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  • A Sprout Social Review: Social Media Management Software

    In this Sprout Social  review, we look at the ins and outs of Sproutsocial. What is Discussed in this Review: What is Sprout Social? Main features of Sprout Social. Pros and Cons of using Sprout Social, Sprout Social pricing. Sprout Social FAQs. The Best Sprout Social Review What is Sprout Social? What is Sprout Social? Sprout Social  is a social media management tool designed to help businesses manage all of their social media and social media marketing efforts with ease. The Sprout Social is a powerful solution for social media managers and brands looking to improve their social media marketing using an all-in-one social media management platform. This tool unlocks the full potential of social marketing and helps businesses transform an entire marketing strategy. And every other area or section of your business or organization. Sprout Social helps businesses attract customers and impact their audience. This platform's unified social media management platform enables brands and teams to extract real business value that strengthens their overall market position and generates leads and revenue. Try Sprout Social App Features of Sprout Social . What are some features of Sprout Social? Sprout Social Features Engagements, Publishing, Analytics, Premium, Analytics, Social listening, Influencer marketing, Employee advocacy, AI and automation, Integration, Data and security Sprout Social Engagements Feature. With this Sprout Social feature, users can scale customer care and streamline their entire marketing processes. Users can manage community platforms like groups, communities, forums, etc. Sprout Social Publishing This Sprout Social feature allows users to plan, create, manage, and publish social media content and run social media campaigns easily. Sprout Social Analytics The next Sprout Social  feature is Premium Analytics. This feature is under Premium Solutions. This lets marketers prove their social media ROI or return on investment with detailed data and customized or customizable reports. Sprout Social's Social Listening Feature With Sprout Social's social listening feature, you get what most social media management tools  do not have. I love this feature because not many social media management tools offer social listening. Users can uncover new trends, actionable social media insights, etc, from mentions, conversations, and content, on different social media networks. Users can set social listening for specific conversations (your brand name or products). Sprout provides users with actionable insights on how to use this to grow your brand. Sprout Social's Influencer Marketing Feature. The influencer marketing feature in Sprout Social allows subscribers to create and manage influencer marketing partnerships or campaigns with social media influencers or content creators. Sprout's Employee Advocacy T his Sprout Social feature is powerful because brands can easily grow and increase social media reach. You  can do this by empowering or getting your employees to participate as (or become) brand advocates for your business. Sprout Social's AI and Automation Feature Sprout Social AI and automation help brands get more creative and implement strategic thinking that improves their brands on social media. Sprout's AI automation  inherits or takes your manual work, let's say in social publishing, planning social listening, or analytics so that your team can also prioritize the decision-making. Professional Services The next thing is the professional services you can get from Sprout Social which includes brand social management, social media management services, and more. The same goes for the Sprout Social Agency section. Sprout users can access professional services like social media management agencies  or SMMEs. Pros and Cons of Sprout Social Some advantages of Sprout Social over other social media management platforms. Pros of Sprout Social Users can effectively manage social media accounts. You can seamlessly increase your marketing efforts on various social media networks with Sprout Social. Gather intelligence through detailed analytics and customizable analytics. With Sprout's detailed and customizable data and insights brands can better inform their overall social media marketing strategy. Personalize customer support as a brand. This allows marketers to create a positive brand experience with tailored social replies and responses. Drive more sales using Sprout Social's streamlined processes. Increase or boost brand awareness. Sprout Social helps you generate more from social media to sell effectively. Uncover emerging trends Cons of Sprout Social Why I dislike Sprout Social: Sprout Social is not for small businesses or solopreneurs Sprout Social is quite expensive. Sprout Social Pricing Sprout Social Pricing Sprout Social Pricing How much does Sprout Social cost? You can now try Sprout Social for free with their 30-day trial. Try Sprout Social Free for 30 Days Sprout Social offers four (4) pricing plans. Standard Plan - $199 per seat per month Professional Plan - $299 per seat per month Advanced Plan - $399 per seat per month Enterprise - contact Sprout Social support for a quote. The Standard Plan ( $199 per seat per month) : 5 social profiles All-in-one social inbox Publish and schedule social media posts Content calendar Detailed reporting Ad tools iOS and Android apps Professional Plan - $299 per seat per month. You get everything in the Standard plan plus: Unlimited social profiles Detailed reports for Instagram, Facebook and X Message tagging Custom workflows Scheduling for optimal send times Saved replies Content Library X keywords and hashtags AI Assistant Ad tools for Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn Advanced Plan - $399 per seat per month. In the Advanced Plan, you get everything in Professional, plus: Message Spike Alerts AI Assist Chatbots Automation tools Smart Inbox and Reviews Link tracking Scheduled reporting Helpdesk and CRM integrations External approvals Organize tags Enterprise - contact Sprout support for a quote. In this plan, users get everything in the Advanced plan plus: Tailored implementation and onboarding Consulting services 24/5 high-priority customer support Social Listening Premium Analytics Employee Advocacy systems Influencer Marketing and Management Sprout Social Resources Section Customers today are looking to learn about your brand in different ways. Sprout Social offers the following resources for new users, marketers, or customers: T he Sprout Social blog - I love the Sprout Social blog and I've been following it for years now. You can get great social media tips, best practices, and social media guidance from experts. Sprout Social Certification Program - The Sprout Social certification program is available for social media enthusiasts who want to become experts. The case studies section shows Sprout Social customers who have used Sprout Social to get tangible results. Users can use this to learn more about Sprout Social. The Sprout Social community section. Sprout Social offers a community session that allows Sprout Social users to connect and grow with other social media professionals. Webinars. Sprout Social runs a series of webinars for users to learn how to grow and improve their social media marketing efforts. Sprout Social Contact Us page - Users can contact the Sprout team across social media platforms, email them, or use their phone number. Product updates. In the product of this section, you can stay up to date with all the new feature updates of Sprout Social. The learning portal allows users to explore on-demand courses to get the most out of Sprout Social. Sprout Social Help Center - step-by-step articles that walk users through setting features or how-to's on the Sprout social platform. Sprout Social FAQ Frequently asked questions around the Sprout social platform. I s sponsored Sprout social useful? Sprout Social is a social media management tool meant for businesses and brands. It is used by brands to automate, manage, and plan their social media marketing tasks and campaigns. Is Sprout Social worth my money? Depending on your brand, Sprout Social is expensive but worth the price. It offers efficient social marketing features that allow brands to control their social media marketing. Who is the CEO of Sprout Social? At the moment the CEO of Sprout Social and since April 2010 till date. Is Sprout Social free now at the moment? Sprout Social is not free, but it offers a free 30-day trial. You can go for the lowest (professional plan) which is $199 monthly. C an you upload videos to Sprout Social? Absolutely. You can upload videos on Sprout Social to various social media accounts on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. How do I create my first post on Sprout Social? It's simple. To create your first post on Sprout Social, open the Sprout social application on your phone and navigate to the (social media) profile you want to post on. Type your message and click on the attached media to select any media of your choice to add to your social media post. You can also add tags, and locations or add an item from your asset library. D oes Sprout Social automatically post to Instagram? Sprout Social is a social media management tool that allows Instagram scheduling. So yes, you can automatically post to Instagram from the Sprout Social Application. After scheduling, your post will automatically be published to your Instagram account. Does Sprout Social have an Application? Absolutely. You must have a Sprout social premium account or be on the free trial to use the Sprout social Application. But with the App, you can easily schedule your social media posts and manage your social media marketing campaigns on platforms like X, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Google, My Business, and TripAdvisor. W hat are the top alternatives to Sprout Social? Some Sprout Social alternatives: Hootsuite, A gorapulse, SmarterQueue, B uffer, Planable, etc. How do I add a profile to Sprout Social? Adding a social media profile to Sprout Social is easy. Navigate to the social profile section on your Sprout social account. Go to settings and click on 'Users' then 'Social Profiles'. Here, you can click on connect on any of the social media networks you wish to connect. L og in using that social account and authorize. This will be automatically added to your Sprout social account. T hank you for reading this guide and have a great day. Try Sprout Social Here.

  • A Hostinger Web Hosting Review: Is Hostinger Good for Websites?

    Welcome to this Hostinger review. We'll be going through the ins and outs of Hostinger. And if you are considering using Hostinger , this IbiFoundry Academy review will help you. TABLE OF CONTENT ( A Hostinger Web Hosting Review: Is Hostinger Good for Websites?) What is Hostinger? What are the Features of Hostinger? Technical features of Hostinger Security features of Hostinger What is Hostinger domain name search? How is Hostinger Support? Hostinger Money Back Guarantee Pros and Cons of Hostinger Hostinger Pricing Plans Should You Try Hostinger Hostinger FAQs What is Hostinger? What is Hostinger? Hostinger is a web hosting service provider that offers cloud hosting solutions, VPS hosting, and business email solutions. Hostinger was established in 2004 and it has over 1000 employees at the moment. Hostinger is a website builder that has become more accessible and easy to use. Hostinger lets users create, edit, publish, and maintain their websites using the Hostinger platform. This hosting company also helps users find the best domain names using the free domain name checker. And with Hostinger, you can get your website up and running in minutes. Hostinger offers users everything they need to create a website (domain, website migration, customer support, etc.). What are the Features of Hostinger? What are the Features of Hostinger? Features of Hostinger; free domain, website migration, customer support, website builder, WordPress website builder, web hosting, cloud hosting VPS hosting, business email backups, free SSL, Woocommerce, free one-click WordPress installation, auto-updates, WordPress, AI tools, drag and drop website builder, over 150 designer-crafted templates, Google Analytics integration, AI copywriting tool, security, web application firewall, Cloudflare-protected. What are the technical features of Hostinger? millions of files and directories, PHP workers, 100,000s monthly visits, subdomains, databases, FTP accounts, GIT access, powerful control panel, catch manager, DNS management, SSH and lots more. What are some advanced security features of Hostinger? unlimited SSL security certificates - allow users to encrypt the website's traffic. secure your files using automatic backups - there was a time when I lost my entire website and didn't have automatic backups. Hostinger offers this. easily protect your websites from DDoS attacks using the Woostinger Cloudfare nameserver features. ensure your website is up and running - 99.9% uptime guarantee. What is the Hostinger domain name search? The Hostinger domain name Search is a free tool that allows users to search for the perfect domain name. This is free and easy to use. How is Hostinger Support? When it comes to Hostinger support I am very impressed. a 99.9% uptime guarantee for service and support. global data centers. customer support and; priority support. 24 hours live support. Does Hostinger offer a money-back guarantee? Yes, Hostinger also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee. Hostinger Reviews? Hostinger has a 4.8 out of 5 rating and the price starts from $2.69 per month with several locations in the US, UK, Netherlands, France, Lieutenant, Brazil, Singapore, and India. Hostinger has a lot of reviews on Trustpilot, G2, and Google Reviews you can check. Here is an offer: Hostinger is currently giving a 78% off coupon code to users. Click here to use my secured link to try Hostinger @ 78% OFF. Pros and Cons of Hostinger The Pros of Hostinger; Hostinger has one of the cheapest prices for shared hosting compared to other hosting companies like Bluehost (which I also love and recommend). Servers in more than 5 locations. Light speed servers Unlimited backups Free domain name registration, Cpanel dashboard, Website builder. As I said, Hostinger is super easy to use. Easy WordPress installation Free website migration, Business email Those are some of the things I love about Hostinger. Cons of Hostinger? Some of the things I don't like about Hostinger: Hostinger control panel can be slow at times Hostinger does not offer phone support at the moment. Hostinger does not offer a free version or a trial period. Hostinger Pricing Plans How much does Hostinger cost? Hostinger Pricing Plans When it comes to Hostinger pricing plans, it is divided into 3 tiers. The Premium Hosting App Plan The Business Hosting App Plan The Cloud Startup Hosting App Plan The Premium Plan goes for $2.99 per month : standard performance, 100 websites, 100 Gig SSD storage, weekly backups, unlimited free SSL, unlimited boundaries, free email, free domain, free automatic website migration, one-click WordPress installation, WordPress acceleration, WordPress auto-updates, vulnerabilities, scanners, drag and drop website Builder 150 designer-crafted templates AI copywriting web application Firefox Cloudflare protected name servers 30-day money by guarantee. 99.9 uptime guarantee 24/7 support. The Business Plan which goes for $3.99 per month , you get everything included in the Premium Plan PLUS; a free CDN basic woo-commerce WordPress on-demand backup WordPress AI tools 600,000 files and directories, 60 Php workers, 100,000 monthly visits The Cloud Startup Plan.  This Hostinger plan goes for $9.99 per month. You get everything in the Business Plan including; maximum performance, 300 websites, dedicated IP address, standard woo-commerce, priority support. Try Hostinger Now Starting a Website or Buying a Domain? Try Hostinger - I Highly Recommend In conclusion, what do I love about Hostinger? Should you try Hostinger? Absolutely, yes. Hostinger offers everything in one place. You can install WordPress, cloud hosting, VPS hosting, get business emails, and more. Are you looking to get your website online, I advise you to try out Hostinger using my unique link by clicking the button below. What are the Frequently Asked Questions around Hostinger? Frequently Asked Questions on Hostinger Service Is Hostinger useful? Hostinger offers one of the most secure and reliable web hosting plans and services on the Internet. Hostinger is one company you should consider trying. How legit is Hostinger? I've used Hostinger for my clients' websites and it's been great. They offer fast and 99% uptime, website time, and great customer support. Is Hostinger free now? At the moment Hostinger does not offer a free trial. You can use any of the 3 cheap plans. How much does it cost to use Hostinger? It costs around $9.99 to $29.99 to use Hostinger. How do you get started with Hostinger? As a Hostinger partner, I love and use Hostinger. How do I get started with Hostinger? Head to Hostinger here, create your free account and select the perfect premium plan that fits your business. How can you make money from Hostinger? As a Hostinger partner, I make money by promoting Hostinger. As someone who loves Hostinger, I talk about the Hostinger platform to my audience. I get special bonuses whenever you or anyone else uses my unique and secure affiliate links to sign up or register for the hosting platform. Is Hostinger better than WordPress? There is no competition between Hostinger and WordPress. Hostinger allows users to install WordPress. You can create a Hostinger account and install a WordPress. Thank you for reading this review. Be sure to join my growing community. Simon Taki Zaku Founder, CEO, Ibifoundry.com.ng

  • Our SEO Agency: IbiFoundry Limited SEO & Digital Marketing Agency - Work With Us

    What is the best SEO agency in Nigeria? IbiFoundry Limited SEO is near your business! Our SEO Agency: IbiFoundry Limited SEO & Digital Marketing Agency - Work With Us If your website or business is not generating sufficient returns from search engines monthly, you leave a ton of money on the table. My name is Simon Taki Zaku and I want to introduce you to our SEO agency here in Nigeria, IbiFoundry SEO, nearest to you - haha, we're remote! What is IbiFoundry SEO Agency? On this page, I detail the story behind my SEO agency, IbiFoundry Limited SEO, how I got started, what sets this SEO Agency apart from others, and how you can apply to work with us (not open to all). The Story Behind My SEO Agency; IbiFoundry SEO Agency me :) How did I get the idea to start the IbiFoundry SEO Agency? Sometime back, I landed 3 blog writing and marketing clients from this very blog. All within a month. This immediately got me thinking about how important and relevant blogging and SEO writing are to online businesses, startups, and brands. Most people today are aware of the importance of blogs & content marketing to their brands. Blogging and content creation is still one of the strongest forms of content marketing today. I gave it a thought and decided to START A UNIQUE SEO and Digital Marketing AGENCY! And since you are part of our community, I decided to let you know first. What is IbiFoundry SEO and What Do We Do for Our Clients? IbiFoundry SEO is an SEO agency I started that offers specialized on-page SEO services, blog writing, management, and keyword research to small and medium-sized businesses, software startups, e-commerce websites, and organizations. Who do we work with? At IbiFoundry SEO, I intend to work with entrepreneurs, small to medium-sized businesses, b2b startups, and other digital agencies to research, write, publish & promote top-notch, search-engine-optimized blog posts, content, and pages to grow organic reach and clicks. Why is IbiFoundry SEO the Number #1  SEO Agency? In short terms, IbiFoundry SEO is the best SEO company near you as we are a remote agency in Nigeria.   And yes, I will be a little biased here but I'll prove why this SEO agency is different. To ensure, IbiFoundry SEO Agency does not get mixed in the pool of growing SEOs here in Nigeria, I decided to switch things up and give our SEO clients what no other SEO agency can offer. Here's what sets IbiFoundry SEO apart from hundreds of other SEO agencies out there; For this SEO agency, I want it to be known for and built on integrity and professionalism. IbiFoundry (or IbiFoundry Agency or IbiFoundry SEO Agency ) is known for extensive research and conversational content that connects deeply with readers. IbiFoundry SEO will be built strongly around great relationships with our SEO clients. I do care about my clients' business and (to an extent), personal life. My client's well-being in general is my top priority as an SEO consultant. IbiFoundry is known for in-depth research, quick search rankings, (strictly) white-hat SEO strategies, and detailed blogs that align with the client’s overall business goals, objectives, and customer needs. At IbiFoundry SEO, we not only handle your SEO, blog, or writing tasks but also do the necessary Search Engine Marketing (SEM) to grow your website, business, or startup site to at least 10,000 monthly organic visitors within 1 to 3 months. SEO and Content marketing  are key to online success but there are loads of startups out there who either don't know how to go about it or are too busy handling other aspects of their businesses (product development, customers, etc). How to Work With IbiFoundry SEO Agency? We are currently open to taking in 5 to 10 SEO clients before the year runs out. How do you apply SEO services from IbiFoundry SEO? Before you apply, there are certain criteria we look for before working with our clients. Unlike other SEO agencies that take up clients in various niches, industries, or markets, we are different. Here are what you should consider before applying to work with IbiFoundry SEO: We only take on SEO clients within the B2B, tech/SaaS, and E-commerce industries. Our expertise revolves around these markets hence limit our spots to these types of businesses. We offer one-off SEO projects and long-term or monthly retainer SEO projects as well. So if your business understands the longevity in SEO and wants the long-term monthly retainer SEO package, you can apply (below). On the other hand, if you have a website and want a one-off SEO package, we are open to working with you as well. Finally, budgets: To ensure we are a unique SEO agency and different, I designed our SEO packages differently and most value attached. Each business, website, or brand is different. So we tailor our services according to each client's unique SEO budget. But our SEO packages range between $800 to $4,500 monthly. Are you the right fit for our next SEO case study? Jump on a call to find out. How to Work with IbiFoundry SEO Here is how to work with IbiFoundry SEO Agency: Fill out the survey form on this page (embedded below) or click here to fill it out.  This form includes questions to allow us to be sure you are a great fit to turn to our next SEO success. You will get an email with a copy of your form answers. Expect a call, text, or email from me within 24 hours to better understand your needs and how we can change your business through SEO. Your SEO team looks forward to helping you hit your business goals, and attract organic traffic, leads, and sales from our SEO efforts. Are you interested in our SEO services but have other questions or need clarifications? You can email me at simonzakucom@gmail.com  or simonwritesagency@gmail.com . Is anyone looking for a result-focused SEO agency? Feel free to share this post with them :) It will mean a lot to me (and the growing team). Hoping to hear your thoughts, my SEO friends :) OUR BLOG: https://ibifoundry.com.ng/blog/ , simonzaku.com/blog/ Contact Email: simonzakucom@gmail.com , ibifoundry@gmail.com Have a productive day and talk to you soon, Best, Simon Taki Zaku Founder: IbiFoundry SEO Agency. Website: simonzaku.com Email: simonzakucom@gmail.com , Simonwritesagency@gmail.com . Work with Us

  • Content Writing Explained for Nigerians: Definition, Types, Writing Jobs, Portfolios & Writing Examples

    Hello, Simon Taki Zaku, your favorite, content writing and SEO specialist. Today, we cover a popular topic - content writing. This post shows in detail how we Nigerians can get into the field of content writing (or writing content for clients) to make money. This web/blog page discusses; what content writing is, examples of content writing, who a content writer is, the aims and objectives of content writing, and; getting started as a content writer. At the end of this guide, I share 12 secret content writing tips to help you (or anyone) get started as a beginner. You see, I've been writing content for over a decade. (12 years now). I've written 100,000s of words ranging in content types like; content for blogs, websites, social media profiles, networking accounts, landing page copy, Ad copywriting, email newsletters, reviews, and more, YouTube scripts, Outreach emails, Product pages. I've written several ebooks, white papers, press releases, blog posts, video scripts, podcast streams, landing, and social media copies. Let’s begin - what is content writing? Definition of “Content Writing”. How can the term “content writing” be defined by someone who has been writing content for the past decade? Content writing is the process of brainstorming, researching, writing, editing, publishing, and promoting written content online to engage a particular target audience. Content writing involves putting down written texts or articles to be published online. Who is a content writer? Definition of a Content Writer (AKA a content writing expert) How can I define a “content writer” (like me)? A content writer (or a content writing expert) specializes in writing content for websites, YouTube channels, landing pages, startups, email newsletters, movies, podcasts, blogs, etc for some reward which is mostly money. I am a content writer because I research, plan, and write SEO content for business websites and get paid. Get the idea? A content writer handles creating, researching, writing, and publishing several content pieces for various channels to help attain or achieve these business goals. A content writer may specialize in video scripts, written scripts, blog post articles, social media copy, email marketing copy, landing page copy, or website copy in general. (More on the categories of content writing below) Now, what are the common types of content writing? Examples of “Content Writing” Professionals Content Writing Specialists, and Strategists: Ali Faagba Joshua Okey-Ogunjiofor Maero Olori Emily Fowler Maureen Eugene Lucy Adegbe Kelle Campbell Jennifer Halligan Ashley Cummings Simon Taki Zaku (me;) Types/Categories of Content Writing There are many categories and types of content writing but here are the most common ones; blog posts, video scripts, podcast scripts, press releases, email newsletters, social media copies, landing page copy, product descriptions, white papers, ebooks, etc. Video Scripts: This is the process of writing a script for a video. This could be a YouTube video, a Vimeo video, a landing page video, or a sales or promotional video.  Email Newsletters: Email marketing involves writing copy that, sells to your email newsletters. This is another form of content writing as well. Keynote Speech: As a keynote speech writer, you can write scripts for different keynote speakers or presenters. Social Media Copywriting: We need social content writing skills to create engaging social media copies for our feeds or clients'. Landing Page Copy: Every landing page hugely depends on the copy on the web page. The better the copy, the higher your conversion rates. White Paper Presentation: As a content writer, you can write white paper scripts for white paper presentations. YouTube SEO: YouTube description is a form of copy/content. If you're able to write content that properly describes a YouTube video, that is another form of content writing. Product Description: We have product pages for e-commerce websites that sell several products. A content writer writes product descriptions that include product features, pricing, shipping details, CTAs, etc. This is mostly popular for ecommerce brands or online stores. Website Pages AKA Webpages: Websites need copy for every page. These include your about us page, contact us, our story, our team, disclaimer, etc. A content writer handles this. Podcast Script: Some podcasters do not necessarily write their podcast scripts. A content writer can write high-converting podcast scripts for podcasters. Now there are different importance or aims of content writing. Some of these are; to make money to generate leads, to attract the right traffic, to convert traffic into leads, to convert leads into customers, to promote a brand, to increase social media followers, to engage to become popular, to build brand communities, etc. Examples of Content Writing What are some content writing examples to check? Here are 3 LIVE content writing examples in 3 different niches. You can click to view each piece before you continue reading. This page you are reading is an example of content writing. This is a LinkedIn post I published. It is another example of content writing. Click my blog here. Every post has an article - that is a content writing piece. Get the idea? Now how do you get started as a content writer? Getting Started as a Content Writer "How I personally got started as a content writer?" STEP 1: Let me tell you a short story (that leads to the first and important step to becoming a content writer). I recently applied for a job at one of my dream Agencies, Grow and Convert, but I didn’t get the role. But I learned something… They saw my special strengths ! Even though the company wasn’t looking for a conversational writer, the hiring team acknowledged my unique writing specialty: a conversational tone that sparks engagement. And that's alright because that same reason G & C declined my application is the same reason I get hired by all my past and current content writing clients. Get the idea? You should be able to find your calling. What is your unique voice and writing tone? How do you speak in person? One of the best content writing advice I ever got is “write exactly how you talk to people” Write how you speak. I have a conversational tone I love. That is what works for me. That is what connects with my audience. What’s next? At this stage, you know what content writing is, the types of content writing, some live content writing examples, and who a content writer is. Now let’s look at how to select a niche or category for your content writing journey. How do you find a content writing niche? Ask yourself; "Do I want to write emails? Do I want to write YouTube scripts? Do I want to write social media content? Or I prefer to write and publish your stories on your domain?" What writing niche or category do you want to go after? Are you most familiar with creating blog articles? Are you great at creating educational content?  Or are you interested in social media copywriting? These are categories of content writing a content writer can consider going into. I am a content writer in the B2B blogging and SEO niche. So be sure to find your niche before you proceed. STEP 2: What is the second step to becoming a content writer? The second step is to build a content writing portfolio. In other words, build a content writing website and display your works, story, experience, about, writing specialty, and contact details. A portfolio is an online presence where you display your past works, about you, contact me, and basically, why your target client should contact you for business. Design your portfolio. Design a portfolio for your content writing service or career online. I use Wix. You can use any good web hosting company  out there. Luckily, I have a detailed guide on designing a freelance portfolio website in less than 10 minutes. Use the link below to read. How to Create a Freelance Portfolio Website (Step by Step) STEP 3: The third step is to reach out. Out of 100 people you reach out to about your content writing specialty as a content writer, 1, 2, or 3 may hire you (if you have a good offer). To reach out effectively, find the ideal target people who need your specific content writing skills or services. ( Need SEO for your website? You can view our SEO Content writing packages by using the button above the page) Find companies, businesses, and entrepreneurs who may need writers in your niche. Focus on building genuine relationships with them and not directly ask for the sale. With time, you can pitch your new content writing services. This has been one of the wins that has helped me achieve a $1,100 per month content writing client.   STEP 4: BLOG, PLEASE! The next step is creating valuable blog content to showcase your experience in your space. If you follow my blog, you know I'm a huge fan of SEO content. This involves writing content that ranks on search engines like Google. The goal of SEO writing (what I do) is to attract the right traffic (organic traffic), convert quality traffic to leads, and generate sales. Find your goal and create content around it. What type of blog content are you looking to create? Depending on your content writing niche, you should know the type of content you should create. For example, if you are going into video or YouTube script writing, you should be able to create blog content that attracts YouTubers and other video content creators like Reels, Shorts, etc. On the other hand, if you're looking to go into social media content writing, create content around building social media accounts. Find your niche, and create and publish content on your portfolio website. Do you have a professional to help you research and write specific blog articles to your taste and target your ideal audience quickly? I may still have availability this month - click here to apply to work with me. RELATED BLOG: Here’s a detailed guide on how I scored my first $1,000 content writing client. Make Money Blogging: How to Make $1,000 Blogging FINAL STEP 5 TO BECOME A CONTENT WRITER Always stay on top of industry trends in your content writing niche. Content writing is very competitive, especially in the freelance market. You must be consistent and stay on top of your game. Follow the top blogs and content-writing gurus in your space. In the SEO Content writing space, I follow experts like Brian Dean of Backlinko.com  and Neil Patel of Neilpatel.com . AI Content Writing Tools There’s no doubt about the influence AI has in content writing.  What are some vital content writing tools for beginners? Here are 5 powerful AI content writing tools I recommend: ChatGPT, Grammarly, Jasper AI, CopyAI, Contentshake AI by Semrush. Now, how do you land content writing jobs? How to Land a Content Writing Client There are several ways to get content writing clients today but only a few stand out for me. And luckily, I have a full guide on how I landed my first $1,000/month freelance writing client some years back. Here’s the post But for this post, here are 5 content writer job boards that I have gotten at least a client from over my 12-year content writing career. Content writing job platforms: Peopleperhour Upwork Fiverr LinkedIn Freelancer 12 Content Marketing Tips for Beginners Finally, what are some content writing tips from a 12-year experienced SEO content writer who has made over $7,000 writing blog content for my content writing clients? Here are my secret expert content-writing tips for beginners: Write actionable content (depending on your niche). Allow plenty of space within your content for readability. Depending on your niche, consider a conversational writing tone. Learn SEO and SEO writing. I have a free email course you can go through. Edit finished articles multiple times at different times or hire/work with an editor. Insert a lot of multiple images, screenshots, videos, infographics, etc Repurpose your content for different platforms to reach more people. Leverage the 3 Es of writing content. You can learn that in this blog post. Incorporate storytelling in your content. Practice writing captivating headlines. Capture your reader’s attention in the first few sentences with hooks. Learn about WordPress and blogging. I have a detailed guide that will help you when you start a blog and make money. Frequently Asked Questions about “Content Writing”. Now what are the frequently asked questions around content writing? How can I start content writing? Just like I've explained, there are just a few steps to going into content writing. The first is to develop your niche. What is that content writing niche you want to go into? Blogging? Video or podcast scriptwriting? Or product descriptions. After picking your niche, design and build your content writing portfolio. Begin creating content, build relationships, and network. This will help you to build a long-term career as a content writer. Finally, you should be able to apply for jobs on different job platforms. What are the skills required for content writing? There are skills required for content writing but here are the most important ones. We have; excellent grammar and punctuation skills, effective communication skills, research skills, blogging and SEO skills, adaptability to different tools and styles, storytelling. Where can I learn content writing? You can learn content writing from different online course platforms. You can also learn content writing by watching YouTube videos. Most importantly, I advise you to follow my blog as I am an SEO content writing expert with more than 10 years writing experience. So be sure to subscribe to this SEO blog to get updates once I publish new blogs. Other platforms to learn content writing include Coursera, Udemy, and more. How do content writers make money? The way I make money as a content writer is by taking freelance content writing gigs where businesses hire me to write blog articles for them. I can get paid per word per article or every month. Potential content clients contact me through this website with their unique content writing needs and projects. What is an example of content writing? There are so many examples of content writing. How much can a beginner content writer make? Now let me tell you my story. I've been doing content writing for more than 10 years, and I have made quite some money from my content writing services. I've worked with blogs, startups, software companies, and busy entrepreneurs to build their blogs. I've worked with personal brands, corporations, and organizations, to handle and create content for them. And on average, I make around $150 to $300 per content. Thank you for taking the time to read this masterpiece. Please share this guide around and if you have any questions please use the comments section below. I wish you a successful content-writing journey, Join my blog here, Simon Taki Zaku, Owner: https://simonzaku.com .

  • Meet the Incredible IbiFoundry Team: The Heartbeat Behind Our Vision

    Hi, Simon Zaku here. I want you to meet the awesome IbiFoundry team. At IbiFoundry, we're more than just a team—we’re a family, united by a single mission to bring change, development, and innovation to Ibi, Taraba, and beyond. The journey ahead is exciting, but behind every milestone and every project is an amazing team of passionate individuals who are working tirelessly (and often voluntarily) to make it all happen. So, let’s take a fun, behind-the-scenes look at the brilliant minds who make IbiFoundry tick! The IbiFounders: the IbiFoundry Team Simon Taki Zaku – Founder & CEO, IbiFoundry Group Simon Taki Zaku – Founder & CEO, IbiFoundry Group I wouldn't want to talk much about myself but I am the Founder, and CEO, of IbiFoundry Group. You know the saying, “Big dreams come from big ideas”? Well, my dream for IbiFoundry is not just big—it’s colossal! As the founder and CEO, the untapped potential in Ibi and Taraba is something I have seen growing up all my life. And I am determined to put it (Ibi Local Government, Taraba, and Nigeria in general) on the map. When I'm not dreaming up new ways to inspire the team, I'm probably out there listening to music, making connections, or laughing at his jokes. Yep, na me be that! Dr. Mrs. Christie S. Zaku – Director, IbiFoundry Group Dr. Mrs. Christie S. Zaku – Director, IbiFoundry Group If there’s anyone who could be called the glue holding IbiFoundry together, it’s Dr. Christie S. Zaku. As a founding partner and director, she’s got the strategic know-how and experience to keep us grounded while we reach for the stars. Dr. Zaku brings a wealth of knowledge to the team, guiding us through every challenge with grace and precision. We’re lucky to have her vision shaping IbiFoundry into the powerhouse it’s becoming. Love Samuel – Project Manager, IbiFoundry Group Love Samuel – Project Manager, IbiFoundry Group If there’s one person who ensures that our projects go from “idea” to “reality,” it’s Love Samuel. As the project manager, Love takes on the heavy lifting of planning, organizing, and executing our initiatives. She’s our go-to person for turning concepts into action—and she does it all with a smile! Whether it’s coordinating a new development or overseeing a team of volunteers, Love’s leadership is a key reason why IbiFoundry continues to thrive. Sunday Job – Photographer & Content Creator, IbiFoundry Group Sunday Job – Photographer & Content Creator, IbiFoundry Group Sunday Job might say he’s “not that good at photography,” but let’s be honest—he’s a wizard with a camera. From breathtaking photos to high-energy video shoots, Sunday brings IbiFoundry’s story to life in ways words just can’t. He captures the heart of Taraba and Ibi with his incredible eye for detail and Nigerian creativity, all while making it look fun. If you’ve seen any stunning visuals from IbiFoundry, it’s because Sunday worked his magic. Bar. Hannah Taki Zaku – Legal Counsel, IbiFoundry Group Bar. Hannah Taki Zaku – Legal Counsel, IbiFoundry Group Legal matters at IBIFoundry? Handled. Compliance issues? Sorted as well. Bar. Hannah Taki Zaku, aka “Annie,” is the one who ensures IbiFoundry is running smoothly on the legal front. With her sharp, Godly mind and deep understanding of the law, she’s our go-to person when it comes to navigating tricky legal waters. Whether it’s contracts, regulations, or setting up new ventures, Annie’s legal expertise keeps us on the right track. Plus, she’s always ready with a great legal analogy to make things clear—she’s the kind of lawyer you want on your team. Hon. Prince Ayuba Zaku Dampar – Member of House of Representatives, Wukari/Ibi, Advocate/Director, IbiFoundry Hon. Prince Ayuba Zaku Dampar – Member of House of Representatives, Wukari/Ibi, Advocate/Director, IbiFoundry We can’t talk about IbiFoundry without mentioning the incredible support of Hon. Prince Ayuba Zaku Dampar. As the Member of House of Representatives for Wukari/Ibi and a key sponsor/director, he brings invaluable leadership and expertise to the table. His insight and connection to the local government make him a powerful ally as we push forward with projects that will change the lives of the people in Ibi and beyond. Hon. Ayuba Dampar is a visionary leader who believes in the power of community and development, and we’re honored to have him as a part of the IbiFoundry family. So, there you have it—the awesome, unstoppable team that makes IbiFoundry what it is today. We’re not just a group of passionate Tarabans working as a team of individuals who believe in Ibi, believe in Taraba, and believe in the power of community-driven change. We’re all here for the same reason: to make Ibi and Taraba a better place for everyone. And hey, if you’re inspired by what we’re doing and want to get involved, there’s always room for more passionate souls! You can contribute in so many ways—whether it’s by volunteering, partnering with us, or simply sharing our message. Stay tuned for more updates, and remember, the best is yet to come. 😎 Simon Taki Zaku Founder & CEO, IbiFoundry

  • Is Northern Nigeria Safe from Insurgency? What the Media Doesn't Show You - A Personal Journey

    Hey, do you want to visit the North but contemplating? Read on, I'll tell you things the media will not! "How do you cope with Boko Haram insurgency in the North?" Hello everybody, Simon here! Today, we’re diving into something significant - is Northern Nigeria safe? I'll be sharing some stories here so don't forget to subscribe. Having traveled to different parts of Nigeria, one of the most common questions I get is; "How do you cope with Boko Haram and insurgency in the northern states?" How Do We Northern Nigerians Cope with Boko Haram Insurgency? If you watch the news or live in Nigeria, you know that over the past two or three decades, there’s been a rise in insurgency. Especially from Boko Haram in northern Nigeria, affecting states like Borno, Maiduguri, and others. Here's the reality: I’ve spent over 20 years in the Northeast and haven’t personally faced or come across any insurgency attacks. My sisters and I This doesn’t mean these incidents don’t happen, but the media’s portrayal can make it feel exaggerated. Read on, I'll explain... I’ve traveled across the north, and my experience has been far more peaceful than people expect. Part of my comfort comes from being able to speak Hausa, which is widely spoken here, but it’s more than that. In Taraba State, for example, I can walk freely at any time of the day or night without fearing armed robbery, kidnapping, or other crimes. Yes, there are areas where these risks exist, but these are mostly remote, sparsely populated regions. The Truth about Northern Nigeria’s Peace - An Insider Story You see, the North is more peaceful than people think. I’ve spent my entire life studying and working in different northern states. And I’ve never had a direct encounter with Boko Haram or an insurgency situation. While these things do occur, they’re often in remote villages far from town centers. A Story from Yola, Adamawa State. Sometime back, I was in Yola, Adamawa state when news broke of a Boko Haram attack in Numan , a nearby Local Government. The news reported an alleged group of bandit killings in that Local government area of Adamawa state. My parents in Taraba were worried and urged me to come home. But as I stepped out of school and moved around town, I saw people going about their daily business—farmers working, taxis running, life as usual. "Me sef shock" ("I was in complete shock") The news of an insurgency nearby led to panic, yet right there in Yola, it was calm. I was there! Trust Me, the News Tends to "Cause Panic or Exegerate". This is not to say good and innocent people aren't killed by insurgency in this part but the news makes it seem like the entire state or region is affected. You'd most likely have to drive long distances to get to some of these affected areas. If you’re outside looking in or watching the news, it’s easy to think one incident defines the whole region. Just like in developed countries like the U.S. or the U.K., certain neighborhoods face crime issues, but you can’t judge the safety of an entire state or region based on one area’s troubles. In Taraba State, for example, I can walk around without worrying about carrying a weapon. Is that possible in areas like Chicago or Texas with high gun deaths? I feel safe, and I don’t have to hide my valuables like people do in many cities worldwide. Yes, this may be because I grew up here but trust me, there's way more good than the media credits. Compare this with some developed countries, where people can’t even wear jewelry or carry cash without concern. The Media’s Role in the Northern "Boko-Haram Perception" The Media often focuses on sensational stories because they drive views and clicks. Yes, these incidents occur, but they are far from daily reality for most people living here. Northern Nigeria is home to tens of millions living peaceful, productive lives. If you’ve been hesitant to explore Northern Nigeria because of what you've seen in the media, I invite you to come and experience it firsthand. From the beautiful landscapes to the rich culture, there’s so much to experience, there's so much to see. Why Taraba State Should Be on Your "Visit" List 1. Stunning Landscapes Taraba is home to breathtaking scenery, including forests, mountains, rivers, and waterfalls. Take the Mambilla Plateau, for instance. The Mambilla is known as one of the coldest places in Nigeria, it offers views you won’t find anywhere else. 2. Rich Culture Taraba is one of Nigeria's most culturally diverse states, with a wide variety of tribes, languages, and traditions. Here, the Fulani, Jukun, Wurkum, Mumuye, and many others live together, creating a vibrant tapestry of Nigerian life. 3. Affordable, Simple Lifestyle Life here is affordable. For instance, a drop anywhere within Jalingo, the state capital, costs around 200 Naira. This affordability extends to food, thanks to the state’s agricultural richness, making fresh produce accessible to all. 4. Growing Infrastructure Contrary to what some may believe, Taraba state is developing steadily. There’s ample land, labor, and opportunity for investors. If you have a business idea or want to invest, Taraba offers untapped potential. Thank you for reading! I’m Simon Zaku, founder of IBI Foundry.

  • The 10 Best Web-Hosting Services for Businesses & Websites

    What is the best web hosting service provider for small businesses? Experts reveal their process for selecting the perfect web hosting solution for your business or website. I reached out to influencers, thought leaders and experts in the marketing and tech hosting space to reveal their secrets for great hosting companies and also reveal some of their favorite web hosting service providers on the internet. Let's get right into it. Here are my top web hosting recommendations for small businesses: Namecheap Wix Hostinger Bluehost eUkhost Hostgator Contabu Interserver Web hosting Godaddy Siteground Here are the top web hosting companies mentioned in this post by the experts  who participated: Hostgator Godaddy Bluehost Hostinger Siteground Hostnownow Namecheap Dreamhost To make this easier for you, I made this list (of the top best website hosting companies to pick from) into a PDF file for you to download which is great for offline purposes or to share with your colleagues. Here is what it looks like: Top 10 Website Hosting Service Providers PDF by Simon Zaku Download the PDF file here (join my blog's forum for free). How to Choose the Best Web Hosting Company for Your Business: Tech Experts Reveal their Best Web Hosting Companies Simon Taki Zaku - SimonZaku.com Nirav Darji - Easy-techy.com Adam Abdulraheem - DMi - Digital Marketing Agency (DMi Agency) Alice MusyokaItaloye Ibukun Ebenezer - Vibrantyouthlife.comDave Schneider - Shortlist.io Hamraz Hussain Prudence Onaah - Prudentpens.com Precious Oboidhe - Contentestate.com Qasim Bakare  D20.com.ng Joel Haye QUESTION: “Could you share your top web hosting solutions for 2024? Why do you like these solutions?” Simon Taki Zaku - SimonZaku.com As an experienced SEO freelancer with over a decade's experience with numerous web hosting companies (good and bad), here is my input: Over the years, I've explored various website hosting platforms, but two platforms have consistently stood out for me and earned my unwavering recommendation: Wix  (for easy and fast website design) and Bluehost  (perfect for WordPress lovers). Here's why these two hosting services have become my go-to choices, both for personal projects and client websites. Wix: A User-Friendly Haven for Creativity Wix has won me over with its unparalleled user-friendly interface. As an SEO professional, time is of the essence, and Wix drag-and-drop website builder enables me to create visually stunning and functional websites in record time.  The diverse range of templates caters to every niche imaginable, providing a solid foundation that I can effortlessly customize to align with the unique branding and SEO needs of each project. Secondly, Bluehost : From an SEO perspective, Bluehost provides a stable foundation for websites to thrive. The one-click WordPress installation simplifies the process of setting up a website, and the platform's robust security features help safeguard against potential threats. This level of reliability and security is crucial in an era where online visibility hinges on trustworthiness and site performance. Bluehost's scalability is another feature I value. As an SEO professional, I often work on projects that evolve and grow over time. Bluehost accommodates this scalability seamlessly, ensuring that websites can handle increased traffic and data demands without compromising on speed or performance. Other great web hosting service providers I recommend are Hostgator , Namecheap , and Hostinger . Nirav Darji   - Easy-techy.com Hello, I am Nirav Darji. Navigating the complex digital terrain, choosing a web hosting solution goes beyond technicalities; it's a strategic decision shaping your online journey. Leveraging years of experience in digital marketing and web management, let me share key factors to consider in selecting your web host for the dynamic year ahead: Defining Your Digital Blueprint Performance Excellence Scalability Unleashed User-Friendly Mastery Security Fortification Customer Support Excellence Financial Precision Uptime Assurance Environmental Stewardship Insider Insights The best web hosting companies, in my opinion, are: HostGator :  Users get unmetered storage and bandwidth, free domain registration, and a 45-day money-back guarantee. They also have awesome support. Bluehost :  This web hosting service is used by many brands, and it’s easy to see why. 50GB of storage, unmetered bandwidth, and a 30-day money-back guarantee are hard to beat. DreamHost :  Like HostGator, DreamHost offers unlimited storage, bandwidth, and free domain registration. But it goes a step further and gives a 97-day money-back guarantee. You have more than three months to decide whether you like it or not. Adam Abdulraheem - DMi - Digital Marketing Agency (DMi Agency)   As the director of a marketing agency that not only crafts digital strategies but also provides web hosting services , we've navigated the complex world of hosting solutions on behalf of our clients. They often look to us for guidance on where to best host their websites and sales funnels. After years of experience and comparison, we've distilled our top choices down to a couple of standout providers. Namecheap   has been our go-to for over six years, and it's a partnership that has stood the test of time. The reason for our loyalty is simple: reliability. We've hosted countless client websites without a single hiccup, which is no small feat in the digital realm. Their service offerings are robust, user-friendly, and, importantly, affordable, making them an excellent choice for businesses of all sizes. Bluehost   is another provider we often recommend to our clients. What sets Bluehost apart, in our experience, is their exceptional customer support. In the rare instances when issues arise, their responsive and knowledgeable support team has been instrumental in providing timely solutions. Their hosting services are not only reliable but also offer a range of features that cater well to our clients' diverse needs. Choosing the right web host is crucial for any online venture. Both Namecheap and Bluehost stand out not just for their technical capabilities but for their customer-centric approach, making them our top recommendations for 2024. Alice Musyoka It’s no longer news that industry-leading companies and brands have a website or blog where they promote their products and services. With over 5.3 billion Internet users  in 2023, these companies realized the need to explore the Internet and convert these numbers into leads and customers. Hence, they invested heavily in websites and blogs for better and improved income profits.  They created attractive and user-friendly landing pages that will entice visitors and capture their attention (talk of love at first sight). Additionally, they hired experienced content writers to publish well-written and valuable blog posts that will rank high on search engine result pages (SERPs). This explains why top brands often update their blog posts to beat competition. After generating thousands of organic traffic through optimized posts, they create an irresistible sales funnel that converts traffic to leads and long-term customers. Unsurprisingly, Colibri  revealed that a monetized website recorded an average $1000 monthly income. What does this mean? That's pretty simple. You need a website to thrive in this digital era. However, all of this relies on having the right web hosting provider behind your website because the journey of a successful website begins with a quality host company. Italoye Ibukun Ebenezer - Vibrantyouthlife.com   As an SEO content writer and blogger, I will share the key factors you should evaluate when choosing a web host for your business. What is a Web Host? A web host is a company that provides the technology, hardware, and services required to host a website on the Internet.  They are in charge of the Control Panel, Bandwidth, IP Address, Connectivity, and Server Space upon which you build an effective website. Six Factors To Consider When Choosing a Web Host Below are the five significant factors to consider before choosing a web host for your business: Uptime and Reliability Speed and Performance Security Customer Support Upgrade Options Price  My Recommended Web Hosting Solutions Based on my experience as a blog admin for vibrantyouthlife.com , I recommend Namecheap and BlueHost . They guarantee reliable uptime and fast loading time and are affordable (especially Namecheap). Nonetheless, take time to research before committing. Compare uptime, speed, customer remarks, costs, and customer support. Dave Schneider - Shortlist.io Choosing a reliable web host involves considering key factors that I can separate in several categories. It’s a no-brainer, but this is something that I like to follow when choosing the right web host. Performance and Reliability: Uptime: Look for providers with consistent 99.9% or higher uptime guarantees. Avoid hosts with frequent outages or downtime. Speed: Choose a host with fast server response times and efficient CDNs to ensure your website loads quickly for visitors. Scalability: Make sure the host can accommodate your website's growth. Can you easily upgrade resources like storage, bandwidth, and processing power as needed? Also, ensure the provider offers easy upgrades or the ability to switch to a higher-tier plan. Security and Features: Security features: SSL certificates, malware scanning, DDoS protection, and regular backups are essential to safeguard your website and data. Software compatibility: Make sure the host supports the programming languages, databases, and CMS platforms you need for your website. Control panel: Choose a user-friendly control panel for easy website management, even if you're not technically proficient. Evaluate the control panel provided for managing your hosting environment - features like one-click installations, staging environments, automatic backups, and easy version control can be valuable. Support and Services: Customer support: 24/7 reliable and knowledgeable support is crucial for resolving issues quickly. Look for multiple channels like phone, email, and live chat. Additional services: Do they offer managed hosting, email hosting, domain registration, or other services you might need? Budget and Value: Pricing: Compare features and benefits of different plans to find the best value for your money. Avoid going for the cheapest option if it compromises performance or security. Money-back guarantees: Look for hosts with transparent pricing and reasonable refund policies in case you're not satisfied. Challenges and Overcoming them: Navigating the web hosting landscape can be a challenge. Here are some I've observed and potential solutions: Information overload: With so many providers and plans, it's easy to get overwhelmed. Research thoroughly, compare features, and focus on your specific needs. Choosing the right type of hosting: Shared, VPS, dedicated, managed - each has its pros and cons. Understand your website's resource requirements and choose the type that suits it best. Dealing with hidden costs: Watch out for setup fees, bandwidth overage charges, and other hidden costs. Read the fine print and ask clear questions before signing up. One of the things that I think is important (and often overlooked when it comes to choosing a product or service) is looking for reviews and testimonials. These can be incredibly helpful in verifying the reliability and quality of the product or service in question. So, next time you are considering making a purchase, don't forget to check out the reviews and testimonials to ensure that you are getting the best possible product or service. By prioritizing these criteria and being aware of potential challenges, you can find a reliable and trustworthy web hosting partner that empowers your online presence. Remember, the perfect solution is subjective and depends on your unique needs and budget. Do your research, ask questions, and switch if needed. Hamraz Hussain For 2024, my top web hosting picks are reliability-focused A2 Hosting and feature-rich SiteGround. They consistently deliver performance and support excellence. Prudence Onaah - Prudentpens.com My top web hosting solutions are Siteground , Hostinger , and Hostgator.com . We use Siteground at our business and their services are excellent. The loading time, website speed, and customer support are top-notch. We tried to migrate to a different hosting provider in 2022 and immediately regretted it. Our CTO at Prudent Pens also recommends Hostinger and HostGator because both hosting providers offer a range of affordable hosting options, fast loading time, and a 99.99% uptime. Precious Oboidhe - Contentestate.com Not having to think about hosting fees is one reason I like HostGator. I opted for their three years plan, which cost me almost 100% less than the monthly plan. Since using HostGator for almost 3 years, their support has been responsive, too (very important for anyone who dislikes codes). Qasim Bakare   D20.com.ng In  the realm of web hosting, identifying a reliable partner requires careful consideration of key criteria. At D20, we prioritize the following factors: Server Reliability and Uptime Scores: We emphasize providers with robust server infrastructure, ensuring high uptime and stringent security measures. Customer Service Site Backups and Security Scalability and Flexibility Loading Speed Cost and Refund Policy E-Commerce and Email Options In our quest for the perfect web hosting solution, challenges such as downtime, slow loading speeds, and inadequate support have been encountered. However, through diligent research and a keen understanding of our website's requirements, we've overcome these obstacles to find hosting partners aligned with our needs. In summary, prioritizing factors such as reliability, customer support, security, scalability, and loading speed is paramount in selecting a robust hosting solution, ensuring optimal performance for websites. Joel Haye Bluehost - along with unmetered bandwidth and SSD, Bluehost has proven to be a great option for start ups with their great customer service and robust server support. Hostgator - A tie with bluehost in regards to features and support. GoDaddy - Great for easy website set up. Top 10 Web Hosting Service Providers for Small Businesses Here are my recommendations: Namecheap Wix Hostinger Bluehost eUkhost Hostgator Contabu Interserver Web hosting Godaddy Siteground Here are the top web hosting companies mentioned in this post by the experts  who participated: Hostgator Godaddy Bluehost Hostinger Siteground Hostnownow Namecheap Dreamhost I made this list (of the top best website hosting companies to pick from) into a PDF file for you to download which is great for offline purposes or to share with your colleagues. Here is what it looks like: Top 10 Website Hosting Service Providers PDF by Simon Zaku Download the PDF file by joining the Ibifoundry blog's forum for free (use button above). What are your personal favorites? Let me know in the comments section :)

  • Work with Simon Taki Zaku: How I Help Nigerian Businesses Increase Customers Online - SEO & Digital Marketing Expert

    Do you run a business? Do you strongly believe your business idea can change the world? I am inviting you to work with me on achieving this big dream. Work with Simon Taki Zaku: How We Help Businesses Increase Leads - SEO & Digital Marketing Expert Hi, my name is Simon Zaku, and I'm on a mission to help 10 startups, and businesses build brand influence through the power of search engine content. Why should you consider working with Simon Zaku for your business website? You see, I started this journey over a decade ago when I became interested in learning about blogging because my best friend, at the time, was making $60 every month from Google AdSense. At that time, I started my entertainment blog, zakxloaded.com . I was able to get a throwback screenshot of what my first blog looked like years ago (below): A screenshot of my first blog, zakxloaded.com  (no longer active) What I did there was copy and paste news content from lindaekgblog.com and then publish it on my blog. And as a result, I failed. My blog, zakxloaded.com  failed! From 2013-2016, I was taking content from other sites and pasting it on my site. Fast forward 10+ years, after running and closing several websites, stores, and blogs, I now run a successful growing community here on this website. I've helped 1000s of content marketers, SEOs, business owners, and digital marketing agencies through my content. And I am most happy that: I've published a ton of blog content, which collectively has over 5 million views. I have built an email list of hundreds of amazing marketers, SEOs, and entrepreneurs just like you. I have been featured and quoted in some of the top marketing publications and blogs like Forbes, RescueaCEO, MarketingInsider, A1future, Pixelied, and many more. I've also been nominated for several industry-related awards like the Best Internet Marketing Blog in 2019 by InfinityBlogAwards. And most importantly, I've received so much amazing feedback from the people I have helped. “ Wow, Simon! This is the best article I have ever read on Twitter and I have PAID good money to learn more about it. You gave this for free, I can’t wait to learn more from you and am subscribing to you today! I am going to start trying these steps one by one as I have time and I can’t wait to see the results. ” - Amy Marohl, Neededinthehome.com “ Working with Simon for around a year on our blog (The UniclixApp Blog) has really helped kickstart our content marketing efforts over at Uniclixapp.com . He’s written several blog articles that have collectively attracted exactly 1,506,400 unique visitors to our (b2b) company blog. One article alone (about X analytics) which he published, has attracted over 482,700 visitors (at the moment) to our website - I highly recommend Simon for start-ups and blogs ” -  Rinol Alaj, Founder, Uniclixapp.com . " Simon, your perseverance is commendably inspiring! Overcoming the common pitfalls and remaining dedicated – that's entrepreneurial spirit. Looking forward to your e-book insights! " - Alex Belove, Founder, Belov Digital Agency. " Great insights, Simon! Your approach to researching lucrative blog ideas is spot-on. Utilizing platforms like Quora, and Google Keyword Planner, and engaging in online community forums is a fantastic strategy for understanding your audience's needs. Connecting with your target customers and providing content based on their interests ensures not only high impressions but also meaningful engagement. Looking forward to the next steps and learning more from your expertise! " - Mr Sahil, SEO Expert. The Types of Businesses I Work With? Here's the thing... Not all businesses or website owners are welcome to work directly with me! Over the years, I've evolved to develop a strong passion for software companies or in the B2B space. Since I've spent all my digital years in B2B, I love seeing startups become million and multi-million dollar companies. As a result, I have worked with over 20 satisfying startups and have learned a ton during this long period. Here are some of the brands I have worked with; UniclixApp  (a social media management tool like Buffer, Hootsuite) - B2B A1future  (a web-design, UX &UI digital agency) - B2B Pixelied  (a social media design tool like Canva) - B2B Cyberbackpack.com  (a B2C online store that sells Tesla-related accessories online) - B2C Pmstudycircle.com   (PMP website helping Project Management professionals pass the PMP Exam) - B2C Favfoundation.com  (an NGO & Charitable Organization in the heart of Taraba) - NGO Other businesses can follow the blog  to learn exclusive organic strategies that I release every week. Here are my goals for this very website: GOAL 1  - I want to work with at least 5 Nigerian startups and 5 internationwithin the next six to twelve months. GOAL 2  - I want to help out of these five startups. I want to help three of these startups to hit 10,000 monthly organic traffic. Specifically traffic from Google and other major search engines like Bing. Finally, (GOAL 3)  - I want to be able to travel out (Dubai in mind) for the 2024 Christmas/New Year celebrations; this has always been my dream, and I still hope and believe I will achieve this. Do you believe your startup idea is crazy enough to change the world? Is Your Business Idea Ready to Change the World? Work with Simon Zaku for Explosive Organic Growth What is your business or agency goal? If you have a big dream, then I believe we can strongly work together and produce something amazing. Amazing content. Amazing web pages, and Amazing blog post pages for your brand. But here's the thing... if you don't think your dream is big enough to change the world, we probably shouldn't work together. I respect YOU enough to save your time and save mine as well. But if yes, then you can contact (or email) me. You can also find me active on LinkedIn, X, Pinterest, Google Profile, and YouTube as well. On the other hand, implementing most of these things requires hands-on experience which you might not have. I'm excited and open to scheduling a call or meeting and speak with you (or your awesome team). All you need to do is contact me using the contact form or any of my emails or social DMs or schedule a call directly using my calendar link here. I'll get back to you whether you are a great fit or not. As I reply to all emails. Once more, this is not for every business. I have explained the typical and ideal business type I am comfortable working with, which are; B2B SaaS SEO agencies Digital marketing agencies PPC and Ad agencies Social media marketing agencies I'll be going through all the emails and applications I get here. And if you're a perfect fit, I'll get back to you with the next steps to schedule and discuss better. Talking to you has been my dream and doing this will help me achieve my goals and aspirations. Here are 3 action steps: Contact me (email me) Schedule a 15-minute Call with Me Read the blog . Have a great day, and I'll see you inside. Simon Taki Zaku, Founder, CEO, IbiFoundry.com.ng

  • Welcome to IBIFoundry by Simon Taki Zaku: Nigeria's Journey from Ibi to the World

    Hello, my people! I’m Simon Taki Zaku from Ibi, Taraba state, Nigeria, and today, I’m beyond excited to welcome you to IBIFoundry. This isn’t just another brand or company. IBI Foundry is something I’ve dreamed about for years. It’s my story, my passion, and my mission to show the world everything Ibi and Taraba State have to offer. From our culture, talents, strength, dedication, and our unique stories. Where It All Started Let me tell you a story. Proposed IbiFoundry Limited Headquarters IBIFoundry by Simon T. Zaku The IbiFoundry growing team :) IbiFoundry CEO, Simon Taki Zaku (left) with His Excellency Governor Agbu Kefas (Dr.) Proposed Ibifoundry Limited Meeting Room IBIFOUNDRY LIMITED is a legal company registered under the CAC. En route to my Village, Dampar, Ibi Local Government, Taraba state, Nigeria - 2025 A few years ago, I was going to Dampar - my village in Ibi Local Government, Taraba state. Along the way, I saw this young boy, barely 13, out on a small boat, fishing all by himself. The way he handled the boat, with so much skill and focus, made me stop and watch. But at the same time, I thought to myself—this young boy has so much potential, yet little to no support. Are you with me? And this isn’t just one boy. There are thousands of talented, hard-working young people here in Ibi and Taraba who need opportunities but often find themselves overlooked. I couldn’t shake that image out of my head. So, I started imagining a way to shine a light on this place and its people. The idea for IBIFoundry was born. Do you understand? Why “IBIFoundry”? I wanted a name that spoke to my roots. Ibi is my hometown, my pride. On the other hand, a foundry is where things are made and shaped. To me, “IBIFoundry” represents the potential I see here—untapped talent waiting to be forged into something powerful, something lasting. IbiFoundry Mission and Goals? Now, what exactly is IBIFoundry about? IBIFoundry has a simple mission: to put Ibi Local Government, Taraba State, and ultimately Nigeria on the global map. Yup, this is how we get home for vacation growing up. We have incredible stories to tell, and we deserve to be seen, heard, and valued. Here’s what we aim to do: Promote our culture and traditions – Ibi has so much to offer, from our festivals to the incredible talents of our people. The world needs to see this. Attract investment – We need more roads, better education, and opportunities. With the right partners and investors, we can create lasting change. Empower the youth – Our youth are the future. Through skills, opportunities, and support, we’re preparing them to succeed. What to Expect from IBIFoundry Let me explain… Through IBIFoundry, the team and I will share the best of what we have here. From real stories of local heroes to projects that uplift the community, we’re going to put a spotlight on Ibi and Nigeria as a whole. Here’s a taste of what’s coming: Stories from the Heart – You’ll hear real stories from our communities, showcasing the strength, resilience, and pride of our people. Tutorials & How-To Guides – From entrepreneurship to fishing and beyond, we’ll be sharing knowledge to help everyone grow. Community Projects – Giving back is in our DNA. We’ll run charity projects and support local initiatives, and we’ll need you with us every step of the way. IbiFoundry Nigerian Store – Soon, you’ll be able to shop for authentic, quality Nigerian-made products that showcase our culture. Right now, you can pre-order and be the first to get these unique items delivered to you, wherever you are. IbiFoundry Services What exactly does IBIFoundry do? We’re not just about storytelling; we’re about impact. Here’s what you can expect from us: 1. Training & Workshops – We’re hosting workshops on digital marketing, entrepreneurship, and skills that are valuable in today’s world. 2. Business Consulting – Need help connecting with a Nigerian audience or making an impact? We’ll be there to guide you. 3. Digital Marketing & SEO – With over 10 years in digital marketing, I’m here to help brands make their mark. Why IBIFoundry Matters Let me tell you another reason I’m so passionate about this. There’s a festival here, the Nwunyu Fishing Festival. Every year, fishermen come from all over to show off their skills and celebrate on the Ibi River. But there’s a reality behind the celebration: there’s no direct road leading to our village in Dampar. Imagine that! If you’re lucky, you might get a boat ride. If not, you paddle a canoe. Isn’t that something? I can’t ignore it. I can’t ignore the people who don’t have the opportunities they deserve. And I know I’m not the only one who believes in this vision. Together, we can make IBI Foundry more than just a company. We can make it a force for change. What’s Next for IbiFoundry? Expect to see a lot of content here—from blog posts and articles to videos and tutorials. This is just the beginning. I’m hoping that through IBIFoundry, we can inspire others to invest in Ibi, in Taraba, and Nigeria. Join Us at Make Ibi and Taraba State Great Again! Proposed IbiFoundry Limited Headquarters What do you think? If this mission speaks to you, consider joining us. Whether it’s through a donation , signing up for our newsletter, or even just sharing our stories, every little bit helps. Together, we’re not just building a brand. We’re building a brighter future for our community and Nigeria. Thank you for being part of this journey. Are you ready to make an impact with us?

  • "Una Go Chop Cane Today As Una Valentine" – But Not This Time! (Happy Valentine, IbiFounders!)

    I can never forget my JSS1 Valentine’s Day. It was my first year in boarding school in Jos, and as junior boys, we had no idea what was coming. Our seniors called us out, and I still remember one of them saying: "Una go chop cane today as una Valentine!" Like joke, like joke - it was all pain. The kind of boarding school love letter  you don’t want to receive. But hey, that’s a story for another day! Today, we’re flipping the script. Instead of pain, we’re spreading love, appreciation, and opportunities  to everyone who has been part of the IbiFoundry movement. A Love Letter to Every IbiFounder You see, Valentine should be about love, care, and sharing. Today , as the world celebrates love, I want to take a moment to appreciate YOU - our incredible community of IbiFounders, supporters, and investors. This is the first Valentine’s IbiFoundry is witnessing - but it’s definitely not the last! And look at how far we’ve come together: ❤️ 40,000+ organic impressions on Google - people are searching, and they’re finding us. ❤️ An executive meeting with the Governor of Taraba State - our work is being recognized at the highest level. ❤️ Over 1,000 keywords ranking in 190+ countries worldwide - IbiFoundry’s reach is GLOBAL. ❤️ Local and international investors  backing our vision and believing in this movement. ❤️ A nd most importantly - you, our IbiFounders, our family. What started as a joke is now a movement with 100s of bifounders! You mean the world to us. Without you, there’s no IbiFoundry. 5 Exclusive Spots - A Valentine's Gift from IbiFoundry! To celebrate this day, we’re giving away 5 exclusive spots  in our upcoming WhatsApp class  for: ✅ Aspiring freelancers ✅ Future content creators ✅ Wannabe Bloggers ✅ Future SEO experts ✅ Anyone who wants to learn the ways of building a side-income online Want a spot? Drop a comment or DM us now! Join the Movement - The Best is Yet to Come! To every Nigerian reading this: IBI Foundry is more than a blog. It’s a revolution.   A movement rewriting the Nigerian narrative, opening doors, and bringing global attention to Taraba, Nigeria, and Africa. And trust me - y’all are NOT READY for what’s coming! We have some of the most groundbreaking projects in the works, and we need your continued support to bring them to life. To every Nigerian reading this: IBI Foundry is more than a movement - it’s a revolution! A revolution of storytelling, innovation, and nation-building. This is your invitation to join us. Be part of history. Let’s show the world what Taraba, Nigeria, and Africa are truly made of. Happy Valentine's Day, IbiFounders! Let’s keep building together. With love and gratitude from Simon. Happy Valentine’s, IbiFounders! Let’s keep making history together. Simon Taki Zaku Founder, CEO – IBIFoundry

  • An Open Letter to Foreign Investors - "Taraba State, Nigeria is Hidden Gem!"

    Heyoo, my people. Simon Zaku here. Let me tell you one of my favorite stories... Picture this (a fun trip of me en route Dampar, my hometown :): On a trip to my Village, Dampar, Ibi local government, Taraba state, Nigeria Some time ago while visiting Dampar, my hometown in Ibi Local Government, Taraba State, a small boat drifting down the river, a 13-year-old boy—barely old enough to have his voice crack—paddling with concentration. This wasn’t some luxury cruise we all see on Instagram and YouTube. No, this young fisherman was hard at work, and he was skilled. The kind of skill that only comes from years of practice and/or apprenticeship. At that moment, something hit me hard. Here’s this young boy with so much potential and energy, navigating his way through the water with precision and ease. But his reality? That's how he gets to eat. Fishing is the number 1 food eaten and exported or business. As it is a little island (Yes, surrounded by water) You can't get to my hometown, Dampar except by boat. The town is a gem, hidden from the world. And, just like that, IBIFoundry was born in my heart. You see, for over a decade, I have been involved in digital marketing and SEO —helping brands grow online. But something kept calling me back to my roots. This dream was not just about helping myself or my clients; it was about showcasing the uncelebrated stories, the untapped potential, and the goldmine of opportunities here in Ibi and Taraba State. And this isn’t just for us Nigerians. We’re welcoming everyone—foreign investors, NGOs, visionaries, and anyone who wants to be part of an incredible transformation, IbiFoundry. Why Invest in Nigeria? Top Reasons Ibi, Taraba State Should Be on Your Radar Let’s talk about investment opportunities. 5 Hidden Reasons to Invest in Nigeria’s Untapped Gem: Taraba State If you’ve been looking at investment opportunities in Nigeria, you might hear about places like Lagos or Abuja. How about Taraba State? You’d be surprised at how many Nigerians themselves don’t know much about this beautiful, growing state. It’s as if Taraba is a hidden treasure tucked away in plain sight. Here are five secret reasons why Taraba is a golden investment opportunity, and why it’s worth more attention. 1. Taraba State is A “Not-So-Famous” Treasure (Why That’s a Good Thing) If you’re familiar with Nigeria’s well-known regions, you might not know much about Taraba State. In fact, many Nigerians do a double-take when you say “Taraba.” It’s often met with “Where’s that?” — especially from residents of cities like Lagos or Ibadan. But that’s exactly what makes it so valuable for investment. Taraba is like an undiscovered goldmine, a place that hasn’t yet been overrun by big-city costs, overcrowding, or endless competition. Here, there’s a growing space for fresh businesses, innovative projects, and infrastructure development, all set in a region that’s still finding its feet on the national map. In Taraba, you’re not just joining the crowd—you’re setting the pace. This is where you can enter the ground floor before it becomes a buzzing hub, and early investors often reap the highest rewards when growth takes off. 2. Affordable Cost of Living (With Insanely Cheap Food!) If you’re investing in a place, you need to think about the sustainability of running your business or project there. And in Taraba, one thing’s certain: food is plentiful and incredibly affordable. Thanks to our rich soil and strong agricultural practices, farming is a way of life here. This year alone, we’ve seen record-breaking harvests, with bumper crops filling local markets with fresh produce at prices unheard of in other parts of Nigeria. Think about it—lower food and living costs mean lower operating costs for businesses. Imagine running a team or opening a production center where your expenses stay low, and you get the best quality produce right on your doorstep. Plus, when your workers are well-fed and costs are kept manageable, everyone benefits. Taraba’s food affordability offers a distinct advantage that savvy investors can capitalize on. 3. The Upcoming Ibi Bridge (Access to Countless Opportunities) And now, let’s talk about infrastructure. Right now, if you’re by the riverside in Ibi, you’ll see young men and boys guiding their canoes along the water. Ibi Local Government sits at the heart of Taraba State, and with the ongoing Ibi bridge project—linking Taraba to Abuja and Plateau states—the doors for development are about to burst wide open. It is also going to be one of the longest bridges in Nigeria. This isn’t some “in-the-future” talk. The groundwork is already laid. Imagine lands, properties, and resources right by the river, accessible to the hub of Northern Nigeria. Ten years from now, when the bridge is completed, Ibi will be the place to be. It’s a powerful image, but also a reminder that the area is ripe for more accessible transport solutions. The government is currently building a bridge that will connect Taraba to major neighboring states, including Abuja and Plateau. What does this mean for investors? Once that bridge is complete, Ibi—and Taraba as a whole—will have easier access to larger markets, more trade, and an influx of both goods and people. Imagine holding land or property here now and watching its value soar as soon as that bridge opens. This kind of transformative infrastructure is rare, and the bridge is just one piece of the puzzle that will make Taraba a go-to place for commerce and trade. 4. Endless Sunshine (Perfect for Solar Power Investments) There’s something about the Taraba sun. LOL! On a typical day, you can expect 7-9 hours of bright, consistent sunlight, making it ideal for solar energy. Data shows that northern Nigeria, including Taraba, gets about 1,800 hours of sunlight each year—a significant resource waiting to be tapped into. Imagine the potential for solar farms, renewable energy startups, or even community-based solar projects. In a country where electricity is often a challenge, Taraba’s abundant sun presents an opportunity to produce sustainable, reliable energy. "Our National Grid Dey Play" (Pidgin English) For investors interested in renewable energy, Taraba is like an untouched solar paradise, and harnessing this resource could mean huge returns, both financially and environmentally. 5. A Growing Population with Potential - 3 Million+ Taraba might not be as famous as Lagos or Abuja, but it’s home to over 3 million people—and that number is steadily growing. This is a young population, full of untapped talent and eager minds, ready to learn, work, and innovate. There’s a powerful potential here to build businesses and projects that not only benefit from this workforce but also invest in it. With more educational programs, businesses, and infrastructure, Taraba’s young and dynamic population could become one of the strongest in the country. As an investor, this means you have a chance to create an impact, build loyalty, and grow your business with people who are excited about new opportunities. You’re not just investing in a location; you’re investing in the future of a community that’s ready to work with you. Those who saw this vision early will have the returns to show for it. You don’t need millions to be an IbiFounder with us. In fact, we believe that everyone has something to offer. You can register with any amount you feel led to give, and once you’re in, you’re part of the IBI Foundry family. Or if you don't, I pray God blesses you. Whether you’re Nigerian or from the other side of the world, there’s a place for you at IBI Foundry. Let’s build the future—together. Once more, I'm Simon Taki Zaku, from Ibi, Taraba State, founder and CEO, of IbiFoundry Group. What do you think? Ready to be part of this journey? Send us a message to reserve your spot , IbiFounder. (Every IBIFoundry partner or donor is called an "IbiFounder")

  • Hootsuite Review: What is Hootsuite? Hootsuite Features, Pricing, Pros and Cons

    What is Hootsuite? Hootsuite  is a social media management platform that allows users to schedule, create content, view social analytics, and perform social listening all in one place. So rather than creating or using and switching from multiple platforms, and tools, Hootsuite  offers an all-in-one platform for social media marketing and management. Hootsuite was created by Ryan Holmes in 2008. This social media management tool is one of the first social media management and scheduling tools. Hootsuite helps organizations, businesses, and freelancers, to organize, plan, and deliver enhanced social media tasks to their audience, their customers, or even clients. Hootsuite  is useful for managing all of your social media accounts. But that is not all. Hootsuite offers a solution for data-driven marketing teams looking to organize their whole sales, content, marketing, and customer data in one place. What Hootsuite does is it helps businesses save time and get real results on social media. What social media results should I expect? According to Hootsuite, there has been a 636% increase year in and year out in terms of ROI for users who have signed up or who use the huge platform. There has also been a 500% growth across all social media networks for Hootsuite users and a 250% increase in sourced revenue year in and year out. This shows how effective and powerful the Hootsuite platform is. This is why it is often referred to as the number one social media management platform on the internet today. As I said, the platform has been created for the past 15 years. Hootsuite LinkedIn Page Until today, Hootsuite has over 1000 employees in different cities and is still going strong on more platforms. How many users does Hootsuite currently have? At the moment, Hootsuite has over 200,000 users, over 4000 enterprise customers, and 15 years of experience in the game. Hootsuite Features, Pros and Cons. Hootsuite Features: Publish and schedule Social media analytics AI content creation Best times to post Social listening Engagement tools Inbox and messaging Employee advocacy Social advertising Industries supported by the Hootsuite platform: Small business Financial services Government Healthcare Education Real estate Professional services Legal Agencies Nonprofit Hootsuite Resources: Free tools Case studies Webinars Blog Tutorials and demos Social media trends Courses FAQ Hootsuite Pricing: Hootsuite offers three (3) pricing plans to users: Professional [$99] Team [$249] Enterprise [Custom pricing] Features included in the Professional Plan [$99]: 1 User 10 Social accounts Unlimited post scheduling Best time to post recommendations Canva integration Hashtag generator One inbox for all social accounts Custom analytics and reports Competitive benchmarking tool Unlimited post boosting Features included in the Team Plan [$249]: Everything in the Professional Plan Plus: 3 Users 20 Social accounts Link in bio tool Suspend scheduled posts Team roles and permissions Assign DMs to teammates One custom-branded URL Automatic link tracking Features included in the Enterprise Plan [Custom pricing]: Everything included in the Team Plan, plus: 5 users 50 social accounts Approval workflow and asset management. Content Library Automated engagement tools Single sign-on (SSO) Unlimited ad spend Free Hootsuite Academy training Level up with these add-ons: Advanced social listening Advanced analytics Advanced inbox Employee advocacy Now, let's talk about Hootsuite Education Hootsuite Education When it comes to resources, Hootsuite has; Academy section, The Hootsuite blog section, Resource library, Webinars, Hootsuite FAQ, App Directory, Help center and, Product Update center section. Hootsuite Academy offers users the opportunity to build their skills to take the next step in their professional careers. There are several certification courses you can join and learn for free. There are over 1 million courses delivered on the Hootsuite education platform. We have over 500,000 learners enrolled and over 1000 universities enrolled as well. Some of the Hootsuite Education Academy certification courses are; Hootsuite platform certification, Social media certification course, Advanced social media strategy. Use my unique link to try the certification courses on the Hootsuite education platform. Other free training includes the Hootsuite platform certification training where you get to learn how to use and advocate the Hootsuite platform. We have a social media certification course, a social selling certification course, an advanced social media strategy, and more. There is also an advanced social media advertising certification course which will help you showcase your ability to create great social media ad campaigns with the Hootsuite social media Advertising dashboard. The next is the Hootsuite blog. The Hootsuite Blog I have been following for the past 6, or 7 years now. On the Hootsuite blogs, I've learned a lot. Hootsuite creates a lot of really amazing content and basically as an SEO specialist for blog content creation, I believe Hootsuite has a powerful content strategy. If you're looking to learn digital marketing, social media marketing, social advertising, SEO, and lots more, the blog section will help you to learn all of that. Here are the Pros of Using the Hootsuite Platform: An All-in-One Platform   - Hootsuite allows users to manage multiple social media management profiles. It is also referred to as social media tools in one. Users can schedule posts, analyze social media performance, and perform social listening all in one place. Hootsuite's Time-Saving Features - Hootsuite helps users, and businesses save time by enabling social media scheduling of posts and automating various social media tasks. Detailed Social Analytics - The Hootsuite platform provides users with detailed social media analytics and data helping businesses track performance metrics, and measure social ROI, and content effectiveness. Hootsuite Supports Multiple Social Media Networks - Hootsuite supports a range of social media networks, including Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, YouTube, Pinterest, WhatsApp, and Threads (beta). Hootsuite's Flexible Pricing Plans - With three pricing tiers (Professional, Team, and Enterprise), Hootsuite offers flexible options tailored to different business sizes and needs. Hootsuite's Educational Resources - Hootsuite Academy offers certification courses and extensive resources, helping users enhance their social media skills and stay updated with industry trends. What are Some Cons/Disadvantages of Hootsuite High Cost - Compared to other social media management tools , Hootsuite’s pricing can be prohibitive for small businesses and freelancers, with the Professional plan starting at $99 per month, which may be out of reach for some users. Complex Interface - The platform's extensive features can be overwhelming for those unfamiliar with social media management tools (or Hootsuite). No Forever Free Plan - Hootsuite no longer offers a free plan, which might send potential users away as they might be looking for a cost-free social media management tool. Want to try Hootsuite Out? Use my link. Finally, what are some frequently asked questions about the Hootsuite platform? What are Some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Around Hootsuite? What exactly does Hootsuite do now? Hootsuite is simply a social media management software that allows users to manage or handle social media management tasks daily. With the Hootsuite platform, users can curate content, schedule your content, you can edit your posts, and you can also publish your social media posts. You can also manage your teams, you can also view your analytics to be able to measure ROI all on this very one platform called Hootsuite. Is Hootsuite free to use? The Hootsuite free plan  is no longer available and it was discontinued early last year, in 2023. So at the moment, there is no free Hootsuite plan but Hootsuite does offer a 30-day free trial. After 30 days, you are encouraged to sign up for any of the premium plans. Does Hootsuite have a CRM? Yes, Hootsuite has a CRM too. A CRM tool is simply a tool or software that allows users to convert prospects into contacts. In this case, you convert social prospects into business contacts. And this helps businesses to close and make more sales on social media platforms. Hootsuite is a social CRM built for businesses, entrepreneurs, and brands looking to grow on social media as their primary marketing platform. W hat platforms work with Hootsuite? Facebook, X, Instagram, Threads? Hootsuite supports all the major social media networks that we have today. We have Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, YouTube, Pinterest, WhatsApp, and threads (beta). There are more platforms and social media networks currently in the beta test. H ow do I use Hootsuite for social media marketing? To begin with, social media marketing is the art of promoting a business, product, service, or brand on various social media platforms. To use Hootsuite for social media marketing, sign up by choosing a plan. Sign in to your Hootsuite account and connect all your social media profiles . Now, on your Hootsuite dashboard, you can create, schedule, and publish social media content  at your desired time using Hootsuite. You can also view and manage all of your scheduled posts in a calendar on the Hootsuite dashboard. You can also monitor and engage with social media leads using Hootsuite. Who owns/created Hootsuite? Hootsuite is a social media management platform created by Ryan Holmes in 2008. Can I pay Hootsuite monthly? Yes, Hootsuite offers both monthly and annual subscriptions. Depending on what you want, you can choose the monthly or the annual subscription. T hough the annual subscription saves you more, Hootsuite also offers monthly subscriptions as well. How easy it is to use Hootsuite? Hootsuite is easy to use and not hard to learn. The Hootsuite Academy is a free course you can use to learn about using and navigating around the Hootsuite platform and dashboard. And at the end of this Hootsuite Academy course, users are given the Hootsuite certification. And unlike many other social media management platforms, the Hootsuite Academy training videos are simple and easy to follow. Does Hootsuite offer support? Yes, Hootsuite offers one of the best customer support. You can use Hootsuite on various channels, and social media networks. Does Hootsuite have an application for the mobile version of iPhone and Android? Yes, Hootsuite is available on the App Store and Google Play Store. You can download the Hootsuite platform on the App Store here or on Google Play Store. At the moment, does Hootsuite offer a free trial? Yes, at the moment Hootsuite  offers a 30-day free trial to new users. Are there some free alternatives to Hootsuite ? Yes, there are several free Hootsuite alternatives you can try. We have; Buffer Smarterqueue MeetEdgar Contentstudio Crowdfire But my one top recommendation and favorite Hootsuite free alternative is Buffer. It offers a free plan with cheaper paid plans Hootsuite even though it offers limited features compared to Hootsuite. If you ever need to try out other social media management tools, I'll be posting reviews. So subscribe to the blog and I'll see you in the forum. Best, Simon Taki Zaku, Owner: Simonzaku.com

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