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Employment lawyer Robin Shea published a piece at legal analysis site JD Supra about my recent Slate column on mandatory “fun” at work — and she delved into the legal implications for employers. She points out that pressure to participate in things like escape rooms, sports, and yoga can give rise to legal issues around disability, pregnancy, age, and religion, as well as workers comp claims and wage and hour claims, and she offers advice to employers. It’s an interesting read. The post can team-building get you sued? appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

Today's Bissett Bullet: “Business owners are busy people. If they already have an accounting firm and have asked or agreed to spend time meeting with you ...” By Martin Bissett See more Bissett Bullets here Go PRO for members-only access to more Martin Bissett. View the full article

Today's Bissett Bullet: “Business owners are busy people. If they already have an accounting firm and have asked or agreed to spend time meeting with you ...” By Martin Bissett See more Bissett Bullets here Go PRO for members-only access to more Martin Bissett. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Did you know you can customize Google to filter out garbage? Take these steps for better search results, including adding Lifehacker as a preferred source for tech news. Yesterday, at its 2025 Meta Connect conference, Meta finally unveiled its first Ray-Ban smart glasses that actually have a screen inside them. I have yet to try them for myself, but according to my colleagues over at CNET, seeing is believing. If you want to book a demo to try out the new Meta Ray-Ban Display glasses, you're in luck: They're popping up in select stores across the country, and you can already schedule your visit. In fact, you'll need to if you actually want to take a pair home. What are the Meta Ray-Ban Display Smart Glasses?Meta's Ray-Ban Display smart glasses are similar to the smart glasses the two companies have already been releasing since 2021, but if the name didn't give it away already, now they have a screen inside them. This isn't AR, so you don't get head tracking or a large virtual display situated in your environment, but you do get a little heads-up 600x600 screen over your right eye that you can use to, say, check on texts or watch an Instagram Reel. It's also private, according to my colleagues over at CNET, with some clever manufacturing keeping people from seeing what's on your display through the transparent lens. And it comes with a special "neural wristband" for actually navigating content, which can pick up thumb movements, pinches, and the like and translate them into swipes and taps. It all sounds fancy— dare I say "innovative"?—even if it comes with a $799 price tag (the last generation of Meta Ray-Ban smart glasses was $379). But if you're going to be dropping that much on such an unproven product, I don't blame you for wanting to go hands-on with it before buying. And it seems, neither does Meta. How to try out the Meta Ray-Ban Display Smart GlassesEven though Meta's Ray-Ban Display Smart Glasses technically start shipping on Sept. 30, you can't buy them online. Instead, you'll have to do an in-store demo before you can actually get a pair. These demos are available at Ray-Ban stores, but also partners including LensCrafters, Sunglass Hut, and Best Buy. You can book demos straight through a specific store's site if you have a favorite, as seen on this Best Buy link, but the best way to see all the demos available near you is through Meta's own site. Just navigate to this scheduler page on the Meta site and enter your address to see participating stores near you and the dates when they have demos available. Then hit "Schedule a Demo" on a store of your choosing to be taken to that store's site to finish booking. While Meta's site showed me appointments starting today, none of the stores I clicked through to had availability until October, so don't be surprised if the scheduler's data is a little behind. What do you need for your Ray-Ban Display Demo?Generally, you can just head to your Ray-Ban Display Demo and be golden. But if you wear prescription lenses, you'll either need to wear contacts or know your lens details. Meta's demo kits can accommodate a range of -4.00 to +4.00 prescriptions, so plan accordingly. Then, it's just a matter of trying the glasses on. When you're done, you can either buy your pair, or hold off. If you wait, you'll be sent an email with details from your appointment. Meta says it's limiting purchases to people who have tried a demo right now to ensure fit and satisfaction, but that more buying options will come "over time." That's great news for folks who live outside of the U.S., as demos are currently limited to Meta's home country. However, the company says demos will expand to Canada, France, Italy, and the U.K. in early 2026. View the full article

Eight forces that have altered the future of accounting firms. By Anthony Zecca Leading from the Edge Go PRO for members-only access to more Anthony Zecca. View the full article

Eight forces that have altered the future of accounting firms. By Anthony Zecca Leading from the Edge Go PRO for members-only access to more Anthony Zecca. View the full article

And four lessons learned. By Jackie Meyer Go PRO for members-only access to more Jackie Meyer. View the full article

And four lessons learned. By Jackie Meyer Go PRO for members-only access to more Jackie Meyer. View the full article

Strava's new Training Zones feature promises to help runners and cyclists better understand their training load across metrics like heart rate, power, and pace. That sounds like useful information, but if you've recently discovered that most of your runs fall into what's commonly called the "gray zone" (Zone 3), take a deep breath: You aren't doing everything wrong, you don't need to panic, and you definitely don't need to completely overhaul your training. Here's why—and how you can use training zones as the helpful tool they're meant to be, rather than as a source of anxiety. What are training zones?Before diving into how Strava offers insights into training zones, let's quickly go over what they really are. As Lifehacker senior health editor Beth Skwarecki has previously explained, talk of different zones is overhyped, since these zones aren't clearly defined. Most talked about is the coveted Zone 2, even though no one can agree on what exactly it is. On the flip side, I always see warnings about Zone 3 being the "no man's land" of training—too hard to be easy, too easy to be hard. This dread is overblown. Zone 2 training is celebrated because it helps build your aerobic base and burns calories without incurring significant fatigue. But guess what Zone 3 training also does? It builds your aerobic base, it burns even more calories, and it typically adds only marginally more fatigue than Zone 2. For most recreational runners, the difference between the zones is far less dramatic than the online discourse suggests. Heart rate zones are indeed a completely valid way to describe how hard you're working during a cardio workout. But it's hardly a matter of "Zone 2 good, Zone 3 bad," particularly given that different devices and apps define the zones differently. Your "Zone 2" might be 60% to 70% of max heart rate on an Apple Watch, but 65% to 75% on a Peloton. At 73% of your max heart rate, the Apple Watch would categorize your effort as Zone 3, while the Peloton would call it Zone 2. Which is right? Neither, really—because these boundaries are largely arbitrary. The concept of training zones is sound when considered in the right context, but the specific percentages and boundaries aren't set in stone. They're guidelines, not gospel. Your physiology doesn't magically change the moment you cross from 69% to 71% of your max heart rate. And if you're a recreational runner focused on health and enjoyment, the difference between Zone 2 and Zone 3 is a mere technicality. How Strava's Training Zones actually workStrava's Training Zones use a familiar five-zone system. The feature allows you to filter by sport and analyze training load across different timeframes (seven days, one month, and three months), providing insights into how your training varies across activities. Heart Rate Zones: Zone 1 – Endurance Zone 2 – Moderate Zone 3 – Tempo Zone 4 – Threshold Zone 5 – Anaerobic These zones indicate exercise intensity levels and are automatically calculated based on your max heart rate. Strava uses the standard formula of 220 minus your age, defaulting to 190 bpm if no age is provided. Your zones update automatically on your birthday unless you've manually set your max heart rate. Adjust your Strava Training Zones to eliminate your workout anxiety Luckily, you don't need to accept the default settings as law. Strava allows subscribers to set different heart rate zones for running versus cycling, and you can adjust these zones anytime. When you scroll down in the Progress tab on Strava, you'll see Training Zones. Within that menu, select the Pencil (edit) icon. If you know your actual max heart rate from testing, use that instead of the age-based estimated maximum. You can manually edit your training zones in Strava. Credit: Meredith Dietz Even if you don't have exact numbers, you can adjust your zones based on feel. Your perceived exertion might be a better guide than your heart rate monitor. Toggle the "auto-calculate" option to manually adjust each individual heart rate zone. If Strava tells you you're in Zone 3-4, but you can easily hold a conversation during that workout, you could then widen the range for Zone 2 to more accurately reflect what you know to be lower effort for you. When a run feels easy and conversational, it's probably serving its purpose, regardless of whether your device says you're in Zone 2 or Zone 3. Instead of obsessing over individual workout zones, examine your training distribution over weeks and months. Are you doing mostly easy runs with some harder efforts? That's what matters, not whether your easy pace puts you at the top of Zone 2 or bottom of Zone 3. The bottom lineTraining zones should inform your training, not dictate it. They're tools to help you understand intensity and plan progression, not rigid boundaries that determine success or failure. Strava's Training Zones feature can provide valuable insights into your training patterns and help you make more informed decisions about your workouts. The next time your watch beeps to tell you you've crossed into Zone 3, remember: The boundaries aren't real, but how your body feels is. View the full article

It’s the Thursday “ask the readers” question. A reader writes: For various but mostly economic reasons, my spouse and I are not planning on having children. We both work in specialized fields that do not allow remote work, in roles that are required to be full-time. The best employment opportunities for both of us mean we’re locked into living in a high-cost-of-living area, and we rely on our full combined income to pay rent, bills, and student loans. This was our choice even before the current economic chaos. My darling mother cannot fathom this decision. Her suggestions for ways to “make it work” with a baby have ranged from: “Take the baby into the office with you” to “just go part-time, you’ll still have health insurance.” An explanation of our finances does not help, because “everyone has worries about money but they make it work.” She’s even suggested that we should hurry up so we can use her for babysitting in the years before she retires. She currently works from home and intends to travel extensively during her retirement. (And all of this is ignoring that we lived with my grandparents and great-aunt for most of my early childhood!) All of this to say: Readers in a similar situation, what other terrible, outdated advice for navigating the workplace as a new parent did you field from your families? How did you (or didn’t you) successfully communicate the current economic reality of having children? Not looking for solutions, just solidarity. Personally I’d just tell her you’ve decided you don’t want to have kids and the decision is final. By framing it as being about money, you’re leaving it open for her to try to find ways to overcome that. That said, let’s discuss terrible, unrealistic advice for navigating the workplace as a new parent! Readers? The post ask the readers: terrible advice for navigating work as a new parent appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

Early exposure cultivates judgment. Accounting ARC With Liz Mason, Byron Patrick, and Donny Shimamoto Center for Accounting Transformation Go PRO for members-only access to more Center for Accounting Transformation. View the full article

Early exposure cultivates judgment. Accounting ARC With Liz Mason, Byron Patrick, and Donny Shimamoto Center for Accounting Transformation Go PRO for members-only access to more Center for Accounting Transformation. View the full article

Project management examples show how planning, scheduling and execution principles are applied across different industries. They highlight real-world strategies for completing projects on time, staying within budget and achieving the desired outcomes. By examining project management examples from manufacturing, construction, software development and other sectors, teams can learn best practices and adapt them to their own work. These project management examples also demonstrate how tools and methodologies are used to manage complexity, coordinate resources and communicate progress. Whether it’s a small internal project or a large-scale initiative, seeing how other teams succeed provides inspiration and practical guidance. Below are seven project management examples from across industries that illustrate effective project planning and execution. Key Elements of These Project Management Examples These project management examples share several common elements that ensure projects run smoothly and achieve their objectives. From clear goals to well-defined timelines, understanding these key components helps project managers plan, execute and monitor projects effectively. Each element plays a role in minimizing risks, optimizing resources and maintaining stakeholder alignment. Using project management software makes managing these elements easier and more efficient. Instead of tracking details manually across spreadsheets or documents, software consolidates information, automates calculations and provides real-time visibility. This ensures that project managers can monitor progress, identify bottlenecks and make adjustments quickly without losing control of the project. ProjectManager is the ideal software for managing project management examples because it combines Gantt charts, multiple project views, dashboards and reporting tools in one platform. Gantt charts allow managers to visualize dependencies, track milestones and set baselines to measure variance. Meanwhile, features like resource management, customizable dashboards and automated reporting make it easy to stay on top of all project elements and deliver projects on time and within budget. Get started with ProjectManager today for free. /wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Gantt-CTA-2025.jpgLearn more Before we get to the examples, here’s a list of the project management elements that can be found in each, regardless of the industry. Project Goals and Objectives: Clearly define what the project aims to achieve, providing direction for the team and a benchmark for success. Project Scope: Establish the boundaries of the project, specifying what is included and excluded to prevent scope creep. Project Deliverables: List the tangible or intangible outputs the project will produce, ensuring expectations are clear for stakeholders. Project Resources: Identify the team members, equipment and materials needed, allowing for proper allocation and workload management. Project Cost: Plan and monitor the budget to keep expenses under control and make informed financial decisions throughout the project. Project Stakeholders: Determine who is impacted or involved, ensuring proper communication and alignment with all parties. Project Timeline: Outline the schedule, milestones and deadlines to track progress and maintain accountability for task completion. Project Risks: Identify potential issues or obstacles that could impact the project and develop mitigation strategies to minimize their effect. 7 Project Management Examples from Across Industries Project management examples across industries show how structured planning, execution and monitoring principles can be applied to a variety of contexts. Each industry has unique challenges, from managing resources and timelines to navigating stakeholder expectations and risks. By examining these examples, teams can learn how to adapt best practices and tools to deliver successful outcomes consistently. While the specific deliverables and resources may vary, these examples share core project management elements: goals and objectives, scope, deliverables, resources, cost, stakeholders, timelines and risk management. Understanding how these elements are applied in real-world projects helps teams identify lessons learned and improve efficiency in their own projects. 1. Construction Project Management Example In a construction project, the goal might be to build a commercial office building on time and within budget. The project scope includes design, permitting, foundation work, framing, electrical and plumbing systems, finishing and inspections. Deliverables are completed building structures, safety reports and compliance certifications. Related: 20 Free Excel Construction Templates Resources include architects, engineers, laborers, heavy equipment and materials. Project costs are monitored through budgets and procurement systems. Stakeholders include investors, contractors, local authorities and tenants. A detailed project timeline is developed using milestones such as foundation completion, structural framing and occupancy permits. Potential risks include weather delays, labor shortages, supply chain issues and regulatory changes. By managing these elements carefully, construction teams ensure that each phase progresses on schedule, costs are controlled and stakeholders are kept informed, reducing risk and improving overall project success. /wp-content/uploads/2023/06/construction-schedule-template.jpg Get your free Construction Schedule Template Use this free Construction Schedule Template to manage your projects better. Get the Template 2. IT Project Management Example An IT project may involve developing a new software application for a client. Goals include delivering a functional, scalable and user-friendly system. Scope defines the modules, integrations and platform support included. Deliverables consist of design documents, code repositories, testing results and deployment packages. Resources include software developers, UX designers, testers and project managers. Project costs cover software licenses, hardware, development hours and testing tools. Stakeholders are clients, internal teams and end-users. The project timeline maps phases from requirements gathering to deployment. Risks include bugs, missed deadlines, changing client requirements and integration issues. Using these elements, project managers can allocate resources effectively, monitor progress and communicate clearly with stakeholders to ensure a high-quality software product is delivered on time and within budget. /wp-content/uploads/2025/05/IT-projet-plan-gantt-chart-2025.png Related: 17 Free IT Project Management Templates for Excel, Word & More 3. Manufacturing Project Management Example A manufacturing project might focus on launching a new product line. Goals include producing high-quality units at scale while meeting cost and timeline targets. Scope covers product design, prototype development, production planning, quality assurance and distribution. Deliverables include prototypes, production schedules and final products. Resources include engineers, production staff, raw materials and machinery. Costs are tracked through material, labor and overhead expenses. Stakeholders include suppliers, management, regulatory bodies and customers. The project timeline identifies critical production milestones such as prototype approval, pilot runs and full-scale manufacturing. Risks involve equipment failure, supply delays, quality issues and workforce shortages. Properly applying project management elements ensures smooth production, cost control and timely delivery, reducing risk while meeting customer expectations. /wp-content/uploads/2024/05/inventory-management-manufacturing-sheet-light-mode.jpg Related: 18 Free Manufacturing Excel Templates 4. Marketing Project Management Example A marketing project could involve launching a multi-channel campaign. Project goals focus on brand awareness, lead generation and engagement metrics. Scope defines the channels, messaging and assets included in the campaign. Deliverables include social media content, email campaigns, ad creatives, press releases and analytics reports. Resources include designers, copywriters, media buyers, project managers and analytics tools. Project costs cover advertising spend, content production and technology subscriptions. Stakeholders include marketing teams, management, clients and external vendors. Timelines outline key milestones such as campaign launch dates, content deadlines and performance reviews. Risks include missed deadlines, budget overruns, creative misalignment and low engagement. Using these project management elements ensures that marketing campaigns are delivered effectively, resources are optimized and performance is continuously monitored for improvement. /wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Marketing-project-list-view-2025.png Related: 15 Marketing Templates for Planning, Strategy & More (Free Excel Downloads) 5. Event Project Management Example In event management, the goal is to deliver a successful conference or public event. The scope includes venue selection, logistics, programming, vendor coordination and attendee management. Deliverables are event schedules, floor plans, promotional materials and feedback reports. Resources include event coordinators, vendors, speakers, volunteers and equipment. Costs cover venue, catering, marketing and staffing. Stakeholders include attendees, sponsors, vendors and internal teams. The timeline sets deadlines for registrations, setup, rehearsals and the live event. Risks involve weather, technical failures, scheduling conflicts and safety concerns. Applying project management elements ensures the event runs smoothly, attendees have a positive experience and all logistical and financial objectives are met. /wp-content/uploads/2024/02/event-plan-kanban-board-light-mode.png 6. Research Project Management Example For a research project, the goal might be to produce a study that addresses specific scientific questions. The scope covers experimental design, data collection, analysis and publication. Deliverables include research proposals, datasets, reports and peer-reviewed articles. Resources involve researchers, lab technicians, equipment, software and funding. Project costs are tied to materials, personnel and operational expenses. Stakeholders include academic institutions, funding agencies, collaborators and journal editors. Timelines outline key stages such as proposal submission, data collection, analysis and manuscript submission. Risks include equipment failure, experimental errors, data inconsistencies and regulatory hurdles. Managing these elements ensures the research is conducted efficiently, results are reliable, and findings are disseminated on schedule. Related: Best Project Management Software of 2025 (Comparison List) 7. Healthcare Project Management Example In healthcare, a project might focus on implementing an electronic health record (EHR) system. Goals include improving patient care, data accuracy and regulatory compliance. The scope includes software selection, infrastructure setup, staff training and system integration. Deliverables are functional EHR modules, training manuals and compliance reports. Resources include IT staff, clinical staff, trainers, hardware and software. Costs cover software licenses, hardware, training and implementation services. Stakeholders are doctors, nurses, administrative staff, patients and regulatory bodies. The timeline includes key milestones such as system design, pilot testing, full deployment and review. Risks involve data migration errors, staff resistance, downtime and security concerns. Using structured project management ensures the EHR system is implemented efficiently, enhances patient care and meets compliance requirements on time and within budget. /wp-content/uploads/2025/02/PM-101-eBook-banner-ad.jpg Free Project Management Templates Free project management templates give teams a structured way to plan, execute and track projects efficiently. They save time, reduce errors and provide a consistent format for documenting project goals, timelines, resources and deliverables. Whether you are managing a small project or a large initiative, these templates help streamline processes and keep everyone aligned. Project Plan Template for Word Download this free project plan template for Word to outline your project from start to finish. It includes sections for objectives, scope, milestones, deliverables, resources and risks. Its easy-to-use format is ideal for creating professional project documentation that can be shared with stakeholders, ensuring clear communication and alignment. Project Plan Template for Excel Use this free Excel project plan template to track tasks, budgets and timelines in a spreadsheet format. It allows for easy calculations, conditional formatting and visual tracking of project progress. This template is flexible and can be customized to fit projects of any size or complexity, giving managers full control over data organization. Gantt Chart Template This free Gantt chart template helps visualize project schedules, task dependencies and deadlines in a clear timeline format. It allows teams to see overlapping tasks, monitor critical paths and track progress against planned milestones. This template is essential for keeping projects on schedule, allocating resources efficiently and ensuring the timely delivery of project goals. ProjectManager Is Designed for Project Management ProjectManager is designed to help teams plan, execute and track projects with ease. It consolidates all aspects of project management into one cloud-based platform, giving managers and teams real-time visibility into progress, resources and risks. By centralizing tasks, timelines and communications, ProjectManager eliminates the confusion and inefficiency often caused by juggling multiple spreadsheets or disconnected tools. Plan and Organize Work Efficiently With multiple project views including task lists, kanban boards, sheets and calendars, ProjectManager helps managers organize work in the way that suits their team best. Task dependencies, milestones and priorities can be easily set and tracked. This resolves common pain points such as missed deadlines, unclear responsibilities and overlooked tasks. Users can filter and sort tasks, share updates instantly, and ensure every team member knows what needs to be done next. /wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Task-Card-List-Light-Mode-Bid-Proposal.png Track Progress and Optimize Resources ProjectManager provides real-time dashboards and customizable reports that give detailed insights into task completion, resource utilization and project costs. Baselines can be set to track schedule and budget variance, while workload charts help managers balance assignments and prevent burnout. This solves common challenges like overallocated staff, unexpected delays and uncontrolled costs, allowing teams to make informed decisions, adjust priorities quickly and keep projects on track./wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Team-summary-better-data-light-mode-home-screen-dashboard.png Related Project Management Content Project management strategy is what separates a successful project from a failed one. This important subject requires more than just a cursory understanding. For those who want to dig deeper into this topic, below are recently published articles on principles of project management, key concepts and more. 14 Key Project Management Principles & How to Use Them Introduction to Project Management: Key Concepts Project Management Basics: Definitions, Methods and Tools The 5 Project Management Phases: A Quick Guide Importance of Project Management for Organizations ProjectManager is online project and portfolio management software that connects teams, whether they’re in the office or out in the field. They can share files, comment at the task level and stay updated with email and in-app notifications. Get started with ProjectManager today for free. The post 7 Project Management Examples from Across Industries appeared first on ProjectManager. 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. Did you know you can customize Google to filter out garbage? Take these steps for better search results, including adding Lifehacker as a preferred source for tech news. If you’re looking for in-ear earbuds with superior sound quality, long-lasting battery life, and a secure fit, the Beats Powerbeats Pro wireless earbuds are a reliable option, especially for those who are fans of Beats headphones. Right now, you can get an open-box pair for just $100 on Woot, a 60% discount. Open-Box Beats Powerbeats Pro Earbuds $99.99 at Woot $249.95 Save $149.96 Get Deal Get Deal $99.99 at Woot $249.95 Save $149.96 The Powerbeats Pro feature over-ear hooks that have a secure fit and are ideal for vigorous workouts and sports, with users praising how stable they remain during movement. Compatible with the Apple ecosystem, they’re easy to pair with iOS and allow for fast device switching. They also have a strong battery life, offering nine hours of playback for the buds alone. With the included charging case, they last up to 24 hours. Volume can be controlled on the earbuds via physical buttons, as can controls that let you control and skip tracks. The IPX4 rating makes them suitable for rainy days and sweaty workouts. The headphones feature an intense bass-heavy punch and bright highs for a sculpted sound signature, notes this PCMag review. This is mostly a pro, but it may make some tracks like orchestral music sound overly boosted—and you can’t tweak EQ on the companion app. And despite their powerful audio performance, they don’t feature Active Noise Cancellation. Still, they’re widely regarded as some of the best premium earbuds, and with their combination of sound, battery life, Apple compatibility, and a secure fit for fitness lovers, the Beats Powerbeats Pro wireless earbuds are a good deal at just $100. Our Best Editor-Vetted Tech Deals Right Now Apple AirPods Pro 2 Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds — $199.00 (List Price $249.00) Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge 256GB Unlocked AI Phone (Titanium JetBlack) — $699.99 (List Price $1,099.99) Apple iPad 11" 128GB A16 WiFi Tablet (Blue, 2025) — $299.00 (List Price $349.00) Roku Streaming Stick Plus — $29.00 (List Price $39.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Along with display-style glasses, Meta's 2025 line of smart spectacles includes a new version of Oakley Meta glasses. Called Vanguard, these shield-style smart glasses will cost $499 and go on sale Oct. 21. Vanguards feature a wrap-around frame and a 12MP camera that shoots 3K video from a center-mounted camera that can be operated hands-free. According to Meta, Vanguard glasses have a battery life of up to nine hours of daily use, improved audio, and (of course) integration with Meta's AI. At the company's Meta Connect 2025 keynote, the company also announced partnerships with Garmin and Strava. Garmin users will be able to sync their glasses with Garmin devices to track progress and get performance summaries through the Meta AI app. Strava users will be able to share activities from their glasses and access their workout history. Both devices will allow activity data—distance traveled, pace, heart-rate, and more—to be overlaid on video. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. At the company's Meta Connect 2025 event yesterday, CEO Mark Zuckerberg officially unveiled its long-rumored and recently leaked display-focused smart glasses. Meta Ray-Ban Display glasses will cost $799 and go on sale on Sept. 30. The next generation of Meta smart glasses will feature a full-color, monocular, 600 × 600 pixel HUD in one of the lenses that will only be visible to the user. Display smart glasses will also include improved versions of the audio, video, and AI capabilities of non-display Meta glasses. Credit: Meta Meta Ray-Ban Display glasses will be controlled through a wearable device dubbed the "Meta Neural Band," which allows users to "type" on any surface to send messages as well as control other aspects of the display and smart glasses through small muscle movements. According to Zuckerberg, users will be able to “silently control their glasses with barely perceptible movements.” An example from the keynote: turning up the volume on music by mimicking the motion of turning a dial. The wristband will have 18 hours of battery life and is IPX7, so it can be fully immersed in water up to one meter. At the keynote, Zuckerberg showed off texting on the Display glasses, and touted that video calls through WhatsApp would be available on the new glasses (although, notably, the demo didn't actually work at the event). Meta Ray-Ban Display glasses will feature a 12MP camera with 3X zoom, and the addition of a display screen gives users a viewfinder and the ability to see pictures and videos you take before you send them or save them. Why I'm excited to try these glassesI'm not the "looking-forward-to-things" type, but I'm really looking forward to trying out Displays. I'm not the type that fans out over giant tech companies either, but I can't deny it: Overall, the best new hardware of any type I've used in last 10 years was made by Meta. Meta's Quest VR headsets are excellent and inexpensive (even if I'm not entirely sold on VR as anything but a cool gimmick), and I have nothing but praise for Meta Ray-Bans, and this after wearing second generation Metas as my everyday eyewear for around a year. I have questions, though: I'm not sure if texting and otherwise computing from my glasses with a wristband is something I need in my life; despite keynote assurances from Mark Zuckerberg, I wonder how intuitive the neural control will actually be; and Meta's vision of "personal superintelligence" creeps me out. But overall, if the Display works as well and as easily as other recent Meta gear in my house, these glasses will be amazing. They could be life-changing for people with hearing problems—Display glasses will be able to add "subtitles" to conversations in real time. They could genuinely make living with ADHD a little easier, too: If I lose my car keys it will (presumably) be able to tell me where I left them. I'm old enough to remember when being technology ready-for-anything meant carrying around a digital camera, a flip phone, a calculator, a GPS unit, a watch, and more, all of which I'd lose along the way. All that gear has now collapsed into a smart phone. If Display works the way Meta promises, this could be the next collapse, where you don't even need the phone, just the glasses you were going to wear anyway. And that's a big "if." Neural wristbands, heads-up displays, and AI “seeing what you see” all sound incredible, but hype from a keynote touting amazing features that turn out to be half-baked crap that no one wants is a tech-industry cliche at this point. But I'm still excited. By the end of the month, I might get to see the future; who wouldn't be excited? View the full article

Spain has long been associated with sun-drenched beaches, vibrant cities, and world-famous cuisine. While Barcelona, Madrid, and Ibiza are famous for a reason, the true soul of Spain is often found in its remote corners. One of the areas I love the best is Northern Spain, with its green mountains, rugged coastline, and medieval villages, offers an entirely different perspective. It doesn’t get as many visitors as the hotspots in the south but it is just as beautiful in my opinion. If you want to see a quieter side of Spain, consider stepping off the usual tourist trail and heading north after your flight to Madrid. Spend a few days in Madrid (which is amazing) and then train it north for a week or more to wander along paths the Romans once carved into mountains, explore deserts few travelers know, and hike to villages where traditions persist centuries after empires have fallen. Today, I want to share three destinations that I love: Las Médulas, the Bardenas Reales, and Santillana del Mar. Each offers a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural immersion, and each is accessible enough from Madrid. 1. Las Médulas Nearly two millennia ago, Roman engineers transformed this landscape in search of gold. Using a technique called ruina montium (“wrecking of mountains”), they channeled water through tunnels to collapse entire hillsides, revealing the region’s gold deposits. The result is a surreal landscape of jagged red cliffs, hollows, and gullies, softened by forests of chestnut trees and dotted with walking trails. Today, Las Médulas is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to human ingenuity and the enduring power of nature. Hiking through the gullies and Roman galleries, it’s easy to imagine the labor and vision required to reshape this rugged terrain. What I love about Las Médulas is the quiet. Even in high season, you can find stretches of trail where the only sounds are your footsteps and the rustle of leaves. The views from the ridges are spectacular, and the scent of chestnuts lingers in the air. It is a place that makes you slow down, not just to take photos but to let the history and the stillness sink in. Highlights and Trails Senda de las Valiñas (4km loop): This gentle trail winds through shady chestnut groves and past openings to Roman tunnels. It is perfect for an easy morning walk that still gives you a sense of the site’s scope. Stop often to look up at the cliffs; the red soil against the greenery makes for striking photos. Mirador de Orellán: A short but steep climb leads to a platform overlooking the scarlet ridges and valleys. Sunset is my favorite time here when the fading light turns the cliffs almost orange. There is also a small gallery where you can see how the Romans dug into the rock. Galería de Orellán: If you enjoy a bit of adventure, explore this restored mining tunnel. Standing inside, you can imagine workers hauling out earth by torchlight. Senda Perimetral (14km loop): For committed hikers, this path circles the whole archaeological area. You will pass secluded forests, small farms, and the occasional wild boar track. It is long but not difficult, and you will often have it to yourself. Castro de Chano: A short drive away, this pre-Roman hillfort shows that the story of Las Médulas stretches back much further than the Romans. Mirador de Reirigo: A lesser-known lookout with a quiet bench and sweeping views across chestnut forests and distant hills. Practical Details Where to Stay: Ponferrada is only half an hour away and has a wide range of hotels and guesthouses. Best Season: Autumn for golden foliage and crisp air. Spring brings mild weather and blooming wildflowers. Tip: Bring water and a snack, especially if you plan to attempt the longer hikes. Maps or a GPS app will help you stick to the marked trails. 2. Bardenas Reales Heading south from Pamplona, the landscape changes dramatically. Rolling farmland gives way to dry plains and eventually a semi-desert of ochre mesas and dramatic ravines. This is the Bardenas Reales, a 42,000-hectare natural park in Navarre. This place is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and an area of active military use, yet shepherds still graze their flocks across the plains, and wildlife such as griffon vultures and foxes thrive. The park’s isolation means you will often have most of the trails to yourself. The first time I visited, I was surprised at how varied the scenery was. From a distance, it looks barren, but once inside, you notice details: rippling patterns in the clay, hardy flowers clinging to cracks, the occasional sheepdog trotting behind a herd. The sense of space is exhilarating. It is a destination that invites wandering and rewards those who take their time. Sights and Routes Castildetierra: This slender rock pinnacle is the park’s symbol. Photographers love it at dawn when soft light highlights its delicate shape. Even if you are not chasing the perfect shot, it is worth lingering to watch shadows shift across the flats. La Blanca Baja Loop (34km): A drive or bike ride along this track gives you a full tour of the park’s central zone. Stop at overlooks to admire canyons, mesas, and wide basins where storms sometimes leave shallow pools. Piskerra and El Rallón Hike: This moderate route climbs into the heart of the badlands. Expect rugged paths and thrilling views from the top ridges. Bring plenty of water, as there is no shade once you leave the lowlands. Balcón de Pilatos: A high vantage point where griffon vultures wheel on warm air currents. Watching them soar over the ravines is an unforgettable experience. Cabezo de las Cortinillas: A quieter formation reached by a short track. The colors of the rocks shift from pale cream to copper depending on the sun. Río Aragón Corridor: Follow the green strip along the river for a softer side of the park. It is good for birdwatching and a break from the dry heat. Practical Details Where to Stay: Tudela is the nearest town, with comfortable lodgings and excellent local restaurants serving Navarra specialties. Best Season: Visit in spring or early autumn for pleasant temperatures. Wildflowers appear after rain, adding touches of color to the plain. Summer can be extremely hot. Tip: There are no services inside the park, so stock up on water, sunscreen, and snacks beforehand. 3. Santillana del Mar Santillana del Mar is one of my favorite spots in northern Spain. It is located in Cantabria, roughly 30 minutes inland from the coast. Its cobbled streets, well-preserved medieval architecture, and charming plazas make it one of the most picturesque villages in the region. The town also serves as a gateway to one of the most important prehistoric sites in Europe, the Altamira Cave, famous for its Paleolithic paintings. Wandering its narrow streets is like stepping back in time, and staying overnight allows visitors to enjoy the tranquility once the day-trippers depart. What makes Santillana special is how alive it feels. Despite its ancient walls, there is nothing dusty about it. Small bakeries sell buttery sobaos, shopkeepers greet you as you pass, and horses sometimes clop through the lanes. The rhythm is unhurried and warm. Things to See and Do Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana: A Romanesque gem with serene cloisters and intricate capitals. Take your time exploring the arches and stone carvings. Altamira Cave Replica: The original cave is closed to preserve the art, but the replica is impressive. Standing beneath the ceiling of bison and horses gives you a glimpse of human creativity from 14,000 years ago. Museo de Altamira: A museum next to the cave that expands on the region’s prehistoric culture. The exhibits are engaging and family-friendly. Plaza Mayor: The central square is framed by stone houses with wooden balconies. It is a perfect spot for coffee or a late-afternoon glass of cider. Nearby Trails: From the village, you can wander into the surrounding hills where meadows meet oak woods. Some paths continue toward the coast, giving sweeping views of the Cantabrian Sea. Cuevas de El Soplao: A short drive away, this cavern is filled with spectacular stalactites, stalagmites, and unusual formations called helictites. Comillas: A neighboring town with Modernist architecture, including Gaudí’s Capricho, only 20 minutes by car. Practical Details Getting There: Buses run from Santander or Bilbao in about 45 minutes. Renting a car gives freedom to explore nearby coves and valleys. Best Season: Spring and autumn bring mild temperatures and fewer crowds. *** Spain’s headline attractions deserve attention, yet its lesser-known landscapes and towns reveal something richer. They remind us that beyond Spain’s beaches and bustling cities lies a country where history, geography, and everyday life converge into experiences worth lingering over. Whether you are tracing Roman tunnels in Las Médulas, riding a bike across the dusty tracks of the Bardenas, or sipping cider in a Cantabrian plaza, each moment adds a new layer to your understanding of Spain. Get Your In-Depth Budget Guide to Europe!My detailed 200+ page guidebook is made for budget travelers like you! It cuts out the fluff found in other guides and gets straight to the practical information you need to travel while in Europe. It has suggested itineraries, budgets, ways to save money, on and off the beaten path things to see and do, non-touristy restaurants, markets, bars, safety tips, and much more! Click here to learn more and get your copy today. 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 Spain: 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. 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 (for budget travelers) World Nomads (for mid-range travelers) Insure My Trip (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. Want More Information on Spain? Be sure to visit my robust destination guide on Spain for even more planning tips! The post Beyond the Beaten Path: Spain’s Hidden Villages and Untamed Landscapes appeared first on Nomadic Matt's Travel Site. View the full article

Your SEO and PPC teams probably don’t share data. That’s problematic. Organic traffic is slipping. CPCs are climbing. And conversions aren’t keeping pace. It’s not just the LLMs — the SERP itself has changed. In 2025, every query is a blended battlefield of ads, AI overviews, videos, shopping units, map packs, and organic links. Yet, most teams operate with SEO and PPC in silos. That doesn’t work anymore. Because to users, there’s no “organic vs. paid search.” They just click what’s useful. And “useful” now shows up in more places than ever. If you don’t align your channels, you end up with duplication, cannibalization, and wasted spend. This guide will show you eight ways to bring SEO and PPC together — from sharing keyword data to sharpening targeting. So you can cut costs, capture more clicks, and drive higher ROI. Let’s start with an often-overlooked but powerful way to combine your PPC and SEO efforts: spotting intent mismatches. 1. Analyze the SERP to Fix Poor PPC Ad Performance When your PPC ads fail to convert, the problem might not be your targeting or creative — it could be that you’re bidding on the wrong intent entirely. If the SERP is dominated by videos, tutorials, or how to guides, it signals that users are still researching — not necessarily ready to buy your product. Without analyzing the SERP, you risk wasting ad spend on queries that will never convert. Let’s use Squarespace as an example. If they’re bidding on “website design” and conversions are weak, a quick SERP check would explain it: Google surfaces a local pack of agencies for this term, which signals service-seeking intent — not DIY website builders. Knowing that, they could cut the term and redirect spend to higher-intent queries. 2. Stop Wasting PPC Budget on Customer Support Terms One of the most common (and costly) PPC mistakes is bidding on customer support queries. Searches like “[YourProduct] login problems” or “[YourProduct] forum” signal that someone is already a customer trying to troubleshoot — not a prospect considering a free trial or demo. Yet, many companies spend thousands every month sending these clicks to sales pages that rarely convert. For example, if Squarespace analyzed their rankings for a term like “Squarespace login,” they’d see they already rank #1. And those visitors almost never convert for one vital reason — they’re already customers. Luckily, there’s an easy fix: Squarespace can exclude this and other support terms from its PPC campaigns. Here’s how to do this for your own ad campaigns: Start by finding support-related queries for your brand using a keyword research tool. We’ll be using Semrush’s Keyword Magic Tool for this step. Note: A free Semrush account gives you 10 searches in this tool per day. Or you can use this link to access a 14-day trial on a Semrush Pro subscription. Enter your brand’s name in the top search bar and your brand’s URL in the purple search bar to personalize the data to your domain. Click “Search.” Manually scan the list (or use the “Include keywords” filter) to find support-related terms like “login,” “pricing,” “free trial,” “templates,” “support,” and “forum.” Then, view the number highlighted in blue to the right of each term — that’s your current ranking. Already ranking #1–3 for your most commonly searched support terms? Organic SEO is doing its job, which means you can remove these terms from your PPC campaigns. Export them into a CSV or Google Sheet to create a negative keyword list. Now, you’ll have the confidence (and the data) to cut PPC spend knowing SEO fully covers these searches. Further reading: Want to know what companies are spending on PPC in 2025? Check out our curated list of PPC statistics. 3. Use Keyword Clusters to Create More Focused PPC Landing Pages When dozens of different queries with slightly different intents funnel into a single PPC landing page, relevance drops. Why does this matter? Because landing page relevance improves your Quality Score, which can cut CPC by 16% to 50%. In other words, the closer the page matches what a searcher actually wants, the less you pay for each click. Conducting keyword research can help you understand where you need a separate landing page. To start, use a keyword research tool to group organic keywords into clusters. Then, map each keyword cluster to a dedicated PPC landing page. This way, your ads always point to content that matches the searcher’s intent, while your Quality Score (and budget efficiency) benefits from the added relevance. Squarespace is a good example of this. Instead of sending every “website builder” query to one broad page, they build dedicated landing pages around different intents. For example, a search for “portfolio website” leads to a page showcasing portfolio-specific templates, not a generic product overview. Further reading: Keyword Mapping: A Step-by-Step Guide to Better SEO 4. Unify PPC and SEO Data to Decide When to Bid on Your Brand Brand bidding is one of the biggest friction points between SEO and PPC teams. The debate isn’t whether to bid on your brand — it’s when. Without unified data, teams make this decision based on assumptions rather than evidence. The truth is somewhere in the middle — and the right decision depends on context. So, instead of separating PPC advertising and SEO data, combine them to make a more informed decision. Start by checking whether competitors are bidding on your brand with a manual search for your branded keywords. For instance, a search for “Squarespace website builder” shows that Wix is also bidding on the term. Want to automate this process? Use a tool like Semrush’s Keyword Gap that lets you assess your site and your competitors’ sites for the top shared keywords (paid and organic) they use. If you see your competitors bidding on your branded keywords, it makes sense to run ads to defend those clicks. But if your competitors aren’t bidding, it’s time to check your organic coverage. Do you already own most of page one organically for your branded terms? If the answer is no, ads help fill the gaps. If yes, you can safely test pausing. Turn off your ads for branded keywords and see what happens. Pro tip: If cutting ads also cuts traffic by [40%, they’re adding value. If drops hit 80%+, you’re just paying for what you’d get anyway. Finally, consider the messaging value of your ads. Even if you’re getting organic coverage, brand ads give you space to promote new features, discounts, or free trials. So it might still be worth paying for them. For example, Squarespace uses its paid ads on the term “Squarespace website builder” to promote its new AI website builder tools. 5. Prioritize High-ROI SEO Keywords by Analyzing PPC Data A common SEO challenge is figuring out which keywords actually matter. Ranking for broad terms might bring traffic, but not necessarily signups or revenue. Without conversion data, it’s hard to know where to focus. This is where PPC comes in. Paid campaigns don’t just generate leads — they generate fast, reliable data. You can see which headlines win clicks, which keywords drive conversions, and what each click is worth. Take the phrase “website platform for small businesses.” If PPC data shows it converts four times better than the broader “website platform,” that’s the angle worth prioritizing in your SEO titles, H1s, and content strategy. PPC metrics can even help you prove the business value of SEO — something every stakeholder loves. Once you know a keyword’s conversion rate and customer value from paid campaigns, you can model the value of ranking for it: SEO ROI = (Organic clicks gained × PPC conversion rate × Customer value) − SEO cost Say a keyword costs $30K/month in ads, but ranking organically would capture roughly a third of that traffic. That’s about $9K in “free” conversions every single month. That’s the kind of math that gets buy-in from leadership. You can use this same logic to estimate the value of refreshing existing content. Sometimes a simple update is worth tens of thousands in equivalent ad spend. The takeaway? PPC data gives you the proof points and the playbook to double down on the SEO opportunities that will actually pay off. Further reading: How to Advertise Your Business with a $500 Budget 6. Turn PAA Questions Into High-Converting Landing Page FAQs PPC landing pages underperform if they don’t answer your audience’s questions. Say you’re running an ad for “website design,” but you’re sending people to a generic product page. You’re missing what they actually want — answers to queries like “How can I design my own website?” The good news? Your SEO team already has the answers. Google’s People Also Ask (PAA) is essentially a ready-made FAQ list you can use to boost conversions on your PPC landing pages. To apply this, run a Google search for your target keyword, scan the PAA questions, and pick the ones most relevant to your product. Or use a PAA aggregator like AlsoAsked. Then, add concise FAQ sections directly addressing those questions on your landing pages. Like Squarespace does here: Use the same phrasing as the query where possible. And for cost-related questions, include transparent pricing. If PAA hints at confusion between competitors (e.g., “project management versus task management”), add a comparison chart. But don’t stop at answering. Finish each FAQ with a call to action like “Compare plans” or “Start free trial” so every answer nudges the visitor toward conversion. 7. Sharpen Your Targeting and Creative with Cross-Channel Insights PPC and SEO see searchers from different angles, and combining these insights makes both channels stronger. For instance, PPC campaigns capture signals you won’t get from SEO alone. This includes detailed geo and device performance, auction insights, and even what competitors are promising in their ads. Feeding that data back to SEO gives you sharper targeting and more relevant content. Meanwhile, SEO’s read of the SERPs tells PPC teams which formats, keywords, and messages resonate. Start with audience insights. PPC demographic data can show how the same keyword lands differently with different groups. An “enterprise website builder” query might skew older, while “startup website” attracts younger searchers. With that knowledge, you can tailor your content to each segment. Plus, PPC geo reports often show which cities or regions deliver stronger conversion rates. Double down on those markets with local SEO landing pages and Google Business Profiles instead of spreading resources evenly. Then, look at conversion timelines. PPC usually converts faster, so landing pages should focus on immediate offers like free trials or demos. SEO content, on the other hand, is better for longer nurturing cycles, using tutorials, comparisons, and testimonials to build trust over time. PPC impression data can even act as an early warning system for shifting demand. Think “tax planning” in November versus “tax software” in January. By spotting seasonal spikes before rankings catch up, you can publish content early and retarget those visitors later when demand peaks.​​ Finally, use SEO as a proactive defense against competitive ad bids. If rivals target your brand with ads, you can create comparison pages to address those claims directly in organic search. That way, competitor ad spend doesn’t define your positioning. 8. Use PPC Insights to Spot SEO Wins PPC is real-time. SEO is a long game. Put them together and you’ve got an early-warning and opportunity-detection system. Start with Quality Scores. They’re more than an ad metric — they’re a diagnostic tool for SEO. For instance, if your scores are tanking on mobile traffic, that usually means your site is slow or the user experience is clunky. That’s not just costing you more per click. It’s also holding back your organic rankings, since Google bakes page speed and Core Web Vitals into its algorithm. Fix the problem once — faster load times, cleaner UX — and you’ll see the lift across both paid and organic. Then, there are negative keywords. In PPC, you might block terms that aren’t relevant to your products to protect your budget. But those searches don’t disappear just because you turned them off in ads. They still represent demand. Instead of ignoring it, capture it with SEO. Create tutorials, “how-to” content, or resource hubs around those queries. You’ll pull in a wider audience for free. And, since you know these visitors aren’t ready to buy yet, you can retarget them later with PPC when they are. Finally, watch your keyword position tracker like a hawk after every Google update. Algorithm shakeups create openings you can exploit if you move fast. If a competitor drops from page one, don’t wait. Publish or refresh your content to take over those keywords. At the same time, increase your PPC bids on the same terms while auction pressure is temporarily lower. That one-two punch lets you capture traffic your rivals just lost before they even know what hit them. Further reading: How to Spy on Your Competitors’ Google Ads How to Get Your Team Aligned on SEO and PPC Many stakeholders still think of SEO and PPC as competing, not complementary. While leadership may be nervous to try a new, silo-free approach to search engine marketing, you can convince them in a couple of ways. First, show them how SERPs have evolved. AI Overviews, rich features, and rising CPCs mean the old “paid vs. organic” split doesn’t exist anymore. Then, use this powerful three-step storytelling framework to convince execs to act. Step 1: Explain what’s happening by describing the external shift. Example: “AI Overviews and rising CPCs are changing how people find us in search.” Step 2: Show how it’s impacting you by tying the shift to your company’s results. Example: “Our paid CPCs are up 22%, and organic traffic for branded queries is down.” Step 3: Highlight what you can do about it by presenting alignment as the solution. Example: “By aligning SEO and PPC, we can cut wasted spend on brand terms and reinvest in high-converting queries.” Start small. Don’t push for a full overhaul on day one. Instead, prove ROI by aligning on a single initiative — like deciding when to bid (or not) on branded keywords. Once you’ve shown early results, it’s easier to get everyone aligned on their responsibilities. Next, work with SEO and PPC teams to establish next steps for each team member to achieve closer alignment. Here’s a role-based plan for what your teams should start doing now: SEO/PPC Team Role Primary Responsibilities Action Steps to Drive SEO + PPC Alignment SEO Specialists Mine PPC data for ROI Request PPC data to see which paid keywords actually drive results Use that data to identify low-CPC, high-ROI terms worth pursuing in organic search Share blog content and resources that PPC teams can repurpose for retargeting campaigns PPC Teams Flag costs and align content Flag high-CPC keywords that SEO should try to rank for long-term to reduce reliance on paid Align PPC landing page messaging with existing SEO pages so users get a consistent story Promote educational content to cold audiences instead of conversion-focused ads CMOs & Leaders Measure blended performance Set shared KPIs (e.g., revenue per SERP, blended CAC) Merge data sources so SEO and PPC teams both have access to the same performance insights Break down silos by running regular joint syncs between paid and organic teams Agencies & Consultants Prove value with unified reporting Deliver blended strategy reporting that shows paid and organic results in one view Use unified insights to demonstrate ROI and strengthen client retention or upsell Educate clients on how the SERPs are changing and how alignment helps them adapt Boost Your ROI with a Shared SEO and PPC Strategy It doesn’t make any sense not to have SEO and PPC work together. Keep the teams siloed, and you’ll waste budget, lose traffic, and fall behind as search evolves. For your first move, start with a shared SERP review. Map where you’re strong, where you overlap, and where the gaps are for the quickest path to better ROI from both channels. Want to dig deeper? Explore our guide to the best PPC tools to uncover the advanced data and insights you need to align SEO and PPC, cut wasted spend, and boost ROI. The post SEO and PPC: 8 Smart Ways to Align for Maximum ROI in 2025 appeared first on Backlinko. 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. Did you know you can customize Google to filter out garbage? Take these steps for better search results, including adding Lifehacker as a preferred source for tech news. If you’ve been waiting for a Kindle that holds more than just a handful of books, the Kindle Paperwhite Signature Edition is worth a closer look, especially at today’s price. This like-new version with 32GB of storage is selling for $126.99 on Amazon (its lowest price yet, according to price-trackers). For context, a brand-new unit currently lists at $199.99, so you’re saving a solid $73 while still getting a device that’s been tested, cleaned, and restored directly by Amazon. Every refurbished model goes through a diagnostic check, secure data wipe, and part replacement if needed, so you’re not rolling the dice on performance. Amazon Kindle Paperwhite Signature Ed. 32GB 7" eReader (Like New) $126.99 at Amazon $179.99 Save $53.00 Get Deal Get Deal $126.99 at Amazon $179.99 Save $53.00 Its 7-inch glare-free display runs at 300 pixels per inch, making text sharp and easy to read, while the adjustable warm light takes the strain out of late-night sessions. This version also comes ad-free, which longtime Kindle owners know is a big quality-of-life upgrade, and with 32GB of storage, you won’t have to worry about deleting books to make space—there’s room for a huge library, plus heavier stuff like graphic novels and audiobooks (though, you’ll need Bluetooth headphones for Audible playback, since there’s no headphone jack). As for battery life, it stretches into months rather than days, and charging is flexible: Plug it in with USB-C, or just set it on a wireless charging dock and forget about it. While the Signature Edition doesn’t reinvent the Kindle experience, as noted in this PCMag review, the wireless charging, IPX8 water resistance, and bumped-up storage make it the most complete version of Amazon’s e-reader lineup. That doesn’t mean it’s the best choice for everyone. For casual readers, the standard Paperwhite might be plenty. But for anyone who reads daily and wants the perks of more storage, wireless charging, and no ads, this refurbished Signature Edition at its lowest price yet is a strong deal. If you’re still weighing your options, Lifehacker has a guide on which Kindle is best for you, or you can check out a comparison between the Kindle Colorsoft and Kindle Paperwhite if you’re curious about how it stacks up against newer color-screen models. Our Best Editor-Vetted Tech Deals Right Now Apple AirPods Pro 2 Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds — $199.00 (List Price $249.00) Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge 256GB Unlocked AI Phone (Titanium JetBlack) — $699.99 (List Price $1,099.99) Apple iPad 11" 128GB A16 WiFi Tablet (Blue, 2025) — $299.00 (List Price $349.00) Roku Streaming Stick Plus — $29.00 (List Price $39.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team 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. Did you know you can customize Google to filter out garbage? Take these steps for better search results, including adding Lifehacker as a preferred source for tech news. "Never pay full price for a MacBook Air" seems to be the takeaway from the latest Apple launches. Apple unveiled its updated lineup of M4-powered MacBook Air laptops in early March, and all the M4s saw their first discounts a few weeks later. The M4, M3, M2, and M1 MacBook Airs are all discounted right now, with some at their lowest prices ever, according to price-tracking tools. If you're on a budget, you can always go for the older M2 and M1 laptops, which are still great laptops in 2025. 16GB Unified Memory, 256GB SSD Storage Apple MacBook M4 Chip 256GB SSD 16GB RAM 13.6" Laptop (Midnight) $799.00 at Amazon $999.00 Save $200.00 Get Deal Get Deal $799.00 at Amazon $999.00 Save $200.00 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD Storage Apple 2022 MacBook Air Laptop with M2 chip $699.00 at Amazon $884.95 Save $185.95 Get Deal Get Deal $699.00 at Amazon $884.95 Save $185.95 8GB RAM, 256GB storage Apple MacBook Air M1 13” Laptop $599.00 at Walmart $1,043.99 Save $444.99 Get Deal Get Deal $599.00 at Walmart $1,043.99 Save $444.99 SEE 0 MORE The best deal on the M4 MacBook Air 16GB Unified Memory, 256GB SSD Storage Apple MacBook M4 Chip 256GB SSD 16GB RAM 13.6" Laptop (Midnight) $799.00 at Amazon $999.00 Save $200.00 Get Deal Get Deal $799.00 at Amazon $999.00 Save $200.00 16GB Unified Memory, 512GB SSD Storage Apple 2025 MacBook Air 13-inch Laptop with M4 chip $999.00 at Amazon $1,199.00 Save $200.00 Get Deal Get Deal $999.00 at Amazon $1,199.00 Save $200.00 24GB Unified Memory, 512GB SSD Storage Apple 2025 MacBook Air 13-inch Laptop with M4 chip $1,199.00 at Amazon $1,399.00 Save $200.00 Get Deal Get Deal $1,199.00 at Amazon $1,399.00 Save $200.00 SEE 0 MORE The M4 MacBook Air has been such a good value since its release that it made the M3 MacBook Air irrelevant, hence Apple discontinued it after just a year since its release. As our Senior Tech Editor Jake Peterson will tell you, the M4 MacBook Air is the one to buy. The 13-inch M4 MacBook Air with 256GB SSD starts at $799 right now (originally $999), the lowest price it has ever been. This is arguably the best option for most people. With 16GB of RAM for even the most basic MacBook Air, you'll be able to take on intensive applications and projects now and for many years to come. The most basic M4 MacBook Air comes with a 13.6-inch "Liquid Retina" display, with a resolution of 2,560 by 1,664, a P3 wide color gamut, and a maximum brightness of 500 nits. You'll also get an excellent backlit keyboard with Touch ID, Wi-Fi 6E support, and great speakers and microphones. Apple also decided to bring back MagSafe charging with this laptop. All of the M4 MacBook Airs come with a 12MP camera with Center Stage. You might've first seen this feature on iPads and on the M4 MacBook Pro, which follows your face as you move around the frame during video calls. The two USB-C ports are Thunderbolt 4, meaning you can extend to up to two 6K external monitors if you buy the equipment separately. You can read more about it in PCMag's "excellent" review. If you're unsure whether to go for one of these or the Pro, the M4 MacBook Air offers a much better value than the Pro. The best deal on the M3 MacBook AirAs stated above, the M3 MacBook Air has been discontinued since the release of the M4, and you can only find it from big retailers used. The prices don't make sense since the M4 just offers a much better value for the money. Go up for the M4 or down to the M2 if you can't afford the M3. The best deal on the M2 MacBook Air MacBook Air 13.6" Laptop M2 chip 16GB Memory 256GB SSD 13.6-inch Liquid Retina Display, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD Storage, Backlit Keyboard, 1080p FaceTime HD $699.00 at Best Buy $799.00 Save $100.00 Get Deal Get Deal $699.00 at Best Buy $799.00 Save $100.00 2022's M2 MacBook Air laptop is also on sale; currently $699 (originally $999), the lowest price this laptop has ever been. This is the best M2 you can buy as far as value for your money, and as Lifehacker Senior Tech Editor Jake Peterson explained last year, it could be the last laptop you'll ever buy. It has the same RAM and storage as the M3, but there are some key differences between the two machines you should be aware of. If, however, you have $176 to spare, the upgrade to the M4 is a better value. The best deal on the M1 MacBook Air MacBook Air 13.3 inch Laptop M1 Chip Apple MacBook Air 13.3 inch Laptop - Space Gray, M1 Chip, 8GB RAM, 256GB storage $599.00 at Walmart $1,043.99 Save $444.99 Get Deal Get Deal $599.00 at Walmart $1,043.99 Save $444.99 The 2020 M1 MacBook Air has also dropped in price and is perhaps the best all-around value for an entry-level laptop right now. Walmart has the M1 MacBook Air 13.3-inch laptop for $599 (it cost $999.99 prior to the launch of the M3), which is the lowest price I've seen after checking price-comparison tools. This M1 from 2020 has 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage with about 18 hours of battery life. If you're wondering if the M1 is relevant, Jake noted the M1 is still a fantastic computer even three years after its release. Yes, its specs pale in comparison to the new M4 chip and all of its new features, but the M1 is still enough for most people. Our Best Editor-Vetted Tech Deals Right Now Apple AirPods Pro 2 Noise Cancelling Wireless Earbuds — $199.00 (List Price $249.00) Samsung Galaxy S25 Edge 256GB Unlocked AI Phone (Titanium JetBlack) — $699.99 (List Price $1,099.99) Apple iPad 11" 128GB A16 WiFi Tablet (Blue, 2025) — $299.00 (List Price $349.00) Roku Streaming Stick Plus — $29.00 (List Price $39.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

One of the best things about TikTok is that it doesn't play favorites. Even new accounts can reach thousands, sometimes millions, of users. The idea of a “welcoming” algorithm might feel strange to long-time creators and social media managers, but if there ever was one, it would be TikTok’s. The social media platform is bursting with potential. With over 1.58 billion users spending nearly an hour every day on the app, chances are your audience is already waiting to discover — and follow — you. Now, follower count isn’t everything. But it does open doors. It helps you build trust, unlock cool features like the TikTok Shop, and grow a loyal community that vibes with your content. In this guide, you’ll learn how to get more followers on TikTok using 14 solid, no-fluff, actionable tips. Quick summary: How to get more followers on TikTok 1. Choose a niche — and stick to it 2. Understand your target audience 3. Write a clear and compelling bio 4. Build a content calendar to post consistently 5. Create trending content 6. Post when your audience is online 7. Focus on scroll-stopping hooks 8. End your videos with a clear call to action 9. Start a content series 10. Use relevant hashtags and keywords 11. Engage with your community 12. Collaborate with fellow creators or influencers 13. Experiment with different video lengths 14. Don't buy TikTok followers We're focusing on strategies that are genuinely practical and that we've seen work for creators like you. If you prefer watching over reading, we’ve summarized the top five tips for you in video form, too: 1. Choose a niche — and stick to itIt’s tempting to try everything and see what works — especially on TikTok, where the possibilities can feel endless. But focusing on one niche can help you stand out more quickly. It tells the TikTok algorithm what your content is aboutIt helps you filter your content ideas to a specific topicIt helps you build authority and trust in your industryIt makes you more memorable to TikTok usersKirsti Lang, a Senior Content Writer at Buffer, grew her following by over 1,000% in 30 days. One of her core learnings was that a niche (or a handful of connected niches) is immensely valuable for growing a loyal following. “If you do find a video you enjoy or find helpful in your FYP, you may tap over to the creator’s profile to see if there are more,” she says. “And if what you find there is a hot mess of all sorts of unrelated things, you’re going to bounce back to the FYP without tapping ‘follow’ real fast.” Annie-Mai Hodge, founder of Girl Power Marketing, agrees. “People are wanting and searching for spaces and communities where they belong, where they can relate, and where they feel understood,” she says. “So they’re actively looking for creators who get them, or provide an experience for them like escaping — it’s why #BookTok is so huge.” If you feel constricted by having a singular niche, have a broad one that can fit multiple content pillars — quenching your desire for spontaneity and creativity without violating the algorithm’s preference for cohesiveness. For example, Kirsti first posted about various topics: her job at Buffer, her love of Taylor Swift, and her fitness routine. But despite one of her Swiftie videos going viral, her watcher-to-follower conversion rate remained low. Her other videos about how to land a remote job did much better for that metric, even if they didn’t go viral. “The Swifties were tapping over to my profile and didn’t find a Taylor Swift fan account,” she says. “The remote work video netted a very pleasing 70K views, and I earned a huge chunk of new followers — 757, to be exact — and a much healthier conversation rate.” Lessons learned: Going viral doesn’t guarantee higher follower counts. You need a niche to establish yourself as an authority on the topic to gain followers and tell TikTok users (and the algorithm) what your TikTok account is about. If you’re having too much trouble deciding what your niche will be, shift gears a little bit and think about who you’re creating TikTok videos for. Which brings me to my next point. 2. Understand your target audienceHaving a solid understanding of who your target audience is and what they’re looking for is the bedrock of getting more followers on all social media platforms, TikTok included. CEO of Fashivly, Ashlyn Greer, has grown the brand’s TikTok account to over 100k followers. Her core principle has always been to use TikTok to resonate with her audience by understanding (and catering to) her audience’s struggles. Take her video about sizing discrepancies in the fashion industry — it went viral because it struck a chord. “We’ve continued to create inclusive content based on [audience] insights,” she says. “Understanding their pain points has guided our content creation and ensured we stay as inclusive as possible because we know this approach resonates with our audience.” Solidifying your niche will lay the groundwork to help you pinpoint the segment of TikTok users you want to reach. The second step is doing your research to figure out your target audience’s pain points and content preferences. Audience research tools like SparkToro or AnswerThePublic can help you find your audience’s burning questions. But you can also work on understanding your target audience by spending time on TikTok and conducting a competitor analysis. For example, if you’re a creator focusing on creating healthy vegan recipes: Search for “healthy vegan recipes” on TikTok and see what pops upAnalyze the best-performing TikTok videos and creators to understand what topics they’re creating videos on and which are resonatingPay attention to the comments on your fellow creators’ videos to dive even further into your audience’s questions, preferences, and recommendationsUnderstanding your target audience is an ongoing endeavor rather than a one-off task. The more you post (and experiment!), the more feedback you get — in comments, direct messages (DMs), and your TikTok analytics. 3. Write a clear and compelling bioYour potential followers on TikTok will likely discover your content in the For You Page (FYP). But they might often navigate to your TikTok profile to learn more about who you are and what you post about. If your TikTok bio is empty, you’re leaving valuable space that could work to get you more followers. Your bio should tell what content you create — establish your niche and your unique selling point. Instead of making it about you though, focus on your audience and make it about them. For example, Parker York Smith’s bio says, “Helping you look good and feel confident,” which is an instant value prop for why you should follow him. While you’re at it, also ensure that your TikTok profile is up to date — have a clear profile picture and an easy-to-read username. All of the factors in your profile will work together to help build trust and make it tempting to follow you. 4. Build a content calendar to post consistentlyTikTok, like all other social media platforms, loves consistency. The ideal posting frequency for TikTok is two short-form videos a day. But take that number with a grain of salt. You can adjust this based on your capacity — more important to maintain the quality of your TikTok videos. Kirsti, for example, has seen solid audience growth with two or three videos a month. A smart way to increase your posting cadence without burning out is to repurpose your content. If you already have a YouTube channel, for instance, you can chop up some videos from there to post on your TikTok account. You can also shoot b-roll in bulk (hello, content batching) and reuse it for future videos. Alice Kim, founder of PerfectDD, used TikTok to generate $25,000 in sales for her business in a month. She found that many of her old videos would resurface to new TikTok users, thanks to the algorithm. Having a consistent branding (alongside regular posting) helped her immensely in this scenario. “I’ve found consistency in messaging is more important than consistency of posting,” she says. “This means that any of my videos could be seen by a new potential customer at any time.” "That’s why I’m unafraid to reiterate my brand promise and message over and over again, so people who are new to my videos always know what PerfectDD is all about.” The easiest way to maintain a consistent posting schedule is by creating a content calendar and using a tool like Buffer to automate posting (Buffer also doubles as a content calendar — so you don’t need both!). This way, you can visually spot your content gaps and fill them. Remember to leave some room in that content calendar for trending content. 5. Create trending contentLet’s be clear: Trending content isn’t a magic bullet to increase your TikTok followers. But it can help you become more visible on the For You Page — which can, by extension, help you get more followers on TikTok. Some examples of TikTok trends: Sounds: Use trending audio clips to join popular conversations.Hashtags: Add trending hashtags to help your videos get discovered.Challenges: Participate in viral challenge videos to reach new audiences.Niche trends: Trends related to a specific news or event in your niche.While creating your content calendar, leave some gaps for trending videos. Or you could treat them as bonus posts! If you scroll on TikTok regularly, you’ll automatically start finding these trends on your FYP. Some trends are also tied to a specific period, like the holidays or the fall season. Most trending content will be time-sensitive, so you need to jump on trends before they fade. Keep two things in mind before hopping on trends: Your trending videos still need to fit your niche. Don’t participate in a trend if it’s not true to your brand values or can’t be molded for your industry.Balance trending content with evergreen content. Trending posts can provide you with viral moments and boost visibility, but the real gold is the evergreen content that makes people follow you and stick around.Alice experienced this herself: “Sometimes, trendy TikToks didn’t work because the trend wasn’t authentic enough to me and my brand. The trends that have most benefited my business are the ones I personally had an emotional reaction to,” she said. “I still try the trends when they’re easy and fun for me, but what people really pick up on are the videos in which I’m authentically sharing my experience and talking about my brand.” Your TikTok strategy should include a healthy mix of trending and evergreen content. Trending videos might bring in a large TikTok audience to your profile, but evergreen content is what will make them stick around. And while you’re creating that content calendar (hopefully using a smart tool like Buffer!), you also want to select the right time to post. 6. Post when your audience is onlineWhile timing isn't everything in life, it does matter when you're posting on TikTok. You want to share your content when your audience is most likely to see and engage with it. You don’t want to post when your engagement will be low. Or when there’ll be too much competition and your video will drown in the noise. Or when your audience is fast asleep. The best time to post on TikTok is when your audience is most likely to be online. Here’s how to find your optimal posting time: The goal is to post when video discoverability is at an all-time high so you get more engagement. Based on our analysis of one million TikTok posts, that time is between 4-5 p.m. mid-week. Posting at the right time might sound like a small, insignificant thing. And it is a relatively small piece of the puzzle of how to get more followers on TikTok. But it can help your TikTok content get that initial boost it needs to get in front of the right audience at the perfect time. 7. Focus on scroll-stopping hooksShort-form video content (whether it’s TikTok videos, Instagram Reels, or YouTube Shorts) thrives when the first few seconds of your video can quickly grab attention. The “I got the job!” phrase by Erin McGoff quickly piques interest and curiosity. The following line, “Ugh, that salary is way too low,” holds it. You want to know what the character would do next. Some folks refer to this as the 3-second rule. (More on that below.) Your hook can be the audio, the visual, the text on the screen, or all three combined. The goal is to stop the scroll. Think: What would my audience see or hear and immediately stop in their tracks? Use copywriting formulas and closely observe the hooks that make you want to watch more. Slowly but surely, you’ll learn to craft impeccable hooks. Hooks might not seem like a TikTok strategy for follower growth, but a strong hook is what gets your foot in the door. Once someone is hooked (pun intended) to your TikTok content, they’ll stick around till the end to see it through. And if they like what they see, they’ll tap the follow button to see more of it. What’s the 3-second rule on TikTok?The 3-second rule means you need to grab viewers’ attention in the first three seconds of your video — otherwise, they’ll scroll past. Try these hooks: Ask a surprising question.Show a bold visual or action.Start with a quick teaser of what’s coming.💡Note: It’s important to avoid clickbait in your hooks while creating TikTok content. They might reel TikTok users in, but they won’t keep viewers engaged till the end. Genuine engagement will only come from hooks that are well-crafted and true.8. End your videos with a strong call-to-actionHere's a simple truth that applies to TikTok marketing: if you want something, you need to ask for it. Maybe your videos are great, but are you actually asking viewers to follow you? Maybe your TikTok videos are epic, but are you asking viewers to follow you? It could be something as simple as “Follow me for more [your niche] tips!” Another thing you could do is tease what you’re going to post about in the future that might also interest your potential TikTok followers. For example, Kallie Baker ends with a call-to-action of “Tomorrow, I’ll teach you [this new thing],” in one of her videos. If you’ve watched her video till the end, she’s already succeeded in making you see the value in her content. The call to action gives you a great reason to follow (‘I can learn this too if I follow Kallie!’), too. You don’t need to overcomplicate it. If you can’t say the ‘follow me’ using a voiceover because you’re using music, use overlay text somewhere at the bottom or top of your video to nudge the same behavior and get more followers on TikTok. 9. Start a content seriesA content series is when you create episodic content on a specific topic. It has the binge-able value that keeps your audience returning for more. Plus, a series makes it easier for you to come up with new video ideas. Tiffany Yu — who landed $160k in brand partnerships and a book deal using her TikTok account — says her anti-ableism series put her on the map. “Since launching it, I was named to the inaugural API TikTok Trailblazers list alongside creators like Bella Poarch, and a literary agent who saw it reached out about writing a book,” she said. “The series has nearly 300 posts and over 5 million views.” She also explains why she thinks the series helped her with follower growth: “For one, it helps new followers engage more deeply in my content,” she said. “When someone discovers a video and sees it’s ‘part 273,’ they’ll likely be curious to explore other content from the series.” Annie-Mai also believes in the power of content series: “Audiences are craving something to latch onto, something that feels familiar, consistent and worth returning to,” she says. “That’s why series content works so well.” A series can also help you stay consistent because you can create content on a broad topic without starting from scratch each time. Choose a topic that’s broad enough to require multiple videos and one that your audience is interested in. 10. Use relevant hashtags and SEO termsThe TikTok algorithm uses hashtags and keywords within your post to understand what your post is about and put it in front of people who like watching similar videos. SEO also comes into the picture because more and more people are using the TikTok app as a search engine. This is why it’s important to use the right hashtags and SEO terms. Use three to five relevant hashtags with each post alongside naturally-woven keywords your audience might be searching for. Follow this evergreen TikTok checklist each time before posting: Did your caption contain relevant keywords?Have you included 3-5 hashtags?Did you film within TikTok or use their affiliated app, CapCut?Have you included a TikTok audio?💡Note: Don’t add irrelevant keywords or hashtags in your TikTok posts. That can hurt more than it would help. According to TikTok’s Creator Academy: “Avoid including irrelevant or misleading keywords based solely on popularity — irrelevant text stacking will actually negatively affect your video traffic,” they say. “If you want your video to do well in search, describe your video content accurately and objectively.” 11. Engage with your communitySomeone who commented on your video might not follow you. Engaging with them by responding to their comment is an easy way to make them return to your video and become more memorable — leading to an eventual follow. The TikTok algorithm — like many other platforms — pushes posts with more engagement at the frontline. If you regularly create engaging content that makes people comment and you reply back, you play in favor of the TikTok game. Engagement is a two-way street. Here are four ways to connect with your TikTok community: Reply quickly to comments to show you’re active and listening.Use video replies to answer questions or highlight great comments.Collaborate with duets and stitches to join conversations.React to trending videos to increase your visibility.Tiffany focused on going the extra mile and giving video replies to her audience: “Early on in growing my channel, I not only made sure to try to respond to most of the comments, but I would also respond to questions with video replies,” she says. “Not only does that person get notified that you replied, but it also signals to your audience that you are reading the comments and willing to engage with them, making them more excited to stick around.” Gaining followers is not in a silo, after all. You don’t want an inflated follower count alone, you want a loyal and engaged community. And responding to every comment you can is the first step to make your followers feel valued and heard. 12. Collaborate with fellow creators or influencersIf you’re a creator, collaborating with other creators in the same industry can be a win-win for both parties: Both of you can cross-promote your content in front of new, vetted audiences who will like your content (and potentially follow you). There are also TikTok features like a duet or stitch — where you can add your own spin to a popular video. This can be helpful when you want to add to a conversation that’s already a hot topic on TikTok. Alice says many of her popular videos were created using stitches: “Some of our most popular videos lately have been duets or stitches with other women complaining about the exact problems that we’re trying to solve,” she says. If you’re a business owner, you can also collaborate with TikTok influencers using influencer marketing and sharing user-generated content. Via influencer marketing, you want to choose relevant creators with a tight-knit, loyal audience to talk about your brand authentically. You can gift them your products with no strings attached or do a paid partnership if you have the budget.Via user-generated content, you can reshare your customers' organic posts and testimonials on your TikTok account. These serve to build trust and help you gain more followers.Whether you use duets, stitches, or user-generated content, remember to credit the original creator before reposting (along with asking for permission to repost). 13. Experiment with different video lengthsWe analyzed over one million posts and found TikTok videos over one minute in length get: 43.2% more reach than videos in the 30-60 second range70.3% more reach than videos in the 10-30 second range95.7% more reach than videos in the 5-10 second rangeThe numbers were similar for average watch time (a crucial ingredient of the TikTok algorithm). TikToks longer than a minute got: 63.8% more watch time than videos in the 30-60 second range175.6% more watch time than videos in the 10-30 second range264.5% more watch time than videos in the 5-10 second rangeWhile TikTok became famous for short-form video content, videos under 10 seconds are no longer the only way to keep your audience engaged. Instead, create content that focuses on providing value and experiment with various video lengths to find the one that works best for you. Engaging content has no ideal length — it all depends on the topic at hand, your video editing chops, and your audience’s preferences. 14. Don’t buy TikTok followersThe fastest way to hurt your reach is to pad your follower count with bots or click farms. You’ll see loads of companies trying to sell bots as TikTok followers. But taking this shortcut isn’t just against TikTok’s Community Guidelines, it also doesn’t fulfill your larger purpose: building a loyal following. In fact, gaining followers this way could hurt your TikTok presence because it harms your personal brand and overall reputation. Your actual TikTok followers might put two and two together when they don’t see your engagement and follower count number adding up (or when bots comment generic compliments on all your videos). This will hurt your brand presence immensely in the long run. There’s no denying that getting more followers on TikTok is hard work — it requires a lot of patience. But buying followers isn’t going to make that any easier. Focusing on creating high-quality content for your target audience — without fussing too much over that follower count — might make it a bit more enjoyable. Growing on TikTok is an ongoing processTikTok marketing is a whole host of things — increasing your follower count is a small, ongoing part of it. You're already juggling content creation, community engagement, and staying on top of platform changes. The last thing you need is the hassle of manual posting and tracking results. Tools like Buffer can handle the scheduling and analytics for you, so you can focus on what really matters: creating great content and connecting with your audience. Frequently asked questionsHow often should I post on TikTok to grow followers?That depends. How frequently can you post while maintaining the quality of your content? We recommend at least 3–5 times per week for best results. Remember that consistency and quality matter more than volume. What's the best way to measure TikTok follower growth?Track your follower count weekly rather than daily to see meaningful patterns. Use TikTok Analytics to monitor which videos convert viewers to followers, and pay attention to your follower-to-view ratio on different types of content to understand what drives growth. How important are TikTok trends for gaining followers?Trends can help boost visibility, but only when they align with your niche. Successful creators balance trending content (20%) with original, evergreen content (80%). Focus on trends that you can authentically connect to your unique perspective or expertise. Do I need to show my face to grow on TikTok?Not necessarily. While showing your face can help build a connection, many successful accounts grow through voiceovers, text-based content, or showcasing products/skills. The key is creating value consistently in a format that works for you and your audience. How long does it typically take to gain significant followers on TikTok?Most creators see meaningful growth (1,000+ followers) within 3-6 months of consistent posting. However, this varies widely based on your niche, content quality, and posting frequency. Focus on engagement rather than follower count early on — highly engaged small audiences often lead to faster growth long-term. More TikTok resourcesMy TikTok Experiment: How I Grew My Following by More Than 1,000% in 30 Days TikTok Has Landed Me $160K in Brand Partnerships and a 6-Figure Book Deal — Here’s How I Did ItHow to Use TikTok Studio: A Handy Tool for Growing on the Platform15 Trending Songs on TikTok in 2025 (+ How to Use Them)View the full article

It’s five answers to five questions. Here we go… 1. My boss told me I’m being annoying I’m in my mid-20s and work in a pretty casual office. We provide customer support for ticket buyers. I was promoted to membership/subscription package supervisor about six months ago. My boss oscillates between praising my attention to detail and criticizing me for second-guessing her. Yesterday I spoke up in a meeting with her and two other employees to give more detail on something. Her tone shifted and she said that I was being really annoying that day, but I brushed it off at the time. The next day, when I went to ask her a clarifying question about a credit card dispute, she said that I’ve “been really annoying lately” and she’s very frustrated and doesn’t know how to work with me. She elaborated and said that I’m constantly questioning what she says. My feelings are hurt and now I feel like I need to walk on eggshells when I’m just trying do my job well. I don’t know what I can do differently to be less annoying to her. What should I do? “You’re being annoying” is ridiculous feedback. She shouldn’t be making feedback personal that way or characterizing it terms of her emotional reaction. It’s legitimate to explain that you’re pushing back on decisions too frequently or derailing meetings with excessive context or to ask you to hold questions for one-on-one meetings or so forth. It’s not okay to tell you that you’re being “annoying.” But as for what to do from here, if you depersonalize the feedback and just look at the “constantly questioning what she says” comment, does that change anything for you? Do you think you do second-guess or question her a lot, and could it be coming across as trying to argue with or undermine her decisions? But if you can’t figure out where she’s coming from, go back to her and say, “I’ve thought a lot about your feedback that I’m coming across like I’m second-guessing you and I’m hoping you can help me figure out what to do differently. I don’t want to ignore the feedback, so I’m hoping you can help me understand where I’m getting it wrong.” (To be clear, this is a more deferential approach than you should have to take — her feedback to you was rude! — but it’s likely the most politically expedient.) 2. I’m panicking at the thought of going back to the office I started working at my current job in the office full-time in 2019. When Covid began, our firm went hybrid. Sometime in early 2021, after vaccines became available, I went back into the office on a hybrid basis. In late 2023, my firm allowed me to go remote full-time to relocate permanently away from an office location and care for my dad, who was terminally ill, and my grandmother, who was in her 90s. The remote work and flexibility my firm offered was important as long as my grandmother was alive and needed care, but she passed earlier this year and I thought I would be ready to look at hybrid roles where I am currently living. I love my firm and my work, but I am just having a hard time being entrepreneurial and organized enough to advance, and I think I would be more successful internally as I have been previously. I got offered a pretty amazing role this week — more money, better title, wfh two days a week, amazing org and mission, not a terrible commute — but I feel like they did a bit of a bait and switch by not telling me until I got the offer that I would have to be in the office full-time for the first 90 days before I could take advantage of the two days a week remote work. It triggered a panic attack in me I was not expecting. I don’t feel I have a ton of opportunity for advancement where I am and I think I might be more successful in an office environment, but I also don’t know how to give up the flexibility of remote work. My husband’s career is pretty demanding, so even though we don’t have kids I am exclusively responsible for our dog and all household things. He was initially opposed to me taking a job that is not WFH but later we had better talks about it and he is more supportive. I have literally cried and vomited from anxiety in the last 12 hours at the thought of accepting this job, even though it is largely what I prayed for. I am not generally a person who leans into regret very much or worries about the road not taken, but am I crazy to turn down this offer? Only you can weigh how much of a difference an additional two in-office days a week for three months will be. But personally, if I’d been prepared to work from the office three days a week, I’d be willing to do it for five for 90 days, in order to make a professional move I felt was right. If you hadn’t been prepared for any in-office work, or even just for one on-site day per week, I could see feeling like this is very different than you’d anticipated and not something that fits your needs … but when you were already ready to go in three days anyway, your reaction to it does seem more intense than warranted. (Caveats: that assumes that you believe them that it will change in 90 days and that won’t be a bait and switch. That part is worth getting in writing if you can … although even then you should be aware that they could change it at any time, and some companies have made previously hybrid people return on-site full-time. But that’s going to be a risk with any hybrid job, and even with a lot of fully remote ones.) I do wonder if something more is going on, though, because your reaction is a strong one! If it’s line with how you’ve responded to other things you’ve felt anxious about, maybe it’s not as significant as it sounds here … but crying and vomiting is pretty intense! I would try to sort through exactly what’s behind it: is it something about this job in particular? Is it tension with your husband about the decision? Is it a specific logistic, like that you have care lined up for your dog three days a week but no plan for the other two? Is it just change? I think it’ll help to hone in on exactly what is eating at you. 3. How can I make our new executive director understand that they’re alienating everyone? I’ve been part of an international nonprofit for the last five years. I love this group and what it stands for: neighbors helping neighbors, no judgment, empathy, kindness. I’ve been on the leadership team, and while things are often scrappy (lots of unpaid volunteer work), I’ve been okay with that — it’s part of being a young nonprofit. Here’s the problem: we have a newer executive director, and I’ve completely lost confidence in their leadership. They’ve told us openly that they have ADHD and don’t like following processes, but the result is that they make sweeping organizational changes without input or transparency. When we’ve asked questions, the response is usually about how hurt they are that we don’t “trust” them, but at the same time they say we don’t deserve to know how decisions are made. It feels like we’re supposed to accept their personal feelings as the only justification. I’m struggling to explain why this is different from a workplace where, yes, sometimes you don’t get to know all the details. To me, this is about a lack of discovery, curiosity, and empathy — plus no communication to the rest of us. One example: we have two-hour meetings scheduled right in the middle of dinner/bedtime on a Tuesday night. They refuse to record them (“you should be invested, it’s only once a month”) but if you can’t attend, you get put on a list of volunteers at risk of being cut. Many of us long-timers are ready to walk away. I’ve already documented my “last straw” lines and I’ll resign if things don’t improve soon. But I really believe in the mission and want to give it one last shot. How can I frame feedback in a way that might get through to a leader who doesn’t seem open to it? Is there a way to say, “Your lack of transparency and empathy is driving away the very people you need” without it coming off as an attack? Or is it time to accept that I can’t change this dynamic, and my best move is to leave before I burn out completely? Talk to the board, not the executive director. The board is the executive director’s boss, and they need to hear that the ED is alienating people, threatening to cut volunteers who can’t make two-hour weeknight meetings and being dismissive when they explain why they can’t attend, and that multiple people are close to leaving. Since the director is new, you’re less likely to run into the issue of the board being stacked with loyalists who the ED personally recruited (which frequently can be a problem with approaching nonprofit boards about problems with an ED). 4. Is it the right time to leave my job? How do you know when it’s the right time to leave a job? I’ve been with my company for quite a while and there are a lot of positives: the work is often engaging, the pay is solid, and I care about the mission. At the same time, I’m frustrated. The organization changes direction often, my reporting line changes each year, and there is often negative press about our company. On top of that, my role hasn’t evolved the way I’d hoped. I have a leadership title but very limited management responsibilities, and I’m left out of important decisions. I’d like to grow as a manager, but instead of giving me that opportunity, the company seems more interested in adding extra layers of hierarchy above me. That makes me feel like I’m moving backwards rather than forward. I’m trying to decide whether to keep pushing through in hopes things will improve, or to take this as a sign that it’s time to look elsewhere. How should I think about this decision? Whenever you’re wondering about this, it always makes sense to look around and get some real options in play so that you’re not comparing your current job to some amorphous, hypothetical job, but instead can compare it to specific jobs. Maybe you won’t find anything that you like enough to be willing to leave for. Maybe you’ll find something that makes the decision to leave an obvious one. But it’ll be much easier to figure out once you’ve interviewed and have something real and specific to weigh against the advantages (and disadvantages) of your current job. 5. Demoted, then laid off while on maternity leave I recently went on maternity leave, and four days before I was due to come back to work, I was told I’ve been demoted to part-time (I was full-time), and I’m also getting laid off at the end of the year. I was asked halfway through my leave if I was planning to come back full-time (I was). There are two other pregnant people in the company who are set to go on leave soon. I was told that they were also being asked if they are coming back full- or part-time, but I don’t know if they were. Can I warn them what could potentially happen, or would this create more problems? There is a lot of dysfunction primarily from the owner of the company, and no competent HR. There are 16 employees, in total. You should tell them what happened to you. I don’t know the best way for them to act on the info (for example, it doesn’t make sense for them to say they’re planning to come back part-time if in fact they prefer to come back full-time) but at a minimum they should be aware of what happened to you so they can factor it into to their thinking. More shared info is better than less. It’s also worth noting that the Pregnancy Discrimination Act applies to all employers with 15 or more employees, so your company is covered. That law doesn’t make it illegal to lay off workers who happen to be pregnant, but it does make it illegal to factor their pregnancy/parental leave into the decision — so if everyone who’s getting laid off happens to be recently pregnant (or has recently taken FMLA, etc.), that’s potentially relevant to you all. The post my boss said I’m being annoying, new executive director is alienating everyone, and more appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

The most convenient areas to stay in Kuala Lumpur for visitors, and the pick of the best hotels. Kuala Lumpur is the biggest city in Malaysia and a major air hub for travel in Southeast Asia. If you are travelling in the region the chances are you are going to pass through here at some point. While it’s nowhere near as big as Bangkok, it’s a spread-out city that can be hard to navigate at first. This Where To Stay guide is to help find the best areas in Kuala Lumpur. I have narrowed down the best areas to stay in if you are visiting for the first time. These areas are centrally-located with public transport, and have access to the most popular sites in KL. Where to stay in Kuala Lumpur guide Map of Kuala Lumpur hotels Best areas to stay in Kuala Lumpur Old City Centre (Chinatown and Colonial District) Bukit Bintang (Shopping and entertainment area, hotels for all budgets ) Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) (Upmarket hotels in the business area) Bukit Nanas (Leafy streets around KL Tower) Other areas to stay in Kuala Lumpur KL Sentral / Brickfields (Rail transport hub and Little India area) Chow Kit (Emerging area in Central KL) Bangsar (Inner city residential area) Map of Kuala Lumpur hotels Map of the best areas to stay in Kuala Lumpur. [View map of Kuala Lumpur hotels.] This map shows areas mentioned in this article. The outlined areas are not official boundaries. Best areas to stay in Kuala Lumpur Old City Centre Kuala Lumpur gets its name (“muddy confluence” in Malay) from where the Gombak and Klang rivers meet. At this junction is the Jamek Mosque, and the area around here is the old city. To the west of the Klang River are the historic colonial administrative buildings (often referred to as the Colonial District). To the east of the river are the shophouses of the old city. Chinatown is within the old city, making up most of the area to the east of the river. The Petaling Street market is the centre of Chinatown. The Old City has the most lively street activity, with lots of cheap places to eat. The Old City also has more old shophouses, though they have not been kept in good condition compared to Singapore. This area has been undergoing a transformation, so there are near-ruined shophouses standing next to freshly-restored shophouses with cool cafes and restaurants. The regeneration of the Old City area is also bringing in some better hotel options, so it is not just for budget travellers. The biggest thing to have happened in KL is the Merdeka 118 Tower. This skyscraper topped out in 2021 and is now the second tallest building in the world. Merdeka 118 is near the Chinatown area, so this area will see more upgrades in the future. The tower complex has its own metro station (Merdeka), and it includes the Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur. Overall, the Old City has the advantage of being near the historic colonial-era administrative buildings and most interesting street activity. This makes it my choice as the best area to stay if it’s your first time in Kuala Lumpur. Budget (1-2 Stars) Chinatown has the cheapest hostels and budget guesthouses in KL. Some of the budget options are very basic and haven’t aged well. The cheapest private rooms in guesthouse are usually partitioned rooms with a shared bathroom. I’ve stayed at The Travel Hub Guesthouse and Matahari Lodge, which are budget options in the Chinatown area. Backhome KL is a hotel with dorm beds and private rooms. 1000 Miles Hotel is another hybrid hotel is dorm and private options. If you’re looking for the absolute cheapest hotels in Kuala Lumpur you could try your luck with the guesthouses on Jalan Pudu, opposite the old Pudu bus terminal. Here you will find some rooms for 40-45 MYR per night. None that I would personally recommend as they are pretty grim, but I’m just putting this here as information. Mid-range (3-4 Stars) The Travelodge City Centre is in a prominent flatiron-shaped building opposite the Central Market. D Loft Hotel (3-star) is at the centre of Chinatown at the southern entrance of the Petaling Street Market. Signalling that this area is getting more upmarket, the Four Points by Sheraton Kuala Lumpur, Chinatown is in a new building that opened in late 2019. Luxury (5 Stars) Most of the action in the old city centre is to the east of the river, and that is where you want to stay. I would make an exception for The Majestic Hotel. The original Hotel Majestic is national heritage site that was built in 1932, diagonally opposite the even more majestic Kuala Lumpur Railway Station. This historic hotel saw many prominent international visitors over the years. The hotel has been expanded and is now The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Autograph Collection (a luxury hotel group within the Marriott International portfolio). [Check rates for The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, Autograph Collection.] Park Hyatt Kuala Lumpur occupies floors 75 to 115 of Merdeka 118, so this is the place to stay for the best views of the Kuala Lumpur skyline. Bukit Bintang Bukit Bintang is a popular shopping street in central KL. When looking for a place to stay, the surrounding streets are usually referred to as the Bukit Bintang area. Running parallel to Bukit Bintang is Jalan Alor, which has a famous night food market on the street. There are bars, nightclubs, and mega malls here, and its also popular with Arabian travellers. This area is KL at its international best. The Bukit Bintang area has also been through extensive redevelopment over the last few years. There is a new metro station – Bukit Bintang Station of MRT Line 9 – and Bukit Bintang City Centre is rising at the site of the old Pudu Jail. The central point of this area is the junction of Bukit Bintang and Jalan Sultan Ismail. The Bukit Bintang monorail station is near here, and the corner is starting to resemble a mini Times Square with all the bright lights and electronic advertising displays. The city has turned this busy intersection into a pedestrian scramble, and it is referred to as the the “Shibuya Crossing of KL“. There are plenty of mid-range hotels, and some cheap guesthouses (though generally not as cheap as Chinatown). On the other side of Jalan Sultan Ismail are luxury hotels, so this area has something for everyone. Budget (1-2 Stars) Hotel Paloma Inn Revopackers Mid-range (3-4 Stars) Travelodge Bukit Bintang is on the famous night market street. WOLO Kuala Lumpur sits prominently on the corner of Jalan Bukit Bintang and Jalan Sultan Ismail (the “Shibuya Crossing” corner). This mid-range boutique hotel bills itself as “a hotel for the curious and creative traveller”. [Wolo Hotel on the corner of Jalan Bukit Bintang and Jalan Sultan Ismail.] Melange Boutique Hotel The Kuala Lumpur Journal Hotel has a modern retro vibe and is right in the middle of the BB action. citizenM Kuala Lumpur Bukit Bintang is on Jalan Pudu (the road that connects Bukit Bintang to Chinatown) and they describe themselves as “affordable luxury hotels”. citizenM is from the Netherlands and they have established themselves as a modern brand, with features such as mobile check-in. Melia Kuala Lumpur (4-star) from the Meliá Hotels International of Spain have a hotel on Jalan Imbi. Lloyd’s Inn Kuala Lumpur (4-star) is in Luxury (5 Stars) Most of the 5-star hotels are in the upper Bukit Bintang area, near the Pavilion KL Shopping Mall. Luxury hotels here include: JW Marriott Hotel Kuala Lumpur The Westin Kuala Lumpur Grand Millennium Kuala Lumpur Hotel Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC) KLCC (Kuala Lumpur City Centre) is the central business district of KL, with the Petronas Twin Towers being the undisputed highlight of this area. There are lots of malls and luxury hotel chains in this area, including the Suria KLCC shopping mall at the base of the twin towers. This opens out to the KLCC Park, where numerous hotels offer sought-after views of the twin towers. The Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre is in this area, and the streets are generally less chaotic than the rest of KL. Being a high-end luxury area it’s also a bit harder to find cheap eats, but Bukit Bintang is not far away. [Jalan Pinang, KLCC.] Like the rest of central Kuala Lumpur, KLCC is undergoing extensive redevelopment. A new MRT line (Putrajaya Line) opened in 2023, and new office towers and hotels are being built around this line. KLCC is best if you want a great view of the Twin Towers, if you have a preferred luxury hotel, or are in the area for work. For budget travellers, I would stick to Chinatown and Bukit Bintang. Mid-range (3-4 Stars) Holiday Inn Express Kuala Lumpur City Centre is rated 3.5 Stars and is within walking distance of Bukit Bintang and KLCC. Luxury (5 Stars) Traders Hotel (a Shangri-La hotel) is well-known for having one of the best views of the twin towers. The hotel faces the park behind the twin towers, so there is no other building to obstruct the view. W Kuala Lumpur is a 5-star hotel that has a swimming pool view of the twin towers. In any other city the 343-metre tall Four Seasons Hotel would be a defining landmark of the skyline. Here it’s standing next to the twin towers, so its height is not immediately apparent. Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur overlooks KLCC Park. Pullman Kuala Lumpur City Centre Hotel and Residences Hotel is located closer to Bukit Bintang, so it has the best of both worlds of being in KLCC with the amenities of the Pavilion KL mall. Bukit Nanas Bukit Nanas is the small hill that is home to the KL Tower, one of the great landmark towers of the city. This little hill has the last vestige of virgin tropical rainforest in the concrete jungle of Kuala Lumpur. Bukit Nanas is near Bukit Bintang and KLCC. It’s not part of either but it’s not an official neighbourhood area either. There are not many amenities here as it’s more of an upmarket residential area. There are some serviced apartment accommodation in this area, such as Oasia Suites Kuala Lumpur by Far East Hospitality. Hotel Indigo Kuala Lumpur On The Park By IHG (4.5-star) opened in 2023 and it features a living vertical garden in the lobby and a central staircase constructed from old railway sleepers. The Shangri-la Hotel is set in a lush tropical garden located near the KL Forest Eco Park. This is within a walkable distance to the twin towers and Bukit Bintang. Here is my review. [Shangri-la Hotel – Kuala Lumpur.] Other areas to stay in Kuala Lumpur KL Sentral / Brickfields Kuala Lumpur Sentral (KL Sentral) is the central station of Kuala Lumpur. This is the transit hub where long-distance trains, the airport express, commuter railways, and metro services meet. The original central station was the grand Kuala Lumpur Station, but it was moved to this bigger, modern (and uglier) facility. A new central business district has evolved around KL Sentral, and there are some famous hotel names here. Opposite the station is the Brickfields area. As the name would suggest, this area was home to the factories that supplied the bricks for the building of Kuala Lumpur in the late 1800’s. This area was quite run down before KL Sentral opened in 2001. Even now there are still some old guest houses that hint at a less glorious past, but the area has cleaned up due to its prime location. A few minutes walk from here is the vibrant Little India area of KL. As a frequent traveller to Kuala Lumpur, I have often stayed in Brickfields when I’m transiting for a night. From the airport you can get the fast train to KL Sentral, and then walk outside. I would stay here if you want a speedy getaway in the morning, or if you have an allegiance to one of the high-end hotels at the station. Budget Hotels Budget hotels near KL Sentral are accessible through the NU Sentral shopping mall and then an overpass across Jalan Tun Sambanthan. KL Sentral can be a bit confusing if you’re not familiar with it, so follow the signs that point to the monorail station and that will get you there. Some of budget hotels around KL Sentral include PODs The Backpackers Home & Cafe (2-Stars), Easy Hotel KL Sentral (3-Stars), and City Central Hotel @ KL Sentral (3-Stars). 4-Star and 5-Star Hotels Some of the familiar names built on the station complex include the 4-Star Aloft Kuala Lumpur Sentral and Hilton Kuala Lumpur, and the 5-Star Le Méridien Kuala Lumpur. These are ideal for business travellers where time is of the essence. From here the airport express train takes just 28 minutes to KLIA. Chow Kit An emerging neighbourhood in KL is the Chow Kit area. I wouldn’t stay here if it’s your first time in KL, but I’m putting it here for regular visitors who would like to consider other areas. Chow Kit is in the central city area not far from KLCC. It’s been going through a regeneration of late, and it burst onto the international scene when it was featured by The New York Times in their list of 52 Places To Go In 2020. The first area to check is the area I call “Lower Chow Kit”. Sometimes the hotels here are classified as being in KLCC or the Golden Triangle. There is no set boundary, but they are technically in Chow Kit. The hotel of the moment here is the Hotel Stripes Kuala Lumpur, Autograph Collection. Also around here is the Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur. On the main street of the Chow Kit commercial area is The Chow Kit Hotel. Next door is MoMo’s Kuala Lumpur, which is described as “social hotel with micro-rooms”. In the reception is a cafe, bar, and MoMosita Taco Bar. Bangsar Bangsar is a popular area for expats so I’ve listed this if you want an extended stay in a more residential area. There are lots bars and restaurants around the streets of Bangsar Village. Bangsar is one stop away from KL Sentral on the Kelana Jaya LRT Line, though it’s a fair walk from the station to Bangsar Village (or most places in Bangsar). Outside of the central area you will discover that Kuala Lumpur is a car-oriented city. Opposite the Bangsar LRT station is the Alila Bangsar Kuala Lumpur (5-star), a brand of Hyatt Hotels. This hotel is connected to the LRT station by a pedestrian bridge. There are not many hotel options in Bangsar so try Airbnb. View the full article

A guide for where to stay in Jakarta – finding the best areas that are close to transport, entertainment, and major tourist sites. Jakarta is the biggest city in Southeast Asia, and finding a place to stay here can be an overwhelming experience when confronted with the map of the city. Despite its size and unruly streets, finding where to stay in Jakarta is manageable if you stick to a defined area that is most useful for first-time visitors. This is the point of the Nomadic Notes Where To Stay guides. This is not to say that the other hotels outside this area aren’t worth staying in, and I have stayed in such places myself on my previous visits to Jakarta. But for the first-time visitor to the Big Durian, I recommend sticking to the following areas to make your visit as efficient as possible. Where to stay in Jakarta guide Map of Jakarta hotels Best area to stay in Jakarta Jakarta Pusat (Central Jakarta) Jalan Jaksa (Old backpacker street with budget hotels) Jalan K.H. Wahid Hasyim (Best location) Selamat Datang Monument area (Luxury hotels in the middle of Jakarta) Jakarta Barat (West Jakarta) Kota (Historic old town area) Jakarta Selatan (South Jakarta) Mega Kuningan (Golden Triangle business district) Kemang (Long-term expats and digital nomads) Frequently asked questions Is it worth staying near Manggarai railway station? Map of Jakarta hotels Hotels mentioned in this article are pinned on this map, along with train stations in each area. [View map of Jakarta hotels.] Best area to stay in Jakarta The best area to stay in Jakarta is in Menteng District in Central Jakarta. This area is the most convenient for historical sites and transport. It includes every type of accommodation, from the backpacker area of Jalan Jaksa to luxury hotels on Jl. M.H. Thamrin. Jakarta Pusat (Central Jakarta) Jalan Jaksa Jalan Jaksa (Jaksa Street) is the unofficial backpacker street of Jakarta. There used to be quite a scene here when backpackers were overlanding in droves across Indonesia. The street was ideal for overlanders as it’s near Gambir Station (the former long-distance railway station). These days the backpacker scene here is all but gone, but it still remains the best place to stay if you are on a budget. It’s a short walk from the National Monument, which if you had to pick the central point of Jakarta then you would go with this. For the ultra-budget conscious there is a selection of cheap hostels and losmen (family guesthouses) where you can turn up and look for a room. You have no choice but to do this as these sorts of places aren’t listed on booking sites. Most of them are in dire need of renovation by now, so you will be getting the full grungy backpacker experience. For cheap places with walk-in bookings go to Jalan Kebon Sirih Barat I, which is opposite Alphamidi on 31 Jalan Jaksa. Down this alley, you will see signs pointing to little places to stay. [Hostel alley off Jalan Jaksa.] At the rate this street is gentrifying they may not even exist soon, so I will keep this post updated if I hear of any changes. On Jalan Jaksa there are still some old guesthouses that remain from the backpacker days. The Tator Hotel is one of the old-school hotels that has dorm rooms and private rooms. I stayed in another hotel that was terribly run down, and I would only recommend for the ultra price-conscious. One of the new hotels is the Dafam Express Jaksa Jakarta – modern boxy block that has become a common style in Indonesia (especially Bali). Jalan K.H. Wahid Hasyim Jalan Jaksa junctions with Jalan Kh Wahid Hasyim, which has some of the best varieties of mid-range hotels in Jakarta. This street runs between the Sarinah Mall (the future junction of metro lines 1 and 2) and Gondangdia station on the commuter railway. There are lots of places to eat around here, and it’s a 15-minute walk to the current metro station at Bundaran HI. For first-time visitors to Jakarta, I think this street is hard to beat in terms of value, amenities, and access to transport. It’s also within striking distance of the main tourist sites, making it ideal if you are visiting Jakarta for the first time. The good thing about Wahid Hasyim Street is that the city planners have put some effort into taming the street, with wide footpaths and bollards to block cars from parking in the pedestrian areas. The Akmani Hotel has also done its bit to make the street more beautiful with frangipani trees outside. [Akmani Hotel on Jalan Wahid Hasyim.] Notable hotels on this street include the Ibis Jakarta Tamarin Hotel and the Aloft Jakarta Wahid Hasyim. [Aloft Jakarta Wahid Hasyim.] Behind the corner of Jalan Wahid Hasyim and Jalan Thamrin is ARTOTEL Thamrin – Jakarta. This 3-star hotel is popular, especially for this prime location. At the budget end of the spectrum are hotels like Paragon Wahid Hasyim. [RedDoorz Hotel Paragon.] When looking on booking sites (such as Agoda) they will show Jalan Jaksa and Jalan Kh Wahid Hasyim under the Thamrin neighbourhood option. Selamat Datang Monument area The area around the Selamat Datang Monument is home to fancy malls and brand-name 5-star hotels. This is on the big north-south thoroughfare of Jalan Thamrin (Jalan M.H. Thamrin) north of the monument, and Jalan Sudirman (Jalan Jenderal Sudirman) south of the monument. Some of the tallest buildings in Jakarta are along this road. This area includes BNI City railway station, which is a stop on the Soekarno–Hatta Airport rail line. On the north side of the roundabout on Jalan Thamrin is Bundaran HI metro station (the current northern terminus of the North-South metro line). From Bundaran HI it’s a 20-minute walk to Jalan Jaksa. For orientation, the landmark hotel here is the Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta. This is located next to the Selamat Datang Monument (also known as the Hotel Indonesia roundabout). The Hotel Indonesia opened in 1962 and is one of the most famous hotels in Southeast Asia. After renovations in 2009, it reopened as the Hotel Indonesia Kempinski Jakarta. On the northwest corner of the roundabout is the Plaza Indonesia Mall, home to the Grand Hyatt Jakarta and the Keraton at The Plaza. [Grand Hyatt Jakarta.] Opposite Plaza Indonesia on the northeast corner is the Pullman Jakarta Indonesia. And rounding out the ring of luxury on the southeast corner is the Mandarin Oriental, Jakarta. [Mandarin Oriental, Jakarta.] South of the monument on Jalan Sudirman, the next stop on the metro is Dukuh Atas BNI. This is near the BNI City airport rail link. Near the metro and airport rail link is the Holiday Inn Express Jakarta Wahid Hasyim. The airport train station is also near Sudirman Station for the commuter railway, and the small streets around this station have some more budget-friendly hotel options. Don’t expect too much of budget hotels here, but this area is a good option if you want to be near the airport train. If I had the money or points to burn then I would stay around the Selamat Datang Monument area. Like most neighbourhoods that have a high proportion of luxury hotels, the area is a bit of a food desert, but there are more food options around the BNI City and Sudirman train station area. Jakarta Barat (West Jakarta) Kota [Fatahillah Square – Kota] Kota is the old town of Jakarta, in the area that was known as Old Batavia in colonial times. Despite having the best heritage architecture in Jakarta this area hasn’t realised its full potential yet. This neighbourhood should be like Chinatown in KL, which is undergoing a revival. This may change once the extension of the north-south metro line is completed. Kota will be the terminal stop for the northern extension. This may bring a transformation of the area like Chinatown in KL. Kota is already served by the commuter railway so it’s not hard to get to. The main problem is the lack of amenities compared to Jalan Wahid Hasyim. Wonderloft Hostel opened in 2017, and this popular hostel might be the harbinger of a future revitalised old town. Mercure Jakarta Batavia is also here, with a good location by one of the canals. Jakarta Selatan (South Jakarta) Mega Kuningan Mega Kuningan is the main business district of Jakarta, and it’s within the area that is referred to as The Golden Triangle. At the top of the triangle is the BNI City airport train station, and the western side of the triangle has the metro running down Sudirman Road. If you are doing business in this part of Jakarta or you like big-name hotels then this is your area. Some of the more familiar names here include the Ritz-Carlton Jakarta and JW Marriott Jakarta. There are also budget hotels in this area, including the ubiquitous RedDoorz brand. This area wouldn’t be my first pick as a first-time visitor unless you are attending business in the area or are burning/collecting hotel points at a preferred hotel chain. Kemang If you are just visiting Jakarta then I wouldn’t stay here as it’s too far from the main tourist sites. I mention Kemang in South Jakarta as it’s one of the popular expat neighbourhoods, so if you are reading this and looking for where to stay long-term in Jakarta then this is your area. A good reference point is the shopping centre at Kemang Square. Grandkemang Hotel is nearby this area. Another option for Kemang (especially if you are hunting around for apartments) is to stay at an Airbnb in Kemang. Frequently asked questions Is it worth staying near Manggarai railway station? Manggarai is the future central railway station of Jakarta, replacing Gambir Station. This is not a recommended area yet, but I have this one on my watch list as there are plans for a shopping area and a 5-star hotel. I will be interested to see if the surrounding area is going to be developed with new hotels, which would make Manggarai a convenient place to stay in the future. View the full article

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