Website Ranking – How to Survive and Thrive in the Cyber Jungle

In the immense never-ending cyber world, achieving the coveted top spot on search engine results (SERP) is the ultimate. The quest for website ranking in a world where everyone competes for position 0 is no easy feat. Let’s delve into the key aspects and strategies that matter most in this digital landscape, incorporating essential elements like SEO and ongoing maintenance.

Understanding the Basics of Website Ranking:

To ace website ranking, you need a solid foundation rooted in SEO principles. Start with comprehensive keyword research, identifying terms your audience searches for. Seamlessly integrate these keywords into your content, creating a harmonious blend that attracts both users and search engines.

Content is King, Context is Queen: And the Queen wears the pants!

Quality content reigns supreme, not just for users but also for [content] SEO. Regularly update your website with relevant, informative, and engaging content. Search engines prioritise fresh material, and consistent updates can positively impact your website ranking. Be the go-to source in your niche, establishing authority through valuable content.

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Optimise Your On-Page Elements:

Optimising on-page elements is a crucial part of SEO. Craft compelling meta titles and descriptions with strategic keyword placement. Break up content using headers and subheadings to enhance readability. Image alt text shouldn’t be overlooked; it contributes to both accessibility and SEO.

Mobile-Friendly Magic:

In a world where smartphones rule the roost, a mobile-friendly website is non-negotiable for SEO. Above all, Google now values mobile-first responsiveness and rewards it with higher rankings. Make sure your website looks and functions smoothly on various devices. And as such you are prioritising user experience as a key factor in your website ranking strategy.

The Need for Speed = Website Ranking:

It’s no secret that Speed matters in both user experience and SEO. We’ve written about this multiple times here at Back9 Creative. Users love fast-loading websites, and so does Google. Optimise your website’s speed by compressing images, leveraging browser caching, and minimising unnecessary plugins. A swift website not only improves user experience but also positively influences SEO and website ranking.

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Building a network of quality backlinks is an essential aspect of SEO. Seek collaborations, guest post opportunities, and directories relevant to your niche. Google interprets these backlinks as a sign that your website is a trusted authority, contributing positively to both SEO and your overall website ranking.

Social Signals and Engagement:

The influence of social media on SEO and website ranking cannot be underestimated. Actively engage on platforms relevant to your audience. Encourage social sharing and comments, as social signals are considered by search engines when determining the relevance and popularity of your content.

Staying Ahead with Analytics:

Keep a watchful eye on website analytics for both SEO and ongoing maintenance. Understand what’s working and what needs tweaking. Analyse user behaviour, track conversion rates, and adapt your strategy accordingly. The ability to adapt and evolve is crucial for both SEO and ongoing maintenance in the ever-changing landscape of website ranking. If you don’t track any of this, your website is essentially a waste of [cyber] space. If you dont have time, or the interest find a digital marketing agency to do this for you.

Website Ranking is a Never-Ending Journey

In conclusion, in the competitive cyber world, achieving the best website ranking is a journey that involves not only SEO strategies but also ongoing maintenance. From mastering keywords to creating compelling content, optimising for mobile, and building a network of backlinks, each step contributes to the ascent. Stay informed, be adaptable, and, most importantly, keep your audience at the forefront of your strategy. In this digital jungle, the best-prepared websites, with a keen eye on SEO and ongoing maintenance, emerge victorious in the quest for that coveted top spot.

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How to Do Digital Marketing on Instagram: Master the Art!

It’s no secret these days, mastering Instagram is a must for any savvy marketer. With over a billion active users, the platform presents a golden opportunity to connect, engage, and convert. But the question from many remains: How to do digital marketing on Instagram effectively?

Who are you talking to?

To begin, understanding your audience is paramount. Therefore, Craft content that resonates with them, addressing their pain points and aspirations. This ensures that your Instagram presence is not just visible but genuinely impactful.

Instagram’s visual nature demands attention-grabbing visuals. High-quality, eye-catching images and videos can make your brand stand out in the crowded feed. Above all, Incorporate your brand colors and style consistently for instant recognition.

Successful Digital Marketing on Instagram Needs Engagement

Engagement is the name of the game on Instagram. Foster a sense of community by responding to comments, liking and sharing user-generated content, and leveraging Instagram’s interactive features like polls and questions. As a result, this active approach builds trust and loyalty.

Hashtags are the unsung heroes of Instagram marketing. Use relevant and trending hashtags to expand your reach beyond your immediate followers. However, be mindful not to overdo it; a few strategic hashtags per post suffice.

Tell your Story!

How to do digital marketing on Instagram also involves storytelling. Craft compelling captions that complement your visuals, telling a narrative that captivates your audience. Authenticity resonates, so don’t be afraid to show the human side of your brand. Above all, remember it is Social Media! Be Social.

Stories and Reels are key for How to Do Digital Marketing on Instagram

Instagram Stories and Reels are certainly powerful tools for engaging your audience. Therefore leverage these features to share behind-the-scenes glimpses, exclusive promotions, and entertaining content. The ephemeral nature of Stories creates a sense of urgency, driving immediate action.

Collaborations amplify your reach. Partnering with influencers or other businesses in your niche exposes your brand to new audiences. Choose collaborations that align with your values and target demographic for optimal impact.

Analyse and Review

Analytics are your guide to success. Regularly review insights to understand what works and what doesn’t. This data-driven approach allows you to refine your strategy, ensuring continuous improvement in your Instagram marketing efforts.

In conclusion, mastering how to do digital marketing on Instagram is a dynamic process that requires a blend of creativity, strategy, and adaptability. By understanding your audience, creating visually appealing content, and actively engaging with your community, you can harness the full potential of Instagram to elevate your brand. So, dive in, experiment, and watch your Instagram presence soar to new heights.

Back9 Creative: Digital marketing for nonprofits

For organisations within the nonprofit sector, a robust online presence is not just an option—it’s a necessity these days. From fundraising to awareness and even just education, a decent digital markeitng plan can go along way. Enter Back9, leading digital marketing for non-profits for a number of years. With a proven track record, we’ve collaborated with numerous not-for-profits over the years. These include: The Southland Charity Hospital, Mid Dome Wilding Trees Trust, NZ Flying Doctors, Active Hearts Foundation, Great South, and Kepler Challenge, to name a few.

At Back9, we understand the unique challenges nonprofits face. From limited budgets, and funding requirements to the need for widespread community engagement. Furthermore, This awareness drives our commitment to delivering tailored digital marketing for non-profits, and solutions that maximize impact. Our hands-on experience spans a variety of causes, enabling us to craft strategies that resonate with diverse audiences.

Active Hearts Foundation

Best mates Dan and Arjun have led expeditions through the Himalaya since 2011. They wanted to give something back to the communities they live and work in. The Active Hearts Foundation was formed in 2015 to facilitate small community projects. Primarily prioritising positive health and education outcomes for children.

Please watch their documentary below to learn the full story:

Since around 2019, we have helped Dan and the team with their website, with version 2.0 being launched in 2023. We love the impact we can help make by offering websites and digital marketing to nonpro

The Southland Charity Hospital

For organisations like The Southland Charity Hospital, we started with the Brand Identity and the website. From there, we helped implement the Buy a Brick Camapign. As a result his saw over 10,000 engraved bricks being able to be purchased from all over the world. By making this easy to do online via the website it opened them up to global audience. We also launcehd the “Win a Mustang” Campaign, where we ran targeted social media campaigns to sell tickets to a raffle. The main prize was a brand new Ford Mustang, from Regional Ford in Gore. The campaigns not only raised awareness but also garnered vital support. Our approach has helped the hospital process close to 2.5 million dollars (at the time of publising this article) though the website alone.

Mid-Dome Wilding Trees Trust

Whilst the Charity Hospital has been an ongoing project over time, the Mid-Dome Wilding Trees Trust in contrast was a one-off website. They required a simple informative website which has stood the test of time..

New Zealand Flying Doctors

ave you heard of The New Zealand Flying Doctors?

They’re an incredible bunch of people who fly hundreds of missions every year, often going unrecognised for the lives they save. We were lucky enough to build them a custom website, thanks to the amazing work they’ve done transporting patients like Blair Vining and even one of our own team member’s fathers. We always feel humbled working with inspiring people who make such a difference in the world. These heroes may not wear capes, but they definitely know how to fly! Check out the website we created for them and consider donating – every little bit helps. Let’s give these superheroes the recognition they deserve!

Great South

Great South, Southland’s regional development agency, formerly Venture Southland has used our services on a number of occasions over the years. From Custom graphics for the UCI junior world champs back in 2012, to design for the Southern Scenic Route brochures and website to the rebrand of the ILT Kidzone festival. In more recent times we have offered them custom websites for Beyond 2025, and Around th Mountains Cycle Trail. In addition, we designed, built and have maintained the Burt Munro Challenge website since 2014.

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Digital Marketing for Non Profits

Back9 stands out not just for what we do, but for how we do it. Our proactive, client-centered approach emphasises collaboration and communication, guaranteeing that our strategies align with the unique goals and values of each nonprofit partner.

In summary, if you’re seeking digital marketing for non-profits that values active engagement, impactful communication, and measurable results, look no further than Back9. Join the ranks of successful organizations making a lasting difference with our tailored digital solutions. Together, let’s amplify your impact in the digital age.

Picking the Best Email Marketing Agency: A Smart Move for Your Business

In today’s digital age, where effective communication is vital, email marketing still remains a robust tool for businesses. Add in Marketing Automation and the world is your oyster! If you’re wondering how to make the most of it, consider teaming up with an Email Marketing Agency. Let’s delve into why choosing the right agency is crucial and why email marketing is a game-changer.

Why Choose an Email Marketing Agency?

Email marketing goes beyond just sending emails. It’s about creating messages that connect with your audience, boost engagement, and turn leads into customers. An Email Marketing Agency brings expertise to ensure your campaigns not only get delivered but also deliver measurable results.

The Power of Email Marketing

Unlike platforms like Facebook or social media, email marketing offers a direct route to your known contacts. There are many benefits to email marketing. Firstly it cuts through the noise, delivering personalised messages straight to inboxes. Its effectiveness lies in reaching your target audience in a personal and direct manner, fostering a sense of connection and trust.

Picking the Right Agency: A Strategic Move

Choosing the right Email Marketing Agency is crucial. Look for a team that understands your business goals, target audience, and the specifics of your industry. A strategic partnership ensures your email campaigns align with your overall marketing strategy, driving cohesive and impactful results.

The Right Email Marketing Platform

Selecting the right email marketing platform for is equally paramount in ensuring the success of your campaigns. The platform serves as the foundation for executing your strategies, from crafting visually appealing emails to managing subscriber lists and tracking analytics. A user-friendly platform streamlines your workflow, allowing you to focus on creating compelling content and analysing performance metrics.

In addition, compatibility with your business’s specific needs, scalability, and the ability to integrate seamlessly with other marketing tools should be top considerations. The right platform empowers your Email Marketing Agency to implement targeted and personalised campaigns efficiently, maximising the potential of this versatile marketing channel. Most agencies will have a preferred platform or software, so this may factor in to you decision too.

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Owning Your Database: A Unique Advantage

An exclusive advantage of email marketing is ownership. Unlike social media platforms, where algorithms can change or accounts may get suspended, your email list is yours to own. It’s a direct link to your audience, and its power is in your hands.

Navigating the Decision-Making Process

When selecting an Email Marketing Agency, consider what’s most important to you. Do you like them? Do you prefer them to be local? Look at their track record. Look for agencies experienced in your industry, showcasing successful campaigns. Pay attention to their approach to strategy, content creation, and analytics.

Transitioning to Success: Key Considerations

Success in email marketing involves more than just sending messages. It’s about crafting compelling content for the right people in your database. Not all content will be for everyone. An experiecned Email Marketing Agency will understand the power of segmentation. Furthermore they will optimise your emails for engagement, then analyse data to refine your approach. A skilled Email Marketing Agency will guide you through this journey, ensuring your campaigns are not only effective but also adaptable to the evolving digital landscape.

Your Email Marketing Journey Starts Here

In terms of digital marketing, email remains a stalwart, offering a direct and personal connection to your audience. Choosing the right Email Marketing Agency enhances the impact of this powerful tool. Remember, in the ever-changing digital landscape, your email list is your constant – a valuable asset you own. Make the right choice for you, and watch your business soar through effective and targeted email marketing campaigns.

Mastering Facebook Marketing in NZ: Simple Steps for Success

Wondering how well Facebook Marketing works in NZ? Let’s break it down for you.

In the past at Back9 Creative, people have asked us if they need a website if they have Facebook...? Well what you need to know is Social Media, are forms of ‘media’ a vehicle for your messaging. Therefore, Facebook isn’t and shouldn’t be your entire marketing strategy; think of it as a tool to reach your audience. Here’s a look at how effective it is and what you need to make it work.

Targeted Ads: Better Than Just Boosting

When is comes to Social Media Ads, Facebook’s ad platform is a game-changer. Forget just boosting posts; targeted ads let you aim at your specific audience. You can define who sees your content based on age, interests, and behaviours. This targeted approach makes sure your message hits the right people.

Quality Beats Quantity: Keep It Short and Sweet

In the world of Facebook Marketing NZ, short and sweet works best. Make your sentences quick and catchy – perfect for the speedy scrolling on social media. Focus on clarity and keeping it brief. Less is more.

Facebook Marketing Requires a Casual Tone: Be Yourself

Facebook is a social place. So, be more relaxed in your posts. Talk to your audience like you would to a friend. Be informative but approachable. Balance is key. You don’t need to be too perfect with Facebook marketing either. If you’re filming live and make a mistake, don’t worry. Your viewers will appreciate the human element.

No Waiting Around: Engage Actively

Don’t be passive. Actively engage with your audience. Respond to comments, start conversations, and encourage participation. The more you interact, the more you’ll build a community around your brand.

Success in Facebook Marketing NZ

In a nutshell, success in Facebook Marketing NZ is about understanding the platform. It’s not just about being there – it’s about using tools like targeted ads, focusing on quality, and embracing the social side of Facebook. Remember, Facebook isn’t the whole strategy; it’s a tool to get your message across. Approach it smartly, stay involved, and watch your brand shine in the world of digital marketing.

What Makes a Good Marketing Plan – The First Step to Digital Success

They say failing to plan is planning to fail. In the world of business, the cornerstone of any successful venture lies in a well-crafted business plan. There are a lot of elements to a business plan ofcourse. And it can be confusing to know what sort of business plan you need. Eitherway, a Good Marketing Plan is certainly a key part of that. But is you plan non exitent? Or worse, Stuck in the digital dark ages? So, what makes a good marketing plan, you ask? Let’s look at some key elements that transform a plan from meh to marvellous.

1. Clarity is Key:

A good marketing plan is like a roadmap, guiding your business through the twists and turns of the market landscape. Therefore you’ll need to clearly define S.M.A.R.T. goals, target audience, and unique selling propositions. Ambiguity is the enemy; precision is your ally.

2. Know Your Audience:

Understanding your audience is the North Star of your marketing plan. Tailor your messaging and strategies to meet the specific needs and preferences of your target demographic. A generic approach is like shooting in the dark; a targeted one hits the bullseye.

3. SWOT it Out:

Much like a business plan, also Conduct a thorough SWOT analysis. Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats; each play a crucial role in shaping your plan. To clarify, ignoring these factors is a bit like navigating a ship without a compass.

4. Budget Wisely:

Money certainly makes the world go round, and in marketing, budgeting is important. Therefore, allocate resources sensibly across various channels. This will ensure a balanced and effective outreach. Overspending or likewise, skimping can throw your plan off balance. With all that said How much money should you spend on marketing?

5. Embrace Digital:

In the age of bytes and bits, digital marketing in short is non-negotiable. From social media to SEO, you must subsequently embrace the relevant digital channels to amplify your brand presence. The online space is your playground; conquer it strategically.

6. Metrics Matter:

An effective marketing plan is not set in stone; so consequently it evolves. Above all, measure and analyse key performance indicators regularly. Metrics provide insights into what’s working and what needs tweaking. Adaptability is the secret sauce of successful plans.

7. Consistency is Queen:

Consistency breeds familiarity, and subsequently familiarity builds trust. From messaging to visual elements, maintain a cohesive brand identity across all touch points. For example, a scattered approach dilutes your impact; however a consistent one reinforces your brand.

8. Engage, Don’t Just Broadcast:

Stop wasting money trying to “get your name out there!” The era of one-way communication is passé. Engage your audience through interactive content. For instance, surveys, and social media. The more engaged your audience, the more likely they are to become loyal advocates.

9. A good Website

Whilst technically not something that makes a good marketing plan as such, a website is crucial to see any success in the digital world. Some may ask do I need a website if I have Facebook? In short Yes. Yes, you do. Your website is the absolute core of your marketing activity. Websites are like staff, they are a part of providing good service, a good impression and as a result growing your business. A website allows you to create and deliver great Content, that caters to your buyers at every stage of their buyer’s journey. Most importantly, if coupled with a good CRM, like SharpSpring or Hubspot, lots of things like lead generation for example, can be automated too. Do not underestimate the power of a well thought out, and maintained Growth-Driven Website

So, what makes a good marketing plan?

In conclusion a good marketing plan is a combination of clarity, knowing your audience, strategic analysis, budgetary smarts, consistency, and engagement. Most importantly, remember, a plan is not a static document; it’s a living, breathing roadmap guiding your brand to triumph in the ever-evolving market landscape.

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