Artificial intelligence (AI) has advanced rapidly in recent years, with natural language processing models like ChatGPT demonstrating capabilities once thought impossible. ChatGPT in particular represents a massive leap forward, showcasing the potential of large language models to understand natural language, generate human-like text, and engage in conversation.

As one of the most advanced AI systems created to date, ChatGPT is poised to transform how humans interact with machines. This conversational agent hints at a future where AI can provide useful information, creative content, and intellectual stimulation on demand.

In this article, we will unpack why ChatGPT is such an exciting development in AI and what benefits as well as risks it presents for the future.

Overview of ChatGPT

ChatGPT is an AI system developed by research company Anthropic. It is built on a large language model architecture with deep learning techniques.

Some key points about ChatGPT:

- Launched in November 2022 and quickly went viral due to its advanced conversational abilities (Forbes).

- Trained on massive datasets of online text to acquire human-like language skills.

- Able to generate lengthy, coherent text on virtually any topic and converse like a human.

- Provides informative, creative, and even hilarious responses to natural language prompts.

- Draws facts from 2021, so has limited knowledge of recent events (TechTarget).

- Anthropic is selective about ChatGPT's training data to make it more safe, honest, and harmless (LinkedIn).

What Makes ChatGPT Special?

While chatbots and voice assistants have been around for years, ChatGPT represents a major advancement that showcases the maturing capabilities of AI. Here are some of the key factors that make ChatGPT stand out:

1. Massive Scale of Training

- Trained on trillions of words from books, websites, and more to deeply understand natural language.

- Exposed to more text than a human could read in a lifetime, allowing it to master the nuances of language.

2. Conversational Ability

- Can participate in an open-ended dialogue and respond to follow-up questions.

- Maintains context throughout a conversation to answer logically and coherently.

3. Creative Potential

- Generates original poems, stories, song lyrics, marketing copy, and more based on simple prompts.

- Unleashes new possibilities for AI to enhance human creativity.

4. Accessibility

- Available to the public for free testing and experimentation.

- User-friendly natural language interface requiring no coding skills.

5. Customizability

- Anthropic continually fine-tunes ChatGPT based on user feedback for deficiencies.

- Future iterations could allow personalized bots tailored to individual needs.

This combination of scale, comprehension, imagination, approachability, and adaptability is why many experts consider ChatGPT an inflection point for AI.

ChatGPT's Impressive Capabilities

ChatGPT boasts some seriously impressive skills that seem close to human intelligence - though it still has limitations compared to the flexibility of the human mind. Here are some of the key capabilities that have evoked awe and astonishment:

- Concise Summaries - Provide rapid summarizations of complex topics, current events, detailed texts, and more.

- Content Creation - Write original poems, stories, jokes, songs, advertisements, essays, and other content in response to prompts.

- Q&A - Answer follow-up questions and admit when it doesn't know the answer. Clarify ambiguities. Adjust responses based on feedback.

- Explanations - Explain complex concepts, social issues, philosophical theories, and more in simple terms.

- Productivity Help - Provide study tips for tests. Critique resumes and offer improvement suggestions. Assist with planning projects and breaking down tasks.

- Code Generation - Generate simple code, such as a basic webpage, from a text description of what it should do.

- Language Translation - Translate text between common languages like English, Spanish, French with decent accuracy.

- Multi-tasking - Chat with multiple people simultaneously and keep conversation threads separate.

- Harmlessness - Avoid providing harmful instructions or promoting unethical, dangerous, or illegal behavior.

While impressive, ChatGPT does have clear limitations currently compared to human general intelligence. But its competencies are likely to expand rapidly with further training advances.

Behind the Scenes: How ChatGPT Works

The natural language processing capabilities that ChatGPT demonstrates are made possible by recent breakthroughs in artificial intelligence research. But how exactly does this AI create such human-like responses?

The Foundation: Large Language Models

At its core, ChatGPT relies on an AI system architecture called transformer-based language models. This includes:

- Billions of parameters - values the system learns through training on text data.

- Attention mechanism - allows focusing on relevant words in context when generating text.

- Training via deep learning - neural networks find patterns across massive datasets.

Specific advantages of transformer models:

- Excel at language tasks like translation and question answering.

- Handle longer term dependencies in text.

- Easily parallelizable across GPUs which allows scaling to huge sizes.

Training Process

The key to ChatGPT's conversational skills is its training regime:

- Supervised learning from labeled datasets of conversations, with input text and target responses.

- Reinforcement learning optimizes responses based on feedback from human trainers. Rewards informative, safe answers.

- Unsupervised pre-training on a huge corpus of text data from books, websites and more to build general linguistic skills.

Architectural Upgrades

Researchers augmented the standard transformer architecture to improve ChatGPT's abilities:

- Conversational memory - Stores dialog history to improve context and coherence.

- Knowledge organization - Structures knowledge to better ground responses in facts and common sense.

- Retrieval augmentation - Retrieves relevant knowledge from large external knowledge bases.

So, in summary, ChatGPT relies on scaling up state-of-the-art deep learning models and refining the training process to achieve robust conversational abilities. The details are overly complex, but the results are simple to interact with.

Current Applications of ChatGPT

While ChatGPT is currently research-focused, its advanced capabilities provide a glimpse of how AI could soon transform many real-world applications and use cases. Here are some of the promising ways it could be applied:

Customer Service

- Provide instant 24/7 support via conversational agents

- Reduce need for large call center staffing

- Increase customer satisfaction with fast, personalized service

Content Creation

- Generate articles, stories, descriptions, and other content on demand

- Assist creatives and writers with brainstorming ideas

- Produce first drafts to enhance human productivity

Education

- Tutor students at their own pace and answer questions instantly

- Generate lesson plans for teachers and study guides for students

- Provide feedback on writing and suggest improvements

General Information

- Be an always-available assistant to answer questions on any topic

- Summarize the news and complex issues on request

- Offer advice on everyday problems and decisions

Coding & Programming

- Translate simple app ideas into code

- Suggest fixes for bugs based on error descriptions

- Accelerate programming with code generation capabilities

The potential to augment human abilities across many fields is immense as large language models continue to evolve.

Benefits and Possibilities of ChatGPT

ChatGPT hints at a future where AI could:

- Democratize Access to Knowledge & Skills

- Provide free access to tutoring and expertise regardless of location and background.

- Empower anyone to generate creative content, code, and more with just a prompt.

- Increase Human Productivity

- Automate tedious tasks like customer service, documentation, and content creation.

- Augment abilities and allow focusing energy on higher value work.

- Assist Information Overload

- Summarize today's overwhelming amount of content into concise insights.

- Cut through noise and misinformation.

- Personalize Learning & Experiences

- Adapt in real-time to individual knowledge levels and learning needs.

- Create customized content and services tailored to the user.

- Entertain and Engage Imagination

- Generate new stories, jokes, games, and other creative works on demand.

- Allow interactive fiction where the user participates in evolving stories.

The possibilities span entertainment, creativity, education, productivity, and beyond!

Risks and Limitations of ChatGPT

While large language models like ChatGPT have incredible potential, they also come with considerable risks and limitations that temper the hype:

- Bias - Models can inherit and amplify societal biases present in training data.

- Inaccuracy - Generates plausible-sounding but incorrect or nonsensical statements when uncertain.

- Outdated Knowledge - Fixed knowledge from when the model was trained. Slow to incorporate recent real-world changes.

- Lack of Reasoning - Cannot logically reason like humans. Lacks common sense. Easily confused by complex questions.

- No General Intelligence - Narrow abilities curated by training. Cannot innovate or learn like humans.

- Limited Creativity - Generations limited by the model's training. No sense of self to draw from.

- No Understanding - Simply generates text statistically. No real comprehension of meaning and concepts.

- Misuse Potential - Text generation could empower frauds, propaganda, plagiarism and more.

Despite rapid progress, AI still differs tremendously from human intelligence. Ethical challenges around potential misuse and harm will require extensive solutions to fully realize the technology's benefits. Setting proper expectations is key.

The Future: Where Next for AI Language Models?

ChatGPT gives us just a small glimpse of what advanced AI systems may one day achieve. Here are some exciting frontiers researchers are exploring next:

- Personalization - Models adapted to individual needs, preferences, and interaction history.

- Multi-modal skills - Ability to understand and generate audio, video, and more.

- Expanded knowledge - Incorporation of frequently updated global knowledge bases.

- Logical reasoning - Stronger abilities for causal reasoning and inference.

- Greater generalization - Applying knowledge flexibly across domains.

- Unsupervised learning - The potential to teach itself from unlabeled data like humans.

- Increased creativity - Generating truly novel, original content.

- Realer interactivity - More prompt and stateful conversation, not just response generation.

- Transparency - Explain the reasons and data behind responses to build trust.

We are still in the infancy of advanced AI. Transformational applications could emerge in the coming years as today's promising research translates into real-world technologies.

Final Verdict: Cautiously Optimistic

ChatGPT represents an exciting milestone for AI language models - showing they can generate coherent, informative, and even creative content from basic prompts.

After analyzing its impressive capabilities along with its current limitations and risks, I remain cautiously optimistic about the future benefits it could unlock across many fields. But for these benefits to be fully realized, extensive research and solutions are still needed to make AI systems compatible with human values and societal well-being.

By cultivating responsible development, large language models like ChatGPT have immense potential to augment our abilities and transform society for the better. But they are unlikely to mimic true human intelligence anytime soon.

The path forward will involve collaboration between researchers and society to guide these technologies towards empowering humanity with wisdom.

Key Takeaways:

- ChatGPT demonstrates a massive leap forward in natural language processing capabilities and text generation.

- Its training at scale on conversational data enables remarkably human-like interactions.

- Real-world applications could span creativity, productivity, education, information access, and more.

- However, current risks like bias, inaccuracy and lack of reasoning must be addressed.

- With responsible development, such AI systems may positively augment human abilities in the future.

- But true human-level AI remains on the more distant horizon for now.

The story of ever-advancing AI has just begun.
https://speed.cy/news/chatgpt-the-next-frontier-of-ai-language-modeling

Ranking a website locally in any city can be challenging. But with the right search engine optimization (SEO) strategies, you can dramatically improve your local visibility and attract more customers searching for businesses in your area.

This in-depth guide will provide a full breakdown of how to optimize your website for local SEO success specifically in Limassol, Cyprus. By following these best practices and tips, you can position your local business to start ranking higher in local search results and drive more qualified traffic.

Why Local SEO Matters for Ranking in Limassol

Let's first discuss why local SEO should be a priority if you want to rank well and get found by customers in Limassol.

Google and other search engines have gotten much smarter about understanding user intent with local searches. When someone searches for a product or service near them, Google wants to surface the most relevant local businesses to fulfill that search query.

If your business serves Limasolians customers in their area, you have a major opportunity to show up for searches like:

- "Limassol plumber"

- "Best restaurants in Limassol"

- "Limassol computer repair"

Ranking for these types of local keywords can send highly targeted prospects to your site. But you need to optimize properly to compete with other local businesses trying to rank for those same terms.

Local SEO is not just about ranking, though. It's about visibility and relevance. By optimizing for Limassol-related keywords, you increase your chances of showing up on Google Maps, in the local pack, on relevant blogs or directories, and anywhere else potential customers might discover you.

You make it easy for people to learn about and contact your business as a trusted local provider. The result is more foot traffic, phone calls, and conversions from people specifically looking for a business like yours in the area.

But how exactly can you make your website appealing in the eyes of search engines for ranking locally in Limassol? Follow these tips:

Choose the Right Local Keywords to Target

The foundation of ranking well locally is identifying and optimizing for the right keywords. The keywords you choose need to be:

Locally Relevant: The keywords should contain Limassol or nearby cities that you serve. Some examples are “Limassol restaurants”, "nightlife in Limassol", or "Limassol plumbing services". Make sure the searches indicate local intent.

Specific: “Restaurant” is too broad. “Mexican restaurant in Limassol” is much better. The more precise your keywords, the better chance you have to rank against larger brands targeting more general keywords.

High Search Volume: Keyword research tools like Google Keyword Planner can show average monthly search volumes for terms. Find keywords that are locally relevant with adequate search volume (at least 500-1000 monthly searches should provide opportunities).

Low Competition: It’s unrealistic to try to rank #1 right away for the most competitive keywords like “Limassol restaurants”. Find related keywords with lower competition that you can realistically rank for within 6-12 months.

Relevant: Only target keywords directly relevant to your products, services and expertise. For example, a local bakery shouldn’t target keywords about car repair. Stick to your niche.

Here are some examples of good local keywords a Limassol restaurant could target:

- Best seafood restaurants in Limassol

- Affordable family restaurants Limassol

- Romantic dinner spots Limassol

- Waterfront restaurants Limassol

Avoid generic keywords like “Limassol restaurants” or “places to eat in Limassol” which will be much harder to rank for. Focus on more specific long tail versions.

Once you compile your list of target keywords, it's time to optimize your pages around them...

Optimize Website Content for Local Keywords

Your website needs to be optimized and structured around your target local keywords in order to have a chance of ranking.

On your Limassol-related pages, be sure to include your keywords in:

- Page Title Tags: Include your primary local keyword(s) at the beginning of title tags, like “Limassol Mexican Restaurant - Casa Grande”.

- Header Tags: Use your keywords in H1 and H2 header tags.

- Image Alt Text: Include keywords in the alt text of images on relevant pages.

- URLs: URLs like “www.restaurantname/limassol-locations” are helpful.

- Meta Descriptions: Summarize the page briefly while mentioning Limassol.

- Body Content: Focus on providing value to locals searching for your keywords in the detailed content on each page. Mention Limassol frequently in natural ways.

When adding keywords, avoid over-optimization. Readers don’t want to see “Limassol” awkwardly crammed onto a page that has nothing to do with the city. Make sure you provide genuine value with relevant local content.

Helpful blog categories might include:

- Limassol Restaurant Reviews

- Activities in Limassol

- Things to Do in Limassol This Weekend

- Recommended Businesses in Limassol

Target informational keywords that locals are searching when looking for recommendations or researching local businesses like yours. Provide detailed, helpful content around those topics.

Build Locally-Targeted Landing Pages

Creating dedicated landing pages for some of your top-priority local keywords can help you rank faster and provide more value to Limasolians searchers.

For example, a restaurant could have a page targeting "birthday dinner restaurants in Limassol" or a dentist might have a page for "emergency dentist in Limassol".

These pages should specifically cater to those searching for that particular keyword, answering their questions and focusing on how your business can meet their needs as a local business.

Just creating generic location pages like "Our Limassol Location" is not as effective. Craft pages optimized for actual local search queries.

Optimize Your Google My Business Listing

Google My Business (GMB) profiles appear prominently in local search results, so make sure yours is completely filled out and optimized.

Key elements of an optimized GMB listing include:

- Complete NAP Info: Your full business Name, Address and Phone number. Ensure your business name and address exactly match your other citations online for consistency.

- Categories: Select detailed and locally-relevant categories so Google understands what you do. A restaurant should not just choose “Restaurant” but also add categories like “Greek restaurant”, “Seafood”, “Waterfront dining” etc.

- Description: Summarize what makes your business great and focus on serving Limasolians customers specifically. Mention the city name.

- Photos: Add photos showing customers interacting with your business locally in Limassol. Include exterior and interior shots.

- Attributes: Fill out key details like opening hours, menus, services, parking etc.

- Posts: Frequently share local-specific updates and specials. Posts can help drive engagement.

Having a complete and keyword-optimized GBP (Google Business Profile) helps associates your business with searches for local products, services and information for Limasolians.

Get Listed on Key Local Directories

Besides Google, you want your Limassol business to show up on other relevant local directories that customers might use to find businesses. Some top options are:

- Facebook Local Business Page: Create a Facebook page and include your address, hours, photos, customer reviews and other details.

- Yelp: Claim and optimize your free Yelp business page making sure your hours, description etc. are filled out.

- YellowPages: Create a listing in online directories like YellowPages.com.cy that consumers often check.

- Industry Directories: Search for niche directories related to your industry (like a local parenting directory for a pediatrician or local restaurant guide for a cafe). Submit your listing to expand reach.

- Local Business Organizations: Join the Limassol Chamber of Commerce or other local organizations. Get listed in their online member directories.

Manually submitting to these directories helps confirm and reinforce crucial local information about your business across the web. Remember to keep NAP details consistent.

Network Locally

Getting involved with organizations, events and the community in Limassol is another great way to build local awareness and relationships.

Here are some ideas:

- Sponsor Local Teams or Events: Sponsor a local youth sports team and have your logo on their uniforms. Set up a booth or hand out coupons at community events.

- Partner with Complementary Businesses: Offer cross-promotions with other local businesses. For example, a restaurant could partner with a local theater and offer dinner + show packages.

- Join the Local Chamber of Commerce: Become an active member in your local Chamber of Commerce. Attend and sponsor events to get to know other local business owners.

- Support Local Charities/Fundraisers: Donate products or services to worthy local causes. Schools, churches and nonprofit groups are always fundraising and support from local businesses goes

Encourage Customer Reviews

Reviews on sites like Google, Facebook and Yelp help build social proof vouching for your business locally in Limassol. The more positive verified reviews you can accumulate, the better.

Here are some tips to get more local reviews:

- Place review links prominently on your site. Make it easy for happy customers to leave you Google and Facebook reviews with direct links on your contact page.

- Proactively ask customers for reviews. Don’t assume they’ll leave one without a polite ask. Send a follow up email after purchases asking if they’d take a minute to review their experience.

- Incentivize reviews. Offer a 10% off coupon code or free gift to customers in exchange for an honest review. Just let them know you’d appreciate their feedback.

- Respond publicly to reviews. Thank customers for taking the time to review you. If any negative reviews come in, address them professionally and state how you’ll improve.

Building a strong base of 20+ positive local reviews establishes trust and social proof of your business in the area. Make gathering and monitoring reviews an ongoing priority.

Create Link-Worthy Local Content

Producing blog posts and web pages that offer value specifically to people in Limassol can attract inbound links and social shares.

Aim to create content that local websites, blogs, directories, and community groups might be interested in featuring or linking to gain reputation as a helpful local resource.

Content ideas could include:

- Local business spotlights or interviews

- Rankings of top local businesses/attractions

- Local events calendars or things to do this weekend guides

- Points of interest/historical content about Limassol

- Best practices or tips content tailored to Limassol

Distribute and pitch these posts to relevant sites. Getting featured and linked to from local news sites (Cyprus Mail, Cyprus Observer), tourism/city sites (LimassolTourism.com), local blogs, directories etc. can boost credibility.

The goal is to position your website as the go-to local expert site on topics that matter to Limassol. Helpful, engaging local content that captures links and shares can significantly help with local SEO rankings.

Track and Monitor Rankings

It’s crucial to monitor the effectiveness of your local SEO efforts and tweak your strategies over time as needed.

Use tools like Google Analytics, Google Search Console and Moz to track:

- Local keyword rankings in Limassol

- Traffic from local/geo-targeted keywords

- Local directory listings

- Customer sentiment in reviews

- Mentions/links from other local sites

Identify which strategies are successfully improving your local visibility. Double down on what’s working and try to improve areas that aren’t producing results.

Local SEO is an ongoing process as Google’s local algorithms evolve. But by continually monitoring and refining your optimization efforts, you can consistently improve your local search presence in Limassol.

Concluding Thoughts

👉 Hey, but your business might be in Larnaca!Check this guide about How to Rank Your Local Business in Larnaca

Ranking a website locally in any city takes time, patience and dedication. But with Limassol’s growing population and visitor numbers, having a well-optimized local website presence should be a top priority for businesses in the area.

Follow this comprehensive local SEO blueprint focusing on optimizing website content for Limasolians searches, cultivating online and offline local signals, generating reviews and authority-building links, and tracking the data.

Execute these strategies diligently, and you can transform your local visibility to attract more visits, calls and sales from people specifically searching for trusted businesses in the area.

The reward for all this effort will be tapping into the expanding opportunities in this economically thriving city. Use local SEO to effectively showcase why customers should choose your business over competitors in Limassol.
https://speed.cy/localseo/limassol-seo-a-complete-guide-to-local-rankings

If you're a business owner in Larnaka, Cyprus looking to improve your local search rankings, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, step-by-step.

By following these local SEO best practices tailored specifically for Larnakiotes, you can attract more customers searching for businesses and services in your area. Let's dive in and get your website ranking higher locally.

Choosing Effective Local Keywords for Larnaka

As with any SEO strategy, selecting the right target keywords is crucial for local rankings in Larnaka.

Your keywords should be:

- Locally Relevant - Include "Larnaca" or nearby cities/areas you serve. Some examples are "Larnaka plumbers", "cafes in Larnaka", or "Larnaka computer repair".

- Specific - Avoid generic terms like “restaurant” or “hotel”. Use long tail versions like “vegan restaurants Larnaka”.

- Search Volume - Look for keywords with adequate local monthly search volume using Google Keyword Planner or tools like SEMrush.

- Low Competition - Don’t go for the most competitive keywords right away. Find less competitive options you can realistically rank for within 6-12 months.

- Relevant - Only target keywords directly related to your niche, products and expertise.

Here are some potential good keywords a bakery in that city could target:

- Bakeries near me in Larnaka

- Best pastries in Larnaka

- Gluten free bakery Larnaca

- Custom birthday cakes in Larnaca

👉 Note: many foreigners use Larnaca. Yes, it is a typo, but a very commonly used one. So be there when they use that keyword too.

Focus on intent-driven phrases locals are searching. Avoid generic keywords and target more precise, low competition options ideal for ranking locally in the area.

Optimizing Your Website Content

Once you’ve identified your target local keywords, it’s time to optimize your website content around them.

When creating or updating local Larnaka pages on your site, be sure to include keywords in:

- Page titles

- Header tags (H1, H2, H3)

- Image file names and alt text

- URL structure

- Meta descriptions

- Body content

While optimizing, avoid awkwardly overstuffing keywords. Keep the content natural and focus on offering local value.

For a restaurant, categories could include “Larnaka Restaurant Reviews” or “Date Spots in Larnaka”. Tailor content to help local searchers.

Building Locally-Targeted Landing Pages

Creating dedicated landing pages around some of your top local keywords can further optimize your site.

For example, a dentist with a brick-and-mortar shop in the city could have targeted pages like:

- Emergency Dentist Larnaka

- Pediatric Dentist Larnaca

- Dentist Open Sunday Larnaka

Craft pages that specifically answer intent for each keyword, rather than just generic location/contact pages.

Optimizing Your Google My Business Listing

Your Google My Business profile will likely appear prominently in local pack results, so ensure yours is fully optimized.

Key optimizations include:

- Accurate business name, address and phone number

- Detailed service categories relevant to Larnaka

- Local area served

- Images showing your local business

- Descriptions highlighting your Larnaka location

- Attributes like opening hours, menus, and parking etc.

This helps reinforce your business information across Google for local searches.

Listing on Relevant Directories

Expand your visibility by claiming and optimizing free listings on top local directories beyond Google, like:

- Facebook Local Business Page

- Yelp

- YellowPages.com.cy

- Local parenting or restaurant guides

- Larnaka Chamber of Commerce directory

Ensure your NAP details are consistent across all directories and listings.

Networking Locally in Cyprus's Capital City

Connect with local businesses, events and organizations in the capital city, to build awareness. Some ideas:

- Sponsor local teams or events

- Partner with complementary businesses on promotions

- Join and engage with the Larnaka Chamber of Commerce

- Support local charities and fundraisers

Becoming an engaged part of the Larnakiotes community can strengthen your local visibility and relationships.

Generating Reviews

Positive local reviews help establish your reputation and social proof. Make reviewing easy for customers on Google, Facebook and third-party sites. Aim for 20+ high-quality city reviews.

Creating Link-Worthy Local Content

Produce blog posts and web pages that offer value specifically to Larnakiotes. For example:

- Things to Do in Larnaca This Weekend

- Guide to Larnaca’s Best Restaurants

- Upcoming Events in Larnaca

Getting this local content featured on local news sites, blogs, directories etc can earn valuable links and exposure. Provide helpful content they want to reference.

Tracking and Monitoring Results

Use tools like Google Analytics and Search Console to monitor your local SEO efforts in the area. Track metrics like:

- Keyword rankings

- Local organic traffic

- Customer reviews/sentiment

- Directory listings

- Backlinks from local sites

Refine your strategy based on what’s working and what areas need improvement. Local SEO requires diligent tracking and iteration.

Conclusion

With the right focus on local optimization factors tailored for the local customers, you can drive more local website visibility to attract customers searching for your products and services in the area.

Follow this comprehensive guide to local SEO success in Larnaka. Be patient and persistent. Over time, you can build an authoritative local presence that brings in more local leads and sales.

👉 For learning how to rank locally for search traffic in Limassol, we prepared for you this Limassol SEO guide
https://speed.cy/localseo/how-to-rank-your-website-locally-larnaka-cyprus

Search engine optimization (SEO) is crucial for businesses in Liverpool looking to increase their online visibility and attract more customers. Implementing an effective SEO strategy can help your website rank higher in Google so that users can find your business when searching for relevant keywords. This article provides key insights into optimizing your SEO approach specifically for the Liverpool market.

Assessing the Liverpool SEO Landscape

Liverpool is a major city in the North West of England with a metropolitan population of over 2 million people. This gives businesses in Liverpool access to a substantial local audience along with national and international opportunities.

To succeed with SEO in Liverpool, the first step is conducting keyword research to identify high-volume, low-competition terms that align with your products or services. Some initial keywords to target include:

- liverpool restaurants

- things to do in liverpool

- liverpool attractions

- liverpool hotels

- liverpool shopping

You'll also want to analyze your competitors' SEO strategies. Conduct a search for your primary keywords and take note of which websites rank on the first page of Google. Visit their pages to see which keywords they are optimizing for and how they have structured their content. Competitive analysis enables you to identify SEO best practices to implement yourself.

Crafting an SEO-Optimized Website

Your website needs to be designed with SEO principles in mind to maximize search visibility. Here are key elements to optimize:

Website Speed

Site speed is a ranking factor for Google. Ensure your website loads quickly by compressing images, minimizing HTTP requests, and using a caching plugin. Strive for a load time under 3 seconds.

Mobile Responsiveness

Over 60% of searches occur on mobile devices. Your website should provide a seamless experience for mobile visitors by using a responsive design. Alternatively, you can create a dedicated mobile site.

URL Structure

URLs with keywords gain a slight ranking boost. Format your URLs using dashes instead of underscores, such as:

https://www.yourwebsite.com/liverpool-seo

Internal Linking

Linking between the pages on your website helps search engines crawl and index your content. Use target keywords in anchor text and link to authority pages frequently.

Schema Markup

Include schema markup on your pages to generate rich snippets in search results. These formatted snippets improve click-through rates. Use markup for your business info, reviews, events, etc.

Site Map and Robots.txt

A sitemap helps search bots discover new and updated content on your site. Create an XML sitemap and submit it to Google Search Console. Configure your robots.txt file to ensure important pages can be crawled.

Crafting SEO-Optimized Content

Optimized content should provide value for readers while incorporating relevant keywords naturally. Follow these best practices:

In-Depth Articles

Aim for long-form content over 2000 words focusing on specific keywords. Include related images and embed videos to increase engagement.

FAQ and List-Based Content

FAQs and lists like "10 Best Restaurants in Liverpool" perform well for local SEO. Answer user questions extensively while optimizing for informational keywords.

Update Existing Content

Refresh your old blog posts and pages by adding new details, images, examples and data. Updated content gets re-crawled, bringing new ranking opportunities.

Keyword Optimization

Research target keywords and include them in headings, image ALT text, URLs, meta descriptions and scattered throughout the content. Avoid over-optimization.

Local Keywords

Incorporate "Liverpool" and surrounding areas into content where relevant to improve local ranking potential.

Multimedia

Insert relevant photos, graphics, videos and even podcasts or slideshares into posts to break up blocks of text and engage visitors.

Actionable Content

Write compelling calls-to-action to guide readers to convert through your sales funnel after consuming your content.

Building Quality Backlinks

The quantity and quality of external links pointing to your website significantly influence rankings. Here are effective backlink building tactics:

- Guest posting - Reach out to local blogs and websites to contribute optimized guest articles with 1-2 backlinks.

- Local directory citations - Register your business on Liverpool-specific directories like Yelp, Zomato, Liverpool.com, etc.

- Sponsorships - Sponsor relevant local events, sports teams or organizations in exchange for backlinks and brand exposure.

- Reviews - Request customers to leave online reviews on Google My Business, Facebook, and industry review sites.

- Link reclamation - Use email outreach to request broken links be updated to point back to your site again.

- Affiliate marketing - Recruit webmasters and bloggers to promote your product for a commission through organic links.

Focus on securing backlinks from reputable .gov, .edu and niche authority websites. Avoid low-quality links from spammy directories which could trigger a penalty.

Tracking Your SEO Results

It's crucial to monitor your SEO efforts and refine based on the data. Key metrics to track include:

- Google Analytics - Monitor organic traffic and keyword ranking progress.

- Google Search Console - Review site indexing status, backlinks and optimize technical SEO.

- Rank Tracking - Use a rank tracker to monitor keyword rankings in Liverpool and nationwide.

- Google My Business Insights - Analyze local customer behavior and actions generated by your listings.

Set up reporting to have these metrics automatically emailed on a regular basis. Dive deeper into the data to identify new SEO opportunities.

Final Verdict: Master SEO in Liverpool

By following the strategies outlined in this guide, you can develop an effective SEO campaign tailored to the Liverpool market. Conduct ongoing keyword research, produce locally-optimized content, build local citations and backlinks, and track your search visibility in Liverpool and beyond. With a data-driven approach, your website and online presence will become more discoverable by your ideal customers in the Liverpool area.

The rewards of ranking higher in local search results include:

- Increased website traffic and lower cost-per-click.

- Heightened visibility for your brand, products, and services in Liverpool.

- More conversions and sales from the extra exposure.

- An authoritative online presence that builds trust and credibility.

SEO is a long-term investment for sustained growth. With a consistent, high-quality effort, your website will steadily climb the rankings - expanding your digital footprint across Liverpool and the UK.

Optimizing your SEO strategy provides the tremendous opportunity to connect with your audience at the right time, in the right place. Follow this guide, track your results, and keep refining your approach to achieve local search success in Liverpool.
https://speed.cy/business/optimizing-your-seo-strategy-in-liverpool

Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok have become integral parts of our daily lives. As an active user of these platforms myself, I rely on my social feeds to stay connected with friends, discover new things, and even research products I'm interested in buying. Social media definitely serves as a discovery and search engine for me, and from my research, many others as well.

The Evolving Role of Social Media

I remember when social media first emerged, it was solely focused on letting people connect and share personal life updates. However, over time, these platforms have evolved into robust ecosystems for discovering and consuming all types of content. Nowadays, I often turn to my social feeds to stay informed on current events, discover new brands and products, and even research specific topics I'm interested in.

Some key factors that have facilitated social platforms' emergence as a search engine include:

- Abundance of content: With billions of posts, photos, videos, and links shared to social platforms daily, there's now a vast corpus of searchable information.

- Personalization: The algorithms customize our feeds based on our interests and connections, delivering more relevant discovery.

- Convenience: I can access content directly in my social feeds versus needing to visit a separate search engine site.

- Trust: Recommendations from friends and influencers make new discoveries more trusted in my eyes.

How People are Using Social Media for Search

Numerous surveys and studies back up the integral role social platforms have taken in people's search and discovery journeys:

- 71% of consumers trust recommendations on social media when making purchasing decisions, according to Search Engine Watch.

- Over 50% of Instagram and Facebook users turn to those platforms specifically to research products and services before buying, based on HootSuite.

- 30% or more of some age demographics now use only social media for product research versus search engines, according to Sprout Social.

- 60% of users report discovering new brands, products, or services via social media on a regular basis, says Smart Insights.

People are clearly using their social feeds to research topics, look for recommendations, and generally discover content. For many, social media has essentially become their go-to search engine versus visiting Google or Bing.

Image from Statista

Optimizing Content for Social Media Discovery

Since social media plays such a vital role in discovery now, brands need to optimize their presence for social media searchability. Some key tactics include:

- Keyword research: Identify relevant keywords and terms your audience uses on social platforms. Incorporate these organically into content.

- Compelling visuals: Visual content performs exceptionally well on social media. Use eye-catching images, video, and graphics.

- Engaging captions: Well-written captions can dramatically improve visibility and discovery in social feeds.

- Influencer collaborations: Partnerships with influencers expose your brand to new audiences organically.

- Hashtags: Include relevant hashtags so your content surfaces when users search those tags.

Comparing Social Media and Search Engines

Social media has some distinct advantages over traditional search engines when it comes to discovery:

- More personalization based on my connections and engagement

- Content right in platforms I frequent daily

- Trusted recommendations from people I know

- Multimedia content beyond just text

However, search engines still excel for researching objective facts, broad information queries, and navigating outside my known network. The two discovery sources can work together effectively.

Potential Pitfalls of Relying on Social Platforms

While social media offers many benefits for search and discovery, over-reliance does pose some risks users should be aware of:

- Filter bubbles: Our feeds become limited by the algorithm to content it thinks we already like. This can result in echo chambers.

- Misinformation: False or misleading content can spread quickly on social platforms without proper verification.

- Privacy concerns: Data collection required for personalization can raise privacy issues.

- Ad overload: Heavy advertising presence can disrupt the user experience.

Maintaining a healthy balance between social media and other discovery methods can help mitigate these pitfalls.

The Future of Social Media as a Search Engine

Given current trends, social platforms will likely continue to gain ground as a discovery and research engine compared to traditional web search. Some predictions:

- Further personalization of feeds based on our interests and engagement patterns.

- Integrated social commerce allowing seamless transactions from social platforms.

- Enhanced multimedia search, especially as video discovery rises.

- Younger demographics relying exclusively on social for research and shopping.

Final Thoughts

Social media has undoubtedly become a powerful search and discovery engine. As users, we can leverage these platforms to research topics and find relevant content. But over-reliance does have some risks. Maintaining a diverse set of discovery sources, and verifying information, is ideal.

I'd be curious to hear your thoughts on how you use social platforms like Facebook, Instagram and TikTok for search and discovery! Do they serve as your primary research source nowadays or do you still rely mainly on search engines? I look forward to reading your experiences in the comments below.
https://speed.cy/social-media-marketing/social-media-as-a-search-engine

Figuring Out if Your Email Marketing ROI is Actually Good for Your Business!

When I first started my little agency, I spent hours each week putting together emails to share my latest projects with customers. But it was hard to know if all that work was paying off. Was anyone even opening and reading them? Were they leading to more visits to my site or even sales?

I knew I needed to start tracking things better if I wanted my mailers to really start making a difference. A friend suggested I use Google Analytics to help measure how people were interacting with my emails. While it seemed pretty technical at first, once I got the hang of it I could finally see which emails were resonating and which topics my subscribers cared about most.

Now when I sit down to plan my next newsletter, I have real data to guide me on what catches people's attention and how they respond. It gives me confidence to keep investing my time, knowing if I create relevant content that readers want to engage with, it will help my little business grow.

What is email marketing ROI and why is it important?

Email marketing ROI refers to the measurement of the return on investment generated by your email newsletters. It helps you understand the effectiveness of your email marketing efforts and enables you to make data-driven decisions to improve your campaigns.

By tracking the ROI of your email newsletters, you can determine the success of your campaigns in terms of revenue generated, conversions, and engagement metrics such as open rates and click-through rates.

Measuring email marketing ROI is important for several reasons. Firstly, it allows you to allocate your marketing budget effectively by identifying which newsletters are generating the highest return. Secondly, it helps you identify areas for improvement in your email marketing strategy.

Thirdly, it provides insights into customer behavior and preferences, allowing you to tailor your newsletters to better meet their needs. Overall, measuring email marketing ROI enables you to optimize your campaigns and drive better results.

Understanding the Impact of Your Emails with a real live example

As any small business owner knows, it's important to make the most of your marketing efforts. When A friend of mine launched her cafe last year, I told her that email would be a big part of building her customer base.

"I love sharing the latest recipes and photos from the kitchen. But somewhere between writing the newsletters and hitting send, I realized I wasn't actually tracking if all that work was paying off."

She knew she needed a way to gauge how people were interacting with her emails and if it translated to more customers through the door. That's when I helped her to start exploring metrics like open and click-through rates.

"Seeing those numbers gave me a whole new perspective. I could tell which subject lines or styles of content made people want to learn more. And I noticed busier weekends usually followed my mailers right away."

Armed with that visibility, Joanne was better equipped to focus her energy. She doubled down on newsletter elements that seemed to drive the most traffic and sales. Over time, she gained a real sense of what type of information her readers found truly engaging and useful.

"It's been really cool to see the direct impact my emails can have. Now I feel confident putting more thought and care into crafting messages my subscribers will appreciate. Which at the end of the day is good for them and good for business!”

By understanding how people responded through measurement, my friend Joanne found ways to heighten the value of her newsletters and continuously grow her cafe’s reach. It just goes to show that a little insight can go a long way.

How to set up Google Analytics for email marketing ROI tracking?

Before you can measure email marketing ROI with Google Analytics, you need to set up tracking for your newsletters. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1 — Create a Google Analytics account:

If you don't already have one, sign up for a Google Analytics account and set up a new property for your website.

- Go to the Google Analytics website: Open a web browser and go to https://marketingplatform.google.com/about/analytics/.

- Create an account: Click on the "Start measuring" button in the top right corner.

- Provide an account name: Enter a name for your Google Analytics account, such as "My Website Analytics" or "My Business Analytics."

- Configure data sharing settings: Choose whether you want to share data with other Google products, such as Google Ads and Display & Video 360.

- Click "Next": Continue to the next step to create your first property.

- Create a property: Enter a name for your property, such as "My Website" or "My App."

- Select the type of property: Choose whether you want to track website traffic or app usage.

- Enter your website or app URL: If you're tracking a website, enter the full URL of your website. If you're tracking an app, enter the app's URL in the format "package_name://YOUR_APP_ID".

- Select the time zone and currency: Choose the time zone and currency that you want to use for your reports.

- Specify your business objectives: Tell Google Analytics about your business objectives, such as increasing website traffic or generating more leads.

- Click "Create": Google Analytics will create your property and start collecting data.

- Add a data stream: Google Analytics will ask you to add a data stream to start collecting data. If you're tracking a website, you can add a Universal Analytics data stream using the Google Analytics setup wizard. If you're tracking an app, you can add a Google Analytics 4 data stream using the Firebase console.

Once you have added a data stream, you can start using Google Analytics to track your website or app traffic. You can view reports on website traffic, user behavior, conversions, and more.

Here are some additional tips for opening a Google Analytics account:

- Use a strong password: Create a strong password that is difficult to guess.

- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): 2FA adds an extra layer of security to your account.

- Review your data sharing settings regularly: Make sure that you are comfortable with the way that your data is being shared.

- Monitor your account for suspicious activity: Keep an eye out for any unusual activity in your account, such as unauthorized access attempts.

2. — Enable tracking for email campaigns:

In your Google Analytics account, navigate to the admin section and select the property for your website. Under the "Tracking Info" tab, click on "Campaigns" and enable the option for "Enable Demographics and Interest Reports".

- Tag your email newsletter links: To track the performance of your email newsletters, you need to add UTM parameters to the links in your newsletters. UTM parameters are tags that you add to the end of your URLs to track the source, medium, and campaign name. You can use Google's URL Builder tool to generate UTM tags for your newsletter links.

- Integrate Google Analytics with your email marketing platform: Most email marketing platforms have built-in integration with Google Analytics. Consult the documentation or support resources of your email marketing platform to learn how to integrate it with Google Analytics. This integration will allow you to track specific email campaigns and measure their performance in Google Analytics.

How to calculate email marketing ROI with Google Analytics?

Once you have set up tracking for your email newsletters, you can start measuring their ROI using Google Analytics. Here's a step-by-step process to calculate email marketing ROI:

- Define your goals: Before you can measure ROI, you need to define the goals of your email newsletters. These goals can include revenue generated, conversions, lead generation, or any other key performance indicators (KPIs) that align with your business objectives.

- Create custom goals in Google Analytics: In your Google Analytics account, navigate to the admin section and select the property for your website. Under the "View" column, click on "Goals" and create custom goals that align with your email newsletter objectives. For example, if your goal is to generate revenue, you can create a goal that tracks the number of transactions, or the total revenue generated from email campaigns.

- Track conversions: With your goals set up, Google Analytics will start tracking conversions from your email newsletters. You can view the conversion data under the "Conversions" tab in Google Analytics. This data will give you insights into the number of conversions, conversion rate, and revenue generated from your email campaigns.

- Calculate ROI: To calculate the ROI of your email newsletters, you need to compare the revenue generated from your campaigns with the cost of running those campaigns. The cost can include expenses such as email marketing software, design, copywriting, and any other associated costs. Divide the revenue generated by the cost and multiply by 100 to get the ROI percentage.

How to improve email marketing ROI with Google Analytics?

Now that you have the tools to measure email marketing ROI with Google Analytics, let's explore how you can improve your ROI by leveraging its features:

- Segment your audience: Use Google Analytics to segment your audience based on demographics, behavior, or engagement metrics. This will allow you to tailor your email newsletters to specific segments and deliver more relevant content, resulting in higher engagement and conversions.

- Analyze engagement metrics: Dive deep into the engagement metrics of your email newsletters, such as open rates, click-through rates,bounce rates, and time on page. Identify patterns and trends to understand what content resonates with your audience and what needs improvement. Use this data to optimize your email newsletters and increase their effectiveness.

- Perform A/B testing: Use Google Analytics to conduct A/B tests on different elements of your email newsletters, such as subject lines, call-to-action buttons, or design layouts. Analyze the results to identify the variations that perform better and implement them in your future campaigns.

- Track conversion funnels: Set up conversion funnels in Google Analytics to track the entire customer journey from receiving the email newsletter to completing a desired action, such as making a purchase or filling out a form. Identify any bottlenecks or drop-offs in the funnel and optimize those areas to improve your conversion rates.

- Monitor campaign performance: Regularly monitor the performance of your email campaigns in Google Analytics. Keep an eye on key metrics such as open rates, click-through rates, conversion rates, and revenue generated. Identify any fluctuations or anomalies and take proactive measures to address them.

How to measure email marketing ROI with Google Analytics dashboards?

Google Analytics provides customizable dashboards that allow you to visualize and monitor your email marketing ROI metrics in real-time. Here's how you can create a dashboard to measure email marketing ROI:

- Navigate to the Dashboards section: In your Google Analytics account, click on "Customization" in the top navigation menu and select "Dashboards".

- Create a new dashboard: Click on the "+ New Dashboard" button to create a new dashboard.

- Choose a layout: Select a layout for your dashboard that best suits your needs. You can choose from a blank canvas or pre-built templates.

- Add widgets: Click on the "+ Add Widget" button to add widgets to your dashboard. Choose the metrics and dimensions that you want to display, such as revenue generated, conversion rate, open rate, or any other relevant metrics.

- Customize and save: Customize the appearance and configuration of your widgets as per your preferences. Once you are satisfied with the setup, click on the "Save" button to save your dashboard.

By creating a custom dashboard in Google Analytics, you can have a consolidated view of your email marketing ROI metrics, making it easier to track and analyze the performance of your campaigns.

Here's what else to consider

When measuring email marketing ROI with Google Analytics, there are a few additional factors to consider:

- Attribution modeling: Google Analytics offers different attribution models that determine how credit is assigned to different touchpoints in the customer journey. Experiment with different attribution models to understand the impact of your email newsletters on conversions and revenue.

- Frequency and timing: Monitor the frequency and timing of your email newsletters. Test different sending frequencies and times to identify the optimal schedule that generates the highest engagement and conversions.

- Content relevance: Ensure that your email newsletters provide valuable and relevant content to your subscribers. Personalize the content based on their preferences and behavior to increase engagement and conversions.

- List hygiene: Regularly clean and update your email subscriber list to maintain a high-quality audience. Remove inactive subscribers and ensure that your list is GDPR compliant to avoid any legal issues.

- Benchmarking: Compare your email marketing ROI metrics with industry benchmarks to gain insights into how your campaigns are performing relative to your competitors. This can help you identify areas for improvement and set realistic goals for your email marketing efforts.

In conclusion, measuring email marketing ROI with Google Analytics is essential for optimizing your email marketing campaigns. By setting up tracking, defining goals, and analyzing the performance metrics, you can make data-driven decisions to improve your ROI. Leverage the features of Google Analytics, such as segmentation, A/B testing, and dashboards, to enhance the effectiveness of your email newsletters and drive better results. Remember to continuously monitor and optimize your campaigns to stay ahead in the competitive landscape of email marketing.
https://speed.cy/email-marketing/how-to-measure-email-marketing-roi

SEO Cyprus: Everything You Need to Know to Create and Manage an Effective Local SEO Strategy
Growing a business is never easy but taking that next step towards more customers and greater success is well worth it. We at Speed, we know how important Local SEO Cyprus is, we understand the struggles of entrepreneurs just trying to get their message heard.Late nights dreaming up new strategies, and early mornings checking analytics hoping for progress. It's no way to live!That's why we're here to help lighten the load. We've seen what optimized content and targeting the right audience can do for hardworking business owners. More website visits mean more chances to connect with potential clients.Higher rankings mean ease of discovery for people in Cyprus searching for your services. And more sales mean financial security and being able to focus on what you do best - your craft, your products, your vision.Take the stress out of the digital side of things, and let our expertise go to work for you. Your business, and your dreams, deserve a boost!

What is SEO Cyprus?
SEO Cyprus is basically helping businesses in Cyprus be found more easily online. We all use search engines like Google all the time to look up anything - from finding a new restaurant to booking a hotel. Well, our SEO experts make website changes so those local companies show up higher in the search results for people looking for things like "Cyprus restaurants" or "Limassol hotels."It works a little bit like when you're at My Mall - the stores near the entrance want to be there so more people see them first. SEO is kind of like getting those stores a spot near the entrance on Google. We look at what people in Cyprus search for most and help sites tweak things like their pages, images, keyword use etc to match what users are actually typing in.The goal is that when someone searches something a Cypriot business provides, that company will now show up near the top where everyone looks first. More visibility means more potential customers finding and checking them out. It's nice because small, local outfits that do good work can really get a boost just by people being exposed to them easier online. SEO Cyprus helps connect island businesses with customers in a way that benefits the whole community.
What are the benefits of SEO for businesses in Cyprus?
Here are some of the key benefits that SEO can provide for businesses in Cyprus:
- Increased website traffic - When businesses rank higher in search results, more potential customers will find their website organically through searches. This boosts valuable traffic without needing to pay for advertising.
- Higher visibility locally - SEO Cyprus helps local companies show up for searches about their area like " restaurants Limassol" or "hotels Larnaca". This means more exposure to customers right in their community.
- Lower customer acquisition costs - Driving organic visitors through search is much cheaper than paying for ads. SEO is a very cost-effective way to reach new clients.
- Enhanced brand awareness - Ranking well builds recognition and trust as people see a business's ranking and familiar name. This aids things like return visits and word-of-mouth referrals.
- Conversion boost - When contacts effortlessly find what they need through searches, it increases the chances of transactions, sales, bookings etc. SEO improves conversion rates.
- Stronger online presence - Outranking competitors online strengthens market position and authority as a go-to local business. This leads to longer-term success on the island.
So, in summary, SEO Cyprus provides an affordable way for businesses and services to access more nearby customers, raise their profile, and save on acquisition costs - all big benefits for the local economy. The exposure it generates is invaluable.
What is the ultimate purpose of SEO Cyprus for webmasters and marketers?
The ultimate goal of SEO Cyprus services for webmasters and marketers is to help attract more qualified potential customers and grow their business in a natural, organic way.By partnering with our SEO service you will know you will be working with experts who understand the unique Cypriot marketplace, webmasters can gain a strategic edge over competitors locally.Our SEO professionals take the time to fully research what information people in Cyprus actively search for online in their own language and regarding their specific needs and interests.Once they understand the demand at a granular level, our SEO specialists work behind the scenes to optimize websites accordingly. From page structures and content to keyword strategies and linking, the goal is to showcase businesses in the most relevant and appealing light to customers through search.SEO avoids interrupting users with hard-selling ads. Instead, it aims to sincerely help customers by connecting them seamlessly to appropriate companies for their situation - just like searching an online directory. This builds trust while enabling marketers to capture new visitors cost-effectively.Mastering SEO also provides an ongoing competitive advantage, as webmasters can continually refine their online presence based on changing search trends. With the right SEO partner, staying found becomes much easier than churning through various marketing methods or campaigns.In the end, providing customers what they search for is rewarding for everyone. SEO Cyprus does just that at scale, driving qualified, local traffic that translates into robust, sustainable growth for webmasters and the entire Cypriot business scene.
How can SEO Cyprus generate a high return on investment for web owners?
Here are a few key ways that SEO Cyprus can generate a high return on investment for website owners:- Cheaper customer acquisition costs - SEO is much more affordable than pay-per-click advertising. It costs little to nothing to reach new visitors through organic search. This saves money that can be reinvested in other growth areas.
- Improved website visibility - Ranking higher exposes businesses to a larger potential customer base who are already searching for relevant products/services. Higher visibility translates to greater brand awareness over time.
- Higher conversion rates - Well-optimized websites are easier for searchers to navigate and do business with compared to competitors lower in results. This boosts transactions which immediately improves ROI.
- Longer customer lifecycle value - In addition to one-time sales, SEO also sends qualified potential customers who are primed to purchase again in the future or refer others. This recurrent value exponentially increases initial investment returns.
- Data-driven enhancements - SEO professionals provide analytics to identify high-intent search queries and page behaviors. Websites can then be improved strategically to capture more of these customers for even better ROI going forward.SEO is ultimately a long-term focused investment that pays dividends again and again through consistent organic traffic. For Cyprus businesses, it offers a very lucrative way to gain new customers and multiply their initial marketing budget many times over.
What are the challenges of SEO Cyprus?
Here are a few of the main challenges webmasters may face with SEO in Cyprus:- Competition - As SEO in Cyprus grows in importance, competition for top rankings is fierce. It takes dedication to outperform rivals constantly optimizing and targeting the same keywords.
- Language barriers - Cyprus has both Greek and Turkish languages. Creating relevant content in both is difficult and translation issues can confuse crawlers. Consistency is key.
- Seasonal traffic - Tourism is a big industry, but visitor volumes fluctuate seasonally. Maintaining good traffic year-round requires anticipating changes and adjusting SEO accordingly.
- Google algorithm updates - Algorithm changes, some unexpected, happen regularly. Webmasters must test updates quickly and pivot optimization to match any new ranking factors introduced.
- User intent - With short, local searches, discerning customer intentions precisely is challenging. Pages need razor-sharp relevance despite minimal keywords provided.
- Website speed - International visitors and diverse connections across Cyprus mean page speed is especially vital for user experience and SEO. Developers must optimize for quick loading everywhere.While SEO always evolves, these Cyprus-specific variables add intricacy webmasters must skillfully navigate for lasting search success. You need SEO partners that understands these nuances, helping businesses effectively meet challenges to maximize limited marketing budgets through determined local SEO.
What are the key performance indicators of SEO Cyprus?
Here are some of the key performance indicators SEO experts look at to measure the effectiveness of their SEO efforts in Cyprus:- Organic traffic: Monitoring increases in monthly unique visitors and pageviews from search engines helps track progress.
- Keyword rankings: Checking movement up the search results page for targeted keywords and phrases that are relevant to local customers.
- Local citations: Ensuring accurate business information is listed across local directores, maps and other location-based platforms helps connections.
- Backlink profiles: The quantity and quality of links pointing back to sites from other high authority websites signal legitimacy to search algorithms.
- Conversion rates: Watching important metrics like calls, quotes or signups on optimized pages shows improved performance.
- Social shares: Engagement on owned channels like rising followers or increased shares/mentions correlates to better SEO work.
- Site speed: Looking at PageSpeed Insights results to guarantee Cyprus (and international) snappy loading times.
- Customer feedback: Monitoring reviews and surveys tracks how satisfied clients are finding businesses and interacting with SEO-enhanced websites.Tracking these Cyprus-specific digital marketing KPIs regularly provides SEO pros deep insights for constant optimization and proving the tangible business benefits of their local search engine strategies.
Final thoughts on SEO for Cyprus businesses:
At its heart, SEO is about connecting people seamlessly with the right services, products or information to enhance their lives. For companies in Cyprus, search presents an incredible opportunity to achieve new levels of success by serving customers well online.While challenges exist, an experienced SEO team understands both technical and human factors. They can help websites shine exactly when and where local people naturally look. If done skillfully, search becomes another happy customer experience that leaves both parties feeling positively satisfied.SEO views each visitor not as a number but as a person—someone deserving straightforward, thoughtful answers to their queries. Respecting users in this way builds genuine trust that serves businesses for years to come.Of course, results take effort. But pursuing SEO with care, curiosity and true concern for clients will light the path forward every step of the way. The journey itself creates meaningful progress for all involved when traveled this way.In the end, SEO done right simply brings more of the right people together at the right time and place. And in my view, there are few nobler goals than that for any organization seeking to make a difference in their community through honest, helpful interactions online. The opportunities ahead for Cyprus firms are bright indeed.Cpmplementary Material:Pay Per Click vs. Search Engine Optimization - Google Ads
https://speed.cy/seo/seo-cyprus

Setting up and optimizing Google Alerts the right way.

While the online world shifts and grows each day, many of us feel overwhelmed trying to keep up. But fear not! Google Alerts can be your helpful companion, pointing you toward what matters to you. Whether you want to stay updated on the latest news, products, or mentions of your name, Google Alerts can send you emails when new results show up in Google Search.

Whether you're a small business owner wanting to listen for brand mentions, a student keeping abreast of current events, or a journalist searching for your next story lead, Google Alerts enhances our ability to find relevant information quickly. This guide provides all you need to unlock the power of Google Alerts, from setting up basic alerts to customizing advanced search functions.

By the end, you'll feel confident leveraging Google Alerts to reach your goals through media monitoring. Now it's time to learn just what this helpful service can do for you. Let's begin our journey in Section 1, shall we?

Stay in the Know About What Really Matters

The Story Behind Google Alerts' Quest to Track Change

When Google Alerts launched back in 2003, it gave people a superpower - the ability to always stay current without constant searching. The creators knew how frustrating it was to miss an important update because finding new information was a full-time job.

How Google Alerts Works

Google Alerts works like a tireless friend who's always on watch. Give it some clues about your interests and it scours the enormous internet non-stop, sending friendly pings the moment anything matching your alerts appears. No need to spend hours online yourself just hoping to discover the latest.

Flexibility to Track Anything, Anywhere

Even better, there's total flexibility to search for just about any topic underneath the sun. Want to follow discussions in another language half a world away? Alerts has you covered. Maybe you're tracking several related areas - Google Alerts can search for all your terms together or separately.

The real genius though is that Alerts understands we all have distinct needs. Tweak the settings to your liking to refine what you see. Prefer major news over blogs? No problem. Only want results during business hours? Your wish is its command.

So whether scoping for opportunities or keeping current on a passion project, let Google Alerts be your devoted digital aide. It scans relentlessly so you're free to focus on awesome things that really spark your curiosity and drive. Stay informed - and move forward.

Ways to Supercharge Your Strategy with Google Alerts

Whether you're a solo act or heading up a whole team, Google Alerts can be your secret strategic weapon. Here are some ideas to really maximize its potential:

Keep an Ear to the Ground on Your Brand

Curious what people are saying about your business? Google Alerts lets you listen in without any stalking. Stay ready to address concerns or build on praise.

Get the Jump on Your Competitors

Give Alerts their marching orders to monitor rival companies. See what they're up to before they do it so you can respond fast.

Fuel Fresh Content with Insider Info

Task Alerts with tracking what your audience digs. Uncover new angles to authentically connect and provide value.

Seize the Day on Industry Intel

Ever miss an opportunity because you learned about it too late? Never again - Alerts puts industry news at your fingertips.

Wherever your goals lead, Alerts delivers the real-time intel needed to meaningfully engage in today's hyper-networked world. Get strategic and creative with how you deploy it across areas for competitive advantage. Alerts works hard so you don't miss a thing.

Step-by-step guide on setting up Google Alerts.

Getting Started is Simple:

Setting up alerts is quick and straight forward. Follow these 5 basic steps:

- Visit @ https://www.google.com/alertsMake sure you're signed into your Gmail. Signing in or creating an account allows to save alerts and customizations to your Google profile. New users can easily sign up. The Google Alerts home conveniently hosts account creation and alert setup.

- Input Your Search Terms You want to MonitorEnter the keywords, topics, names you want notifications for in the "Search terms" field.

- Customize as Desired (Optional)By clicking on the pencil icon you can tweak settings like frequency, results filtering, languages and locations for highly tuned alerts. By editing these settings, you can create alerts that are tailored to your specific needs. For example, you might want to create an alert that sends you daily email notifications of all new articles about your favorite topic. Or, you might want to create an alert that sends you weekly email notifications of all new blog posts about a specific industry.

- Launch Your AlertWith just one click of the "Create alert" button, Google gets to work tracking fresh web content for you around the clock.

Getting started with Google Alerts takes mere moments. The real value comes as you progressively refine alert strategies over time based on evolving needs.

Here's a breakdown of the statement:

That tiny little pencil icon - you know what I'm talking about, the one that lets you tweak your alert settings? Clicking on that baby opens up the options for personalization.

👉 First thing you'll see is frequency. How often do you need updates - daily dose, weekly check-in, or ASAP emergency notices? We all have our preferred rhythms.

👉 Next is results filtering or Sources. Who wrote it and where they're from matters, right? No need to sort through what you don't find useful. Zoom in on the sources and places that serve you best.

👉 After that, languages. We all know translations aren't perfect so keep tabs in the tongues you read like a pro. Or go big with a united nations of coverage!

👉 Nex, locations. What spots on the map spark your interests? Home sweet home or globe-trotting adventures - you're the boss of your geographical gaze.

👉 Coming up, How many - aka exactly how much juice you want from each alert hit. Maybe 5 is plenty or you need the full enchilada, it's your call.

👉 And last but not least, Delivery to - now we're getting personal. Email rocks for on-the-go updates but sometimes the Google News feed fits your vibe better. Or be doubly covered with both! However you roll, this option whisks those alerts just where you need 'em.

Play around in those personalized playlists till you craft the perfect mix of what, when, where and how you follow the flows. Soon you'll have alerts that feel truly tailored to you.

Google Alerts Benefits, Powerful Monitoring, and Free of Charge

Tapping into Google Alerts' Robust Monitoring, On Us

As you build your digital strategy, Google Alerts provides valuable insight without the expensive price tag.

All the Value, None of the Costs

Get the latest intel and stay ahead of the curve all while stretching your budget dollars. Google handles the heavy lifting behind the scenes so your searches remain free of charge.

Simplicity is Bliss

Setting up trackers is a breeze too - take just minutes with their intuitive signup. Soon you'll be optimizing your intelligence gathering without hassle.

And the flexibility is unparalleled - tailor filtering to specific projects or disciplines. Google Alerts adapts to your evolving needs like no other tool.

Naturally, premium offerings tout expanded analytics and suggestions. For some high-stakes organizations, those features prove worth their weight in gold.

Consider this:

- When it comes to standard use, Google Alerts far outperforms manual searches alone.

- We can leverage its affordable access point for efficient discovery first before escalating expenses.

- Why invest elsewhere until tapping this resource is fully exhausted?

In an increasingly cost-sensitive landscape, Google Alerts proves a strategic ally. Harness its robust monitoring no strings attached to stretch budgets and gain insight that moves your mission forward.

Understanding Google Alerts' Limitations

While Google Alerts provides an accessible starting point, it comes with some caveats to be aware of.

Limited Scope of Sources - Google Alerts only sorts through publicly available web pages or indexed ones, leaving out valuable intel from social platforms and forums. This can really hamper tracking mentions across various online communities.

Basic Filtering Options - The filtering tools work fine but lack nuanced customization. For instance, impossible to zero in on tone or sentiment which matters for brand perception.

Delayed Updates - Their scheduled approach means results arrive in batches rather than real-time. Not ideal for following breaking stories or fast-paced discussions.

Lack of Reporting - No built-in tools for tracking metrics like mention volume overtime or gauging performance. This makes trends and insights harder to uncover.

Few Search Operators -Complex queries require dancing around limited Boolean options. Filtering out of scope items becomes challenging.

Potential Inaccuracies - Indexing and search algorithms aren't perfect so some finds may be dubious or irrelevant. Wasted effort sifting through it all.

Customization Limitations - While accessible, limited potential for granular preference-tailoring or query-crafting beyond surface level.

Put it simpler, Google Alerts fills a need but these constraints hinder comprehensive tracking for some use cases. Particularly damning are the non real-time nature and lack of social inclusion. For more robust solutions, explore dedicated monitoring tools.

Helpful tips to maximize the utility of your Google Alerts experience:

- A. — Craft Precision with Boolean Logic: Tap tools like AND, OR, NOT and quotes to accurately define your scopes. "Brand statement AND positive sentiment" pin points what energizes while weeding out the rest.

- B. — Filter for fit: Zoom alerts into customized categories aligned with your interests. News, blogs and videos offer diverse angles - experiment to extract value from each source.

- C. — Fine-Tune Location & Language: Hem in coverage to territories and tongues most pertinent. Perfect if your reach is regional like monitoring mentions in your local sphere.

- D. — Play with Phrasing: Don't fear trying tweaks to test varied keyword combinations. See which surface hidden intel and spot fresh perspectives through novel variations.

- E. — Evolve Vigilantly: Dynamic discoveries require dexterous adjustments. Review regularly to refine what's noise and what's signals for your purposes. As interests morph, reshape alerts in step.

Ever tweak to optimize this versatile tool. Google Alerts stands ready to strengthen our insights - unlock its potential through diligent custom calibration.

Maximize Your Google Alerts: Gateway to Endless Discovery

As the digital landscape evolves at warp speed, a well-honed monitoring plan feels crucial these days. Google Alerts gives wings to cut through clutter and grab what really resonates - straight from the source and in real-time too.

By carefully crafting your alerts and fine-tuning with empathy, you'll uncover priceless industry clues, hover proudly amid brand chatter, analyze rivals smartly, and gain an ever-important edge in your quest. Whether you're new or a pro, apply these insights to extract volumes more a-ha's.

Dive into Alerts today - I bet you'll surprise yourself with its effortless intelligence yields. And be sure to review regularly and revamp as purpose evolves, ensuring these helpers stays fleet-footed beside you for discoveries without bound.

Proper Alerts devotion unleashes your advantage across domains or drives. Google gifts this platform to strengthen your flow endlessly. Now fly forth and let insights ignite amazing things!

I need to leave you guys with this question, are Google Alert Enough?

Here are my thoughts on whether Google Alerts is enough:

Does Google Alerts alone suffice or should you seek elsewhere? For answers tailored to your unique situation, some reflection is key.

At its core, Alerts streamlines staying current without friction. But does its scope satisfy your true curiosities? Perhaps other tools offer perspectives this one can't.

If monitoring mentions across all lands alone, Alerts may fit the bill perfectly. But to delve deeper - say gauging sentiment in real-time across varied platforms - you'll want wings Google can't provide.

Best approach each case independently. Where Alerts fits without squeeze, leverage its simplicity fully. But if information needs call for qualities it doesn't own, seek solutions granting fuller views.

My advice - start within Google's free reach first before upgrading costs. You may find treasures enough inside to postpone other expenses. Just checklist your objectives to know when it's time Alerts alone can't guide the quest.

Stay discerning and dream big. Let curiosity, not thrift, spur tools that empower knowledge without bounds. Google stands ready as first stepping stone - use it well, and fly as high as insights demand!

Here is a table summarizing the pros and cons of Google Alerts:

FeatureProsConsFreeYesLimited featuresEasy to useYesLimited coverageCan be customizedYesCan be overwhelmingCan be used for a variety of purposesYesNot as accurate as paid alternatives

If you are unsure whether or not Google Alerts is right for you, I recommend trying it out for a few weeks and seeing how it works for you. If you find that you need more advanced features, then you can always switch to a paid tool.

Key Considerations When Pondering If Google Alerts Is Enough

- The scope of your monitoring needs: If you are only monitoring a few keywords or topics, then Google Alerts may be sufficient. However, if you are monitoring a large number of keywords or topics, then you may need a more specialized tool.

- The frequency of your monitoring needs: If you only need to monitor online mentions periodically, then Google Alerts may be enough. However, if you need to monitor mentions in real time, then you will need a tool that can provide real-time updates.

- Your budget: Google Alerts is free, but paid tools can vary in price depending on their features and capabilities. If you are on a tight budget, then Google Alerts may be the best option for you.

- Depth of Insight: Alerts gifts basic tweaking, but finessed needs merit tools granting nuanced focus. Tailored queries unlock richest waters.

- Urgency of Updates: For breaking beats, real-time rules. Alerts bring batches, not seconds. Staying cutting-edge demands swifter wings.

- Reporting Rigor: Metrics like volume trends tell tales analytics-lite Alerts can’t. Impacting meaningfully needs eyes into souls of numbers.

In whole, Google Alerts stir starters smartly. Yet specific cravings likely call companions specialized. Survey needs with keenness - find perfect fit for flowering furthest. Wisdom knows tools, situations and adapting fluidly between!
https://speed.cy/marketing/google-alerts-comprehensive-guide

Introduction

Greetings everyone, this is Jesus Guzman coming at you with over a decade of experience in the affiliate marketing industry. As a veteran in the space, I've seen countless new marketers come and go over the years. Some fail to grasp the basics, while others find quick success by leveraging proven strategies.

In this comprehensive guide, I aim to break down the definition of affiliate marketing in clear and actionable terms.

We'll explore real world examples of both large and small programs to give you insights into different verticals and business models.

Lastly, I'll equip you with the exact tactics that I've used to generate millions for myself and clients over the past 10 years.

Whether you're just getting started or looking to evolve your existing programs, this guide leaves no stone unturned. It doesn't matter if you have a product to sell or are looking to promote offers as a third party - we've got all the tips and hacks to truly differentiate yourself in this competitive industry.

Let's dive right in and level-up your affiliate game!

What Is Affiliate Marketing?

Affiliate marketing at its core is a performance-based partnership between a merchant or brand and an external publisher. As an affiliate, your role is to promote the merchant's products or services and drive sales through recommendations, deals, and targeted ads displayed on your own website, blog, newsletter, or social media feeds.

You can then say that affiliate marketing is a low-risk model that allows publishers of all sizes to generate passive income streams from their established audiences.

How It Works

The way it works is a merchant will provide affiliates with unique tracking links, banners, or text links that include your identifier. Whenever a visitor uses your affiliate link to make a purchase, the sale is attributed to you in the merchant's tracking system. At predefined intervals, usually monthly or quarterly, you will receive a commission for any completed sales or actions resulting from your promotional efforts.

The process of affiliate marketing is relatively straightforward. Here's a simplified breakdown:

- Company: A business sets up an affiliate program to promote its products or services.

- Affiliate: Individuals or organizations join the affiliate program and become affiliates.

- Promotion: Affiliates use various marketing tactics to promote the company's products or services. This can include creating content, running ads, or sharing referral links.

- Conversion: When a customer makes a purchase or completes a desired action after clicking on the affiliate's promotional content, the affiliate earns a commission.

- Commission: The company tracks the conversions and pays the affiliates their agreed-upon commission.

Special Considerations

About the affiliate commissions you can receive:

Commissions typically range from 2-10% per transaction, though some niche programs offer more. The merchant benefits from increased exposure and sales without needing to spend on marketing themselves. As an affiliate, you're able to monetize your influence online and earn money by simply endorsing brands you support.

Before diving into the world of affiliate marketing, it's essential to consider a few factors:

1. Digital Marketing and Analytics

The rise of the internet and advanced analytics tools has significantly contributed to the growth of affiliate marketing. Companies can track the effectiveness of their affiliate campaigns, allowing them to optimize their strategies and improve their return on investment.

2. Types of Affiliate Marketing

There are three main types of affiliate marketing:

- Unattached Affiliate Marketing: Affiliates have no direct connection to the product or service they are promoting. They don't make claims or recommendations about its use.

- Related Affiliate Marketing: Affiliates promote products or services that are related to their niche. They have enough authority and expertise to generate traffic and act as trusted sources.

- Involved Affiliate Marketing: Affiliates have personal experience using the product or service and confidently recommend it based on their positive experiences.

Each type of affiliate marketing has its advantages and considerations, so it's important to choose the approach that aligns with your goals and expertise.

3. Advantages and Disadvantages

Affiliate marketing offers several benefits:

- Low-cost advertising: Companies only pay affiliates for actual conversions, making it a cost-effective marketing strategy.

- Wider reach: Affiliates can tap into their existing audience or network to promote products or services to a broader customer base.

- Additional income: Affiliates have the opportunity to earn passive income by promoting products or services they believe in.

However, there are also potential challenges to consider, such as competition, building trust with your audience, and staying up-to-date with industry trends.

Examples of Affiliate Marketing

Let me share three common examples of affiliate marketing programs to help illustrate how it all comes together:

Example 1: Amazon Associates

This is one of the largest affiliate networks globally. Millions of bloggers and influencers promote products listed on Amazon and earn a commission anytime a visitor makes a purchase after clicking their unique links. It's an easy way to offer recommendations without maintaining your own inventory.(Visit Amazon Associates)

Example 2: CJ Affiliate

Thousands of merchants across various verticals like travel, clothing, and consumer electronics use CJ's platform. As an affiliate, you can browse their catalog and preview top selling items to feature. Commissions are paid on purchases tracked back to your efforts.(Visit CJ Affiliates)

Example 3: Lead Generation

Websites in finance, recruiting, and education often run lead generation campaigns. By capturing form submissions from prospective students or customers, affiliates introduce qualified prospects and receive payment per confirmed lead. Conversion rates tend to be lower but payouts higher.

No matter the size or specialization, these affiliates are able to monetize their audiences and communities without having direct customer service obligations. It allows anyone to participate in online marketing.

Getting Started in Affiliate Marketing – A Step-by-Step Approach

As with any new venture, having a systematic plan establishes affiliates for success. Here are the key steps I've seen effective with new promoters:

1. Choose Your Niche Wisely

Select an industry you're passionate about to authentically represent. This could be anything from parenting to DIY, depending on your expertise and audience.

2. Research Program Partners

Explore companies whose products align with your niche. Compare factors like commission tiers, payment schedules and tools provided. This informs optimal network choices.

3. Build Authority in Your Space

Launch an informative blog, YouTube channel or Instagram and publish relentlessly with valuable, well-researched information. Establish industry thought leadership over time.

4. Drive Qualified Traffic

Engage communities through helpful comments and social collaboration. Optimize SEO on owned assets to welcome curious searchers.

5. Promote Strategically

When a good fit surfaces, introduce products you've vetted through reviews, posts and social proofs. Build gradually based on readership needs.

6. Analyze Ongoing Performance

Track metrics like clicks, purchases and ROI to refine approaches. Fine-tune campaigns by prioritizing highest converting promos.

Providing ongoing support, affiliates can succeed through focus on their niche, quality of content creation and data-driven optimization practices over the long haul.

Embarking on the Affiliate Journey: A Path of Steady Progress

For any embarking on the affiliate journey, I can understand the mix of nerves and excitement that comes with venturing into the unknown. It's only natural to have doubts - this path challenges us to step outside our comfort zone and trust in a future that is still unfolding.

The key is helping each other

Yet for those with a passion for helping others through sharing knowledge, the rewards of this work go far beyond any paycheck. I've spoken with affiliates who light up recalling the meaningful connections formed over years of respectful dialogue. Even doubts dissolve when we focus outward on enriching real lives, not inward on perceived risks.

Small gestures of encouragement, whether commenting words of affirmation or celebrating others' wins, uplift us all in turn. This affiliate work breathes best when steeped in humanity - we rise by lifting each other. No matter the setbacks encountered, such acts of empathy fuel perseverance through difficult seasons.

Ultimately each affiliate must walk their own authentic journey at their own pace. But in sharing vulnerably of challenges and triumphs alike, we forge bonds to strengthen each other's step. Our diverse perspectives unfold opportunities to learn across perceived "differences." This diverse heritage anchors hope that by embracing our shared humanity above all, progress blossoms where once only struggle existed.

To any now standing at the start of their affiliate path, may you find the courage to stay guided, and if you need a friendly hand, just reach out to us.

Getting Started With Affiliate Marketing: FAQs

How much time does it take to get started?

Getting your first affiliate site or projects started can take 1-2 months depending on your technical abilities. This includes researching your niche, building your site/profile infrastructure, adding initial content and optimizing for search engines/conversions. Expect 5-10 hours per week minimum when first launching.

When will I see my first commission check?

Most affiliate programs pay out commissions monthly once your earnings hit a minimum threshold (typically $50-100). You may receive your first check 30-90 days after your initial promotion depending on when sales are attributed. Consistency and continuous testing of offers/ad placements will help maximize your chances of a first sale.

Is affiliate marketing a sustainable business model?

Yes, with proper setup and long-term strategy. While earnings may fluctuate, developing specialty knowledge in your niche through helpful content allows scaling globally with minimal effort over time. Market changes require paying attention to metrics to stay aligned with ongoing audience and advertiser needs through a value-driven, user-centric approach.

How do I choose the right niche to promote?

Select an area you're passionate about and can produce unique resources on for years. Look for topics with commercial intent that also benefit people's lives. Research demand using Google Trends and forums. Choose a micro-niche that isn't overly saturated yet has interested readers ready to buy solutions to common problems you can address.

Do I need my own products to sell?

No, that's the beauty of affiliate marketing - you can generate sales commissions without ever holding any inventory, shipping products or managing customer support. By curating the best solutions from various companies, you can match diverse customers with offerings from trusted merchants in your niche.

What are some high paying affiliate programs?

Popular high-earning verticals include finance/insurance, supplements/health, online courses, SaaS tools, online services like VPNs and streaming platforms. However, the highest paying programs depend entirely on your ability to reach qualified audiences for that offer through valuable, engaging content over the long run in your specialty area. Compatibility and fit matter most.
https://speed.cy/marketing/affiliate-marketing-fast-guide-to-get-started