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SEO is essential for improving a website’s visibility on search engines like Google, both globally and locally. However, a one-size-fits-all approach won’t effectively attract customers in specific regions. To stand out in a particular geographic area, you must implement localized SEO strategies tailored to local search behavior, competition, and cultural preferences. This article explores key actions to enhance your website’s visibility within a specific region. From global to local strategies: Understanding your potential local market To increase visibility in a specific region, start with market research to understand your potential users in the area. Analyze the following areas: User search behavior Investigate how people use Google in the region. Which search terms are prioritized? Use SEO tools to identify location-specific search trends and assess demand for your products or services. Language preferences Determine if the region requires content in multiple languages or dialects. What is the most spoken language, and does it align with how users search online? Google SERPs Examine how Google displays results in your target area to refine and guide your SEO strategy. For example, searching for “best hotels in New York” will display the following SERPs: Searching “mejores hoteles en Barcelona” will yield the following results. Notice how the SERP features for the two queries differ. Local competitors Analyze SERPs to pinpoint the main online competitors in each location. This helps uncover opportunities to refine and focus your SEO strategy. Cultural context Consider cultural elements like holidays, traditions, and purchasing habits that influence how users interact with your content. Once you understand the market and how users search for your products or services, you can implement SEO actions to boost visibility in the region. Defining the optimal website structure In-depth market research helps determine the best website structure to enhance user experience and ensure search engines can efficiently interpret the site. A website can be organized based on different groupings, mainly: Multilingual website: Offers content in two or more languages. Google will display pages to users based on the language they use in their search. Multiregional website: Provides different content depending on the country or region of the user conducting the search. A website can be multilingual, multiregional, or both. This means you can tailor content to specific countries and make it available in multiple languages. Dig deeper: Multinational SEO vs. multilingual SEO: What’s the difference? How to organize content by geographic segmentation To maximize a website’s visibility in a specific region, analyze the market and competition to structure the site’s architecture effectively. Google enables geotargeting through locale-specific URLs, offering the following options: Country-code top-level domain names (ccTLDs) These country-specific domains (e.g., .es for Spain, .fr for France) send clear signals to users and search engines about regional targeting. While effective, they require more infrastructure and resources and focus on a single country. Subdomains with gTLD Subdomains (e.g., es.website.com) are easy to set up, support hosting on different servers, and clearly separate sites. However, SEO efforts don’t transfer across subdomains, requiring unique content and separate authority building. Subdirectories with gTLD Subfolders (e.g., www.website.com/es/) share SEO benefits with the main domain, making them low-maintenance and easy to implement. Although they rely on a single server and don’t always signal geotargeting clearly, they work well for targeting multiple regions and languages. Choosing the right approach The site structure should align with its focus. Targeting a single region or language may require one strategy, while covering multiple regions and languages might need another. Consider resources, objectives, and target audiences to determine the most effective approach. Dig deeper: How to craft an international SEO approach that balances tech, translation and trust Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. Business email address Sign me up! Processing... See terms. Content: A key factor in boosting visibility in specific areas A well-structured website architecture improves visibility in specific geographic areas, but the content you create plays a critical role in achieving this goal. To boost visibility in a particular region, follow these practices. Conduct in-depth geolocated keyword research Identify commonly used search terms in the region and strategically incorporate them into your SEO and content strategy to align with local search intent. Create content for the local audience Use geolocated keyword research, trend analysis, and market studies to develop text, image, and video content tailored to local interests. Incorporate cultural references, local events, unique expressions, and regional examples to connect with the audience. Develop location-specific content Build landing pages for each target region and include: Regionally relevant information: Highlight local services, cultural events, or resources. Emphasize different locations or phone numbers to convey proximity. Local testimonials: Feature reviews or stories from customers in the region to enhance trust and relevance. Location-based case studies: Share success stories specific to the area to boost credibility and visibility. Include regional media content Add images and videos that resonate with your target audience, such as: Photos of local landmarks to create familiarity. Videos of cultural events or festivals to engage users. Features of well-known local personalities to connect with the audience. Transcribe, do not translate When targeting regions with different languages or dialects, adapt your content instead of simply translating it. Include the elements above to ensure better engagement with local users. Dig deeper: 15 SEO localization dos and don’ts: Navigating cultural sensitivity Technical SEO for enhancing regional visibility Technical SEO is essential for ensuring your website’s visibility in specific regions or countries. By addressing key technical elements, you help search engines understand your site’s regional focus and improve its local search rankings. Here are critical technical considerations to boost visibility. Hreflang implementation Use hreflang tags to guide Google in selecting the correct page for each country or region. Google Search Console If your site uses a gTLD, set a preferred geographic target in Google Search Console to clarify your regional focus to search engines. Hosting and server location Host your site on servers near your target region to improve speed and user experience, which may enhance visibility. For international websites targeting multiple countries, consider using a CDN network. Automatic language redirects Don’t automatically redirect users from one language version of the site to another based on their location unless necessary. This may negatively affect user experience. Focus on content and proper technical settings to ensure the site displays in the user’s preferred language. Building authority within a specific geographic area Authoritativeness, as defined by Google, reflects how trusted a content creator or website is on a particular topic. Establishing authority in a specific region can greatly improve your website’s visibility. A trusted site is more likely to be referenced by industry magazines, websites, blogs, social media, and experts as a go-to source. Here are actionable steps to build authority in a specific region. Optimize your Google Business Profile listing Include accurate details such as your address, phone number, and business hours. This builds trust and brand reputation, particularly for users who cannot verify this information in person while boosting local visibility. Develop a detailed About Us page with content creator information Use your About Us page to highlight your business with detailed descriptions, contact information, live communication options (e.g., live chat or WhatsApp), and complete author bios to showcase your team’s expertise. Boost your local visibility through directory listings and media features Getting featured in local magazines can help you acquire local backlinks and improve visibility and authority. List your business in relevant local directories and secure features in local news outlets or magazines. Use keyword research, SERP analysis, and competitor analysis to identify opportunities for content collaboration with influential voices in the region. Create valuable resources like guides, case studies, tutorials, and how-to articles that people will find useful and share. Dig deeper: How to use location-specific authority content for SEO Combining localized content efforts, technical SEO strategies, and a deep understanding of the market will help significantly improve your visibility in your target regions. View the full article

In a world where work-life boundaries are increasingly blurred, the well-being of employees has emerged as a pivotal issue. Despite leaders’ good intentions, a stark reality persists: While a staggering 91% of executives believe they prioritize employee well-being, only 56% of employees share that sentiment. This disconnect, revealed in a recent Deloitte study, underscores a critical gap that companies must bridge if they are to thrive in today’s competitive landscape. As businesses grapple with the complexities of modern work, a framework is emerging to guide leaders: The Four Pillars of Worker Well-Being. These pillars offer a comprehensive approach to fostering a healthier, more productive workforce. 1. Predictability Meets Flexibility In an era where change is the only constant, employees crave a sense of predictability. Structured environments where expectations are clear can significantly reduce workplace anxiety, providing a stable foundation for productivity. Yet, the need for flexibility is equally crucial. The ability to adapt to personal and professional demands empowers employees, creating a harmonious balance that enhances overall productivity and satisfaction. Imagine a tech company where employees know their project deadlines well in advance but have the freedom to choose their working hours. This blend of predictability and flexibility not only boosts morale but also drives efficiency. Employees can better manage their work-life integration, reducing stress and increasing their commitment to the organization. By fostering both stability and adaptability, companies can create an environment where employees feel secure yet empowered to manage their responsibilities effectively. 2. Mental Health Takes Center Stage Mental health is no longer a sidebar in corporate discussions, it’s the headline. With half of the global population likely to encounter a mental health disorder, the urgency for comprehensive mental health resources is undeniable. Forward-thinking companies are stepping up, offering counseling services, mental health apps, and wellness programs that are accessible and effective. Take, for instance, a multinational firm that has partnered with mental health platforms like BetterUp. Employees have access to on-demand counseling, fostering a culture where mental well-being is prioritized, and stigma is shattered. 3. Leaders Who Walk the Talk The saying “actions speak louder than words” has never been more relevant. Leaders who visibly prioritize their well-being set a powerful precedent. When the CEO openly takes mental health days or regularly disconnects from work, it sends a clear message: It’s okay to prioritize yourself. This visible commitment from the top fosters a culture of acceptance and support, encouraging employees to follow suit without fear of judgment. Consider a scenario where a company’s leadership team practices what they preach. They take breaks, use their vacation days, and discuss their mental health journeys. This not only humanizes them but also encourages employees to follow suit, fostering a supportive and understanding workplace culture. When leaders lead by example, they create an environment where well-being is integrated into the very fabric of the organization. Employees feel more connected and motivated, knowing that their leaders genuinely care about their health and well-being. 4. Building Bridges Through Relationships In the digital age, genuine connections can often feel like a relic of the past. Yet, building strong relationships within teams remains essential. Whether it’s through virtual coffee chats, team-building exercises, or regular check-ins, fostering a sense of belonging is key. What if your remote team makes time for weekly virtual gatherings where work talk is off-limits? These sessions, focused on personal stories and shared interests, build trust and camaraderie, transforming colleagues into a cohesive unit. In a world dominated by screens, these human moments are invaluable, reinforcing the social bonds that underpin successful teams. By fostering deeper connections, companies can enhance team dynamics, leading to higher productivity and a more engaged workforce. Putting the Pillars into Action The journey from theory to practice can be challenging, but it’s far from impossible. Leaders can start by enhancing communication—clear, consistent updates that set expectations and reduce uncertainty. Regular feedback sessions and open dialogues can bridge the gap between management and employees. Providing resources is another critical step. Companies can leverage technology to offer mental health support, whether through apps or tele-counseling. The goal is to make mental health resources as integral as health insurance. Leading by example is perhaps the most impactful strategy. When leaders demonstrate their commitment to well-being, it creates a ripple effect. Employees feel empowered to prioritize their health, knowing they have the support of their organization. The ROI of Well-Being Investing in well-being isn’t just a moral imperative—it’s a business strategy. Companies that embed well-being into their culture see tangible benefits: higher productivity, lower turnover rates, and significant healthcare savings. Johnson & Johnson, for example, saved $250 million over a decade through its wellness programs. The corporate world is at a critical juncture. As economic pressures mount and the demand for innovation intensifies, leaders must recognize that well-being is no longer a luxury but a strategic necessity. Companies that fail to adapt risk losing their competitive edge, as disengaged and burnt-out employees cannot drive sustained growth. In contrast, those who embrace the Four Pillars of Worker Well-Being will likely see transformative results. These companies will attract and retain top talent, foster a resilient organizational culture, and ultimately, achieve long-term success. To illustrate, let’s look at an innovative retail company that integrated these pillars into its operations. By offering flexible schedules, mental health resources, and fostering a culture of openness, they saw a 30% reduction in employee turnover and a significant boost in customer satisfaction. Employees reported feeling more engaged and valued, directly impacting the company’s bottom line. Moreover, the shift towards prioritizing well-being aligns with broader societal trends. As public awareness of mental health and work-life balance grows, companies that lead in these areas will not only meet employee expectations but also set industry standards. The future of work demands a new kind of leadership, one that places well-being at the core of organizational strategy. This isn’t just about improving employee morale; it’s about creating a sustainable model for success in an ever-evolving business landscape. By adopting these practices, leaders can navigate the complexities of the modern workplace and unlock the full potential of their teams. Excerpted with permission from the publisher, Wiley, from Essential: How Distributed Teams, Generative AI, and Global Shifts Are Creating a New Human-Powered Leadership by Christie Smith and Kelly Monahan. Copyright © 2025 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. All rights reserved. This book is available wherever books and eBooks are sold. 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During my tenure at Facebook, now Meta, from 2014 to 2017, posters were plastered all over the grounds. “The job is only 1% done.” “Move fast and break things.” I was struck by one in particular on my first day of orientation: “Nothing at Facebook is someone else’s problem.” No matter my department or title, I had permission to take ownership of a problem and fix it. It’s the corporate version of “If you see something, say something,” or, in this case, do something. The irony is that I’m saying something because I see what Meta is now doing. It is actively making their problem with diversity, equity, and inclusion (“DEI”) everyone else’s problem. To me it’s clear the company’s ethos has changed from those days of open innovation. DEI helped Facebook grow, make better products and be more profitable During my time at Facebook, I was an attorney who primarily served supply chain and procurement. One thing that was not in my purview was diversity. However, I couldn’t help but notice that I was the only Black attorney in the Legal department, and I was well aware of the infrequency with which I saw Black colleagues walking around campus. Within our supply chain, I saw an opportunity to save the company money, create goodwill in the communities where Facebook had offices, and build better products by working with suppliers as diverse as the company’s users. So, I started the supplier diversity program. It was strategic to take the heat off of the company for the low employee diversity numbers that were the focal point of each annual report by providing another mechanism to demonstrate our partnership with marginalized communities while opening bids for business that would save the company money. In addition to the cost savings and the goodwill the program could provide, it was also a mechanism to build better products by partnering with diverse-owned businesses that reflected our user base. There is no better collaborator than people representing those you want to use your products, and with over a billion users at the time and growing, that needs to reflect the world. While no DEI program is perfect, improvements are part of playing a long game, and gains won’t be made overnight but incrementally. The supplier diversity program was an answer to several problems—collaboration for better products and new use cases, harm mitigation, economic opportunity for marginalized communities, and to slow the creep of gentrification of Facebook headquarters into the Black and brown community of East Palo Alto. I was incredibly devoted to this cause. I gave up weekends, late nights, and early mornings. I even spent part of my maternity leave to get the program off the ground. Both Facebook’s General Counsel and Chief Financial Officer reviewed and approved the program at various stages—the company was fully onboard with the aims when the program launched in October 2016. Confident I had built something that would last, I moved on to other opportunities. From a billion-dollar commitment to shifting blame and denouncing DEI In June 2020, Facebook pledged a $1.1 billion “investment in Black and diverse suppliers and communities in the U.S.” In 2022, the company reported: “In 2021, we exceeded our diverse supplier commitment, spending $1.26 billion with US certified diverse suppliers and more than $306 million with Black-owned businesses in the US.” As recently as October 2024, Meta hosted the Billion Dollar Roundtable conference celebrating corporations that spend $1 billion with minority and women-owned suppliers. Now, over the course of just six weeks, Meta has dismantled diversity programs, including supplier diversity, that took years to build, and Mark Zuckerberg has attributed them to former COO Sheryl Sandberg as he distances himself from all DEI. While no DEI program is perfect, these programs are part of a long game, with incremental progress built on top of hard work and trust. Companies and their leaders are free to change their minds and priorities due to politics, economics, or anything else. But if the pendulum swings in the other direction in the future, companies like Meta that scrap DEI programs will now have an infinitely harder time rebuilding them. The trust of users, employees, and suppliers has been destroyed. Users can’t trust Meta, so disengagement is the only answer From my experience at Facebook, what happens on the inside is what is mirrored externally in the products. When you eliminate DEI initiatives, you lose people from around your table. When you lose those voices at the table, you lose product insight. And for those still at Meta, their voices will carry less weight as soon as they advocate for those viewpoints, use cases, and outcomes. I imagine that the environment inside Meta is very different from when I worked there. Some employees and suppliers are likely nervous about what this new landscape will mean for their jobs. Users can expect a different product experience as a result, and they will judge whether it is for the better. I believe the only path forward for users is to show Meta the true cost of abandoning diversity. If we aren’t welcome within these companies, and we aren’t welcome to service them, then we shouldn’t reward them with our engagement, our data, or their ability to earn ad revenue from us. For marginalized communities, boycotts worked once before and also spurred entrepreneurship and safe spaces a generation ago during the Civil Rights Movement. In my view, disengagement is the only answer. Meta is no longer following its own adages. This is the opposite of “Shipping Love,” but it shows us what Zuckerberg and Meta do when they aren’t afraid. Sometimes, people don’t realize that there are consequences until they are faced with them. Users control the end of this story. This can be the opportunity to see how Zuckerberg and Meta rise to the occasion (or not). Regardless of their response, we must remember, “When people show you who they are, believe them.” We need to believe this is the world Meta wants to create, and if we don’t want to be part of it, we need to leave. View the full article

I don't like how scrolling makes me feel these days. Every headline, meme, and take I scroll past leaves me feeling worse about the world. It isn't entirely unwarranted—there's a lot of bad happening—but marinating in that feeling doesn't help. Scrolling isn't always detrimental, of course. It can be relaxing, for one thing, and it can be a way to keep up with what's happening with your friends. But I think we all know there are diminishing returns when it comes to scrolling—the overall quality goes down the longer you keep going. And that's why reading is possibly more important now than its ever been: There aren't diminishing returns. Scrolling is briefly thinking about lots of things; reading is taking the time to think about one thing. That's why I'm trying to do more reading and less scrolling. Seeing hundreds of memes about the latest dumb thing that one billionaire said doesn't help me reach any of my goals. Taking the time to get context on the issues I care about—and thinking deeply about them—might. So I've been taking active steps to nudge myself toward scrolling less and reading more. I hope these tips will help you achieve the same. Hide (or uninstall) social media appsAre there social media icons on your phone's home screen? The simplest thing you can do in order to scroll less is to get those icons off of there. You can do this by removing the icons from the home screen or by uninstalling the application entirely. Either way, the process is easy: tap and hold on the icon. Both Android and iOS will give you the option to either remove the application from your home screen or delete it. I, personally, tend to just remove the apps from my home screen. This reduces the number of times I turn on my phone and reflexively open an app to scroll in, but leaves the applications available when I actively want them. That might not be enough for you, though. You might find yourself going out of your way to scroll even if it means pulling up the app outside the home screen, or sucked in when there's a notification. If that's you, I recommend just uninstalling the application entirely, if only while you're trying to create the habit of scrolling less. It will cut off the problem entirely. Put books on your phoneGetting books onto your phone isn't hard. There are the big apps, including Kindle and Kobo, if you want to purchase current titles. (Apple has its own proprietary "Books" app as well.) You can access millions of books in the public domain with a little bit of searching. And there's also a good chance your local library offers free e-books: Libby is a common app for this. Set up one or multiple of these applications and put them right on the home screen of your phone. Ideally, you'll put the icon right where the social application you used to open constantly lives. The idea is to trick yourself into opening books. This isn't magic—you're going to need to force yourself to actually read. Over time, though, the habit may begin to form. Another thing to consider: audiobooks. Some people can't get into reading no matter how hard they try. Others can't find the time. In either case, I think audiobooks can be a great alternative. Listening to a book while driving, cleaning the house, or just hanging out at home is a great way to take in and reflect on books. Some people get elitist about this—ignore them. Listening to books is great. Most local libraries offer audiobooks, whether in the Libby app or as physical CDs. Otherwise, there are services like Audible and even Spotify to get your audiobook fix. Make reading articles easy for yourselfIf you don't want to read entire books on your phone (I personally don't), you'll likely find its the perfect device for reading articles, and there are plenty of ways to do that without the need to scroll. I like having read-it-later apps on my phone's home screen. These let you save articles you find on the web for future reading. I tend to clip articles during my work day, when I shouldn't be reading, and come back to them in the evening. I personally use FlyLeaf, which is a great option for Apple users, but Instapaper is also a very good tool for the job. But it's also a good idea to have a few publications that you browse regularly. There are all kinds of ways to do this. The simplest is to bookmark the homepages of a few of your favorite websites and blogs so that they show up every time you open your browser. The more techie solution is to find an RSS reader, which shows you the headlines from as many websites as you like. That way, you can keep up with everything in one place. Or, you could look into apps that let you read entire print publications. I recently discovered Press Reader, which offers full versions of magazines and newspapers. It's offered for free by some libraries and lets you read the entire print version of all sorts of publications. Odds are your local library has something similar, or you could physically go there and read the magazine they have on the shelf. (I love doing this.) Mange your notificationsNothing disrupts reading faster than being pulled into something else. If you're actually going to read, take advantage of your phone's Do Not Disturb (DND) functionality. We've talked a bit about how to customize your Android notifications and your iOS notifications, so dig into those articles for more details. But the gist is you don't want notifications popping up when you're trying to read. You can turn DND modes on or off manually, if you want, but can also schedule them. For example, if you read before bed, you could set up your phone to never buzz during your usual nighttime routine. You can get fancy about this: Newer Apple devices can use AI to filter out all but the most important notifications. I've tried this feature and so far it's a great way to unplug without missing the important stuff. Swap out your phone for something elseI've been talking about phones a lot in this article because that's where the bulk of scrolling happens. If you really want to read more, though, it's probably a good idea to do it on something other than your phone. E-ink devices work, but so do paper books and magazines. It's literally impossible to scroll Reddit on a book. Depending on how your brain works, though, a new gadget might help. My colleague Joel Cunningham wrote about how the Boox Portable helped him stop doomscrolling, and I can can understand why. This is basically an e-ink Android device, roughly the size of a phone. If you want something bigger, you can look into an e-ink tablet. These are great for both reading and jotting down ideas. I personally use a Remarkable for reading papers and researching articles. Getting away from my colorful and animated computing devices for a bit is helpful. There are all kinds of e-ink devices out there that can give you the best of both paper and electronics. Look into them—they might be what you need to trick your brain into reading more. View the full article

Meta tags are HTML tags that provide information about a webpage‘s content to search engines and users. View the full article

Google Search ranking volatility spiked and heated again over the past 24-hours or so. I am seeing renewed chatter spike up yesterday, January 29th and continue through today. I am also seeing that some of the tracking tools are showing an increase in ranking volatility within Google Search over the past day.View the full article

A content calendar helps you plan, organize, and schedule content. Learn how to build one. View the full article

Did you know there is a quick way to directly generate an access request for Service Area Businesses in Google Maps? This is apparently not so new but also not widely known.View the full article

The start-up’s breakthrough confounds outworn prejudices about the two countries View the full article

Common SEO KPIs include organic visibility, keyword rankings, organic click-through rate (CTR), and conversions. View the full article

Ginny Marvin, the Google Ads Liaison, explained why Google is only letting you add up to 100 negative keywords to your campaign-level negative keywords within your Performance Max campaigns on Google Ads.View the full article

Curious about the timeline for schema markup to affect search engine rankings? Explore the factors that influence schema implementation and its impact on rankings. The post Ask An SEO: How Long Does It Take For Schema To Rank? appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

SEO is like a never-ending story. There are always things to do. And these things need your undivided attention, from keyword research to content audits and performance reporting. Many of these are repetitive, recurring, and time-consuming. And that’s why you need SEO automation. Table of contents What is SEO automation? The benefits of SEO automation Tasks you can automate right now How to get started with SEO automation Final thoughts on automating your SEO What is SEO automation? By automating SEO, you use tools and software to do the repetitive optimization tasks for you. These tools don’t eliminate the need for a person to be involved, but they can do the heavy lifting. These tasks often contain data-heavy and time-consuming work. Think of all the manual work you must do to run an SEO campaign. You have to crawl your website for technical errors, do keyword research, track how your ranking develops, and generate insightful reports — important work but tedious. SEO automation tools take these tasks and do them for you. These tools work faster and more accurately than you do. As a result, you can focus on the fun stuff — the creative and strategic work. For example, you could manually try to find broken links on your site, but that would take forever. An automated tool can do that in minutes and provide a nice report. For your content, keyword research tools can generate a list of terms to target in just a few minutes. You’ll even get search volume data and information about the level of competition. The benefits of SEO automation Automating your SEO has many advantages. Handing over repetitive tasks can save you a lot of time, leaving you with more time to work on your strategy and content. Automation is also more accurate in handling data, which leads to fewer errors and, thus, more dependable data. SEO automation streamlines your work and allows you to scale quickly once your site grows. Tasks you can automate right now Today, most SEO automation tools are designed to handle specific tasks. We’ll list the most common tasks you can automate. Keyword research Keyword research is the foundation of SEO. It is also very time-consuming to do manually. You’re looking at search volumes, competition, relevancy, and more, and you’ll have to make deductions from that. It’s not weird that almost everyone uses keyword research tools such as Semrush and Wincher to do the hard work. Keyword research tools can automatically: Generate lists with relevant keywords for your topic or niche. Give essential supporting data such as search volume and difficulty. Suggest related keywords that you can use to build up your. Here’s an example. Let’s say you run a gardening blog. Keyword research tools like Semrush can identify not only popular keywords like “best gardening tools” but also related terms such as “gardening tool maintenance” or “best hoes for gardening in specific conditions.” These insights allow you to build content clusters that improve your site’s authority. Content optimization Content optimization is another field in which SEO automation comes in. For instance, Yoast SEO can analyze your content to make sure it is properly optimized for search engines. An SEO tool like this gives feedback on: How you use keywords in your content and suggest improvements to make. How readable is your content, and are your sentences too complex? Where and how you can add relevant links to other content on your site. Improvements to make to your meta descriptions and titles (with AI in Yoast SEO’s case) Yoast SEO is a very popular plugin for WordPress and Shopify. It helps you optimize each post or page on your site to make it user-friendly, search-engine-friendly, and, of course, make that process as easy as possible. Website audits Automatically auditing your website regularly is also a popular form of SEO automation. Such an audit can help you catch issues that might influence your site’s performance. These can include: Broken links. Slow loading speeds. Missing meta tags. Duplicate content. Tools like Screaming Frog or Sitebulb can perform these audits automatically. These tools even let you schedule recurring audits, so you’re always updated on your site’s health. In addition, the tools provide actionable reports that highlight what needs fixing. Rank tracking There are many ways to gauge your site’s performance; one of the most important is to check its rankings. However, tracking your rankings manually is a lot of work. Luckily, rank-tracking tools such as Wincher, Semrush, and Ahrefs make this incredibly easy. These tools automate this process and provide you with regular updates on your keyword positions. Among the things these tools can track are: Changes in your rankings over time. The performance of specific target keywords. Competitor rankings for similar keywords. You get all kinds of reporting for your rankings. Plus, with the built-in alerting systems, you are always on top of things without constantly monitoring them. SEO reporting Another part of your SEO work that can be automated is reporting. Building custom reports is grueling work that can take hours of precious time. Luckily, tools like Looker Studio can combine data from different sources, such as Google Analytics, Search Console, Semrush, and others, to build custom dashboards that update automatically. With proper SEO automation tools, you can create reusable templates for your reports, so you have something predefined to start from. These can also be generated automatically at scheduled times to save you even more time. How to get started with SEO automation At one point, you will be ready to start automating your SEO workflow. But where do you start? Find the tasks you need to automate Think about your work and find the tasks that take the most time or recur most often. Such tasks are often the best options to automate. For example, if you spend much of your time on reporting, that would be a good option. Choose the right tools Not all tools are created equal, so choose one that does what you want them to do. Here are some options, but there are many others. Yoast SEO: Optimizes on-page SEO and provides content suggestions. Semrush: Offers keyword research, content outlines, and optimization Google Search Console: Tracks performance and identifies site issues. Screaming Frog: Conducts in-depth site audits. Looker Studio: Automates reporting by integrating with Google Analytics and other data sources. Start small Diving head-first into SEO automation might be exciting, but it will probably not end well. Please start small. Pick a couple of time-consuming tasks and see how you can make them more manageable and insightful. Once you see what works and what doesn’t, build from there. Final thoughts on automating your SEO SEO automation is a handy way to save time, improve data accuracy, and scale your work. We’re not looking to replace people but rather support them in their jobs. Tools can do many tasks, from keyword research to audits and data analysis. This leaves you more time for your high-impact work! Start small and experiment with a range of tools. You’ll find what works and what doesn’t, which will help you fine-tune your process. Ultimately, you want SEO automation to help you work smarter, not harder. The post SEO automation: Tools and tips for SEO success appeared first on Yoast. View the full article

A marketing funnel is a model of the customer journey that represents the buying stages people go through. View the full article

We recently covered how you can now drag and drop menu items for your restaurant in your Google Business Profiles. But Google also seemed to add the ability to move menu items between sections of your menu and the ability to batch edit pricing of menu items.View the full article

Ever heard the term “recession?” Chances are, your definition is quite different from what economists actually mean when they use the word. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what a recession is and explore some of the reasons why this economic decline happens. What Does Recession Mean? A recession is a decline in economic activity spread across the economy, lasting more than a few months. Recessions are characterized by a drop in gross domestic product, higher unemployment, and falling prices in financial markets. In the United States, a recession is typically defined as two consecutive quarters of negative economic growth. What Causes a Recession? There isn’t just one cause of a recession; rather, recessions usually arise from a mix of different factors. Here, we will explore the six primary reasons that can lead to a recession: Decrease in Consumer Spending and Economic Growth Consumer spending is a key driver of a growing economy. When people stop spending money, businesses make less money and are forced to cut back on their own spending. This can lead to layoffs and a decrease in production, which further reduces consumer spending and creates a feedback loop that can cause a recession. Cutbacks in Business Investment Business investments are essential for driving economic activity and growth. When companies begin to scale back their investment efforts, a number of consequences can arise: Delayed Expansion: Businesses might postpone or abandon plans for expansion, such as opening new branches or introducing new product lines. This not only affects the immediate prospects of the company but can also ripple through the economy by affecting related sectors and job markets. Reduced Capital Expenditures: A decline in spending on critical machinery, technology, or infrastructure can adversely affect the industries that provide these goods and services, exacerbating the economic downturn and potentially causing supply chain disruptions. Impact on Employment: With reduced investment projects, there’s often a direct impact on job creation. This can result in layoffs or a hiring freeze, which, in turn, affects consumer spending and confidence, further straining the economy. READ MORE: 19 Recession-Proof Businesses Government Cuts Back on Spending Government spending can also play a role in causing a recession. When the government reduces its spending, it may result in fewer jobs and a decline in production. Decrease in Exports One of the pivotal contributors to a country’s economic well-being is its ability to sell goods and services to other countries. When there’s a significant decline in exports: Trade Balance Impact: The trade balance, which is the difference between a country’s exports and imports, can go into a deficit if the exports decrease sharply. Persistent trade deficits can drain a country’s foreign reserves and lead to unfavorable trade terms. Decreased Production: Reduced demand from international markets can cause factories and producers to cut back on their production. This can lead to a domino effect where related industries, such as logistics and suppliers, also face reduced demand. Job Losses: As production declines, there’s often a subsequent reduction in the workforce. Industries that heavily rely on exports might lay off employees or halt hiring, leading to increased unemployment rates. Reduced Income for Government: Export duties and taxes are a significant source of revenue for many governments. A slump in exports means lesser income for the government, which can affect public spending and investments. Negative Impact on Currency Value: Consistent decrease in exports can lead to a devaluation of the national currency. A weaker currency can make imports more expensive, which can increase the cost of living and reduce purchasing power. Reduced Business Confidence: Prolonged periods of decreased exports can erode business confidence. Investors and businesses might become reluctant to invest in sectors that are export-heavy, fearing continued lack of demand from international markets. Increase in Imports An increase in imports can also cause a recession. When we buy more goods and services from other countries, it can lead to a decrease in production and jobs here at home. Interest Rates Increasing An increase in interest rates can also cause a recession. When the Federal Reserve Bank raises interest rates, it becomes more expensive to borrow money. This can lead to a decrease in investment and consumer spending, which can lead to a decrease in production and jobs. Summary AspectImpact Delayed ExpansionPostponed or cancelled growth plans, affecting company prospects and related sectors. Reduced Capital ExpendituresDecrease in spending on machinery, tech, or infrastructure, impacting related industries and causing supply chain disruptions. Impact on EmploymentLayoffs or hiring freezes due to reduced projects, decreasing consumer spending and overall economic confidence. Economic Indicators of a Recession There are several key economic indicators that can help to show whether or not an economy is experiencing a recession. When an economic analysis is performed, these indicators are often taken into account in order to give a more accurate picture of the current state of the economy. Let’s take a look at four indicators of a recession: A Significant Decline in Economic Activity One of the most obvious indicators of a recession is a significant decline in activity in the economy for consecutive quarters. This can be measured in various ways, but one of the most common is to look at the gross domestic product (GDP). GDP is the total value of all goods and services produced within a country’s borders in a given period of time, and it is often used as a measure of a country’s economic health. Rising Unemployment Rate Another key indicator of a recession is the rise of the unemployment rate. When people lose their jobs, they have less money to spend, which can lead to a decrease in consumer spending and a further decline in activity in the economy. Plummeting Stock Market A plummeting stock market is another key indicator of a recession. When the stock market crashes, it can signal that investors are losing confidence in the economy and are selling off their assets. This can lead to a decline in economic activity as well. Decrease in Housing Prices Finally, a decrease in housing prices is another key indicator of a recession. When housing prices go down, it can signal that the economy is weak and that people are not interested in buying homes. This can lead to more foreclosures and a decrease in the value of homes, which can further hurt the economy. Recessions and Business in Economic Research In business, as in life, we are subject to the ebb and flow of cycles. Recessions are a part of these business cycles. They’re periods of slowdown or contraction during which businesses experience decreased demand for their products or services. As a result, they may cut back on production, lay off workers, or otherwise scale back their operations. How Long Do Recessions Last? This is a question that’s been asked since the world economy collapsed in the wake of World War II. In the years immediately following the war, the world was in the grips of a global recession. It lasted for more than a decade and saw unemployment levels reach unprecedented heights. T hen there was the gulf war recession, which began in 1990 as a result of the Gulf War, and it lasted just over two consecutive quarters. How Do Recessions Work? A recession is when people stop buying stuff, and it’s a part of the business cycle. That’s all. The act of not buying stuff is called “deleveraging.” Deleveraging is when people and businesses reduce their debt levels by paying off their loans and credit lines. This is done by either selling assets or increasing savings. Once people start deleveraging, the economy slows down because there is less money being spent. This leads to layoffs and more businesses going bankrupt. The further the economy falls, the more deleveraging occurs and the deeper the recession becomes. Recession Vs. Depression An economic recession is a period of temporary decline in the economy during which trade and industrial activity are reduced. A depression is a more prolonged and severe period of the economy being in a decline that typically involves a sharp decrease in output, employment, and prices (deflation). They’re alike in that both economic downturns feature declining output and employment. However, depressions tend to be significantly more severe, with more pronounced reductions in both output and employment. Strategies for Businesses During a Recession In times of a recession, businesses must confront economic challenges that challenge their resilience and adaptability. Although a recession can create obstacles, it also provides an opportunity for companies to reevaluate their strategies, optimize their operations, and seek out new paths for growth. Here’s a guide on how businesses can fortify themselves during these challenging times: Cost Management and Efficiency Streamline Operations: Review your business operations for any inefficiencies that can be eliminated. Streamlining processes can lead to significant cost savings. Flexible Work Arrangements: Consider flexible work arrangements such as remote work or reduced hours to lower operational costs while maintaining productivity. Negotiate with Suppliers: Re-negotiate terms with suppliers or explore alternative suppliers to reduce costs. Strong relationships with suppliers can be leveraged for more favorable payment terms or discounts. Diversification and Innovation Explore New Markets: Diversification can be key to surviving a recession. Explore new markets or demographics that may be less affected by the economic downturn. Innovate: View the recession as a chance to innovate. Creating new products or services can generate extra revenue streams and provide you with a competitive advantage. Adapt to Consumer Needs: Stay attuned to changing consumer behaviors and adapt your offerings accordingly. Value-oriented products or services may be more appealing during economic hardships. Strengthening Customer Relationships Enhance Customer Service: Exceptional customer service can set your business apart during tough times. Focus on building strong relationships with your existing customer base. Loyalty Programs: Implement or enhance loyalty programs to encourage repeat business and deepen customer loyalty. Communicate Transparently: Keep your customers informed about how your business is navigating the recession. Transparent communication can foster trust and support. Financial Planning and Access to Capital Maintain a Cash Reserve: Aim to maintain a healthy cash reserve to cushion against reduced cash flow. This can provide financial stability and flexibility during uncertain times. Explore Financing Options: Be aware of financing options available, including government grants, loans, or lines of credit that can provide a financial lifeline if needed. Revisit Budgets and Forecasts: Regularly update your financial forecasts and budgets to reflect current economic conditions. This will help you make informed decisions and plan for the future. Planning Ahead and Taking The Positives Recessions have come and gone since the beginning of our country’s existence, and they’ll continue to do so. Economic research shows they’re a natural part of the business cycle, and while they can be painful, they’re also a necessary part of the economy’s growth. Believe it or not, there are some benefits to a recession, such as: Recessions can be a time of great opportunity – Many people are able to buy homes and invest in businesses at bargain prices. They can force businesses to become leaner and more efficient – This can lead to increased productivity and profitability in the long run. Recessions can lead to innovation – Necessity is the mother of invention, and businesses may be forced to develop new products and services to survive during a recession. While a recession poses undeniable challenges, it also compels businesses to become more agile, efficient, and innovative. By focusing on cost management, diversification, customer relationships, and financial planning, businesses can not only weather the storm but also emerge stronger. The key is to see the recession not merely as a time for survival but as a chance for reflection, adaptation, and growth. READ MORE: What Happens During a Recession? Your Complete Guide How to Prepare for a Recession Image: Depositphotos This article, "What is a Recession?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Ever heard the term “recession?” Chances are, your definition is quite different from what economists actually mean when they use the word. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what a recession is and explore some of the reasons why this economic decline happens. What Does Recession Mean? A recession is a decline in economic activity spread across the economy, lasting more than a few months. Recessions are characterized by a drop in gross domestic product, higher unemployment, and falling prices in financial markets. In the United States, a recession is typically defined as two consecutive quarters of negative economic growth. What Causes a Recession? There isn’t just one cause of a recession; rather, recessions usually arise from a mix of different factors. Here, we will explore the six primary reasons that can lead to a recession: Decrease in Consumer Spending and Economic Growth Consumer spending is a key driver of a growing economy. When people stop spending money, businesses make less money and are forced to cut back on their own spending. This can lead to layoffs and a decrease in production, which further reduces consumer spending and creates a feedback loop that can cause a recession. Cutbacks in Business Investment Business investments are essential for driving economic activity and growth. When companies begin to scale back their investment efforts, a number of consequences can arise: Delayed Expansion: Businesses might postpone or abandon plans for expansion, such as opening new branches or introducing new product lines. This not only affects the immediate prospects of the company but can also ripple through the economy by affecting related sectors and job markets. Reduced Capital Expenditures: A decline in spending on critical machinery, technology, or infrastructure can adversely affect the industries that provide these goods and services, exacerbating the economic downturn and potentially causing supply chain disruptions. Impact on Employment: With reduced investment projects, there’s often a direct impact on job creation. This can result in layoffs or a hiring freeze, which, in turn, affects consumer spending and confidence, further straining the economy. READ MORE: 19 Recession-Proof Businesses Government Cuts Back on Spending Government spending can also play a role in causing a recession. When the government reduces its spending, it may result in fewer jobs and a decline in production. Decrease in Exports One of the pivotal contributors to a country’s economic well-being is its ability to sell goods and services to other countries. When there’s a significant decline in exports: Trade Balance Impact: The trade balance, which is the difference between a country’s exports and imports, can go into a deficit if the exports decrease sharply. Persistent trade deficits can drain a country’s foreign reserves and lead to unfavorable trade terms. Decreased Production: Reduced demand from international markets can cause factories and producers to cut back on their production. This can lead to a domino effect where related industries, such as logistics and suppliers, also face reduced demand. Job Losses: As production declines, there’s often a subsequent reduction in the workforce. Industries that heavily rely on exports might lay off employees or halt hiring, leading to increased unemployment rates. Reduced Income for Government: Export duties and taxes are a significant source of revenue for many governments. A slump in exports means lesser income for the government, which can affect public spending and investments. Negative Impact on Currency Value: Consistent decrease in exports can lead to a devaluation of the national currency. A weaker currency can make imports more expensive, which can increase the cost of living and reduce purchasing power. Reduced Business Confidence: Prolonged periods of decreased exports can erode business confidence. Investors and businesses might become reluctant to invest in sectors that are export-heavy, fearing continued lack of demand from international markets. Increase in Imports An increase in imports can also cause a recession. When we buy more goods and services from other countries, it can lead to a decrease in production and jobs here at home. Interest Rates Increasing An increase in interest rates can also cause a recession. When the Federal Reserve Bank raises interest rates, it becomes more expensive to borrow money. This can lead to a decrease in investment and consumer spending, which can lead to a decrease in production and jobs. Summary AspectImpact Delayed ExpansionPostponed or cancelled growth plans, affecting company prospects and related sectors. Reduced Capital ExpendituresDecrease in spending on machinery, tech, or infrastructure, impacting related industries and causing supply chain disruptions. Impact on EmploymentLayoffs or hiring freezes due to reduced projects, decreasing consumer spending and overall economic confidence. Economic Indicators of a Recession There are several key economic indicators that can help to show whether or not an economy is experiencing a recession. When an economic analysis is performed, these indicators are often taken into account in order to give a more accurate picture of the current state of the economy. Let’s take a look at four indicators of a recession: A Significant Decline in Economic Activity One of the most obvious indicators of a recession is a significant decline in activity in the economy for consecutive quarters. This can be measured in various ways, but one of the most common is to look at the gross domestic product (GDP). GDP is the total value of all goods and services produced within a country’s borders in a given period of time, and it is often used as a measure of a country’s economic health. Rising Unemployment Rate Another key indicator of a recession is the rise of the unemployment rate. When people lose their jobs, they have less money to spend, which can lead to a decrease in consumer spending and a further decline in activity in the economy. Plummeting Stock Market A plummeting stock market is another key indicator of a recession. When the stock market crashes, it can signal that investors are losing confidence in the economy and are selling off their assets. This can lead to a decline in economic activity as well. Decrease in Housing Prices Finally, a decrease in housing prices is another key indicator of a recession. When housing prices go down, it can signal that the economy is weak and that people are not interested in buying homes. This can lead to more foreclosures and a decrease in the value of homes, which can further hurt the economy. Recessions and Business in Economic Research In business, as in life, we are subject to the ebb and flow of cycles. Recessions are a part of these business cycles. They’re periods of slowdown or contraction during which businesses experience decreased demand for their products or services. As a result, they may cut back on production, lay off workers, or otherwise scale back their operations. How Long Do Recessions Last? This is a question that’s been asked since the world economy collapsed in the wake of World War II. In the years immediately following the war, the world was in the grips of a global recession. It lasted for more than a decade and saw unemployment levels reach unprecedented heights. T hen there was the gulf war recession, which began in 1990 as a result of the Gulf War, and it lasted just over two consecutive quarters. How Do Recessions Work? A recession is when people stop buying stuff, and it’s a part of the business cycle. That’s all. The act of not buying stuff is called “deleveraging.” Deleveraging is when people and businesses reduce their debt levels by paying off their loans and credit lines. This is done by either selling assets or increasing savings. Once people start deleveraging, the economy slows down because there is less money being spent. This leads to layoffs and more businesses going bankrupt. The further the economy falls, the more deleveraging occurs and the deeper the recession becomes. Recession Vs. Depression An economic recession is a period of temporary decline in the economy during which trade and industrial activity are reduced. A depression is a more prolonged and severe period of the economy being in a decline that typically involves a sharp decrease in output, employment, and prices (deflation). They’re alike in that both economic downturns feature declining output and employment. However, depressions tend to be significantly more severe, with more pronounced reductions in both output and employment. Strategies for Businesses During a Recession In times of a recession, businesses must confront economic challenges that challenge their resilience and adaptability. Although a recession can create obstacles, it also provides an opportunity for companies to reevaluate their strategies, optimize their operations, and seek out new paths for growth. Here’s a guide on how businesses can fortify themselves during these challenging times: Cost Management and Efficiency Streamline Operations: Review your business operations for any inefficiencies that can be eliminated. Streamlining processes can lead to significant cost savings. Flexible Work Arrangements: Consider flexible work arrangements such as remote work or reduced hours to lower operational costs while maintaining productivity. Negotiate with Suppliers: Re-negotiate terms with suppliers or explore alternative suppliers to reduce costs. Strong relationships with suppliers can be leveraged for more favorable payment terms or discounts. Diversification and Innovation Explore New Markets: Diversification can be key to surviving a recession. Explore new markets or demographics that may be less affected by the economic downturn. Innovate: View the recession as a chance to innovate. Creating new products or services can generate extra revenue streams and provide you with a competitive advantage. Adapt to Consumer Needs: Stay attuned to changing consumer behaviors and adapt your offerings accordingly. Value-oriented products or services may be more appealing during economic hardships. Strengthening Customer Relationships Enhance Customer Service: Exceptional customer service can set your business apart during tough times. Focus on building strong relationships with your existing customer base. Loyalty Programs: Implement or enhance loyalty programs to encourage repeat business and deepen customer loyalty. Communicate Transparently: Keep your customers informed about how your business is navigating the recession. Transparent communication can foster trust and support. Financial Planning and Access to Capital Maintain a Cash Reserve: Aim to maintain a healthy cash reserve to cushion against reduced cash flow. This can provide financial stability and flexibility during uncertain times. Explore Financing Options: Be aware of financing options available, including government grants, loans, or lines of credit that can provide a financial lifeline if needed. Revisit Budgets and Forecasts: Regularly update your financial forecasts and budgets to reflect current economic conditions. This will help you make informed decisions and plan for the future. Planning Ahead and Taking The Positives Recessions have come and gone since the beginning of our country’s existence, and they’ll continue to do so. Economic research shows they’re a natural part of the business cycle, and while they can be painful, they’re also a necessary part of the economy’s growth. Believe it or not, there are some benefits to a recession, such as: Recessions can be a time of great opportunity – Many people are able to buy homes and invest in businesses at bargain prices. They can force businesses to become leaner and more efficient – This can lead to increased productivity and profitability in the long run. Recessions can lead to innovation – Necessity is the mother of invention, and businesses may be forced to develop new products and services to survive during a recession. While a recession poses undeniable challenges, it also compels businesses to become more agile, efficient, and innovative. By focusing on cost management, diversification, customer relationships, and financial planning, businesses can not only weather the storm but also emerge stronger. The key is to see the recession not merely as a time for survival but as a chance for reflection, adaptation, and growth. READ MORE: What Happens During a Recession? Your Complete Guide How to Prepare for a Recession Image: Depositphotos This article, "What is a Recession?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Total addressable market is the revenue a company would make if it sold to 100% of the people in its market. View the full article

In early December, Sundar Pichai, the CEO of Google, said Google is starting to test powering AI Overviews with Gemini 2.0. Well, we may be starting to see some of that in the wild, with much deeper and detailed AI Overviews and citations.View the full article

Microsoft reported its second quarter 2025 earnings and it showed that its search and advertising revenue was up 21%. The previous quarter it was up 18%, then 19% but before than it was 12% and 8% - so things are looking more positive.View the full article

US group has pushed heavily into facilities needed to feed AI boom amid breakneck spending by Big TechView the full article

Nearly three in five people worldwide—a significant 58%—plan to look for a new job in 2025. That’s a lot of people in the hunt and if you’re one of them, it can feel a bit overwhelming. It doesn’t help that many job seekers are also feeling stuck, applying to more positions than ever yet hearing back less often. The shifting job market, influenced by more competition and the growth of AI, has made old strategies less effective. To succeed, job seekers need to rethink their strategy—focusing on roles that align with their skills, crafting tailored applications, and finding ways to stand out. The good news? With a clear, intentional approach, you can navigate these challenges and make meaningful progress in your career. Here’s how to take control of your job search in 2025: Be Adaptable: Go where the opportunities are The job market is changing quickly. Consider this: Nearly three-quarters of today’s fastest-growing roles—think Artificial Intelligence Engineer or Chief Growth Officer—didn’t even exist 25 years ago. It’s a good reminder that building a sustainable career means staying ahead of the curve. Identify which skills are in demand and which industries are growing. Resources like LinkedIn’s Jobs on the Rise report can be helpful in spotting trends. For example, we’re seeing a willingness among job seekers to pivot into new industries. Making such a leap begins with assessing your transferable skills—attributes like communication, leadership, problem-solving, and adaptability—and exploring how they align with roles in unfamiliar sectors. By pairing curiosity with preparation, you can position yourself as a strong candidate in emerging fields. Highlight your expertise Simply claiming expertise isn’t enough—you need to show it. Hiring managers look for specific skills, so align your profile and résumé with the job description. Highlight achievements that show how your skills have produced results. Update your LinkedIn profile as well; listing at least five key skills can help you get up to 5.6 times more profile views from recruiters. Think of this as your opportunity to build a digital portfolio that speaks for you. Whether it’s showcasing a project, sharing industry insights, or highlighting new skills you’ve gained, your profile can become a dynamic representation of your expertise and professional brand. Focus on quality over quantity Applying to as many jobs as possible might seem like a good strategy, but it’s not effective. Instead, focus on quality instead of quantity. To help you be more strategic in the roles you’re applying for, consider using LinkedIn’s new job match feature to see how your skills and experience line up with what hiring managers are looking for. It can also help you identify any skills you may be missing that could improve your chances of hearing back from recruiters. And, take the time to customize your application—writing a cover letter tailored to the role lets you clearly explain how you can meet its needs. It may seem like overkill, but it will help you stand out to employers. Navigating the current job market doesn’t have to be frustrating. Small, focused actions—like improving your profile, expanding your network, or learning a new skill—can move you closer to your next role. In a fast-changing job market, being focused and strategic is the best way to stay ahead. View the full article

Christian Sewing has ‘firm confidence’ lender will hit returns target this year as it reviews weaker unitsView the full article

Starting a new business can come with numerous organizational expenses that can add up quickly. Fortunately, the IRS offers a deduction for startup costs that can help ease the financial burden. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about startup cost deduction and how to take advantage of it in the future. What is the startup cost deduction? The startup cost deduction is a tax provision that allows entrepreneurs and small business owners to deduct a portion of their startup expenses from their taxable income in the year they begin conducting business. The deduction is intended to help offset the costs involved with starting a business, which can include expenses such as market research, legal fees, incorporation fees, and advertising costs. To qualify for the startup cost deduction, the business must be a new business, the expenses must be incurred before the business begins operations, and the expenses must be necessary and ordinary for the type of business being started. The amount of the startup cost deduction is limited to $5,000 for the first year of business, with any remaining startup costs being amortized over a 15-year period. However, businesses whose startup costs exceed $50,000 in total face a reduced limit on their deduction. The best way to get you going in the right direction is to have a business startup checklist. The list can include anything from getting financing to finding legal help and even knowing tax terms. A thorough checklist can keep you from making rash decisions. Who can benefit from the startup costs deduction? New businesses that have incurred startup costs can benefit from the startup cost deduction. This includes entrepreneurs who have recently started a business, as well as those who are in the process of starting one. The deduction is available to businesses of all types and sizes, including sole proprietorships, partnerships, and corporations. What business startup costs are deductible? When starting a business, it’s essential to understand what costs are deductible. Deductible startup costs and deductible organizational costs are two categories that can help new business owners save on taxes. Understanding which expenses fit into these categories can greatly impact a business’s financial success. Deductible Startup Costs When starting a new business, there are many costs that need to be considered. Fortunately, some of these costs may be tax-deductible, helping new business owners save money on their taxes. These deductible business startup expenses include costs that are necessary when starting or buying an active trade or business, such as: Research and development expenses may include costs incurred related to the creation and testing of prototypes, the development of new technologies, labor supply, or the refinement of existing products or services. Market research expenses may include costs paid related to surveys, focus groups, or other research methods to understand potential customers’ needs and preferences. Advertising and promotion expenses can encompass costs associated with the development and distribution of marketing materials, including brochures, flyers, and advertisements. Employee training costs may include expenses related to onboarding new employees, such as training materials, instructor fees, and travel expenses. Equipment and supplies costs may include expenses related to purchasing or leasing equipment and supplies necessary to operate the business. Professional fees, such as legal and accounting fees, may be incurred to help with business registration, tax preparation, and other legal or financial matters. Rent and utilities during the startup phase such as rent for office or retail space, as well as utilities such as electricity, water, and internet service. Deductible Organizational Costs Deductible organizational costs are expenses that arise during the establishment of a corporation or partnership. These costs encompass: Legal and accounting fees associated with incorporation or partnership formation can encompass costs for preparing legal documents, including articles of incorporation and partnership agreements, along with any consulting fees from accountants or lawyers. State fees for incorporating or registering the business may include expenses such as filing fees or franchise taxes required to register the business with the state. Organizational meeting costs may include expenses related to the initial meetings of the corporation or partnership, such as travel and lodging expenses for shareholders or partners. Fees for obtaining licenses and permits can encompass the costs associated with acquiring the essential permits and licenses needed to operate the business. Costs associated with transferring assets to the new business may also be tax-deductible. These costs may include expenses related to transferring assets such as real estate, inventory, or intellectual property to the new business. What startup business expenses are not deductible? While there are many startup costs that are deductible, not all expenses qualify. Some costs, such as personal expenses or those incurred before the business is operational, cannot be deducted. Here are examples of startup costs that are not deductible: Personal expenses Capital expenses Research and experimentation costs before the business begins operations Expenses for acquiring intangible assets like patents and copyrights Costs related to acquiring an existing business Expenses related to issuing stock or other securities Fines and penalties Expenses for lobbying or political activities Costs related to tax-exempt income or other tax-exempt entities Expenses for creating or administering a pension plan or trust Costs related to issuing tax-exempt securities or financing through tax-exempt bonds When can you take the startup costs deduction? You can claim the startup costs deduction in the year your business starts. This deduction applies to expenses related to the creation or exploration of a new business, including costs for market research and advertising. The maximum amount of startup costs that can be deducted in the first year is $5,000, with any remaining balance being amortized over a period of 15 years. It’s important to keep accurate records and consult with a tax professional to ensure you are taking advantage of all available tax deductions. How do you calculate startup costs for a small business? Calculating startup costs for a small business involves identifying all expenses necessary to get the business up and running. These expenses may encompass a variety of items, ranging from market research and legal fees to equipment and supplies. To calculate the total startup costs, list each expense and its associated cost and add them together. It’s important to be thorough in identifying all necessary expenses, as underestimating startup costs can lead to financial strain later on. A solid understanding of startup costs is critical for creating a viable business plan and securing the necessary funding for a successful launch. How do you claim the startup costs deduction? Claiming the startup costs deduction can help reduce the tax burden for new businesses. To take advantage of this deduction, there are specific steps that must be followed when filing an IRS tax return. Here are the steps to claim the startup costs deduction: Determine if your business is eligible: To claim the startup costs deduction, your business must have started within the current tax year and incurred expenses related to starting up the business. Calculate your startup costs: The startup costs include any expenses incurred in preparing to operate the business, such as legal and accounting fees, market research, and advertising costs. Choose between deduction or amortization: You have the option of either deducting startup costs up to $5,000 in the first year or amortizing the expenses over a period of time, generally 15 years. File the appropriate tax form: Based on your business entity type, you must submit either Form 1120, 1120-S, 1065, or 1040. Filing the correct form is essential for claiming the startup costs deduction. Include the deduction on your tax return: After calculating the amount of the deduction or amortization, make sure to record it on the correct line of your tax return. This step is crucial to maximize the tax benefit from the startup costs deduction. How much can be claimed with the startup costs deduction? The amount that can be claimed with the startup costs deduction is limited to $5,000 in the first year of business. If your total startup costs exceed $50,000, the deduction will be reduced by the excess amount. Any remaining expenses not deducted in the first year can be amortized and claimed over a period of 180 months. Can an LLC deduct startup costs? Yes, an LLC can deduct startup costs on its tax return. However, the deduction is subject to certain limitations and eligibility requirements. The IRS considers startup costs as capital expenses that are necessary to get the business up and running. It’s important to consult with a tax professional to ensure you are accurately reporting all eligible expenses and taking advantage of all available deductions. Can a sole proprietor deduct startup costs? Yes, a sole proprietor can deduct startup costs on their tax return, subject to certain limits and requirements. The startup costs must be ordinary and necessary expenses incurred in the course of starting the business and cannot exceed $5,000 in the first year, with any remaining costs spread out over 15 years. Can an independent contractor deduct startup costs? Yes, independent contractors may be able to deduct startup costs associated with their business, such as equipment purchases and marketing expenses, on their tax returns. Just like for LLCs and sole proprietors, the deduction is limited to $5,000 in the first year of business and any remaining costs can be spread out. Can you deduct startup costs with no income? If a business owner has no income during the year in which they incur startup costs, they may still be able to deduct these costs on their tax return. The deduction may be limited in the first year and carried forward to future years. Can you depreciate startup costs? Some startup costs, such as equipment purchases or property improvements, may be depreciated over time on a business owner’s tax return. As mentioned previously, the ability to depreciate startup costs on a business owner’s tax return may be limited by certain eligibility requirements established by the IRS. Image: Envato Elements This article, "Your Guide to the Startup Costs Deduction" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Starting a new business can come with numerous organizational expenses that can add up quickly. Fortunately, the IRS offers a deduction for startup costs that can help ease the financial burden. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about startup cost deduction and how to take advantage of it in the future. What is the startup cost deduction? The startup cost deduction is a tax provision that allows entrepreneurs and small business owners to deduct a portion of their startup expenses from their taxable income in the year they begin conducting business. The deduction is intended to help offset the costs involved with starting a business, which can include expenses such as market research, legal fees, incorporation fees, and advertising costs. To qualify for the startup cost deduction, the business must be a new business, the expenses must be incurred before the business begins operations, and the expenses must be necessary and ordinary for the type of business being started. The amount of the startup cost deduction is limited to $5,000 for the first year of business, with any remaining startup costs being amortized over a 15-year period. However, businesses whose startup costs exceed $50,000 in total face a reduced limit on their deduction. The best way to get you going in the right direction is to have a business startup checklist. The list can include anything from getting financing to finding legal help and even knowing tax terms. A thorough checklist can keep you from making rash decisions. Who can benefit from the startup costs deduction? New businesses that have incurred startup costs can benefit from the startup cost deduction. This includes entrepreneurs who have recently started a business, as well as those who are in the process of starting one. The deduction is available to businesses of all types and sizes, including sole proprietorships, partnerships, and corporations. What business startup costs are deductible? When starting a business, it’s essential to understand what costs are deductible. Deductible startup costs and deductible organizational costs are two categories that can help new business owners save on taxes. Understanding which expenses fit into these categories can greatly impact a business’s financial success. Deductible Startup Costs When starting a new business, there are many costs that need to be considered. Fortunately, some of these costs may be tax-deductible, helping new business owners save money on their taxes. These deductible business startup expenses include costs that are necessary when starting or buying an active trade or business, such as: Research and development expenses may include costs incurred related to the creation and testing of prototypes, the development of new technologies, labor supply, or the refinement of existing products or services. Market research expenses may include costs paid related to surveys, focus groups, or other research methods to understand potential customers’ needs and preferences. Advertising and promotion expenses can encompass costs associated with the development and distribution of marketing materials, including brochures, flyers, and advertisements. Employee training costs may include expenses related to onboarding new employees, such as training materials, instructor fees, and travel expenses. Equipment and supplies costs may include expenses related to purchasing or leasing equipment and supplies necessary to operate the business. Professional fees, such as legal and accounting fees, may be incurred to help with business registration, tax preparation, and other legal or financial matters. Rent and utilities during the startup phase such as rent for office or retail space, as well as utilities such as electricity, water, and internet service. Deductible Organizational Costs Deductible organizational costs are expenses that arise during the establishment of a corporation or partnership. These costs encompass: Legal and accounting fees associated with incorporation or partnership formation can encompass costs for preparing legal documents, including articles of incorporation and partnership agreements, along with any consulting fees from accountants or lawyers. State fees for incorporating or registering the business may include expenses such as filing fees or franchise taxes required to register the business with the state. Organizational meeting costs may include expenses related to the initial meetings of the corporation or partnership, such as travel and lodging expenses for shareholders or partners. Fees for obtaining licenses and permits can encompass the costs associated with acquiring the essential permits and licenses needed to operate the business. Costs associated with transferring assets to the new business may also be tax-deductible. These costs may include expenses related to transferring assets such as real estate, inventory, or intellectual property to the new business. What startup business expenses are not deductible? While there are many startup costs that are deductible, not all expenses qualify. Some costs, such as personal expenses or those incurred before the business is operational, cannot be deducted. Here are examples of startup costs that are not deductible: Personal expenses Capital expenses Research and experimentation costs before the business begins operations Expenses for acquiring intangible assets like patents and copyrights Costs related to acquiring an existing business Expenses related to issuing stock or other securities Fines and penalties Expenses for lobbying or political activities Costs related to tax-exempt income or other tax-exempt entities Expenses for creating or administering a pension plan or trust Costs related to issuing tax-exempt securities or financing through tax-exempt bonds When can you take the startup costs deduction? You can claim the startup costs deduction in the year your business starts. This deduction applies to expenses related to the creation or exploration of a new business, including costs for market research and advertising. The maximum amount of startup costs that can be deducted in the first year is $5,000, with any remaining balance being amortized over a period of 15 years. It’s important to keep accurate records and consult with a tax professional to ensure you are taking advantage of all available tax deductions. How do you calculate startup costs for a small business? Calculating startup costs for a small business involves identifying all expenses necessary to get the business up and running. These expenses may encompass a variety of items, ranging from market research and legal fees to equipment and supplies. To calculate the total startup costs, list each expense and its associated cost and add them together. It’s important to be thorough in identifying all necessary expenses, as underestimating startup costs can lead to financial strain later on. A solid understanding of startup costs is critical for creating a viable business plan and securing the necessary funding for a successful launch. How do you claim the startup costs deduction? Claiming the startup costs deduction can help reduce the tax burden for new businesses. To take advantage of this deduction, there are specific steps that must be followed when filing an IRS tax return. Here are the steps to claim the startup costs deduction: Determine if your business is eligible: To claim the startup costs deduction, your business must have started within the current tax year and incurred expenses related to starting up the business. Calculate your startup costs: The startup costs include any expenses incurred in preparing to operate the business, such as legal and accounting fees, market research, and advertising costs. Choose between deduction or amortization: You have the option of either deducting startup costs up to $5,000 in the first year or amortizing the expenses over a period of time, generally 15 years. File the appropriate tax form: Based on your business entity type, you must submit either Form 1120, 1120-S, 1065, or 1040. Filing the correct form is essential for claiming the startup costs deduction. Include the deduction on your tax return: After calculating the amount of the deduction or amortization, make sure to record it on the correct line of your tax return. This step is crucial to maximize the tax benefit from the startup costs deduction. How much can be claimed with the startup costs deduction? The amount that can be claimed with the startup costs deduction is limited to $5,000 in the first year of business. If your total startup costs exceed $50,000, the deduction will be reduced by the excess amount. Any remaining expenses not deducted in the first year can be amortized and claimed over a period of 180 months. Can an LLC deduct startup costs? Yes, an LLC can deduct startup costs on its tax return. However, the deduction is subject to certain limitations and eligibility requirements. The IRS considers startup costs as capital expenses that are necessary to get the business up and running. It’s important to consult with a tax professional to ensure you are accurately reporting all eligible expenses and taking advantage of all available deductions. Can a sole proprietor deduct startup costs? Yes, a sole proprietor can deduct startup costs on their tax return, subject to certain limits and requirements. The startup costs must be ordinary and necessary expenses incurred in the course of starting the business and cannot exceed $5,000 in the first year, with any remaining costs spread out over 15 years. Can an independent contractor deduct startup costs? Yes, independent contractors may be able to deduct startup costs associated with their business, such as equipment purchases and marketing expenses, on their tax returns. Just like for LLCs and sole proprietors, the deduction is limited to $5,000 in the first year of business and any remaining costs can be spread out. Can you deduct startup costs with no income? If a business owner has no income during the year in which they incur startup costs, they may still be able to deduct these costs on their tax return. The deduction may be limited in the first year and carried forward to future years. Can you depreciate startup costs? Some startup costs, such as equipment purchases or property improvements, may be depreciated over time on a business owner’s tax return. As mentioned previously, the ability to depreciate startup costs on a business owner’s tax return may be limited by certain eligibility requirements established by the IRS. Image: Envato Elements This article, "Your Guide to the Startup Costs Deduction" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article