What Should a Seasonal Business Be Doing In The Off-Season?
Do you have a seasonal business?
Do you have a seasonal business?As a seasonal business owner, your busy summer season is likely winding down. The off-season is the perfect time to evaluate your results. You now have the time to see what worked, what didn’t, and what you could be doing to increase business for the following year.
Did you know that getting started now on improving your online presence can help your business thrive next year? Organic rankings take time, so getting started now will mean your business will be ranked on the first page in Google by next season.
How can you do this? SEO!
What is SEO and why is it important for your business? SEO stands for search engine optimization. When used effectively, it will allow your website to get traffic for free from the search results page on Google. How? When someone types a search into Google, the paid ads appear at the top of the page, followed by the organic results. You want your business to appear as high as possible in the organic results so you can get more page views and ultimately more conversions from your target market.
Take advantage of the “off-season”
If you’re ramping up your SEO right when your business is starting to get busy again, you’re already too late. You will want your website to be SEO optimized months before you know people will be searching for your business,product, and/or service. Even if you’re business is currently closed, SEO is ongoing. A prominent organic search presence is an effective driver for your business.
Getting started with SEO
Here are the top ways to improve the SEO of your website.
- Start with good content
- Use keywords
- Include linkable content
- Tag your titles
- Work on your page URL’s
- Link to other websites
- Create a sitemap
SEO mistakes to avoid
Here are some SEO mistakes to avoid. They will decrease your search results ranking.
- Keyword stuffing
- Broken links
- Copied content
- Not optimizing for mobile
- Using flash
If this sounds like something you would rather leave up to the professionals, work with a trusted SEO partner to ensure you don’t miss out on valuable search engine results page positioning next season. Get in touch with Longevity Graphics and start improving your online marketing strategy now!
Digital. 2016
We are excited to announce that Longevity Graphics’ Owner and Creative Director, Lindsay Viscount, will be a speaker at Digital. 2016. Lindsay will be presenting on the topic of WordPress Marketing Strategies to Enhance Website Conversions.
What is Digital. 2016?
Digital. 2016 is a new marketing conference that will provide those in attendance with advanced marketing strategies and tactics from a variety of world-renowned and local top-tier speakers including Lindsay Viscount, Steve Dotto, Bosco Anthony, Jonathan Christian, Tod Maffin and more.
This isn’t just Marketing 101 – The focus of this conference is digital advertising and paid traffic methods with true conversion strategies that work. The nature of this content is targeted to small and medium-sized businesses, marketing agencies and consultants two focus their business on digital marketing. Digital 2016. will welcome entrepreneurs, seasoned marketers, business owners and executives who want to learn more about intermediate to advanced marketing – without covering the basics.
The conference will run two tracks of presentations. The first will run in the theatre and will feature keynote speakers and panel discussions. The second will be a breakout session boardroom for a more intimate, hands on approach to the topics. The content will be focused on advanced marketing methods that have been proven to deliver results. Proven methods, unique tactics and innovative new strategies will be discussed throughout the conference.
Lindsay’s presentation will take place from 2:10 PM – 2:40 PM
Where:
Anvil Centre – 777 Columbia Street, New Westminster, BC V3M 1B6
Learn More:
To view the schedule for Digital. 2016, click here.
To view the presenters for Digital. 2016, click here.
To register to attend Digital. 2016, click here.
Discount code:
We found a discount code online from Soho. This discount code will provide you with 10% off your ticket for Digital. 2016. Click here to take advantage of this offer.
Students:
Discounts are available for both secondary and post-secondary students who have taken a class in the past 2 semesters. Student and enrollment verification may be required. Please contact [email protected] for your student access code.
We look forward to seeing you there!
Longevity Graphics is a leading web marketing agency that helps business owners grow their business. Since 2001, we have been been building successful web site designs and implementing internet marketing strategies, by providing across-the-board internet services to businesses looking to take advantage of their online marketing potential. We provide a 1-Hour FREE consultation.
Email Scams: What To Look Out For
At Longevity Graphics, we regularly receive emails and messages from less than reputable sources. As convincing as these emails appear, there are some clear, tell-tale signs that the communication is a scam. In this blog post, we will discuss some common email scams that we have received and how you can avoid falling victim to them.
In order for these scammers to gather personal information quickly, they create a sense of urgency. In their message, they will say:
- Your account is being threatened
- You need to provide them with access
- They will provide you with a link to a legitimate looking website
- The will ask you to input your login credentials
After they have your personal information, they can then use it as they please.
How can you spot these scam emails?
Here are some things to look out for when you receive an email or message from an unknown source.
- Spelling errors
- Poor grammar
- Lack of capitalization
- Mention of another country
- Offers that are too good to be true
Sales Email Scams
A common scam that we have received are emails from internet marketing companies saying that we have inquired about their services. They structure the email in such a way that it appears as through we have contacted them and requested information about their services.
They will include re: in the subject line of the email. This makes the email appear as though it is a reply. When in fact, it is not.
In the body of the email, they will say:
- Thank you for reaching out to us…
- Thank you for inquiring about our services…
- As requested, here is more information about…
- We can provide your company with…
The email will contain links to “further information”. Ultimately, they will make claims about their product or service that are just too good to be true.
Phishing Email Scams
Phishing scams are emails or messages from someone pretending to be from a reputable source with the goal to gain access to your personal information. The cyber criminal will attempt to trick you into giving them access to your account.
The most common information they are looking for are your passwords for:
- Bank Accounts
- Social Media Platforms
- Work Accounts
- Cloud Storage
- Personal Information
In order to appear more convincing, these messages appear to be from a reputable source such as your bank or other financial institution.
Have you ever received an email or call claiming to be from Google Adwords? Google has made it very clear that they will “never send you an unsolicited message asking you to provide your password or other sensitive information by email or through a link.”
Greeting Card Email Scams
As the name suggests, a greeting card scam is an email you receive containing a link to an e-card. The email itself appears to be from a friend, but if you open the email and click on the link, malicious software will begin to download and install onto your computer.
Since the beginning of the twenty first century, technology continues to connect us to each other as never has before. Society has experienced many positive advancements from technology; however, it has also opened our lives to the threat of cyber criminals. By using your best judgement and following the tips above, you will be better equipped to navigate through the digital era.
Longevity Graphics is a leading web marketing agency that helps business owners grow their business. Since 2001, we have been been building successful web site designs and implementing internet marketing strategies, by providing across-the-board internet services to businesses looking to take advantage of their online marketing potential.
Labour Day 2016 Long Weekend
With Labour Day 2016 right around the corner, we have compiled a list of indoor and outdoor activities for you and you family to take part in over the long weekend.
What will the weather be like this weekend you ask? Well it is reported that it will be cloudy with a chance of rain over the weekend.
Vancouver:
The Fair at the PNE
East Hastings Street, Vancouver
August 20 – September 5 from 11am – Late
Cost: Fair Gate Pass: $17 Online Price $13.00
Fair Seniors Gate Pass: $8.50 Online Price $6.50
Fair Child Gate Pass: Free
Summer Night Concerts at the PNE
PNE Amphitheatre, Vancouver
Friday, September 2 at 8:30 pm – Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo: We Live For Love Tour
Saturday, September 3 at 8:30pm – Tim Hicks
Sunday, September 4 at 8:30pm – The Monkees – Good Times: The 50th Anniversary Tour
Monday, September 5 at 8:30pm – Chris Isaak
Cost: Free with admission*
TaiwanFest 2016
Granville Street, Vancouver
September 3 – 5, 2016
Cost: Free
Serbian Days 2016
Saint Sava Serbian Orthodox Church, Vancouver
September 3 & 4, 2016
Cost: Free
Victory Square Block Party
Victory Square, Vancouver
Sunday, September 4, 2016 1pm-9pm
Cost: Free
Vancouver Whitecaps FC vs. New York Red Bulls
BC Place Stadium, Vancouver
Saturday, September 3, 2016 at 4pm
Cost: Varies
Aritzia Warehouse Sale
Convention Centre, Vancouver
September 1 – 5, 2016
Cost: Free
Richmond:
Richmond Night Market
8351 River Rd #3063, Richmond
May 15 – October 12, 2016
Cost: $3.25
International Summer Night Market
12631 Vulcan Way, Richmond
April 29 – September 11, 2016
Cost: Free
Richmond World Festival 2016
Minoru Park, Richmond
September 3, 2016 from 11am-10pm
Cost: Free
The Lower Mainland
Auto Expo Galleria
Starlight Casino, New Westminster
Saturday, September 3 from 3pm-9pm
Cost $10-$50
Westminster Savings Free Swim
Poirier Sport and Leisure Complex, Coquitlam
Sunday, September 4, 2016
Cost: Free (Courtesy of Westminster Savings)
Summer Sunday Concerts
Rocky Point, Port Moody
Sunday, September 4 at 2pm
Cost: Free
Bands on the Beach 2016
On the Beach, Harrison Hot Springs
Saturday, September 3 from 1pm-6pm
Sunday, September 4 from 1pm-430pm
Cost: $20
The team from Longevity Graphics wishes you a relaxing Labour Day 2016 Long Weekend.
Online Marketing and website design are fast growing and ever changing industries. With a passion for high end design, expertise and customer service, the Longevity Graphics team continues to grow.
Isidora Celic is a new addition to the Longevity Graphics team in an Administrative Marketing Assistant role. To help introduce her to our clients and followers, read below for a brief Q and A.
1. What is your experience prior to joining the Longevity Graphics team?
I just recently graduated from New Westminster Secondary School. Previously, I worked in retail as well as volunteered at a yoga studio. This previous work experience has allowed me to improve my customer service skills and step out of my more introverted personality.
2. What are your hobbies and interests?
During my spare time I enjoy doing traditional Serbian Folklore dancing, which I started at the age of 5. Dance has allowed me to meet some amazing friends, learn the value of teamwork, perform all over the world and not to mention, get some exercise in! Besides dance I love dusting off my skis when winter hits and heading up to Cypress Mountain or Whistler Blackcomb on the weekends. This is one of my favorite ways to unwind, spend some time with friends and family as well as enjoy the beautiful slopes BC has to offer.
3. What do you bring to Longevity Graphics?
My friendly, driven and hardworking personality will help me fit into the Longevity Graphics team greatly. I work quickly on my feet and enjoy problem solving in just about any situation. My previous experience working with customers/clients will be a great asset at Longevity Graphics as the new Administrative Marketing Assistant.
To connect with Isidora, email her directly at [email protected].
The Longevity Graphics team is made up of local industry experts that help clients get results. We specialize in online marketing services and website design and development. If you are looking to increase revenue from online leads, get in touch with us now. Set up a 1 hour free consultation on all of the services we offer.
Online Marketing and website design are fast growing and ever changing industries. With a passion for high end design, expertise and customer service, the Longevity Graphics team continues to grow.
Gaby Salazar is a new addition to the Longevity Graphics team in the Data Entry Marketing Coordinator role. To help introduce her to our clients and followers, read below for a brief Q and A.
1. What is your experience prior to joining the Longevity Graphics team?
I graduated from Simon Fraser University in 2002 and have traveled the world professionally since. I’ve worked on multiple projects that included Data Management and Marketing, most recently on the 2015 Toronto Pan Am Games project. My time spent working abroad on large and small projects alike has given me the ability to adapt to change quickly and work with professionals of all disciplines effectively.
2. What are your hobbies and interests?
I love sports and can often be found either watching or playing everything from basketball to baseball, golf, ringette, etc. I also love the outdoors and have become an avid hiker since moving back to British Columbia. My mission is to hike over 52 different trails in 52 weeks. So far I’m on hike #29 – more than halfway completed!
3. What do you bring to the Longevity Graphics team?
I bring a great eye for detail, a positive outlook, and a can-do attitude. I believe where there is a will, there is always a way. My vast experience working in different environments combined with my driven personality will undoubtedly help my transition on to the Longevity Graphics team go smoothly and successfully.
To connect with Gaby, email her directly at [email protected].
The Longevity Graphics team is made up of local industry experts that help clients get results. We specialize in online marketing services and website design and development. If you are looking to increase revenue from online leads, get in touch with us now. Set up a 1 hour free consultation on all of the services we offer.
Instagram Stories
If you’re a regular Instagram user, then you’re aware of the platform’s latest feature – Instagram Stories.
So, what is Instagram Stories? It is a Snapchat-inspired feature built into the photo sharing app. It appears at the top of your newsfeed screen and allows you to upload photos in a stream that will expire and disappear after 24 hours. Sounds familiar doesn’t it? Instagram’s CEO, Kevin Systrom agrees that the feature is very similar to Snapchat.
How do you use Instagram Stories?
- Go to your Instagram newsfeed.
- Click on the + in the top left corner of your feed to start a new story.
- Tap on the circle button at the bottom of the screen to take a photo or hold it down to record a video.
- To edit and add text or drawings to your photo or video, use the buttons in the top right corner.
- If you want to add a filter, simply swipe left or right. Currently, there are 7 different options.
- Finally, tap the check mark at the bottom of the screen to add it to your story.
More information:
- To save a photo or video from your story to your phone’s camera roll, hit the download button on the right of your story.
- As this is an Instagram feature, you can utilize Boomerangs and Hyperlapses with your story.
- To monitor who can view your story, click on the three dots in the bottom right corner. Then click Story Settings to select any users you wish to block from viewing your stories.
- Yes, as with Snapchat, you are able to see who has viewed your story. Open your story and swipe on the screen. On the bottom of the screen, there will be a view counter and the names of people who have viewed your story. Only you will be able to see this information.
So now the debate begins; which platform is better?
Many reviewers are saying that Instagram took Snapchat’s confusing interface and made it more simplistic to use. Each step of the process is clearly labelled with buttons, instead of swipes. For example, instead of swiping on a Snapchat photo to send a reply, Instagram has a clearly labelled Send Message button. This is something that many struggle with when trying to learn how to use Snapchat.
Another thing Instagram has going for it, is that it has an existing community of active users. These people use the app to connect with friends, follower new people and discover new parts of the world all through images and video. This sense of community is something that Snapchat is lacking. How many times have you seen an online personality encouraging their audience to add them on Snapchat? Now, Instagram followers will be able to access your stories from right in the app. There is no need to direct and build a new audience in a different app.
Instagram has always been seen as a place where people can upload the highlights of their life. With the introduction of Instagram Stories, you will be able to see the unfiltered, everyday parts of people’s lives, between the picture perfect photos. With that being said, at one point in time we have all followed that one person who posts way too much. Now, these people will have a place where they can post without overwhelming their followers’ feeds.
So, what do you think? Comment or Tweet us and let us know.
If you are looking for an expert in the ever-changing landscape of Social Media then collaborating with Longevity Graphics is the right choice for you and your business. Contact us today to get a no-obligation quote. We offer a Free 1-Hour Consultation on all social media, SEO, web design and web development services
BC Day 2016
BC Day 2016 is almost upon us. What will you and your family be getting up to this long weekend? If you’re still unsure, we have compiled a list of fun, local activities.
As always, we have to ask, what will the weather be like in Greater Vancouver this BC Day Long Weekend? It looks like it’s going to be a beautiful, sunny weekend.
Vancouver:
Vancouver Canadian’s at Home
Nat Bailey Stadium, Vancouver
July 29 at 7:05pm, July 30 at 7:05pm, July 31 at 1:05pm
Cost: $18-$25
8th Annual Vancouver Pride Parade
Davie Street, Vancouver
July 30 at 12pm
Cost: Free
0th Annual Powell Street Festival
Powell Street, Vancouver
July 30-31
Cost: Free
Honda Celebration of Light – USA
English Bay, Vancouver
July 30 at 10pm
Cost: Free
Surrey/White Rock/Delta:
67th Annual White Rock Sea Festival
East Beach and the White Rock Pier, White Rock
July 29-31
Cost: Free
Richmond Night Market
8351 River Road, Richmond
Weekends from 7pm-12pm
Cost: General Admission $3.25
Tri-Cities/Pitt Meadows/Maple Ridge:
Coquitlam Kinsmen International Craft Beer Festival
Coquitlam Town Centre South Field, Coquitlam
July 30-31 from 1pm – 9pm
Cost: General $40, VIP $65
Fraser Valley:
30th Anniversary of Brigade Days
Fort Langley National Historic Site, Langley
July 30 – August 1
If you’d rather get away this weekend and explore our beautiful province, then check out Vancouver Trails. The website provides you with great information on the difficulty and time of trails all over Greater Vancouver and beyond.
The team from Longevity Graphics wishes you a happy and safe BC Day Long Weekend 2016!
Guide to LinkedIn Advertising
So you’ve been taking advantage of Facebook and Twitter advertising, but have you thought about LinkedIn advertising?
LinkedIn is a professional platform where users can connect and network with other business professionals. People connecting, making referrals and recommendations are nothing new in the world of business. The difference is, people are now able to perform these tasks online, through one social platform. In the year 2016, if you want to engage in the professional community, you must have a LinkedIn profile.
A LinkedIn profile is a page containing elements of a person’s resume, website, Facebook profile and blog posts. Ultimately, it is a presentation of who you are professionally.
Advertising on LinkedIn is a great way for businesses and professionals to reach highly targeted groups of like-minded people.
Creating an Advertising Campaign
To get started, go to your business page. If you’re currently viewing your personal LinkedIn account, look at the top tabs and scroll over Interests. Go to company and then your business page. Again near the top of the page, look for Business Services. If you scroll over this tab, it will open and the Advertise option will appear.
You will now be welcomed to the LinkedIn Campaign Manager. This is the main area to view all your campaigns. There are two types of ads you can create on LinkedIn; sponsored updates and text ads.
Sponsored Updates
- These ads appear in the LinkedIn feed.
- These ads give viewers the option to follow the advertisers LinkedIn company page, click through to the advertiser’s LinkedIn company page or click through to the advertiser’s website using the link and the image in the update.
Text Ads
- These ads appear on the right side of the page.
- These ads are a great way to drive targeted leads across multiple LinkedIn pages.
- These ads only give viewers the option to click through to the advertiser’s website.
Once you have decided which ad is best suited for your advertising campaign, then you will open an account. You will create an account name, choose the currency you wish to pay in, and link the company page that you will be advertising. Name your campaign and decide what language you will be targeting. Next, you will decide where you want to direct users when they click on your ad. As mentioned, you can direct them to your LinkedIn page or your company website.
Now, you will create your ad. Add a catchy headline, image and content. Your headline should be engaging and include a call to action. After, you will configure your target audience and budget. Finally, you will commence your LinkedIn advertising campaign.
Are you interested in advertising your business on LinkedIn, but you’re not familiar with the platform? We can help! Get in touch with us today. We offer a FREE 1-hour consultation.
O Canada!
Are you looking for things to do this Canada Day 2016?
To help you plan your day, we have compiled a list of Canada Day 2016 events and activities for you and your family to enjoy. We have organized the events and activities based on city.
Now, we have to ask… What will the weather be like on Canada Day? Greater Vancouver and the Lower Mainland is forecasted to have a mix of sun and clouds.
Vancouver:
Canada Day at Canada Place
Festival from 10 am-6 pm
Parade at 7 pm
Fireworks show at 10:30 pm
Cost: Free
th Annual Canada Parade
Parade starts at West Georgia and Broughton Streets at 7 pm
Cost: Free
Burrard Inlet Canada Day Fireworks
Fireworks show at 10:30 pm
Cost: Free; Premium Viewing: $15
Canada Day on Granville Island
Enjoy a full day of entertainment, music, spectacle, food, fun activities, street entertainment and more.
Cost: Free
Canada Day Run and Celebration
Wesbrook Village, UBC from 9:30 am-2 pm
Cost: Free
Canada Day at FlyOver Canada
Canada Place from 9 am-10 pm
Cost: $16.95-$23.95
Surrey/White Rock/Delta:
Surrey Canada Day
Bill Reid Millennium Amphitheatre from 10 am-10:30 pm
Cost: Free
Delta Canada Day Celebration
Chalmers Park from 6 pm-10 pm
Fireworks show at 10 pm
Cost: Free
Burnaby/New Westminster:
Burnaby/New Westminster:Canada Day with the Trews
Swangard Stadium at 5 pm
Cost: Free
Canada Day at Burnaby Village Museum
11 am-4:30 pm
Cost: Free; Carousel Rides: $2.60
Canada Day Celebration at Edmonds Plaza and Park
11 am-2:30 pm
Cost: Free
Canada Day in Queens Park
11:30 am-3:30 pm
Cost: Free
Tri-Cities/Pitt Meadows/Maple Ridge:
Canada Day Celebration at Rocky Point Park
Rocky Point Park from 11 am-5 pm
Cost: Free
Canada’s Birthday and Coquitlam’s 125th Birthday
Town Centre Park from 12 pm-10:30 pm
Fireworks show at 10 pm
Cost: Free
Port Coquitlam Celebrates Canada Day
Lions Club Pancake Breakfast from 8 am-11:30 am at Lions Park
15th Annual Fishing Derby from 12 pm-Dusk at Castle Park
Cost: Free
Canada Day in Pitt Meadows
Spirit Square from 8 am-2 pm
Cost: Free
Maple Ridge Canada Day Celebrations
Maple Ridge Memorial Peace Park from 10 am-3 pm
Cost: Free
Fraser Valley:
Canada Day in Fort Langley
Fort Langley National Historic Site from 10 am-5 pm
Cost: Free
Langley Canada Day JRBQ
Langley Events Centre/Willoughby Community Park from 11 am
Cost: Free
Mt. Lehman Canada Day Parade
Parade starts at the Mt. Lehman Credit Union
Cost: Free
Canada Day Downtown Chilliwack
Grandstand Field from 11:00 am-3:00 pm
Cost: Free
Canada Day at Harrison Hot Springs
Full day of activities
Fireworks show at 10pm
Cost: Free
The team from Longevity Graphics wishes you a happy and safe Canada Day 2016!