal training, you can level up with a mirrorless camera and external mic. For a higher-end effect, invest in a more expensive camera, lighting, audio, and nice backgrounds to create a polished brand experience. Regardless of the setup, don’t skip a test shoot. Check your resolution, depth of field, and lighting to ensure the final result looks the way you intend. Tools for recording your screen If you’re doing tutorials or walkthroughs, screen recording software is a must. QuickTime is what we use – it’s quick, easy and does everything we need. Loom is a fast, no-fuss option for quick recordings. Camtasia gives you more robust editing tools for polished content. ScreenFlow is a solid choice for Mac users who want both recording and editing features in one place. Edit smarter, not harder Editing doesn’t have to be intimidating. Some tools are built to make this part easier, especially for solo creators. Descript is great if you want to edit your video like a document. Final Cut Pro and Adobe Premiere Pro give you more creative control but come with a steeper learning curve. You can also hire a video editor, especially if you need a high-end result or just want to save time. Hosting your videos YouTube is the most widely used video platform globally, making it ideal for reach and search visibility on educational content. It’s also the second-most popular social network worldwide, which means a lot of exposure for your brand. YouTube videos can be an essential part of an SEO program when targeting certain keywords (like educational and how-to searches). But remember, only verified accounts can upload videos longer than 15 minutes. Then there are LMS platforms like Thinkific, Teachable, and Kajabi, which are built for structured learning. If you’re building a course, these platforms offer features like chaptering, progress tracking, and quizzes to support the full student experience. Finally, Vimeo and Wistia give you more control over branding, privacy, and analytics. They’re especially useful for customer training, B2B product onboarding, or gated video content. Using AI AI is quickly changing the video production space. About 41% of companies are already using it for video, per Wistia’s most recent data (linked earlier), and another 19% will start using it soon. Using AI can be particularly beneficial for short-form content, where speed and efficiency are key. Tools like OpusClip use AI to automatically generate short clips from longer videos, optimizing them for platforms such as TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Instagram Reels. But AI is also expanding creative possibilities. For instance, we’ve successfully used AI to modify our SEO training course online. Because SEO is a rapidly changing industry, SEO training can quickly become stale. Instead of reshooting whole sections of our training course, we used an AI avatar of me to deliver updated talking points – and it looks surprisingly like me. However, it’s important to use AI cautiously. Love it or hate it, AI is a controversial tool, and some people may be turned off by it. That said, overreliance on AI-generated content can lead to videos that feel impersonal or lack authenticity. While AI can assist in scripting, editing, and even avatars and visuals, the human touch remains essential to ensure content resonates with viewers.​ Stay on top of your video performance with analytics and use your intuition to decide whether AI-generated videos resonate. The right balance ensures your videos remain trustworthy.​ Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. Business email address Sign me up! Processing... See terms. 5. Focus on production fundamentals for effective videos You don’t need a full production crew to make professional-looking videos, but you do need to get the fundamentals right. Prioritize audio quality If you’re going to invest in one part of your production setup, start with sound. Viewers are much more likely to tolerate a slightly grainy video than audio that’s hard to hear. Multiple studies have found that poor audio quality influences whether people trust what they hear and how they perceive you overall. A lav mic or USB condenser mic is an easy and worthwhile upgrade. Get the basics right You don’t need a studio setup to get a clear shot. Just focus on even lighting (natural light works great), a camera angle that’s eye level or slightly above and a clutter-free background. If you’re doing a screen recording, make sure the visuals are crisp and readable. Zoom in on sections when needed, and don’t clutter the screen with too much at once. Batch and template your process The more videos you make, the more it pays to streamline. Batching – filming multiple videos in one sitting – helps you stay in flow and save time. Templating your intros, outros, transitions and even lower-thirds (the graphic overlays that typically appear in the lower third of the screen) can make your content consistent and reduce the decisions you have to make for every single video. Make it accessible This isn’t just a “nice to have.” Captions help viewers who are deaf or hard of hearing, support people watching in a sound-off environment, and can even boost comprehension for non-native speakers. Most video tools now make it easier to autogenerate and edit captions. These are key in formal learning environments or when you’re serving global audiences. Think about the viewer experience Pacing, tone, and delivery matter. What works for an internal training video isn’t the same as a how-to on YouTube. For instance, in training content, give your viewers time to absorb the information – use pauses, reinforce key points, and keep instructions easy to follow. Know when to call backup Sure, you can technically do everything yourself, but that doesn’t mean you should. Even the most experienced video producers hire out when it makes sense. Whether you need a motion designer for intro graphics, a video editor to clean up pacing and polish transitions, or a script consultant to help shape the story, know your weaknesses (or resource constraints) and make the call. 6. Optimize for search when visibility is a priority Up to 82% of marketers say video has helped them increase web traffic. Not every video needs to be optimized for search – but when visibility is the goal, it’s worth the effort. When SEO makes sense If you’re publishing on YouTube or embedding tutorials on your site, optimization can help your content get discovered. Moz data once showed that YouTube videos make up over 94% of all video results in Google. If your audience is searching for answers, YouTube is a strong place to meet them. When it’s not a priority If your content lives behind a login or paywall – like course modules or internal training – SEO doesn’t need to be part of your workflow. In those cases, focus instead on the learning experience and making the video content clear, helpful and well-paced. Start with keyword research Google’s Gary Illyes has stated that if you see video results for a keyword, that’s your cue to consider making a video for it. Start by targeting topics that already bring up video results in Google or YouTube. Tools like YouTube’s search predictions, AnswerThePublic, and other keyword tools on the market can help surface what people are actually searching for. When in doubt, do a search. If there’s already a cluster of how-to videos, you’ve got a green light. Optimize for search SEO for videos doesn’t have to be complicated. However, the approach varies depending on where your video is hosted. Here’s where to focus. For YouTube-hosted videos Metadata: Google states that the title, thumbnail, and description are the more important pieces of metadata for video discovery. Title Write a clear, engaging title that tells viewers exactly what they’ll get. Include your main keyword near the beginning, and keep it under 60 characters so it doesn’t get cut off in search. Make sure it reflects the actual content. Clickbait might get the click, but it won’t earn trust. Use things like all caps or emojis sparingly to highlight the right words. Thumbnails Design custom thumbnails that are visually appealing and accurately represent the content. YouTube now has a feature to test your thumbnails. Description Write a clear, keyword-rich description that tells viewers and YouTube what your video is about. (You have up to 5,000 characters here!) Include relevant keywords naturally. Link out to your website, social channels, or other videos when it makes sense. Use line breaks or bullet points to make it easy to scan. Dig deeper: The DESCRIBE framework for effective YouTube descriptions User engagement signals: While metadata is foundational for YouTube SEO, the platform’s algorithm places a lot of emphasis on user engagement and satisfaction. YouTube values the following: Click-through rate (CTR): This is where the thumbnail comes into play once again. Watch time and retention: Videos that hold attention tend to get promoted more. Engagement: Likes, comments, shares and subscribers all tell YouTube your content is valuable. Viewer satisfaction: YouTube looks at behavior after the video ends – like whether someone bounces or keeps watching. Personalization: The algorithm tailors results based on viewer behavior, so understand your audience and create for them. More optimization tips: Here are additional tips that help optimize videos for YouTube: Timestamps: Break up your video into clear, clickable sections. This is especially helpful in long-form or educational content. Captions: Add closed captions for accessibility and extra context. End screens and cards: Help people take the next step. Recommend another video, playlist, or even a site link. Group content into playlists: This improves watch time and helps viewers binge your content. Consistent branding: Keep your intros, tone and visual style cohesive so viewers start to recognize your content instantly. Engage in the comments: Respond, ask questions, start conversations. YouTube notices when a video sparks interaction. For videos hosted on your website When hosting videos on your own platform, the SEO focus shifts a bit. First, understand that self-hosted videos can appear in several key areas on search engines like Google and Bing:​ Video search tabs: Both Google and Bing have dedicated “videos” tabs that filter results to show only video content.​ This is a key place to show up. Main search results: Your video might show up as a rich snippet alongside standard web results, complete with a thumbnail, title and description.​ Featured video results: For certain queries, Google may highlight a video prominently at the top of the search results. Key optimization strategies include:​ Dedicated video pages: Create individual pages for each video, ensuring that the video is the main content on the page. This allows for more precise optimization. Page title and meta description: Ensure the webpage hosting the video has a clear, keyword-rich title and meta description. This helps search engines understand the page’s content.​ Video metadata. This includes things like the video title, description, duration, and thumbnail URL. Structured data: Implement video schema to provide search engines and people with detailed information about your video. You can highlight key moments, live broadcasts, educational content and more. This can enhance your video’s appearance in search results.​ Transcripts and captions: Including a transcript and/or captions on the page improves accessibility and provides additional content for search engines to index.​ Contextual content: On the same note, surround your video with relevant text content on the page to give search engines more context about the video’s subject matter.​ Stable video URLs: If your video files or thumbnail URLs change frequently or expire, Google may not be able to index them reliably. So stick with permanent, clean URLs and double-check that they’re not blocked by robots.txt or other restrictions. This is one of those technical details that’s easy to overlook. Videos above the fold. Put your video front and center on the page – ideally above the fold – so both users and search engines recognize it as the main content. But don’t sacrifice speed to do it. Use lazy loading where possible, and consider lighter formats like WebM to keep load times fast. Video sitemaps: If you’re hosting multiple videos, consider creating a video sitemap. This helps search engines discover and index your video content more efficiently. Dig deeper: 7 video optimization tips to boost your organic reach in 2025 7. Publish, promote, and measure success to track performance Creating the video is only half the job. To get the most out of it, you need to publish, promote, and pay attention to what happens next. Publishing and promoting Whether you are promoting free or paid educational content, don’t just post it and hope for the best. Publishing with a strategy makes a big difference in who sees your content and how it performs. Start with your owned channels Start by embedding videos on your website where it makes sense – on a course landing page, a sales page, or a relevant blog post. If you have an email list, use it. Email is still one of the most effective ways to get in front of warm leads. You can build a short email sequence around a course launch, for instance, or simply drop the video into a newsletter with a clear call to action. Share where your audience is Social media can help your video gain traction, especially if your audience already follows you there. Don’t just post once – share the video in different formats over time: full video, short clips or even just a quote or takeaway. Each platform has its own rhythm and opportunities: Instagram/Facebook: Reels, stories, and carousels can help you showcase educational content in bite-sized ways. LinkedIn: Great for professional or B2B-focused courses. YouTube: If it’s not your main platform, consider uploading the video as unlisted and embedding it on your course page – or using YouTube Shorts to drive awareness. Paid promotion Sometimes organic reach isn’t enough. Paid promotion can help you get in front of more of the right people, faster. YouTube ads, social media boosts, and even Google Ads can support your educational videos. Just make sure your landing page is clear, relevant, and compelling when someone clicks. Tap into your network If you have relationships with influencers, industry experts, or others in your space, see if they’d be open to collaborating or promoting your educational content in exchange for a commission or cross-promotion. Look for partnerships that make sense; not just anyone with a following, but people your ideal audience already trusts. Host live events to build momentum Webinars, live Q&A sessions, or even a quick Instagram Live can help build buzz around your content. These live formats give people a taste of your teaching style and give you a chance to answer objections or highlight what’s inside your paid video content in a more personal way. For example, we regularly post video content from inside our SEO training membership site to our YouTube channel to give viewers a sneak peek. Repurpose strategically Repurposing lets you extend the life of your content without starting from scratch. Turn long-form videos into short clips for social or YouTube. YouTube Shorts has the highest engagement rate across all short video platforms at 5.91% while TikTok was second in line, Statista reports. You can also pull out quotes or visuals for blog posts or emails to promote your educational videos. Define what success looks like Before you hit publish, know what you’re aiming for. Is it views? Engagement? Course completions? Conversions? And if the video performs well in one area – even if it’s not the metric you were focused on – that’s still a win. For example, maybe conversions were low, but views were through the roof. That tells you something’s working, and it might be worth doubling down on similar content. There’s no shortage of video content online. If something you create breaks through in any way, take that as a signal. Track performance (and do it often) Analytics will tell you what’s resonating and what’s not. You should be checking your analytics regularly – ideally, every day. Make sure to use: YouTube Analytics for engagement trends. Google Search Console to see how your video shows up in search. LMS analytics for course modules. Google Analytics 4 for how videos impact user behavior on your site. Learn from viewer behavior Watch for drop-off points. If people keep bailing at the same timestamp, something’s off. And check your comments. If people are asking for a follow-up or mentioning another topic they want covered, that’s a content idea handed to you on a silver platter. If your “How to Make Pizza” video gets many requests for spaghetti, it might be time to make a spaghetti video. Making videos that teach – and stick Educational videos work best when they’re built with intention. You don’t need a perfect setup or a massive production team, but you need to: Understand your audience. Have a clear message. Stay consistent in how you create your content. Whether you’re launching a full course or building out one helpful video at a time, the strategies outlined here are meant to give you a process to start. Because when your videos are thoughtful, useful, and well-executed, people notice – and that’s where the real traction starts. View the full article

When I was growing up, I wanted to be an archeologist. I loved history (and still do), and the thought of uncovering temples and tombs in jungles excited me. I used to read books on Greek and Roman history and have discussions with my history teacher, even as young as 13. In short, I was a huge geek from the get-go. Being such a huge history geek, visiting Pompeii, the city destroyed by Mount Vesuvius in 79 CE, has always been high on my list of things to do. When the volcano erupted, the falling ash came so quickly that it preserved the city just as it was, burying Pompeii in 4–6 meters (13–20 feet) of ash. It’s a city frozen in time. The earliest settlements in the area date to the 8th century BCE, though most people know Pompeii as the Roman city that it was at the time of its demise. The rich agricultural land combined with its location on important trading routes meant that, over time, Pompeii became a wealthy provincial city. it had a population of over 20,000 people. The city was also a regional cultural center, with a large amphitheater, forum, public baths, various temples, and an extensive aqueduct system providing clean water. Many of these buildings, including expansive private villas in the surrounding countryside, were buried during Vesuvius’s eruption. The eruption itself lasted over two days, with the first phase of falling ash and pumice lasting over 18 hours. While the 1,150 bodies discovered is significant, it was only a fraction of the overall population. Most inhabitants likely had a chance to escape during this initial eruptive phase, though the final casualty count remains unknown. While the eruption was the biggest tragedy of its time, the falling ash also kept the buildings, frescoes streets, pots, and bodies incredibly well preserved. And while there was some looting after the eruption, eventually Pompeii’s location was lost with the passage of time. It wasn’t until the rediscovery of the nearby town of Herculaneum (buried in the same Vesuvius eruption) that interest was renewed in the area. The first excavations at Pompeii occurred in 1748, with archaeological work continuing to this day. There is still a significant portion of the site that remains unexcavated so who knows what they will discover here in the future! I’ve traveled the world for a while and have seen plenty of marvelous ruins over the years. But this is one of the best. Even though a lack of upkeep has taken its toll on the site, I still found it a fascinating place to spend the day. My only hope is that the Italian government will get its act together to keep this site from falling into further disrepair. Located near Naples in Italy, Pompeii takes a full day to see. If you truly want to indulge your inner Indiana Jones and visit every building here, schedule an extra half day. At over 160 acres, it’s a huge site and you could easily spend even more time than that. I saw a lot on my full day, but there was a lot that I missed. To help you make the most of your visit, here is everything you need to know to visit Pompeii: The Top 12 Attractions in Pompeii 1. The Brothel The ancient lupanar (brothel) is a tiny house with stone beds and scenes of the acts customers might pay for. It’s essentially ancient porn, though whether the frescoes served a practical purpose or were merely decoration is unclear. Unsurprisingly, this is one of the most visited houses in all of Pompeii (it was probably just as popular before the eruption — no pun intended — too). It’s the largest of the pleasure houses uncovered in Pompeii (so far) and so historians think it was the city’s main brothel. After all, the Romans did enjoy their…rest and relaxation. 2. The Forum Baths Located near the forum (the main public space), these baths are incredibly well preserved. You can peek inside the wall to see how they heated the baths back when they were still in use. Their innovation is incredibly impressive, and it’s not hard to picture the baths as they were. While the forum baths are the smallest of the various bath ruins in Pompeii, they are arguably the most elegant. There were separate areas for men and women, including separate entrances. The bath not only had hot baths but cold and tepid baths as well. 3. The Villa of the Mysteries Located outside the main area, the frescoes here are amazingly well preserved in their full vibrant color. In fact, they’re some of the best examples of 1st-century Roman painting. The frescoes seem to depict a woman entering into the initiations for a Greco-Roman mystery cult, hence the name the villa is known by today. The villa, which is on the outskirts of Pompeii proper, was excavated long after the rest of the city (excavation of the villa began in 1909). Since it’s a bit of a walk, not many people come here either, giving you the place virtually to yourself. 4. The Forum The most crowded place in Pompeii, the forum is located right near the main gate. It was the main center of life in Pompeii, the cultural and civic nerve of the city. Any significant religious or commercial events would occur here; it was essentially the main square and heart of the city. When you wander around here, you can really get a sense for what life in Pompeii was like. 5. The Stabian Baths Another well-preserved bath, this one is the oldest in Pompeii. It also has a slightly bigger chamber and sees a whole lot fewer crowds. You can also see some preserved bodies here, which is unsettling (though you’ll get used to it the more you wander the ruins). The bath area also had a gym and workout area (for wrestling, as well) and a large, almost Olympic-sized, swimming pool. 6. House of the Small Fountain A beautiful house with a large back room, wonderful frescoes, and a beautiful mosaic fountain. Almost all of the rooms lead to the central atrium and you can see that the house was owned by someone who was wealthy. The sloped roof was used to collect rainwater and doubled as a fountain, a great example of innovation at the time. 7. House of the Faun This is the biggest house in Pompeii and gets its name from the statue in the front courtyard. Built in the 2nd century BCE, there’s a large courtyard in the back where you can also find a very detailed mosaic of a battle scene. It’s one of the most complete surviving examples of a wealthy and luxurious private residence from the time — even better preserved than many sites in Rome itself! 8. Garden of the Fugitives Located in the back of Pompeii, this old vineyard has preserved casts of people who didn’t make it out of the city alive. There are 13 bodies in the garden, frozen in a grotesque and agonizing tableau that reflects the horrible final moments of the city. It’s both incredibly interesting and unsettling at the same time. 9. House of Venus in the Shell Another place located far away from the crowds, this house has a colorful fresco to the goddess Venus. There are also a few gardens here and a detailed statue of Mars. The house was actually under renovation when Vesuvius erupted and was also damaged during the bombing in World War II (though it was restored in the 1950s). 10. The Amphitheater This huge amphitheater is where the citizens of Pompeii held the ancient games that entertained them. It’s a quiet place to walk around and given its position at the far end of Pompeii, you’ll see very few people there, especially during the early morning or late afternoon hours. Built in 70 BCE, it was one of the first amphitheaters to be built of stone. Today, it is the oldest surviving Roman amphitheater in existence. 11. Great Palestra Right next to the amphitheater, the “great palace” was an exercise park and place for youth groups. It was used for sports and games, and there was also a swimming pool here as well. It’s another a great place to escape the crowds as not so many tourists make it here. 12. House of Sallustio This is one of the oldest houses in Pompeii, with sections dating to the 4th century BCE. It was most likely an elite residence, owing to its location and size. The upper floors may have even been used as an inn at some point in its history. There’s a small garden and covered porch in the back, a fresco of the goddess Diana, a bakery, and even a little food shop in the front. During World War II, a bomb partially destroyed the back walls, though these were restored in the 1970s. 12 Tips for Visiting Pompeii Here are 10 super important things to remember when visiting Pompeii: 1. Watch out for closings – Not all the attractions are open, even if they say they are. I found a number of places you were supposed to be able to get into closed. They even started closing one while I was looking around. Check the hours when you arrive, since information online might not be accurate. 2. Start in the back – To avoid the crowds, move from the farthest temples toward the front. The majority of people stick to the center of Pompeii, and you can visit the main area when the crowds have gone by late afternoon. 3. Don’t do the audio guide – I bought the audio tour and found it to be a waste of time. The free book they give you includes enough information. The audio guide doesn’t explain much more. 4. Limited time? Do a guided tour – I listened to a number of guided tours while I was walking around and I was impressed with their knowledge. Plus, I like being able to ask questions that can further explain things. The guided tours simply take you to the highlights, unless you do a personal tour. 5. Bring lots of water – During the summer, it gets scorchingly hot. Bring lots of water and some sunscreen to avoid getting burnt. A hat is a good idea too. 6. Pack snacks – There are a few cafes and snack bars here, but if you wander far into the ruins, you might not be near them for a while. It’s best to bring some food with you for the day’s explorations. 7. Take the train – This is the easiest way to visit. Just make sure you go to Pompei Scavi – Villa Dei Misteri station as the main Pompeii station only takes you to the modern city. 8. Watch out for scams and pickpockets – As Pompeii is such a popular attraction (over 2.5 million people visit each year), there are many people who try to take advantage of visitors. Common scams include trying to sell fake (or overpriced) train and bus tickets or saying that the entrance is closed (but they can get you in). Also watch out for pickpockets around the entrances and train station. 9. Don’t bring a large backpack – Security likely won’t let you bring in a large rucksack, so only come with a smaller purse or day bag. 10. Choose your tour carefully – If you’re going to do a tour, do an official tour from inside the gate. There are plenty of tours offered outside of the gate, but they are much larger and not as good (though they are cheaper). I suggest going with Take Walks. I always learn a ton on their tours. 11. Wear sturdy footwear – The ruins are actually quite spread out and you’ll be on your feet all day. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes (no flip flops). 12. Buy tickets in advance – To beat the line, buy your tickets online in advance. Pompeii can get super busy, meaning long lines when they open. Avoid the hassle and get your tickets ahead of time. How to Get to Pompeii The train is the best way to get to Pompeii if you’re coming from Naples. To get here, catch the Sorrento Circumvesuviana train from Naples and get off at Pompeii. The journey takes about 40 minutes and costs around 3.50 EUR. The site is just 5 minutes from the train station. If you’re coming by car, it’s about a 30-minute drive. Note that there is no free parking lot for the site, though there are many paid municipal and private parking lots nearby. Starting in 2025, the site has put restrictions on daily visitors to help preserve the site: From 9:00 am to 1:00 pm, a maximum of 15,000 admissions (subdivided into 12,000 for Pompeii express and 3,000 for Pompei +) From 1:00 pm to 5:30 pm, a maximum of 5,000 admissions?(subdivided into 3,000 for Pompeii express and 2,000 for Pompei +) From April 1st to October 31st, the entire site is open from 9am-7pm (last entrance at 5:30pm). From November 1-March 31, the site is open from 9am-5pm (last entry at 3:30pm). However, each individual attraction has its own opening and closing times, with last entrances starting 1-1.5 hours before closing time of the entire site. For updated hours, check pompeiisites.org. FAQ on Visiting Pompeii How long do you need in Pompeii? You’ll want to spend a full day here if you want to see everything. If you just want to see the main sites, 3–4 hours will suffice. Do you have to pay to visit Pompeii? Yes! Tickets are 18 EUR per person for the basic ticket (this gets you the main sites) and 22 EUR for the comprehensive, all access ticket. Should I book a guided tour? If you don’t have a guidebook or if you want a deeper, more insightful visit then getting a guide is a good idea. There is minimal signage here so you’ll get much more from your visit if you have a guide. You can either book a guide on arrival (you’ll see a bunch hanging around the entrance) or go with a reputable company like Take Walks. They have a comprehensive and informative 3-hour tour of the site as well as a full-day tour that includes Pompeii and a drive along the Amalfi Coast. Tickets are 59 EUR for the three-hour tour and 189 EUR for the full-day tour (including tickets that let you skip the line). Do you need to book tickets in advance for Pompeii? Tickets can be bought online in advance, which includes access to Pompeii, Oplontis, and Boscoreale. If you’re visiting on a Saturday or public holiday, you must book online in advance. How many tourists visit Pompeii each year? Pompeii is one of the most popular attractions in Italy, bringing in over 2.5 million tourists each year. It gets busy! When should I visit Pompeii? The summer offers the best weather, but it is also incredibly hot and busy. Consider visiting in the shoulder season (May or October) in order to beat the crowds and also have cooler weather. But if you are going to visit in the summer, bring sunscreen as the site is very exposed to the sun. *** In the time I was there, I barely scratched the surface of Pompeii — and I filled a whole day! One day, I’d love to go back and visit all the buildings I missed. But then again, I’m a history geek and could spend days upon days among ruins. If you don’t live and breathe history as I do, one day would be enough to see the highlights. Make sure you move away from the city center to see some of the lesser-known and less crowded sites. Walking among the ruins is an eerie but beautiful feeling. Plan your trip to Europe like a pro Get all my best Europe travel tips as well as free planning guides sent straight to you and see more of the country for less! Get your guides here! Book Your Trip to Italy: Logistical Tips and Tricks Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned! Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels. If you’re looking for a place to stay, check out Agorà Hostel Deluxe. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are: Safety Wing (best for everyone) InsureMyTrip (for those over 70) Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage) Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too. Need a guide? Take Walks runs my favorite paid tour. Their Complete Pompeii Experience: Skip the Line Tour & Archaeologist Guide will give you an incredible behind-the-scenes and historical Pompeii experience. If you want a tour, take that one! Want More Information on Italy? Be sure to visit my robust destination guide on Italy for even more planning tips! The post The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Pompeii appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site. View the full article

Key Takeaways Importance of Content Marketing: A well-defined content marketing strategy is vital for enhancing brand visibility and establishing connections with your audience, ultimately driving loyalty and engagement. Audience Targeting: Understanding your target audience’s demographics, interests, and behavior is crucial for developing content that resonates and fosters customer interaction. Diverse Content Creation: Utilizing different content formats, like videos and informative blogs, caters to audience preferences and enhances engagement across various platforms. Social Media Integration: A robust social media strategy, combining both organic growth tactics and paid advertising, is essential for promoting content and reaching specific audience segments. Monitoring Performance: Regularly analyzing Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) helps you measure success, refine your strategy, and adapt to evolving market trends. Brand Consistency: Maintaining consistent messaging and visual elements across all content channels strengthens brand recognition and builds trust among your audience. In today’s digital landscape, a strong content marketing strategy is essential for your brand’s success. With countless voices vying for attention, standing out requires more than just quality products or services. It’s about creating engaging content that resonates with your audience and builds lasting relationships. Developing a tailored content marketing approach can elevate your brand’s visibility and credibility. By understanding your target audience and their needs, you can craft compelling narratives that not only inform but also inspire action. Whether you’re a startup or an established business, a well-structured strategy can turn your content into a powerful tool for growth. Understanding Content Marketing Strategy Content marketing strategy plays a crucial role in enhancing your brand’s digital presence. It focuses on creating valuable content that resonates with your audience, establishing connections that lead to loyalty and engagement. Definition and Importance A content marketing strategy outlines how your brand creates, shares, and promotes content across various platforms. This strategy is vital for small businesses, as it drives brand awareness and boosts online visibility. Engaging content not only showcases your products or services but also sets you apart from competitors. Effective storytelling in your content builds trust, improves customer interaction, and elevates your brand voice. Key Components of a Strategy Audience Targeting: Identify your target audience based on demographics, interests, and behaviors. Understand their preferences for content formats, such as video content and social media posts on platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Content Creation: Develop a variety of content types, including blog articles, social media posts, and videos. Tailor content for each platform, using engaging formats like Instagram Stories and Facebook Groups to capture attention. Content Calendar: Utilize a content calendar to schedule your posts. Plan ahead to maintain consistency, ensuring your messaging aligns with current social media trends and events relevant to your audience. Social Media Strategy: Implement a robust social media strategy. Focus on organic growth through community management, engaging with followers, and encouraging user-generated content. Use social media analytics to measure your engagement rate and refine your approach. Social Media Ads: Consider paid social ads to broaden your reach. Platforms like LinkedIn and TikTok provide targeted advertising options that can help reach specific audience segments. Brand Consistency: Ensure consistency in your brand messaging and visual elements across all channels. This strengthens recognition and reinforces your brand identity. Monitoring and Feedback: Regularly monitor performance metrics using social media tools. Analyze customer feedback and reviews to refine your content strategy, improving engagement and ensuring your content resonates with your audience. By focusing on these components, you can effectively engage your audience, increase your social media following, and drive impactful results for your small business. Developing Your Content Marketing Strategy Creating a content marketing strategy is essential for small businesses aiming to enhance online presence and brand awareness. Focus on integrating your content with social media platforms to maximize engagement and visibility. Identifying Your Target Audience Identify your target audience by researching demographics and preferences. Define customer personas based on age, interests, and online behavior, including the social media platforms they use, such as Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok. Utilize social media analytics to gather insights into audience interactions and engagement rates. By understanding your audience, you can tailor content creation efforts to resonate with their needs and preferences. Setting Clear Objectives Establish clear objectives to guide your content marketing strategy. Focus on goals such as increasing brand awareness, improving customer interaction, or driving sales through social media campaigns. Use SMART criteria—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound—to define your objectives. For example, aim for a 20% increase in social media followers within three months through engaging content and social media ads. Regularly monitor your progress and adjust your tactics to ensure alignment with your business goals. Creating Engaging Content Engaging content is essential for boosting brand awareness and fostering customer interaction. It allows you to connect with your audience and promote your unique brand voice effectively. Focus on crafting content that captures attention and encourages your audience to engage. Types of Content to Consider Video Content: Use video to generate higher engagement rates. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram Stories allow you to showcase your products dynamically and creatively. User-Generated Content: Encourage your customers to share their experiences with your brand. Sharing their content builds trust and strengthens community management. Social Media Posts: Develop a content calendar to schedule your posts across platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Utilize trending hashtags to increase organic reach. Informative Blogs and Articles: Write articles that address common questions or pain points within your industry. Position yourself as an expert to attract your target audience. Interactive Content: Create polls, quizzes, or contests on social media to enhance engagement and increase your follower count. Tips for Effective Content Creation Know Your Audience: Research demographics and preferences to tailor your content. Tools like social media analytics can provide insights into what resonates with your audience. Align with Business Goals: Establish clear, measurable objectives for your content. Whether aiming for increased social media followers or higher engagement rates, ensure all content supports your goals. Tell a Story: Use storytelling to convey your brand message. Humanizing your content makes it more relatable and engaging for your audience. Maintain Brand Consistency: Keep your messaging consistent across all social media platforms. This helps in building trust and recognition among your audience. Monitor Performance Metrics: Track your engagement rates and analyze what works. Adjust your strategy based on social media monitoring to optimize content for better performance. Implementing these strategies enhances your content creation efforts and strengthens your overall social media marketing strategy. By focusing on engaging content types and following these tips, you create a robust foundation for your small business’s online presence. Promoting Your Content Promoting your content effectively involves a multi-faceted approach to reach your target audience and enhance brand awareness. You’ll achieve better results by integrating both paid and organic strategies into your social media marketing. Distribution Channels Utilize various distribution channels to maximize your content’s visibility. Consider paid ads on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. These channels allow precise audience targeting, ensuring your message reaches potential customers. Explore organic channels as well, such as email marketing and content sharing on your social media platforms. Focus on community management to drive user engagement and foster customer interaction. Leveraging Social Media Leverage social media to amplify your content marketing strategy. Tailor your approach for Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter, addressing the unique characteristics of each platform. Use Instagram Stories and Facebook Groups to engage your audience and encourage them to participate with user-generated content. Maintain a content calendar to schedule consistent posts that align with current social media trends. Implement social media analytics tools to monitor engagement rates and refine your strategy based on customer feedback. By focusing on storytelling and maintaining brand consistency, you’ll build a loyal following and promote organic growth across your social media channels. Measuring Success Measuring success in your content marketing strategy is essential for growth and improvement. You’ll enhance your brand’s online presence through effective tracking of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and analyzing results for necessary adjustments. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) KPIs provide measurable data to evaluate your content marketing performance. Focus on metrics such as: Traffic Metrics: Monitor website traffic, including unique visitors and page views, to understand engagement levels. Engagement Rate: Track comments, likes, shares, and mentions on your social media posts to assess audience interaction. Conversion Rate: Calculate the percentage of users completing desired actions, such as signing up for newsletters or making purchases. Social Media Growth: Analyze follower counts across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn to gauge brand awareness. Customer Feedback: Gather reviews and feedback from customers to improve your offerings and enhance brand loyalty. Utilizing social media analytics tools can streamline your KPI tracking, offering insights into performance trends and audience demographics. Analyzing Results and Making Adjustments Analyzing results enables you to make data-driven decisions for your content marketing strategy. Follow these steps for effective analysis: Compare KPIs Against Goals: Assess whether KPIs align with your initial SMART goals. Identify areas needing improvement. Identify High-Performing Content: Determine which content types—like video content or user-generated content—drive the most engagement. Replicate successful strategies. Adapt to Social Media Trends: Stay current with social media trends. Adjust your content calendar for optimal posting times and popular formats, such as Instagram Stories or TikTok for Business. Utilize A/B Testing: Test variations of social media posts and campaigns to learn what resonates best with your audience. Adjust your social media strategy based on these insights. By systematically analyzing results and making informed adjustments, you foster ongoing improvements in brand consistency, customer interaction, and overall content marketing success. Conclusion A robust content marketing strategy is essential for your brand’s success in the digital landscape. By understanding your audience and crafting engaging content that resonates with them, you can build lasting relationships and enhance your brand’s visibility. Don’t underestimate the power of diverse content types and effective promotion across various channels. Consistency and adaptability are key to staying relevant and competitive. As you implement your strategy, remember to monitor your performance metrics closely. This will help you refine your approach and ensure you’re meeting your goals. Embrace the journey of content marketing and watch your brand flourish. Frequently Asked Questions What is content marketing strategy? Content marketing strategy is a plan for creating, sharing, and promoting content to engage an audience effectively. It helps brands boost online visibility, connect with customers, and differentiate themselves from competitors. Why is a content marketing strategy important? A content marketing strategy is crucial because it transforms content into a growth tool. It enhances brand awareness, builds audience relationships, and improves overall digital presence in today’s competitive market. How can I identify my target audience? To identify your target audience, conduct research on demographics, preferences, and online behavior. Defining customer personas helps tailor content effectively, ensuring you reach the right people with your message. What types of content should I create? Consider creating a mix of content types, such as videos, blogs, social media posts, and user-generated content. Engaging and diverse content types help connect with audiences and support brand awareness. How can I promote my content effectively? Promote your content through a blend of paid and organic strategies. Utilize social media ads, email marketing, and consistent posts to engage your audience while tailoring content for different platforms. What Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) should I track? Track KPIs like website traffic, engagement rates, conversion rates, and social media growth. Monitoring these metrics enables data-driven decisions and helps evaluate the success of your content marketing efforts. How often should I adjust my content marketing strategy? Regularly review and adjust your content marketing strategy based on performance metrics and audience feedback. Continuous monitoring ensures alignment with business goals and allows for rapid adaptation to changing trends. What role does storytelling play in content marketing? Storytelling is vital in content marketing as it creates emotional connections with the audience. It enhances engagement, makes your brand memorable, and fosters customer loyalty through relatable narratives. Image Via Envato This article, "Mastering Your Content Marketing Strategy for Your Brand to Drive Engagement and Growth" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Key Takeaways Importance of Content Marketing: A well-defined content marketing strategy is vital for enhancing brand visibility and establishing connections with your audience, ultimately driving loyalty and engagement. Audience Targeting: Understanding your target audience’s demographics, interests, and behavior is crucial for developing content that resonates and fosters customer interaction. Diverse Content Creation: Utilizing different content formats, like videos and informative blogs, caters to audience preferences and enhances engagement across various platforms. Social Media Integration: A robust social media strategy, combining both organic growth tactics and paid advertising, is essential for promoting content and reaching specific audience segments. Monitoring Performance: Regularly analyzing Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) helps you measure success, refine your strategy, and adapt to evolving market trends. Brand Consistency: Maintaining consistent messaging and visual elements across all content channels strengthens brand recognition and builds trust among your audience. In today’s digital landscape, a strong content marketing strategy is essential for your brand’s success. With countless voices vying for attention, standing out requires more than just quality products or services. It’s about creating engaging content that resonates with your audience and builds lasting relationships. Developing a tailored content marketing approach can elevate your brand’s visibility and credibility. By understanding your target audience and their needs, you can craft compelling narratives that not only inform but also inspire action. Whether you’re a startup or an established business, a well-structured strategy can turn your content into a powerful tool for growth. Understanding Content Marketing Strategy Content marketing strategy plays a crucial role in enhancing your brand’s digital presence. It focuses on creating valuable content that resonates with your audience, establishing connections that lead to loyalty and engagement. Definition and Importance A content marketing strategy outlines how your brand creates, shares, and promotes content across various platforms. This strategy is vital for small businesses, as it drives brand awareness and boosts online visibility. Engaging content not only showcases your products or services but also sets you apart from competitors. Effective storytelling in your content builds trust, improves customer interaction, and elevates your brand voice. Key Components of a Strategy Audience Targeting: Identify your target audience based on demographics, interests, and behaviors. Understand their preferences for content formats, such as video content and social media posts on platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Content Creation: Develop a variety of content types, including blog articles, social media posts, and videos. Tailor content for each platform, using engaging formats like Instagram Stories and Facebook Groups to capture attention. Content Calendar: Utilize a content calendar to schedule your posts. Plan ahead to maintain consistency, ensuring your messaging aligns with current social media trends and events relevant to your audience. Social Media Strategy: Implement a robust social media strategy. Focus on organic growth through community management, engaging with followers, and encouraging user-generated content. Use social media analytics to measure your engagement rate and refine your approach. Social Media Ads: Consider paid social ads to broaden your reach. Platforms like LinkedIn and TikTok provide targeted advertising options that can help reach specific audience segments. Brand Consistency: Ensure consistency in your brand messaging and visual elements across all channels. This strengthens recognition and reinforces your brand identity. Monitoring and Feedback: Regularly monitor performance metrics using social media tools. Analyze customer feedback and reviews to refine your content strategy, improving engagement and ensuring your content resonates with your audience. By focusing on these components, you can effectively engage your audience, increase your social media following, and drive impactful results for your small business. Developing Your Content Marketing Strategy Creating a content marketing strategy is essential for small businesses aiming to enhance online presence and brand awareness. Focus on integrating your content with social media platforms to maximize engagement and visibility. Identifying Your Target Audience Identify your target audience by researching demographics and preferences. Define customer personas based on age, interests, and online behavior, including the social media platforms they use, such as Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok. Utilize social media analytics to gather insights into audience interactions and engagement rates. By understanding your audience, you can tailor content creation efforts to resonate with their needs and preferences. Setting Clear Objectives Establish clear objectives to guide your content marketing strategy. Focus on goals such as increasing brand awareness, improving customer interaction, or driving sales through social media campaigns. Use SMART criteria—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound—to define your objectives. For example, aim for a 20% increase in social media followers within three months through engaging content and social media ads. Regularly monitor your progress and adjust your tactics to ensure alignment with your business goals. Creating Engaging Content Engaging content is essential for boosting brand awareness and fostering customer interaction. It allows you to connect with your audience and promote your unique brand voice effectively. Focus on crafting content that captures attention and encourages your audience to engage. Types of Content to Consider Video Content: Use video to generate higher engagement rates. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram Stories allow you to showcase your products dynamically and creatively. User-Generated Content: Encourage your customers to share their experiences with your brand. Sharing their content builds trust and strengthens community management. Social Media Posts: Develop a content calendar to schedule your posts across platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Utilize trending hashtags to increase organic reach. Informative Blogs and Articles: Write articles that address common questions or pain points within your industry. Position yourself as an expert to attract your target audience. Interactive Content: Create polls, quizzes, or contests on social media to enhance engagement and increase your follower count. Tips for Effective Content Creation Know Your Audience: Research demographics and preferences to tailor your content. Tools like social media analytics can provide insights into what resonates with your audience. Align with Business Goals: Establish clear, measurable objectives for your content. Whether aiming for increased social media followers or higher engagement rates, ensure all content supports your goals. Tell a Story: Use storytelling to convey your brand message. Humanizing your content makes it more relatable and engaging for your audience. Maintain Brand Consistency: Keep your messaging consistent across all social media platforms. This helps in building trust and recognition among your audience. Monitor Performance Metrics: Track your engagement rates and analyze what works. Adjust your strategy based on social media monitoring to optimize content for better performance. Implementing these strategies enhances your content creation efforts and strengthens your overall social media marketing strategy. By focusing on engaging content types and following these tips, you create a robust foundation for your small business’s online presence. Promoting Your Content Promoting your content effectively involves a multi-faceted approach to reach your target audience and enhance brand awareness. You’ll achieve better results by integrating both paid and organic strategies into your social media marketing. Distribution Channels Utilize various distribution channels to maximize your content’s visibility. Consider paid ads on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. These channels allow precise audience targeting, ensuring your message reaches potential customers. Explore organic channels as well, such as email marketing and content sharing on your social media platforms. Focus on community management to drive user engagement and foster customer interaction. Leveraging Social Media Leverage social media to amplify your content marketing strategy. Tailor your approach for Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter, addressing the unique characteristics of each platform. Use Instagram Stories and Facebook Groups to engage your audience and encourage them to participate with user-generated content. Maintain a content calendar to schedule consistent posts that align with current social media trends. Implement social media analytics tools to monitor engagement rates and refine your strategy based on customer feedback. By focusing on storytelling and maintaining brand consistency, you’ll build a loyal following and promote organic growth across your social media channels. Measuring Success Measuring success in your content marketing strategy is essential for growth and improvement. You’ll enhance your brand’s online presence through effective tracking of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and analyzing results for necessary adjustments. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) KPIs provide measurable data to evaluate your content marketing performance. Focus on metrics such as: Traffic Metrics: Monitor website traffic, including unique visitors and page views, to understand engagement levels. Engagement Rate: Track comments, likes, shares, and mentions on your social media posts to assess audience interaction. Conversion Rate: Calculate the percentage of users completing desired actions, such as signing up for newsletters or making purchases. Social Media Growth: Analyze follower counts across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn to gauge brand awareness. Customer Feedback: Gather reviews and feedback from customers to improve your offerings and enhance brand loyalty. Utilizing social media analytics tools can streamline your KPI tracking, offering insights into performance trends and audience demographics. Analyzing Results and Making Adjustments Analyzing results enables you to make data-driven decisions for your content marketing strategy. Follow these steps for effective analysis: Compare KPIs Against Goals: Assess whether KPIs align with your initial SMART goals. Identify areas needing improvement. Identify High-Performing Content: Determine which content types—like video content or user-generated content—drive the most engagement. Replicate successful strategies. Adapt to Social Media Trends: Stay current with social media trends. Adjust your content calendar for optimal posting times and popular formats, such as Instagram Stories or TikTok for Business. Utilize A/B Testing: Test variations of social media posts and campaigns to learn what resonates best with your audience. Adjust your social media strategy based on these insights. By systematically analyzing results and making informed adjustments, you foster ongoing improvements in brand consistency, customer interaction, and overall content marketing success. Conclusion A robust content marketing strategy is essential for your brand’s success in the digital landscape. By understanding your audience and crafting engaging content that resonates with them, you can build lasting relationships and enhance your brand’s visibility. Don’t underestimate the power of diverse content types and effective promotion across various channels. Consistency and adaptability are key to staying relevant and competitive. As you implement your strategy, remember to monitor your performance metrics closely. This will help you refine your approach and ensure you’re meeting your goals. Embrace the journey of content marketing and watch your brand flourish. Frequently Asked Questions What is content marketing strategy? Content marketing strategy is a plan for creating, sharing, and promoting content to engage an audience effectively. It helps brands boost online visibility, connect with customers, and differentiate themselves from competitors. Why is a content marketing strategy important? A content marketing strategy is crucial because it transforms content into a growth tool. It enhances brand awareness, builds audience relationships, and improves overall digital presence in today’s competitive market. How can I identify my target audience? To identify your target audience, conduct research on demographics, preferences, and online behavior. Defining customer personas helps tailor content effectively, ensuring you reach the right people with your message. What types of content should I create? Consider creating a mix of content types, such as videos, blogs, social media posts, and user-generated content. Engaging and diverse content types help connect with audiences and support brand awareness. How can I promote my content effectively? Promote your content through a blend of paid and organic strategies. Utilize social media ads, email marketing, and consistent posts to engage your audience while tailoring content for different platforms. What Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) should I track? Track KPIs like website traffic, engagement rates, conversion rates, and social media growth. Monitoring these metrics enables data-driven decisions and helps evaluate the success of your content marketing efforts. How often should I adjust my content marketing strategy? Regularly review and adjust your content marketing strategy based on performance metrics and audience feedback. Continuous monitoring ensures alignment with business goals and allows for rapid adaptation to changing trends. What role does storytelling play in content marketing? Storytelling is vital in content marketing as it creates emotional connections with the audience. It enhances engagement, makes your brand memorable, and fosters customer loyalty through relatable narratives. Image Via Envato This article, "Mastering Your Content Marketing Strategy for Your Brand to Drive Engagement and Growth" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. If you’ve been thinking about adding a security camera to your setup but want something a little more refined than the entry-level options, the Ring Spotlight Cam Pro might hit that middle ground. Normally priced at $229.99, it’s now down to $159.99 on Amazon, which price trackers confirm is its lowest ever. Ring Spotlight Cam Pro, Battery $159.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $229.99 Save $70.00 Get Deal Get Deal $159.99 at Amazon /images/amazon-prime.svg $229.99 Save $70.00 That’s a rare drop for a Ring Pro series camera, which typically stays at the premium end of Amazon's home security lineup. This model came out in 2022, and while the 1080p resolution doesn’t exactly feel cutting-edge anymore, the overall package still holds up well. This camera is battery-powered, meaning wireless setup and easy installation. Plus, it offers a wide 140-degree field of view, quick notifications when motion is detected, and two-way audio that’s unusually clear. According to this ZDNet review, you can carry on a full conversation with someone 40 feet from the camera without any lag or distortion. That said, the spotlight feature isn’t quite as strong—it maxes out at 375 lumens, which is enough for basic visibility in a small yard or porch, but not something you'd want for full floodlight coverage. Still, it’s equipped with color night vision and an adjustable alarm, which adds another layer of deterrence. You’ll need a Ring Home subscription to actually record and store your videos, which starts at $4.99/month for a single camera—but live view and alerts work without one. And while it plays well with Alexa and IFTTT, it skips out on Google Assistant and HomeKit support. As for battery life, depending on your activity zones and lighting preferences, it can last anywhere from six months to a year, notes this PCMag review. View the full article

Pope Francis will be laid to rest Saturday after lying in state for three days in St. Peter’s Basilica, where the faithful are expected to flock to pay their respects to history’s first Latin American pontiff. The cardinals met Tuesday in the Vatican’s synod hall to chart the next steps before a conclave begins to choose Francis’ successor, as condolences poured in from around the world. According to current norms, the conclave must begin between May 5 and 10. The cardinals set the funeral for Saturday at 10 a.m. in St. Peter’s Square, to be celebrated by the dean of the College of Cardinals, Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re. U.S. President Donald The President said he and first lady Melania The President plan to attend, and Argentine President Javier Milei is also expected. The Argentine pope died Monday at age 88 after a stroke put him in a coma and led his heart to fail. He had been recovering in his apartment after being hospitalized for five weeks with pneumonia. He made his last public appearance Sunday, delivering an Easter blessing and greeting followers from his popemobile, looping around St. Peter’s Square. His Easter appearance from the same loggia where he was introduced to the world as the first pope from the Americas on March 13, 2013, was a fitting bookend to a 12-year papacy that sought to shake up the church and return it to its Gospel-mandated mission of caring for the poorest. Vatican officials remember Francis “He truly gave everything he had, up to the end,” said Sister Nathalie Becquart, one of the highest-ranking women at the Vatican. While the ordinary faithful will have an opportunity to pay their respects beginning Wednesday, Vatican officials were allowed to say their goodbyes starting Monday evening. Speaking to reporters after she paid her respects, Becquart marveled at Francis’ final Easter salute to his flock. “He really walked with his people,” she said. Italian Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi said it was specifically Francis’ effort to promote the role of women in the church that will be one of his greatest legacies. Ravasi noted that Francis chose to be buried near his favorite icon of the Madonna, in a basilica across town, and not in the grottoes underneath St. Peter’s, as is typical for popes. “He wanted to be buried under the shadow of a woman, in this case Maria,” said Ravasi, the Vatican’s former culture minister as he arrived for Tuesday’s first meeting of cardinals. “That is significant, his desire for the church to do more for women.” The first images of Francis’ body were released Tuesday, showing him in red vestments and his bishop’s miter in a wooden casket, with the Vatican secretary of state praying over him in the chapel of the Domus Santa Marta hotel where he lived and died. In his final will, Francis said he wanted to be buried at St. Mary Major Basilica, which is home to the Salus Populi Romani icon of Mary. Before and after every foreign trip, Francis would go to the basilica to pray before the Byzantine-style painting that features an image of Mary, draped in a blue robe, holding the infant Jesus, who in turn holds a jeweled golden book. Francis stopped by the basilica on his way home from the Gemelli hospital on March 23, after his 38-day stay, to deliver flowers to be placed before the icon. He returned April 12 to pray before it one last time. The world reacts Bells tolled in chapels, churches and cathedrals around the world and flags flew at half-staff in Italy, India, Taiwan and the U.S. after Francis’ death was announced by the camerlengo, who takes charge of the Vatican after a pope’s death. Soccer matches in Italy and Argentina were suspended in honor of the pope who was a lifelong fan of the San Lorenzo soccer club. World leaders praised Francis for his moral leadership and compassion, while ordinary faithful remembered his simplicity and humanity. “Like every Argentine, I think he was a rebel,” said 23-year-old Catalina Favaro, who had come to pay her respects in the Buenos Aires church where Francis discovered his priestly vocation. “He may have been contradictory, but that was nice, too.” In East Timor, where Francis’ final outdoor Mass drew nearly half of the population last September, President Jose Ramos-Horta praised Francis’ courage. “Pope Francis was a brave man who was not afraid to speak out against the rulers of the world who seek war, but do not want to seek peace,” Ramos-Horta said. “He challenged the powerful to act with justice, called nations to welcome the stranger, and reminded us that our common home — this Earth — is a gift we must protect for future generations,” said Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, who is Muslim. Nigeria is Africa’s most populous country and has around 30 million Catholics, representing about 14% of the population. Viewing the pope’s coffin The pope’s formal apartments in the Apostolic Palace and in the Santa Marta hotel were sealed Monday evening, following a centuries-old ritual. Cardinal Kevin Farrell, who as camerlengo had the task of announcing the death and confirming it once the cause was determined, presided over the rituals. Francis chose not to live in the palace, but in a two-room suite in Santa Marta on the other side of Vatican City. He died there and his body was transferred to the hotel chapel in the lobby, where the private viewing was underway Tuesday for Vatican officials and members of the pontifical household. In changes made by Francis last year, his body was not placed in three wooden coffins, as it had been for previous popes. Rather, Francis was placed in a simplified wooden coffin with a zinc coffin inside. Once in St. Peter’s, his casket will not be put on an elevated bier — as was the case with past popes — but will just be be placed simply facing the pews, with the Paschal candle nearby. “He was a pope who didn’t change his path when it came to getting (his hands) dirty,” Francis’ vicar for Rome, Cardinal Baldassarre Reina, said in a Mass in his honor. “For him, poor people and migrants were the sacrament of Jesus.” Choosing the next pope After the funeral, there are nine days of official mourning, known as the “novendiali.” During this period, cardinals arrive in Rome and meet privately before the conclave. To give everyone time to assemble, the conclave must begin 15 to 20 days after the “sede vacante” — the “vacant See” — is declared, although it can start sooner if the cardinals agree. Once the conclave begins, cardinals vote in secret sessions in the Sistine Chapel. After voting sessions, the ballots are burned in a special stove. Black smoke indicates that no pope has been elected, while white smoke indicates that the cardinals have chosen the next head of the Catholic Church. The one who has secured two-thirds of the votes wins. If he accepts, his election is announced by a cardinal from the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica who tells the world: “Habemus Papam” — Latin for “We have a pope.” Associated Press reporters Paolo Santalucia and Silvia Stellacci contributed. Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the AP’s collaboration with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content. —Nicole Winfield and Colleen Barry, Associated Press View the full article

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has published a recall notice that warns consumers to dispose of a certain brand of mushrooms, which have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, a potentially deadly bacterium. Here’s what you need to know about the recall. What is the reason for the recall? On April 16, Harvest NYC Inc. of Brooklyn, New York, announced a recall of an Enoki Mushroom product due to fears of potential contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. Two days after Harvest NYC initiated the recall, the notice was posted on the FDA’s website. According to the notice, the recall was initiated after the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Food Laboratory detected Listeria monocytogenes in a sample of the mushrooms that had been collected for analysis. What product is being recalled? This recall covers only one product. Here are the details, according to the recall listing on the FDA’s website: Product Description: Enoki Mushrooms Package Description: green plastic package Package size: 200g package Company Name: Harvest NYC Inc Brand Name: Hofood99 Inc UPC Barcode: 6975730520101 Images of the recalled product in its packaging can be found here. Where was the recalled product sold? According to the notice on the FDA’s website, the recalled mushrooms were sold nationwide. However, the recall notice does not state which stores the mushrooms were sold in other than saying that the recalled product was sold in “retail stores.” When was the recalled product sold? The recalled product in question was sold between January 11 and January 31, 2025, according to the recall notice. What is Listeria? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Listeria is a bacterium that can cause severe illness in people. In the United States, there are about 1,600 reported cases a year. Listeria infections have a high fatality rate, with as many as 260 of those 1,600 infected individuals succumbing to the infection. According to the FDA notice, fatal infections can occur in individuals with weakened immune systems, as well as young children and frail or elderly people. What are the symptoms of a Listeria infection? Symptoms of a Listeria infection can vary depending on the type of infection and whether a person is pregnant, the CDC says. Symptoms of an invasive Listeria illness (one where the bacteria have spread beyond the gut) in pregnant individuals can include: Fever Flu-like symptoms, such as muscle aches and fatigue Listeria infections in a pregnant individual can also result in miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or life-threatening infection of the newborn, according to the CDC. In people who are not pregnant, invasive illness symptoms can include: Fever Flu-like symptoms, such as muscle aches and fatigue Headache Stiff neck Confusion Loss of balance Seizures For individuals who have intestinal Listeria illness, the following symptoms are usually present: Diarrhea Vomiting Has anyone been harmed by the recalled product? As of the time of the recall notice’s posting on the FDA’s website, no illnesses were known to be reported that are associated with the recall. What do I do if I have the recalled enoki mushrooms? You should not consume them. Instead, the recall notice states that you should destroy the products immediately or return the products to their place of purchase for a refund. If you have questions about the recall, you can contact Harvest NYC Inc. at (718) 596-0777. Full details of the recall can be found here. View the full article