e-commerce-store

How to Use Social Media to Drive Traffic to Your E-commerce Store

Are you eager to skyrocket your e-commerce profits? Of course, who isn’t? Social media is the golden ticket. Gone are the days when it was just a center of gossip and pictures. Now, it’s a thriving market full of opportunities. If you play your cards right, this is a jackpot. With strategic use of Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and the like, you can get your products in front of curious eyes. But it’s not just about eliminating ads. Oh No. It’s about building real relationships and establishing yourself as a preferred brand. This guide is your trusty roadmap, packed with tips on using social media to drive traffic to your store. From creating share-worthy content to leveraging the power of hashtags, we’ve got you covered. So, gear up and get ready to become a social media expert! 

Step 1: Choose the Right Platforms for Your Unique Niche

Before you venture into the social media ocean, take some time to decide which platform will best serve your specific e-commerce store. It’s like choosing the right ingredients for a recipe. Each platform has its unique tastes and target demographic. 

Facebook: Your Reliable Ally

Even though there is talk about the aging of Facebook’s user base, it is still an absolute powerhouse. With staggering user numbers, it’s a mix of demographics. This is especially effective for products targeted to an audience above 30. Sponsored Posts and Facebook Marketplace are just two tools you can use. 

Instagram: The Visual Magnet

Instagram is akin to a 24/7 fashion show for brands with eye-catching products. Its visual-focused layout is ideal for apparel, beauty products, and home decor. The “Swipe Up” feature in Instagram Stories is a surefire way to drive traffic to your site. 

Pinterest: The Shopper's Paradise

Pinterest is a gem for retail, especially if your target audience is primarily women. Users are often in a buying mindset. Product Pins can provide pricing and availability in real-time.

Twitter: Pulse of the Market

Because of its fast-paced nature, Twitter is perfect for real-time interaction. Quick updates, customer support, and trending hashtags can keep your audience informed. 

LinkedIn: The Professional Marketplace

Make sure to consider LinkedIn as just B2B. It is also a hotspot for high-end products, online courses, and professional services. With the right content, you can build a strong network.

Remember, it’s not about being everywhere. It’s about shining where it counts. Choose platforms that align with your products and target audience, and watch the traffic come! 

Step 2: Perfect Your Social Media Profiles to Stand Out

Consider this: Your social media profile is like your storefront window. It’s the first thing people see and needs to attract them. For e-commerce store owners, customizing these profiles isn’t just a box to tick – it’s an important step in building a magnetic online presence. 

Make a Lasting First Impression: Ensure your username is catchy and recognizable. Pair it with a profile picture that’s eye-catching and reflects your brand. 

Build a compelling biography: Your bio should be a mini pitch. In a few words, tell visitors why they should stick around. Tailor it to your audience, and remember to include those essential keywords! 

Link it: This is a random thing. Include a clickable link to your e-commerce store. Make the path to purchase as smooth as possible.

Keep it consistent: Whether it’s tone, visuals, or information, consistency is paramount. It strengthens your brand image. 

Step 3: Know Your Audience

Imagine hosting a party and needing to know the guests. Weird, right? The same applies to your social media efforts. Knowing your audience is the cornerstone of your social media strategy. 

Create Customer Personas

Think of personas as sketches of your ideal customers. What are their pain points? What do they want? Detail everything from demographics to shopping habits. This will enable you to craft your content with laser precision. 

Analytics: Your Crystal Ball

Data is your guide. Track your audience engagement through social media analytics. Which posts do they like? When are they most active? Understand these patterns, and you’ll unlock the secret sauce to keep them returning for more.

Engage

Here’s the deal – people love to share their opinions. Use this to your advantage. Start an opinion poll, ask questions, and start a survey. Not only will this make your audience feel valued, but it will also provide you with invaluable insight. 

Step 4: Share Engaging Content

Have you ever been to a party where everyone is glued to their phones? To install Yawn. Now’s your chance to become the social media equivalent of the charming guest everyone wants to talk to. Here’s how to get the party started:

Add a Splash of Colour with Visuals

A picture is worth a thousand words, and a video can be priceless. Spice up your feed with vibrant images and captivating videos. They are the confetti that makes your content pop!

User-Generated Content: Your Secret Weapon

There is something magical in genuine customer experiences. Encourage your happy customers to share photos and stories. Not only does this create a sense of community, but it also infuses authenticity into your brand. 

Host an Unforgettable Bash with Contests

Everyone loves the thrill of a good competition. Combine this with a unique gift, with a recipe for increased traffic. Plus, it’s like spreading happiness, and who doesn’t want to be a part of that? 

How to Use Social Media to Drive Traffic to Your E-commerce Store 1

Informative Posts

Sharing blog posts, infographics, or nifty tips establishes you as an expert. It is like sharing words of wisdom in a gathering. People will turn to you because you add value to their lives.

Step 5: Utilize Hashtags and Keywords

Imagine it: You threw the best party but still need to send out the invitations. That’s what it is like to have great content without hashtags and keywords. This is your golden ticket to getting your content in front of the right eyes. 

Be a Sniper: Aim for Low Search Volume, High Intent Keywords

When it comes to keywords, it’s about quality over quantity. Instead of “watches,” sleep with something like “old leather watches.” It’s like sending invitations to the right crowd! 

Explain Long-Tail Keywords in Detail

Long-tail keywords are your best friends in shining armor. “Eco-friendly athletic shoes for women” may sound corny, but it’s exactly what your target customer is looking for. 

Stay True to Your Roots with Niche-Related Keywords

If you’re selling vegan skin care, put “cruelty-free” or “plant-based” in your post. It’s like whispering in your ideal customer’s ear. 

#HashtagHeaven

Look at powerful hashtags. They’re like breadcrumbs delivered straight to your store. Use trending hashtags that match your brand. But remember, moderation is the key. Refrain from overloading your post with them. 

Step 6: Dive into Social Media Advertising

Imagine your social media content as an ice cream truck. Sweet, but people have to find it. Now, social media advertising is like putting speakers on that truck. It draws the children of the neighborhood like bees to honey. 

Precise Targeting

Paid ads are like Cupid’s arrow for high-intent buyers. Craft ads that grab attention. How? Take advantage of interests, behaviors, and demographics, like showing cat toys to cat parents, not dog owners. Genius! 

Increase Your Reach

With ads, there is no limit to your reach. Sky’s the limit. It’s like having all-access passes to a rock concert.

Retarget and Remind

Have you ever browsed and found later that the same product is following you? That’s retargeting. It’s like a gentle nudge, a friendly, effective reminder.

Drive Traffic with a Purpose

As explained in this enlightening article, “The Importance of Social Media Marketing for Your Event Management Business,” social media marketing is vital in driving targeted traffic. Adopt the same principles in your e-commerce store and see the power of focused advertising. 

Step 7: Monitor, Analyze, Repeat

Think of social media as a ship in a vast ocean. Now, analytics is your compass. Charting your course is key, and here’s how.

Have Hawk Eye: be vigilant. Monitor your social media metrics like a gardener watching a seedling sprout for the first time. Are your followers growing? Are they attractive? It’s the little things that matter. 

Dive deep into analytics: Numbers are magical; They tell a story. Dive into the insights and find out what fascinates your audience. Facebook Insights and Instagram Analytics can be your Aladdin’s lamp. 

Adapt and overcome: Is something not working? Don’t worry! Be agile, and bring change. It’s like adding spices to a recipe, finding the right flavor. 

Celebrate victory, learn from defeat: Throw confetti for your successes, no matter how small. Did something fail? He is alright. Collect the gems of knowledge and move forward. 

Repeat: The digital world is ever-changing, like the weather. Customization is key. Keep refining your strategies. 

Conclusion: Harness the Power of social media

And finally, think of social media as an invaluable adjunct to your e-commerce venture. Start by choosing the ideal platform and engage with your audience like they’re gold. With the magic of keywords and hashtags, you can charm more patrons. But patience is your secret treasure. Success will not spring up overnight; It is a gradual ascent. So, arm yourself with social media, and head towards e-commerce glory. 

akshay-tyagi
Akshay Tyagi

Akshay Tyagi is a professional content writer at Netclubbed, a prominent web development company known for its digital marketing and eCommerce development expertise. He continually gives insights that help manage the continually evolving digital environment, especially his talent for converting difficult ideas into compelling stories.

akshay-tyagi
Akshay Tyagi

Akshay Tyagi is a professional content writer at Netclubbed, a prominent web development company known for its digital marketing and eCommerce development expertise. He continually gives insights that help manage the continually evolving digital environment, especially his talent for converting difficult ideas into compelling stories.

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Affiliate Marketing Ultimate Tips 2023

Affiliate Marketing Ultimate Tips 2023 2

Affiliate marketing basically involves promoting products or services for companies online in return for commissions which are paid out on successful sales. Affiliate marketing continues to be a lucrative opportunity for individuals and businesses that are searching for additional passive income. By promoting products or services of others, affiliates can earn commissions for each successful referral they generate. One of the most awesome things about this is that once the web pages are created they can keep earning you money again & again even years down the line without you having to do anything extra. 

In this article, we have curated a list of affiliate marketing tips in 2023. Whether you are an experienced affiliate marketer or just starting your journey, this comprehensive guide will introduce you to some of the most profitable and exciting opportunities to boost your earnings in the coming year.

How Affiliate Marketing Works

As an affiliate marketer, your primary focus is driving high-quality traffic and optimizing conversions for the offers you promote. The affiliate purchase process involves sharing a unique affiliate link, which includes an affiliate ID. When a buyer clicks on your affiliate link and makes a purchase, the sale is tracked back to you, and you receive a commission as a result of your promotion efforts.

By leveraging the power of affiliate marketing, you can create a sustainable income stream and enjoy the flexibility and financial rewards that come with it. Hence, affiliate marketer earning a recurring-commissions and achieve the freedom of time, money, and location by breaking free from the traditional 9-to-5 job and establishing a thriving online business.

WordPress Affiliate Marketing Plugins that you may Consider

If you build your website with WordPress, here’re some of the widely used plugins for your Affiliate Marketing business. I will introduce you to the tools that I personally used before. These tools offer a wide range of functionalities, including increasing blog traffic, gaining more email subscribers, and automating tasks to boost productivity.

No. WordPress Plugins for Affiliate Marketing Functionality
1
ThirstyAffiliates
Shrink, beautify, track, manage links & prevent Affiliate Hijacking (Protect your commissions from theft).
2
PrettyLinks
Shrink, beautify, track, manage links & prevent Affiliate Hijacking.
3
WordFence
Protects a WordPress site from malware, spam, and brute force attacks.
4
iThemes Security
Safeguard your WordPress installation; Files and databases backup.
5
Social Warfare
Social Media Sharing; Share content to Social Media Platforms
6
OptinMonster
Helps in leads generation, boost email subscribers thru popups and etc.
7
Opt-In Panda
Converting Visitors into Subscribers & Customers, locks a portion of content (usually eBooks) on a webpage by hiding it and asks the visitor to enter one’s email address (opt-in) to unlock your content.
8
Thrive Architect (Thrive Theme)
Website content, landing pages builder
9
Thrive leads (Thrive Theme)
Gain more Email Subscribers; set things like time-delays, scroll-percentage & exit-intent.
10
Social Locker
Requires website visitor complete a set social media action (Like, Share, Subscribe) before they can gain access to locked content.
11
Yoast SEO/ Rank Math/ AIOSEO
Famous SEO plugins.
12
Smush
Image compression tool to let users display high-resolution images without slowing down the website.
13
ShortPixel
Image optimization service that compresses images, CSS and JS.
14
WP Rocket
Caching & site-speed tool. It tells browser not to keep downloading the site’s files every time of website visiting. “Lazy Loading” – Images on your blog won’t be loaded until actual users view.
15
Autoptimize
Enhance blog loading speed by optimizing and deferring the loading of JavaScript and CSS files. It also removes whitespace and combines multiple files, allowing faster downloads for visitors.
16
Comment Redirect
Redirect visitors to a page of your choice after they leave comment and tell them what to do next.
17
Contact Form 7
Contact Form Plugins with built-in spam defenses.
18
Everest Forms
Create any forms
19
Askimet
Spam protection for website.
20
Contextual Related Posts
Display a list of related posts on your website. It allows you to retain visitors, reduce bounce rates and refresh old entries.
21
Q2W3 Fixed Widget
Sticky widgets, sticky blocks, and other elements that stay in the visible screen area when a user scrolls the page up or down.
22
WP Sticky Menu
To keep the main navigation right at the top of the page as it saves users from having to scroll all the way back up again.
23
Special Recent Posts
Display a list of your blogs recent posts.
24
Ultimate NoFollow
Increase your control of the rel=”nofollow” tag on every link on your blog for SEO purposes.
25
MonsterInsights
WordPress Analytics Plugin, an alternative for Google Analytics.
26
Taqyeem
Review plugin suit for a Product Review site; rating features.

Some others WordPress Plugins and Software for Affiliate Marketing that I haven’t tried yet but was recommended by others WordPress Experts are WP Affiliate Manager; YITH WooCommerce Affiliates; Ultimate Affiliate Pro; Post Affiliate Pro; Affjet (For those who join multiple affiliate networks; Connect data from all networks in a single dashboard; SiceWP (Automatically track visits and commissions); AffiliateWP (WordPress Affiliate Management Plugin); Solid Affiliate; Easy Affiliate Links & EasyAzon.

When choosing a plugin, ensure it is up-to-date and compatible with the latest WordPress version. Also, check the active installations and rating – the higher the number, the more reliable it is. Let me know about your opinion if you’ve already tried the above Plugins/ Software 😊

Bonus Tips on WordPress:

Customize menus and widgets to tailor your website’s user experience. Navigation menus, usually found in the header section, feature important links like Home, Blog, and About. Adapt these menus to suit your website’s unique content and structure.

Enhance your WordPress site with customizable widgets placed in sidebars, footers, or theme-specific areas. These content blocks, encompassing media, navigation links, and supplementary details, offer additional information distinct from the main content, such as recent and popular posts. To add widgets or menus, click Appearance → Customize on the WordPress dashboard and select Menus or Widgets. Here, you can edit the widget and menu’s hierarchy or styles and add media or links.

Here are 5 types of Affiliate Website for your inspiration

Blog

Blog owners have the opportunity to explore various topics and incorporate affiliate links seamlessly within their content. By ensuring the relevance of these links to the blog post, it avoids any perception of an affiliate marketing scam. This approach allows blog owners to provide valuable information to their readers while also potentially benefiting from affiliate partnerships. Example: The Points Guy

Product Review

Product review sites provide firsthand experiences of tested and used products. They can also enlist contributors to share their own reviews, creating a diverse range of insights on the items in question. Each review could contain an affiliate link. Example: Gadget Review

Retail Listings

Retail Listing website mimics the appearance of eCommerce store but operates differently. Rather than featuring its own products, it showcases items from various retailers, redirecting customers to those sites through affiliate links for purchases. Example: Canopy

Price Comparison Site

Price comparison websites display product along with prices from multiple stores, assisting visitors in quickly identifying the most cost-effective options. Some of these platforms may also incorporate user reviews and detailed comparisons for enhanced decision-making. Example: Skyscanner

Daily Deals Website

Consolidating deals from various businesses and manufacturers, this platform allows users to access exclusive coupons, enabling significant savings. In doing so, visitors can conveniently maximize their discounts through the website’s commission-based model. Example: Groupon

Bonus Tips:

Choosing Domain Name for your Affiliate Website

Opting for a custom domain name offers numerous advantages over a free domain with a website provider’s name. A clean, short and concise domain name instills trust and professionalism, with a preference for short and easily memorable terms. Incorporating relevant keywords aids users and search engines in understanding a website’s purpose. For targeted audiences in specific regions, selecting a top-level domain like .sg or .my enhances localization and market relevance.

Content for your affiliate website

Prioritize the organization of your content by featuring top-selling affiliate products from reputable affiliate networks such as Amazon Associates or In-House Marketing Affiliate Programs such as WebNIC’s. Their established success in generating sales can positively impact your conversion rate and revenue. Stay updated on significant events within your niche to create timely and relevant content, such as sports affiliate marketing sites crafting articles around popular sports’ games.

You should also ensure transparency by disclosing affiliation relationship with merchants and notifying visitors about earning sales commissions through affiliated links. Ideally, the footer might feature links to the Disclaimer, Privacy Policy, and Terms & Conditions pages, along with mentioning its participation in any affiliate program.

WebNIC Digital and Tech Products Affiliate

Affiliate marketing in digital and tech products provides a wealth of opportunities to promote cutting-edge gadgets, software, and online services. By partnering with affiliate programs in this niche, individuals can showcase and recommend products like domains, SSL Certificates, Software as a Service (SaaS), cloud storage, cybersecurity and more. Further Reading: The advantages of selling tech products.

With the rapid advancement of technology and the increasing reliance on digital solutions, becoming an affiliate for digital and tech products allows you to tap into a vast market of tech-savvy consumers seeking the latest innovations. By earning commissions for successful referrals, you can leverage your passion for technology while providing valuable recommendations to tech enthusiasts, professionals, and everyday consumers alike.

Buy and Sell Domain Names

In domain names business, there exists a thriving market for buying and selling these digital addresses that serve as the foundation of websites, such as “YourDomain.com” or “YourDomain.co.uk.” Domain names hold significant value and have the potential to fetch substantial sums of money. For instance, Facebook famously acquired the domain “FB.com” for a staggering $8.5 million. By partnering with domain wholesalers like WebNIC, you can seize opportunities to either uncover unregistered domains at affordable prices or trade existing domains for potential profit. This ever-growing industry presents a chance to tap into the domain market, leverage its value, and potentially unlock lucrative returns.

Why WebNIC Marketing Affiliate?

First and foremost, we have a good reputation in this ICT-industry. In Fact, we’re always winning some awards yearly.

Next, it’s a good way of earning additional income because you literally only have to focus on one thing – Promoting.

Everything else is done for you. You don’t need to deal with customer service, administrations, sales, refunds or anything like that. We handle everything else on your behalf

And the best part is that there’s literally no limit on the amount that you can earn with it… The harder you work, the more you stand to make. The potential is unlimited.

Hence, if our digital and tech products are relevant to your niche, we strongly encourage you to be part of our reseller community.

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Baidu SEO

If you’re familiar with search engine optimization (SEO), you’ve likely heard of Google SEO. However, optimizing for search engines in China requires a slightly different approach. Baidu, China’s most popular and dominance search engine acquired more than 70% of Chinese internet users, making it an essential platform for businesses targeting the Chinese market. In this blog post, we’ll explore Baidu SEO and its importance for businesses looking to succeed in China.

Baidu-search-engine-optimization

Keyword Research in Baidu | 关键词搜索

Keyword research is the foundation of any successful SEO strategy, and Baidu is no exception. However, the Chinese language could be complex for the non-natives, and the way Chinese characters are used in searches is different from that of English. One significant difference is that Chinese characters don’t have spaces between them, so keyword research for Baidu requires understanding the nuances of Chinese language and the way Chinese users search for information online. Another crucial aspect of Baidu SEO is understanding the different search types that Chinese users utilize. For example, many Chinese users prefer to use voice search instead of typing their queries into the search bar. Therefore, it’s essential to optimize for voice search and long-tail keywords.

Mobile Optimization for Baidu | 百度移动端优化

Like in many other countries, mobile usage in China is skyrocketing, with over 90% of Chinese internet users accessing the web on their smartphones. Baidu prioritizes mobile-optimized sites and launched a separate mobile search index. This means that if your site isn’t optimized for mobile, it’s unlikely to rank well on Baidu. To optimize for mobile, ensure your website is responsive and has a fast loading time. Additionally, ensure that your site’s content is easy to read and navigate on a mobile device. For more info on optimizing website loading speed, website responsiveness and website user experience, read our post on China Acceleration Solution.

Chinese Language and Culture Nuances

Baidu’s algorithms are designed to understand and prioritize Chinese language and culture. As such, it’s essential to create content that’s not only relevant but also culturally appropriate for Chinese audiences. One way to do this is to translate your content into Simplified Chinese, the most widely used written form of Chinese. Nevertheless, translating your content word-for-word is not enough. It’s essential to understand the cultural nuances and idiomatic expressions that Chinese users use when searching for information online.

Chinese-Language-and-Culture-Nuances

Additionally, it’s important to understand the regulatory landscape in China and ensure that your content complies with Chinese laws and regulations. For example, certain topics may be sensitive in China, and discussing them openly could lead to legal issues.

ICP License | ICP 备案

Icp-license

Obtaining an Internet Content Provider (ICP) license could be an aspect of Baidu SEO. An ICP license is a legal requirement for all websites hosted in mainland China, including those hosted on Baidu. Without an ICP license, your website will face difficulty to rank high. To obtain an ICP license, you’ll need to register with the Chinese Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) and provide documentation, including your company’s business license and hosting information. The process can be time-consuming and complex, but it’s a vital step for businesses looking to establish an online presence in China. Partnering with a digital marketing agency that specializes in Chinese regulations and compliance can help streamline the ICP license application process and ensure that your website complies with all relevant laws and regulations.

Backlinks for Baidu SEO | 反链

Just like Google, backlinks are a critical ranking factor on Baidu. However, the quality of the backlinks is more important than the quantity. Focus on acquiring backlinks from reputable Chinese websites that are relevant to your industry. Some tips to obtain backlinks are creating high-quality, shareable content that others in your industry will want to link to. You may reach out to relevant websites and offer to guest post or collaborate on content that includes a backlink to your website.

Consider WebNIC’s China Acceleration

China-acceleration

China Acceleration is a SaaS-based solution designed to optimize the performance of websites for visitors from China. What sets this product apart from others is its Zero Commitment approach, No Technical Barrier policy, and exemption from the burdensome ICP requirement. On Average, China Acceleration provides a 100% faster experience during peak hours compared to periods without its usage.

Social media presence in China Market

WeChat
Weibo

Social media platforms like WeChat and Weibo are incredibly popular in China, having a strong presence on these platforms can boost your website’s visibility on Baidu. Create and maintain active social media accounts, share your content, and engage with your followers to build a strong online presence.

Consider paid advertising – Baidu Ads

While organic search is essential for long-term success, paid advertising can help you establish a foothold in the Chinese market and drive immediate results. Just like Google, Baidu offers several advertising options, including paid search ads and display ads, that can help you reach your target audience and drive traffic to your website.

Optimize your website for local search

If your business has physical presence such as brick and mortal shop in China, it’s highly doable to optimize your website for local search queries. This includes including your business’s address, phone number, and other contact information on your website, optimizing your content for local keywords, and registering your business on Baidu Maps and other local directories. By doing so, you can improve your chances of ranking higher in local search results and drive more traffic to your website from local Chinese users.

Leverage Baidu SEO tools

Below was list of useful tools that we prepared for your easy references:

Baidu SEO Tools 中文 “Something Like” For your understanding | Functions
Baidu Analytics (Baidu Tongji)
百度统计
Google Analytics
Baidu Webmaster Tool (Baidu Ziyuan)
百度站长工具
Google Search Console
Baidu Index
百度指数
Use to check Search Volume for specific Keywords | Google Trends
Baidu Marketing (Baidu Yingxiao)
百度营销
Google Keyword Planner | Google Ads
ChinaZ
站长之家
China SEO Tools

Baidu offers a range of tools that can help you optimize your website for its search engine, including Baidu Webmaster Tools and Baidu Analytics (Baidu Tongji). These tools can help you monitor your website’s performance, identify technical issues, and optimize your content for Baidu’s algorithms.

Baidu SEO In a Nutshell

Baidu SEO requires a unique approach due to the nuances of the Chinese language, culture, and search behavior. Nonetheless, with the right strategies and understanding, businesses can succeed in reaching Chinese audiences and growing their online presence in China’s massive market. If you’re looking to optimize your website for Baidu, consider partnering with a digital marketing agency that specializes in Baidu SEO. They could help you navigate the complexities of Chinese search engines and ensure that your website is optimized for success in China.

About WebNIC upcoming China Accerelation Solution

China Acceleration is a cutting-edge SaaS-based solution designed to Optimized the performance of websites for web traffic visitors from China. On average, China Acceleration provides a 100% faster experience during peak hours compared to periods without its usage. Let’s check out what sets this product apart:

  1. Zero Commitment approach
  2. No Technical Barrier Policy
  3. Exemption from the burdensome ICP requirement.
webnic-stay-tuned

Keen to become a WebNIC Business Partner and start selling variety of WebNIC Digital Products? Get in touch with us through [email protected].

Baidu SEO 3
Baidu SEO 4

Author: Chan Kang

Baidu SEO 5

Designer: Jackson

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Digital Marketing in China

One of the world’s largest online marketplace, China, with over 940 million internet users and a rapidly growing e-commerce industry. With such massive audience, it’s inevitable that digital marketing in China has become a crucial component of any successful marketing strategy for foreign businesses that planning to enter Chinese market. However, marketing in China comes with its own unique set of challenges, from navigating government regulations to understanding cultural nuances. In this post, we’ll explore some of the key considerations for digital marketing in China and offer some tips for successfully reaching this massive audience.

Some of these popular digital platforms such as Google, Facebook, and YouTube are either blocked or heavily restricted in China, and China always have their own alternatives, this unique situation reflects China’s emphasis on promoting domestic innovation and self-reliance, as well as its commitment to maintaining tight control over the country’s digital landscape. Let’s check out on these interesting comparisons in the field of Search Engine Marketing, Social Media, and Video Sharing Platform.

1. Search Engines in China

It is a well-known fact that the world’s major search engines in terms of market share are Google, Microsoft Bing, and Yahoo. However, many people may not be aware that China has its own answer to these search engines. Several major search engines that are popular among Chinese consumers which we’ll go in briefly

Digital Marketing in China 6

1.1 Baidu

Baidu 百度 has established itself as a dominant player in the Chinese search market, with a market share of over 70%. Its rise to prominence can be attributed to a combination of factors, including its focus on Chinese language search, its ability to adapt to the rapidly evolving digital landscape, and its investments in cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence and big data. Baidu also offers a range of services beyond search, including online advertising, cloud computing, and autonomous driving. With over 940 million internet users in China, Baidu has become an indispensable part of the country’s digital infrastructure, connecting businesses and consumers with a wealth of information and services. As China’s influence in the global economy continues to grow, Baidu’s reach and influence are sure to expand, making it a crucial player in the global digital landscape.

Baidu has developed a range of products that directly compete with Google’s offerings. One example is Baidu Maps, which offers similar functionalities to Google Maps. Baidu Maps provides users with accurate and up-to-date maps and directions, as well as real-time traffic updates and street-level imagery. In addition, Baidu Maps offers a range of features that are tailored to the Chinese market, such as support for popular local services like DiDi Chuxing 滴滴出行 (a ride-hailing service) and Meituan 美团 (a food delivery and group buying platform).

Other Baidu products that compete with Google include Baidu Tieba (a social forum platform similar to Google Groups), Baidu Baike (a Chinese-language online encyclopedia similar to Wikipedia), Baidu Wangpan (a cloud storage service that allows users to store and share files online. It offers similar functionalities to Google Drive including the ability to create and share documents, spreadsheets, and presentations) and Baidu Translate (a translation service similar to Google Translate).

1.1.1 Baidu answer to ChatGPT?

Interesting finding: Baidu has its own version of Artificial Intelligence Chatbot called “Ernie Bot 文心一言”. Ernie under development since 2019. It is based on a large language model named and was released on March 17, 2023. During the launching day, Baidu’s CEO Robin Li showed this AI chatbot, which can do sorts of things like solving math problems, writing marketing copy, and answering questions about Chinese literature.

Although there may be debate about whether Ernie Bot is inferior to other language models like Open AI’s ChatGPT or Google Bard, ultimately it is up to the consumer to judge based on the functionalities they value most. Rather than comparing these models, we can appreciate the diversity of approaches to language processing and the unique capabilities each platform brings to the table. At the end of the day, having multiple options for language processing and chatbot technology benefits us all.

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1.2 Sogou

Sogou 搜狗 (Search Dog literally), a subsidiary of Tencent is another major Chinese search engine that has gained popularity for its strong focus on language input technology. Its innovative features include a customizable input method editor that allows users to create their own input methods based on their unique typing habits. Sogou has also developed a range of AI-powered tools, including image and voice recognition software, and virtual assistant app that can be integrated with third-party platforms such as WeChat, Tencent QQ, Baidu Maps.

Digital Marketing in China 8

1.3 Shenma

Shenma 神马搜索 is a relatively new search engine in China that was launched in 2014 as a joint venture between Alibaba and UCWeb. Unlike other search engines, Shenma has a strong focus on mobile search for mobile devices and mobile users which is an important market in China given the country’s high mobile penetration rate. Another unique aspect of Shenma is its integration with Alibaba’s ecosystem, which allows users to easily access a range of services such as e-commerce and online payments through the search engine.

Digital Marketing in China 9

1.4 360 Search

360 Search or 360搜索, is a Chinese search engine that focus on user privacy and security. The search engine employs a range of advanced security measures, including SSL encryption, to protect users’ search data and personal information. Additionally, 360 Search offers users a wide range of content types, including web pages, images, videos, and news delivered with a high degree of relevance and accuracy.

2. Social Media in China

Just like search engines, China also has its own unique social media landscape, which presents different opportunities and challenges for digital marketing in the country. Platforms like WeChat, Weibo, and Douyin have become central to the way many Chinese people interact with friends, family, and businesses. With over 1 billion active social media users, understanding the nuances of social media in China is crucial for businesses looking to establish a strong online presence and connect with Chinese consumers. From influencer marketing to mini-programs, there are a variety of strategies that can be used to effectively engage with audiences on Chinese social media.

Weibo

2.1 Weibo

We can’t ignore Weibo if we’re talking about social media in China. Often said as a combination of Facebook and Twitter, Weibo 微博 has over 550 million registered users and is one of the largest social media platforms in the country. It has become an essential tool for digital marketing in China, offering businesses and brands the opportunity to engage with a massive audience and leverage the platform’s various features and advertising options.

One of the unique features of Weibo is its emphasis on real-time information sharing, allowing users to post and view updates in a rapidly, newsfeed-style format. One of the advantages of Weibo for businesses is its powerful social listening and engagement capabilities. Brands can easily track mentions of their products or services and respond in real-time, which can be particularly valuable for reputation and branding. Weibo also offers a range of advertising options, including promoted posts, display ads, and key opinion leader (KOL) collaborations, making it a versatile platform for businesses of all sizes. However, one potential drawback of Weibo is its heavily regulated content. The Chinese government has strict censorship laws that prohibit discussion of certain topics, and Weibo is responsible for enforcing these regulations on its platform. This can make it challenging for businesses to navigate the platform and effectively engage with users while staying within the confines of government regulations.

WeChat

2.2 WeChat

WeChat 微信, is a multi-purpose social media platform and instant messaging app that has garnered significant attention and adoption across China and other regions in Asia. Developed by Chinese tech giant Tencent, WeChat has over 1 billion monthly active users, making it one of the largest social media platforms in the world. WeChat allows users to send text and voice messages, make voice and video calls, share photos and videos, post updates on a “moments” feed, play games, book taxis, pay bills, and even shop online. Its wide range of features and user-friendly interface has made it a popular choice for both personal and business use in China and beyond.

WeChat has become a key tool for businesses looking to market their products or services in China. With its wide user base and range of features, WeChat provides businesses with a unique opportunity to build a sales funnel and engage with their customers in a meaningful way. One advantage that WeChat has over other messaging apps like WhatsApp is its built-in payment system, which allows users to easily make purchases and pay for services directly through the app. WeChat also offers a range of marketing tools, including WeChat Official Accounts 微信公众号 and WeChat Pay 微信支付, which businesses can use to reach their target audience and drive sales. Additionally, WeChat’s advanced data analytics capabilities allow businesses to track and analyze customer behavior, enabling them to make informed decisions about their marketing and sales strategies.

Tencent-QQ

2.3 Tencent QQ

Tencent QQ, or simply QQ, is a popular instant messaging software developed by Tencent. With over 800 million registered users, QQ is one of the most widely used communication platforms in China. In addition to its messaging capabilities, QQ also offers a range of features that make it an effective marketing tool. Businesses can leverage QQ’s large user base and its extensive social network to promote their products and services, connect with customers, and build brand awareness. By using QQ’s various marketing tools, businesses can create targeted advertising campaigns, engage with customers through chatbots, and even set up virtual storefronts to sell products directly within the QQ platform.

Zhihu

2.4 Zhihu

Zhihu知乎also known as the “Chinese Quora,” is a popular question-and-answer platform in China that has gained significant traction in recent years. It was launched in 2011 and has since amassed over 220 million registered users. Zhihu is known for its in-depth and high-quality content, with users asking and answering a wide range of questions on topics such as science, technology, education, business, and culture.

What sets Zhihu apart from other Q&A platforms is its focus on creating a community of experts and professionals, who can share their knowledge and insights with a wider audience. This makes it an ideal platform for businesses and marketers looking to connect with potential customers and establish their expertise in a particular field. Companies can use Zhihu to answer questions related to their industry, provide valuable insights, and engage with potential customers in a more personal and meaningful way.

Wanghong-1

Glossary: Wanghong

Wanghong 网红 is a Chinese term that refers to internet celebrities or influencers who have gained a large following on social media platforms such as Weibo, WeChat, Douyin, and Xiaohongshu. These individuals are often highly influential in shaping consumer behavior and trends, particularly among younger generations in China. They can earn significant income through sponsorships, advertising, and product placements, as brands seek to leverage their large and engaged audiences for marketing purposes. In recent years, the rise of wanghong has had a significant impact on the advertising and marketing landscape in China, with many brands investing heavily in influencer marketing campaigns to reach their target audiences.

3. Video Sharing Platforms in China

Video sharing platforms in China have become increasingly popular in recent years, with the rise of video marketing and the growing demand for video content. These platforms offer a range of video content, from short-form videos that are less than 5 minutes long to longer videos that can be over an hour in length. They have become an important tool for businesses looking to promote their products and services, as well as for individuals who want to share their creative content with a wider audience. Some of the most popular video sharing platforms in China include Douyin (also known as TikTok outside of China), Xiaohongshu, Kuaishou, Bilibili, and Youku. These platforms offer unique features and cater to different audiences, making them an important part of the Chinese digital marketing landscape.

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3.1 Douyin | TikTok

Douyin 抖音, also known as TikTok outside of China, is a short-video sharing app that has taken the Chinese and global market by storm. Developed by Bytedance, a technology company based in Beijing, Douyin allows users to create and share short-form videos, with a focus on creative and engaging content. The platform has become a powerful tool for digital marketing, with businesses leveraging its massive user base and advanced algorithms to promote their products and services. Douyin’s popularity has spurred the growth of other video-sharing platforms in China, with both long-form and short-form video content becoming an increasingly important part of the country’s digital ecosystem.

Douyin allows users to create and share short videos, often set to music or other audio tracks, and offers a variety of editing tools to make the videos visually appealing. With over 600 million daily active users, Douyin has become a popular platform for digital marketing, especially for businesses targeting younger audiences. One of the unique features of Douyin is its algorithm-driven content recommendations, which allow users to discover new videos and creators based on their interests and past viewing behavior. This presents an opportunity for businesses to reach new audiences by creating compelling and relevant content that resonates with Douyin users. Overall, Douyin has emerged as a powerful tool for businesses looking to expand their digital marketing efforts in China and reach younger, tech-savvy audiences through creative and engaging video content.

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3.2 XiaoHongshu

XiaoHongshu 小红书 literally translates into “Little Red Book” has been described as China answer to Instagram is a popular social e-commerce app in China that has gained significant traction among young Chinese consumers. Launched in 2013, Xiaohongshu has quickly become a go-to platform for young consumers seeking product recommendations, fashion tips, and travel inspiration. It combines the features of a social network and an e-commerce platform, allowing users to share their experiences and purchase products directly through the app. With its user-generated content and highly engaged community, Xiaohongshu is a valuable marketing channel for brands looking to connect with China’s young and tech-savvy demographic.

Digital Marketing in China 12

3.3 Kuaishou

Kuaishou 快手literally “Quick Hand” famous of producing “Snack Video” is another popular video-sharing platform in China. Comparable to TikTok, users can upload and share short-form videos, ranging from 15 seconds to 3 minutes. The app has gained significant popularity among users in lower-tier cities and rural areas, making it an attractive platform for brands looking to target these audiences. Additionally, Kuaishou’s algorithm is designed to promote user-generated content and organic discovery, which can be beneficial for businesses looking to build a loyal following on the platform.

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3.3 Bilibili

Bilibili, known as B 站 among Chinese netizen, is a video sharing platform that allows users to watch, upload, and comment on videos with overlaid commentary. Originally targeting a niche market focused on animation, comics, and games, Bilibili has since expanded to a wider audience and is now a major over-the-top streaming platform offering on-demand videos such as documentaries, variety shows, and original programming. Bilibili is also famous for its commenting system that displays scrolling comments on the video, known as “bullet curtains” or “弹幕” in Chinese.

Digital Marketing in China 14

Youku

Youku优酷, used to known as “China YouTube,” is a popular video sharing platform in China that hosts a wide variety of user-generated and professional content. The site was launched in 2006 and quickly gained popularity due to its broad selection of television dramas, movies, and various type of video contents. Youku has since expanded to include a range of original programming, including variety shows, documentaries, and short films. As one of the largest video hosting sites in China, Youku has become an essential platform for businesses looking to advertise their products and services through video marketing.

Chinese Digital Marketing Platform in a nutshell

Digital marketing in China offers huge opportunities for brands looking to reach a massive and growing audience. However, success in China requires a deep understanding of the unique characteristics of the Chinese digital landscape, as well as cultural nuances and consumer behavior. By taking the time to understand these factors and developing a comprehensive digital marketing strategy, brands can effectively reach Chinese consumers and build lasting relationships with this important market. Thank you for reading our content. As a final note, we have prepared a convenient table summarizing the above-mentioned China digital marketing platforms for easy reference:

Platform Category
Baidu
Search Engine
Sogou
Search Engine
Shenma
Mobile-First Search Engine
360 Search
Search Engine
Weibo
Social Media
WeChat
Social Media + Instant Text Messaging + Mobile Payment & Digital Wallet
Tencent QQ
Instant Text Messaging
Zhihu
Forum & Online Community
Douyin (TikTok)
Video Sharing Platform
XiaoHongshu
Video Sharing Platform
Kuaishou
Video Sharing Platform
Bilibili
Video Sharing Platform
Youku
Video Sharing Platform

About WebNIC upcoming China Accerelation Solution

China Acceleration is a cutting-edge SaaS-based solution designed to Optimized the performance of websites for web traffic visitors from China. On average, China Acceleration provides a 100% faster experience during peak hours compared to periods without its usage. Let’s check out what sets this product apart:

  1. Zero Commitment approach
  2. No Technical Barrier Policy
  3. Exemption from the burdensome ICP requirement.
webnic-stay-tuned

Keen to become a WebNIC Business Partner and start selling variety of WebNIC Digital Products? Get in touch with us through [email protected] 

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Digital Marketing in China 16

Author: Chan Kang

Digital Marketing in China 17

Designer: Jackson

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Overcoming Website Access Challenges in China: Empower Your Business with China Acceleration Solutions

Having a strong online presence is crucial for businesses looking to succeed on a global scale in today’s digital age, especially foreign businesses that have so much at stake in China’s market. Nevertheless, providing fast and reliable website access to users in China can be a major challenge due to the country’s unique online environment. In this blog post, we’ll explore these challenges in more detail, and introduce WebNIC’s upcoming China Acceleration solution, which could help businesses overcome them and succeed in the Chinese market.

The Great Firewall of China (GFW)

Firstly, let’s grasp some basic understanding on The Great Firewall of China, a system of internet censorship and surveillance, blocks access to many foreign websites and services, leading to slower website speeds and poor user experiences (UX) for businesses operating outside of China.

Great-firewall-of-china

The government implements the Great Firewall policy, aka the Golden Shield Project, for several reasons. One of the primary objectives is to regulate and control the flow of information and ideas within the country. The government aims to prevent citizens from accessing content that it deems politically sensitive or inappropriate.

Furthermore, the GFW helps to protect Chinese citizens from cyberattacks and online scams, which can be prevalent on the internet. Also, the government sees the Great Firewall as a tool to promote and protect the country’s domestic technology industry by limiting competition from foreign companies.

Factors Behind Slower Website Access for Foreign Websites in China

Other than Great Firewall, which can cause delays in website loading times and blocks access to many foreign websites and services, which would result in increased website latency and poor user experiences. Another reason is the distance between China and other regions, which may result in increased latency and slower load times. When a user in China accesses a website hosted outside of the country, the data must travel a longer distance, which can lead to slower website speeds. Also, the Chinese internet infrastructure is different from other regions, with different protocols, routing, and other technical specifications. These differences can affect website performance and make it more difficult for businesses to provide fast and reliable website access to users in China.

How slow website speeds and poor user experience can negatively impact a business's online presence in China.

First and foremost, it can result in high bounce rates, with users quickly leaving the site due to frustration with the slow load times or difficulty in navigating the site. This can lead to a decline in website traffic and engagement, ultimately affecting the business’s bottom line. In some way, it could harm a business’s reputation in China. Users in China are accustomed to fast and efficient online experiences, and a slow or poorly designed website can make a business appear outdated, unprofessional, or untrustworthy. This could erode consumer confidence in the business and may result in lost sales or missed opportunities to engage with potential customers.

Baidu-search-engine-marketing

Moreover, slow website speeds and poor user experience can impact a business’s search engine optimization (SEO) efforts in China. Search engines like Baidu prioritize websites that load quickly and offer better user experience, so businesses with slow or poorly optimized websites may not rank as high in search results. This could make it more difficult for potential customers to find the business online, further reducing engagement, traffic and sales opportunities. Hence, WebNIC upcoming digital solution is designed to alleviate these problems.

WebNIC launching soon - China Acceleration

WebNIC’s China Acceleration solution is a cutting-edge digital solution that addresses the challenges businesses face in providing fast and reliable website access to users in China. The key feature of the solution is a network of servers located within China that optimizes website performance and speed for users in the region. Foreign businesses could reduce latency and improve website loading times for users in China, providing a smooth and seamless user experience that can improve engagement, traffic, SEO and eventually sales.

This upcoming solution is a SaaS-based solution designed to optimize the performance of websites for visitors from China. What sets this product apart from others is its Zero Commitment approach, No Technical Barrier policy, and exemption from the burdensome ICP requirement. On Average, China Acceleration provides a 100% faster experience during peak hours compared to periods without its usage.

China-Acceleration

China Acceleration in a nutshell

WebNIC’s China Acceleration solution offers a game-changing opportunity for businesses looking to tap into Chinese vast market. With its focus on fast and reliable website access for users in China, the solution can help businesses overcome the challenges of the Great Firewall and slow website speeds, enabling them to expand their online presence and grow their business in the region.

By unlocking fast and reliable website access, businesses gain a competitive advantage over their competitors and may increase market share thru directing Chinese’s web traffic to your websites or applications which are hosted outside of Mainland China which reduce website load times and provide a seamless user experience for visitors in China. So, wait no longer, don’t let slow website speeds hold back from tapping into the immense Chinese market. 

Overcoming Website Access Challenges in China: Empower Your Business with China Acceleration Solutions 18

Author: Chan Kang

Overcoming Website Access Challenges in China: Empower Your Business with China Acceleration Solutions 19

Designer: Jackson

Top 5 Reasons Why You Should Start Blogging 20

Top 5 Reasons Why You Should Start Blogging

Are you a person who likes to share what you had experienced to every people you has met? Or you are a person who has a good talent and you would like to share your writings or creative artworks to people? As the blogging community continues to grow, it is a good opportunities for you to start blogging now! Here are the 5 reasons why you should get started.

1. Get extra pocket money

Did you know that you can make money from blogging? Once your content had successfully attracted an amount of audience every month, you can make use of them to earn some pocket money through advertising on your blog.

There are several ways to make money with advertising on your blog, while the most common way is “pay per click advertising” from online advertising platform like Google AdSense. You will need to have some space on your blog in order to place ads, remember not to put too much ads, which will lead to counter-effects.

2. Benefit to your career

Having a blog that demonstrate your career-related talent might give you an extra mark in the eyes of your ideal company, which helps you to stand out from the crowd. Even though your blog are not career-related, it might still be an added advantage for you, as it shows how skilled, knowledgeable and proactive you are when you manage or promote your blog.

If you own a company, writing blog articles will also contribute to your company website traffic. According to research, companies that blog have 55% more website visitors than does who don’t blog.

Top 5 Reasons Why You Should Start Blogging 21

3. Build your network

Starting a blog is one of the best ways to expand your network. If your blog post is interesting enough, you can attract an amount of loyal customer that often comment and exchange knowledge with you. More than that, you can also develop relationships with other writers that willing to share their ideas, knowledge and resources to you, and also pass on your ideas, knowledge, and resources to others.

A good networking will help raise your profile. As more people start to recognize you, it helps build your reputation as a reliable and knowledgeable person who offers supportive tips to people in the relevant field.

4. Become an expert of your field

Blogging is also a great way to showcase demonstrate your expertise on a specific topic by publishing blog posts regularly that are accurate, informative, and recognized by the majority of people. Once you had achieved that, you may have become an expert in the eyes of others.

If you successfully position yourself as an expert, you may get consideration for careers, awards, or consulting opportunities. You might able to earn recognition as an authoritative source or a thought-leader by industry insiders.

5. It is easy to get started…

With dozens of blogging platforms and tools available on the internet now, starting a blog is easier than ever! Just be careful on choosing a reliable blogging platform, a blogging platform will be considered great if they provide: 1) reliable speed and uptime; 2) easy-to-manage control panel; and 3) great quantity of creative layout and design.

In order to make your blog more unique, a .blog domain name is a good choice for you to invest in! Having the modern .blog extension makes your URL look more intuitive and style, as it is different from the traditional domain which contains the name of the blogging platform. Other than that, it might also help rank better in Google Search.

 

Blogging in a nutshell 

Blogging offers numerous benefits beyond just making extra pocket money and boosting your career. It provides a platform to share your ideas, connect with people who share your interests, and establish yourself as an expert in your field. Additionally, blogging can be a fun and creative outlet that allows you to express yourself and explore your passions. With so many easy-to-use blogging platforms available, there’s no reason not to give it a try and see where it takes you. 

.BLOG is available on WebNIC

WebNIC is a leading authority in technology services, a one-stop online solution focused on domain wholesale service, online security solution, trademark protection, and digital brand management. We are a registrar for ICANN, and various countries including Asia, Europe, America, Australasia, and Africa. With offices in Singapore, Malaysia, Korea, Indonesia and Taiwan we serve 4,000+ active resellers over 60 countries.

For more info visit us at [email protected]

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Feng Shui, Digitalization and Technology

While it may seem like a stretch, there are actually some interesting connections between Chinese Feng Shui knowledge and the current trend of Business Digitalization, Renewable Energy, Technological booming (ChatGPT; Artificial Intelligence; Machine Learning; Big Data; Cybersecurity; Cloud Computing; Computer Science; Blockchain Technology).

In Feng Shui, the concept of Wu Xing (五行), or the Five Elements, plays an important role. These elements, which include Wood木, Fire火, Earth土, Metal金, and Water水, are believed to be the fundamental building blocks of the universe. Each element is associated with a particular set of qualities and attributes, and the goal in Feng Shui is to achieve balance and harmony between them.

feng-shui-technology

Fire sign associated businesses

One way to think about the relationship between Wu Xing and digital products is to look at the element of Fire. Fire is associated with qualities such as passion, creativity, and energy, and is often seen as a symbol of transformation and change. Entrepreneurs and business owners need to be able to tap into their creativity and passion to stay ahead of the competition and keep up with the rapid pace of change.

Fire-sign-associated-business
Fire is not something tangible that can be touch, in the context of businesses, here are a few examples of industries related to Fire:

Technology: The technology industry is constantly evolving and transforming, much like the element of Fire. It requires passion, creativity, and innovation to stay ahead of the competition. Some examples of technology businesses related to Fire include software development, gaming, and cybersecurity.

Virtual: With the rise of virtual and augmented reality, businesses that are related to Fire can take advantage of this trend. Virtual events, meetings, and experiences can help businesses to transform and innovate in this digital age.

AI and Machine Learning: The use of AI and machine learning technologies in businesses is becoming increasingly common. These technologies require creativity and passion to develop and use effectively. Some examples of businesses related to Fire in this area include predictive analytics, natural language processing, and chatbots.

Biomedical: The field of biomedical research and development requires passion and creativity to make breakthroughs in the medical field. Companies that are related to Fire in this area may include biotech startups, medical device manufacturers, and pharmaceutical companies.

Internet & Digitalization: The internet has revolutionized the way we do business, and it continues to transform industries across the board. Businesses that are related to Fire in this area may include e-commerce platforms, social media networks, and online content providers.

Renewable Energy: Solar or biomass energy represent the transformative aspect of fire, as sunlight and organic materials are converted into usable energy. The passion, innovation, and drive required for the renewable energy industry’s development align with the Fire Element’s qualities.

San Yuan Jiu Yun (2024 – 2043)

Another Feng Shui concept that can be applied to the world of digital business is that of Jiǔ Yùn, 九运. Jiǔ Yùn is a system of cyclic energies that are believed to influence human behavior and events over time. This period is considered to be a time of rapid technological advancements and innovation, with a focus on the development of new technologies such as AI, robotics, and big data.

San-Yuan-Jiu-Yun

The technology and digital field have become a popular and potentially lucrative investment area. This could result in investors and companies allocating more resources and capital to the technology sector, driving the development of the technology industry.

From a business perspective, understanding the cycles of Jiǔ Yùn can be helpful in predicting trends and making strategic decisions. By paying attention to the energy of the current year and how it interacts with your business, you can gain insights into where to focus your efforts and what opportunities to pursue.

Interesting Finding: Elon Musk’s Bazi

Another connection to Chinese Feng Shui knowledge can be found in the birth chart, or Bā Zì, of entrepreneurs Elon Musk. Bā Zì 八字is a system of Chinese astrology that uses the date and time of a person’s birth to determine fate and destiny. Elon Musk was born on June 28, 1971, which makes his Chinese zodiac sign the Pig. His BaZi or Four Pillars of Destiny chart indicates that his Five Elements are primarily Fire and Earth, with a secondary Metal influence.

elon-musk

As mentioned, Elon Musk was born under the sign of Fire, which is associated with the qualities of passion, creativity, and transformation. In Chinese astrology, the birth chart is made up of four pillars, each representing a different aspect of a person’s life: the year pillar, month pillar, day pillar, and hour pillar. Each pillar is associated with one of the Five Elements, and the interaction between these elements can provide insights into a person’s personality, strengths, and weaknesses.

For instance, in Elon Musk’s birth chart, the year, month, and hour pillars are all associated with the element of Fire, indicating a strong presence of this element in his personality and destiny. This is consistent with his reputation as a passionate and creative entrepreneur who is always pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

Here was the reference from a Hong Kong Feng Shui Master 李應聰風水命理for further reading. Disclaimer: Though we do know Elon Musk was born on June 28, 1971. However, without the exact birth time, it is not possible to 100% accurately estimate his BaZi chart.

Feng Shui and the current digitalization trend

So, how do these Feng Shui concepts tie into the trend of business digitalization? One way to think about it is that digital products, such as domain names, SSL certificates, premium DNS, Microsoft 365, Alibaba Cloud, Document Signing Certificate, VMC, and so on, can be seen as tools for harnessing the energy of the Five Elements and Jiǔ Yùn to drive business success.

By using these digital tools to create a strong online presence, improve website security and performance, and enhance communication and productivity, businesses can tap into the energy of the universe and achieve greater harmony and balance.

In conclusion, while the connections between Feng Shui and digital business may not be immediately apparent, there are some interesting parallels to explore. By paying attention to concepts such as Wu Xing and Jiǔ Yùn, and by leveraging digital products in the current digital environment, businesses can achieve greater success in the ever-evolving landscape of digitalization, e-commerce and Industry 4.0.

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Author: Chan Kang

Feng Shui, Digitalization and Technology 23

Designer: Jackson

Verified Mark Certificate (VMCS) Adoption Grows, Increasing Digital Trust in Email Inboxes 24

Verified Mark Certificate (VMCS) Adoption Grows, Increasing Digital Trust in Email Inboxes

VMCs Now Supported by More Email Service Providers, Expanded Trademark Options

Standing out in the inbox is more difficult than ever, as email marketers are keenly aware. With Verified Mark Certificates (VMCs),  marketers can use their trademarked logo as a visual branding element within the email inbox — prior to a click through. Not surprisingly, we’re seeing the adoption of VMCs expand, with new Email Service Providers (ESPs) like Apple using it and additional trademark options approved for VMC, moving closer to a world where customers can see your logo in every email sent.

VMCs, a part of the Brand Indicators for Message Identification (BIMI) initiative, were launched in July 2021, and since then companies from all over the world have used VMCs to showcase their brand consistency in every email opened by their subscribers, making their brand appear front and center, even before the email is opened.

Additional ESPs adopting VMCs

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With the release of iOS 16 and Mac OS Ventura,  Apple is now showing VMCs  to emails addressed to iCloud and “.me” email addresses.  Apple is investing in increasing customer trust across their products, and as VMCs are a key way to demonstrate digital trust in the inbox, adding support for VMC just makes sense. Now with Apple, .me and Gmail, VMCs are reaching more inboxes than ever before, becoming a standard for email and leading other ESPs to start adopting VMCs.

Shortly after Apple’s announcement, a French email provider ( LePoste ) also started showing VMCs. Additionally, Yahoo is reportedly showing VMCs on its desktop version, and we expect their mobile client will follow shortly. The BIMI group keeps an updated list of mailboxes that support BIMI and VMCs on this page, which we expect to continually evolve as adoption for VMCs continues to expand.

This adoption of VMCs by global ESPs shows that providers believe in the value that VMCs provide and the strong authentication behind their issuance. Prior to issuance, each VMC undergoes the highest standard of validation, including confirmation of the domain, the applicant and their company, followed by proof of their right to use the trademark. The applicant validation includes a video call as well as a check to make sure they are authorized by the company to request the VMC. These stringent checks help ensure the VMC, the company and the domain are all tied together, adding assurance to the end user’s authentication of the email. Coupled with an enforced DMARC policy, VMCs provide visual authentication of the email origin.

Ensure digital trust in the inbox

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This is an exciting time for email marketing, and by using a VMC, your customers will see your logo in every email sent in a consistent manner and with strong security behind it. These milestones show momentum towards a greater adoption of VMC that will ultimately increase digital trust in email inboxes.

About WebNIC

WebNIC operates a digital reseller platform covering primarily domain name registration for over 700 TLDs, web security services, email and cloud services. With offices in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Beijing, Taipei and Jakarta, we serve 5,000 active resellers in over 70 countries. With over 20 years’ experience, we accelerate our partner’s growth through a robust platform, attentive support and wholesale pricing. To join us and become a reseller, live chat with us or email us at [email protected].

 
DigiCert VMC Webinar & ICANN75 Post-Event Recap 27

DigiCert VMC Webinar & ICANN75 Post-Event Recap

We organised a webinar event and attended ICANN75, which got us looking back and thinking about the domain industry.

Event 1

DigiCert Verified Mark Certificate (VMC) Webinar

DigiCert VMC Webinar & ICANN75 Post-Event Recap 28

We did a webinar on 6 September 2022 and we were excited to share news and insights about VMC for email security with our partners. VMC confirms a brand complies with DMARC email standards, and that messages sent by the brand are legitimate and sent from secured email domains. It enables users to see verified brand logo, even before they open an email, rather than seeing initials only in their inbox. It is a great for better visibility, better email security, better open rates and better user experiences.

For more info about DigiCert VMC, click here.

To view our webinar recording, click here.

Recapping on the event’s experiences, our General Manager Miss Ebbie shared her post-event thoughts regarding the domain industry and SSL:

”Looking back on 18 years ago, the emergence of the Internet had transformed the consumption pattern to e-commerce. Back then, there was a boom in the market where offline brick-and-mortar stores and e-commerce were complementing each other. The year was also the most prosperous era of hosting services.

With the technological evolution of the Internet industry, e-commerce sales have gradually shifted to social media and online platform sales. Consumers have begun to patron on major platforms and the consumption patterns have shifted from TV commercials to live broadcasts.

It has been 22 years since the establishment of WebNIC in 2000 and the more than two-decade of hard work has also laid a solid foundation. WebNIC ranks among the world’s top registrars and remains the number one domain registrar in Asia. At the same time, it took us four years to operate firmly as a Digicert MDRT agent and become a platinum agent.

When WebNIC’s domain name registrations exceeded 3 million a few years ago, I asked myself, how far can the domain name industry go or advance, and how long will it take WebNIC to attain another peak.

Being a part of the webinar hosted by DigiCert and WebNIC on September 6th, it allowed us to see the trend of the Internet industry for the next 10 years. It does indeed coincide with the direction set by WebNIC and has made us more determined.

I am still optimistic about the prospect of the domain name industry. The reason is simple, because domain names are the foundation of the Internet industry.

DigiCert is a world-renowned network security product company and it is also committed to researching and developing security products as well as maximizing the market of network products. DigiCert is the leader of SSL – formerly known as SSL, now known as VMC. The research and development of these new products are always based on the domain name.

Now, this foundation has evolved into another level. From e-commerce 20 years ago, it has transited to the era of digital brand protection and management. Online fraud is rampant nowadays and the public is always confused by fake brands on the Internet. How should we respond to these problems?

Whenever we mention brand protection, we tend to think about the traditional trademark registration. However, trademark registration has its regional restrictions and the threshold is relatively high.

The digitalization of brand protection is an inevitable trend, while at the same time this trend is always based on domain names. Therefore, the change in consumption patterns does not mean that domain names will be eliminated. On the contrary, it has moved towards a more professional development.

What we need to figure out amongst ourselves is, in the face of such a trend are we ready and have we achieved a high level of competency and professionalism.

Event 2

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ICANN75 was held in Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre from 17 to 22 September 2022. The event has been a fruitful one for us at WebNIC, because we were able to meet up with various domain industry partners to catch up with each other after the lockdown. We exchanged precious thoughts and insights with each other, and the event also allowed us to improve our knowledge and identify the future trend of the domain industry.

During the event, we managed to meet up with representatives from iQ Global, Identity Digital, .id domain, .blog domain, .love domain, .cloud domain, .org domain, as well as .icu domain. The meeting sessions with them were rewarding, and we had a great time chatting with them.

We discussed about issues regarding the domain industry such as how to increase registrations, marketing approaches, abuse controls, partnerships and many more other topics. The discussions helped us to identify the current trend that is happening in the domain industry, and this has helped us greatly in improving our services to our valued partners. We would like to thank you all who joined us for discussions, and we look forward to having more sessions like these with more people in the domain industry.

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Our CEO, TK Tan was also invited to speak as a panelist in one of the ICANN meetings. He touched on the recent trends, challenges and opportunities of the domain industry during the session.

TK mentioned that there have been many mergers and acquisitions in the domain industry, and many big players have been consolidating and merging with smaller players. 

TK also shared that the pandemic did indeed help to grow the adoption of the Internet in 2020, as high as 3 times compared to previous records, especially in the ecommerce industry. However, the trend has come down in 2021, and it slowed down in 2022.

TK went on to mention that in terms of domain name registrations, there was not really a big jump in number, even for ecommerce industry giant Shopify. The reason was partly because many people chose to start their ecommerce shops using marketplace platforms or social media. He also said that nonetheless, the growth of the domain name registrations was there and ecommerce is the trend now.

The panelists, including TK also touched on the future challenges of the domain industry. It is unavoidable that increased compliance with laws and policies around the world will pose many new challenges, and industry players will need to make sure to keep themselves updated always. The ICANN Registrar Stakeholder Group (RSG) is a group of players who will address the challenges and communicate with everyone on how to navigate the new landscape of the domain industry.

Last but not least, TK shared his views on the market growth prospects and potential for the domain industry. He said that in Asia Pacific, there are still some countries which are underserved, and these countries are pockets of opportunities. There are many young populations coming up in these countries with ideas and startups. Registrars can seek business opportunities among them.

He also mentioned about new technologies such as Web3, which might be confusing and challenging. Therefore, he encouraged all aspiring registrars in the session to join ICANN, which will help any registrars in compliance issues, as well as navigating the challenges that registrars may face.

WebNIC Office Visit & Putrajaya Tour

We also hosted our partners for an office visit, as well as joining us on a short tour of Putrajaya, the governing administrative centre of Malaysia. The office visit was fun and we had fun interacting with each other.

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The sightseeing trip was amazing and we had a great time taking in the views of the beautiful buildings in Putrajaya, as well as the remarkable landscape. The trip ended with a pleasant buffet dinner in Movenpick Hotel, a 5-star hotel near Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

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About WebNIC

WebNIC operates a digital reseller platform covering primarily domain name registration for over 700 TLDs, web security services, email and cloud services. With offices in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Beijing, Taipei and Jakarta, we serve 5,000 active resellers in over 70 countries. With over 20 years’ experience, we accelerate our partner’s growth through a robust platform, attentive support and wholesale pricing. To join us and become a reseller, live chat with us or email us at [email protected].

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Generate income with WebNIC’s Marketing Affiliate Program

Generate income with WebNIC’s Marketing Affiliate Program

We have launched a special program to help you, our valued partners, to build an extra source of income for your businesses. The program is called WebNIC Marketing Affiliate Program, and we want to assist you to generate more income to help your business grow!

The program is designed with you in mind to help your business market your services and products more conveniently with our help, while at the same time also generate income for your marketing efforts. Regardless of whether your efforts result in increased sales revenue or not, the program will still reward your efforts for completing certain requirements, and you will be able to claim the rewards. It’s just that easy!

 

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How does WebNIC Marketing Affiliate work?

The concept behind the program is very simple and straightforward. It helps you to take full advantage of your website and online presence to create marketing opportunities for your business. The main idea is to encourage you to convert your website spaces into an income generating space. Make the most of your website spaces and use them as marketing opportunities!

In case you are wondering how to do so, here’s how to do it:

Design some beautiful and eye-catching advertising banners and put them in these spaces! These banners not only serve as great ways to make your website more attractive, they are also able to serve marketing purposes by attracting the attention of your website visitors to your ongoing hottest deals and promotions! In addition, you can also use these banners for your other online presence such as social media, email list, customer portal etc.

You might think it is too troublesome to design and make banners, and so this is where our WebNIC Marketing Affiliate Program comes in. Our creative team will help you to do the heavy lifting of creating marketing banners. We prepare done-for-you banners and all you need to do is just download them and set them up on your website where you see fit!

With just a few clicks, you can easily get started marketing your products and services with beautiful banners, while also get income from doing so, even if there are no sales. That’s because once you join the campaigns in our WebNIC Marketing Affiliate Program and completed the campaign objectives, you will get rewards.

Psst! Most of the campaigns just require that you put up the banner for a set duration only, and you instantly qualify to claim rewards after that. Isn’t that awesome?

 

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How to join WebNIC Marketing Affiliate?

We welcome all of our existing partners to come and join this program! All you need to do is simply visit https://affiliate.webnic.cc/ and register for an account. You only need to provide your WebNIC Reseller ID to us and fill up a few details. Once we cross checked with our system and verified that you are one of our partners, your account will be created immediately!

If you are not our partner yet, don’t worry as you can sign up as a WebNIC partner here and then proceed to create an account at WebNIC Marketing Affiliate.

 

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The Benefits of Joining WebNIC Marketing Affiliate

Claim campaign rewards in cash
The great benefit of joining is that you can choose PayPal to receive cash as the rewards for the campaigns you joined! Complete the campaign requirements and enjoy flexibility in choosing your preferred payout method, be it WebNIC reseller credits or cash payment in PayPal!

Quick processing time
We make it our mission in this program to provide you with a quick and fast response to help you enjoy a seamless experience of the program. No matter what assistance you need, whether it is campaigns related issues, support requests or even cash payout, we will help you to solve it fast and accurate! Everyone hates waiting, especially when getting cash rewards! We help you to earn more as quickly as possible!

Flexibility and great convenience
We offer many campaigns for our various products and service from time to time in this program. Enjoy flexibility and choose to join campaigns you are interested in. No hidden fees or charges apply. We also designed the system to be easy and convenient for your usage, whereby no technical knowledge is required. It’s only clicking a few buttons and you are ready to go!

Ready done-for-you banners
Easily download and get our beautiful and eye-catching done-for-you banners to use on your websites. Wow your website visitors and prospective customers by putting these banners and create a competitive advantage over your competitors. Show them you mean business and help them build more awareness of your products and services via attractive banners! Are you thinking the effort to design and create banners are troublesome? Not anymore now with our program!

Don’t think, don’t wait anymore! Join our WebNIC Marketing Affiliate Program now!

 

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Join WebNIC Marketing Affiliate and Start Earning More Income!

Existing WebNIC reseller? Sign up for a marketing affiliate account here!

Not a WebNIC reseller? Sign up as a reseller here!

About WebNIC

WebNIC operates a digital reseller platform covering primarily domain name registration for over 600 TLDs, web security services, email and cloud services. With offices in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Beijing, Taipei and Jakarta, we serve 5,000 active resellers in over 70 countries. With over 20 years’ experience, we accelerate our partner’s growth through a robust platform, attentive support and wholesale pricing. To join us and become a reseller, live chat with us or email us at [email protected].