infiniWEB's plain language glossary: marketing without the fog
Lights off, numbers on – here, KPIs purr like clockwork. In everyday Swiss service provision, gut feelings (and Rivella light) are not enough: clear terms count, not pitch phrases after the third cold brew from Zurich West. Every key figure vibrates as precisely as a Patek Philippe tourbillon.
CTA? More than just a hotline button. Funnel? Definitely not a fondue pot. Conversion? The sound of corks popping in the controlling department.
This glossary guides you through the jungle of buzzwords and translates crisp pitch German into everyday language – without tables or marathon reference searches. Whether you're a barber in Bern, a trustee on Lake Zurich or a hotelier in St. Moritz: here you'll find clear, practical information without any hot air.
Cappuccino ready? Then let's dive into the ABCs of digital marketing – until your reporting shines like Lake Lucerne in July.
Heard a technical term but have no idea what it means? You'll find what you're looking for here.
Whether conversion, CPC, CMS or KPI – we speak plainly.
A/B testing – two variants, one goal
Those who don't test are guessing – those who test earn. What does A/B testing mean in online marketing?A/B testing is the digital equivalent of a test drive: two versions of an ad, landing page, or email compete against each other—and the market decides. It's not about taste, but about clicks, inquiries, and sales. And these are made measurable.
For example, version A gets different button text than version B. Or a different cover image. Or a different headline. The rest stays the same. Then the reactions are compared – and only the version with the better performance survives. Evolution live.
An example from a fireplace construction company in central Switzerland:
The offer page was displayed in two versions. Version A: a picture of an open fireplace. Version B: a craftsman in action with a hammer drill. Result: the version with the person generated 42% more contact requests. Apparently, trust warms better than flames.
A/B testing is like a double espresso for your website – only what works stays.
Above the fold – the field of vision that counts
What visitors don't see, they don't click on. What does "above the fold" mean and why is it important?"Above the fold" refers to the area of a website that you see immediately – without scrolling. This digital shop window decides within seconds whether someone stays or leaves. It is the first impression before anyone even starts reading.
If visitors have to scroll down to see the call-to-action, the phone number or the offer request, it's like putting your shop sign behind a flower pot.
This was the case with a garage door service in Thun:
The contact button was at the very bottom. After the relaunch, it was prominently displayed above the fold – with a picture, price indicator, and opening hours. The result: three times more inquiries. Without increasing the marketing budget. Just better placement.
Above the fold is like the entrance to your store – if it doesn't impress, no one will come in.
Ad Account – Your digital advertising agency
This is where your campaigns start – and your sales too. What is an Ad Account and why do you need one?An ad account is the control center for your online advertising. Whether Google Ads, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn – you need an account everywhere to plan campaigns, manage budgets, and evaluate results. Without an ad account, you won't see any ads.
An ad account is more than just access – it's your advertising accounting system, your target group archive, and the place where you can see whether advertising is costing you money or generating revenue.
Real-life example from a naturopathic practice in St. Gallen:
The practice had a private Facebook account and occasionally placed ads there. It was only with Business Manager and a clean ad account that campaigns became controllable, target groups definable, and results visible. Instead of "it feels like it's working," there were finally hard facts.
An ad account is like a toolbox – without it, you're working in the dark.
Ad copy – words that sell
Texts that are not only read, but clicked on. What is ad copy?Ad copy is the advertising text of an online ad – what the reader sees before clicking on "Learn more," "Book now," or "Get a quote." It decides in seconds whether interest is piqued or the thumb swipes on.
Good ad copy is clear, focused, and emotional. It addresses a problem, promises a solution, and gets to the heart of the matter. No flowery language, just well-chosen words. There's a world of difference between "Free initial consultation" and "Get clarity now – we're here to listen." An example from a security service in Lucerne:
For a long time, the Google Ads only showed: "Property protection and security service – since 1999." The new ad copy read: "Your peace of mind is our job – certified property protection, available 24/7." Click rate: +51%. Why? Emotion beats facts.
Strong ad copy is like a handshake through the screen – short, clear, convincing.
Ad impressions – how often your ad was seen
Reach without impact is like applause in the fog. What exactly are ad impressions?Ad impressions count how many times your ad has been displayed, regardless of whether anyone clicked on it or not. If your ad appears a thousand times, you have a thousand impressions. Will that be effective? It depends.
Impressions are like passers-by in front of a shop window. Many see it, few go in. It's not just how often your ad appears that matters, but whether it sticks – and, in the best case scenario, leads to a click.
This was the case for an event agency in the Bernese Oberland:
The Facebook campaign had over 80,000 impressions but hardly any enquiries. Only after the text and images were adjusted – with a focus on emotion rather than data – did the number of impressions drop slightly, but the clicks and bookings doubled. Quality over quantity.
Ad impressions are like business cards in the air – it's only when they land that things get exciting.
Ad Rank – who appears where on Google
It's not just the highest bid that wins – quality also counts. What is Ad Rank in Google Ads?Ad Rank determines the order in which paid ads appear on Google. It is the result of your bid, the quality of your ad, and the expected user experience on your landing page.
Google doesn't just want to make money – it also wants the ads to be relevant. That's why a well-written, relevant ad can rank higher than a poorly written ad with a high bid. Quality beats money, at least sometimes.
A case study from a carpentry business in the canton of Zurich:
Although the daily budget was increased, the ad remained in third place. Only after revising the ad text and optimizing the landing page for mobile devices did the ad rank increase – and the ad was displayed more often at the top. Conclusion: Don't just pay – improve.
Ad Rank is like a job interview at Google – paying alone is not enough, your presentation has to be right.
Ad Schedule – Advertising at the right time
Even the best ad is useless if no one sees it. What does ad schedule mean in online marketing?The ad schedule lets you determine when your ads are displayed. In other words, on which days of the week and at what times your ads are visible – because not every click is worth the same.
Anyone who Googles for an emergency hairdresser or electrician between 7 and 9 a.m. is usually serious. Anyone scrolling at midnight is perhaps less so. That's why advertising ≠ infomercial – it's about precise presence.
An example of an electrical company in the Winterthur region:
The ads ran around the clock. After analysis and a switch to weekdays from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday mornings, the budget decreased – but the number of enquiries increased. The night-time clicks disappeared and the real customers stayed.
Ad Schedule is like the key to your online advertising – only open when it makes sense.
Ad Server – the brain behind the ad
It ensures that your ad appears in the right place at the right time. What is an ad server and why do you need one?An ad server is a technical system that delivers, measures, and optimizes digital advertisements. It decides in a fraction of a second which ad is shown to whom on which website – and logs the results.
Ad servers are particularly important in programmatic advertising, where they exchange information with DSPs, SSPs, and targeting algorithms. Even simple advertising campaigns via Google Ads use ad server technology in the background.
Example of an online campaign for a window manufacturer:
Thanks to a central ad server, advertising banners could be placed based on location – for example, different images were used in Graubünden when it was snowing than when it was sunny in Geneva. This increased the click rate by 41%. The ad server is like a conductor – it puts every ad on stage at the right time.
Ads Manager – the cockpit for Meta advertising
This is where you control your ads on Facebook and Instagram. What is Meta's Ads Manager?Ads Manager is Meta's (formerly Facebook) central advertising tool. Here you can plan, place, and analyze your ads for Facebook, Instagram, and the Audience Network – all in one place.
Whether it's target groups, budgets, ad texts or runtimes: Ads Manager is the cockpit where every setting is made. Without it, your ad remains in draft form. With it, a post becomes a performance campaign.
Example of a tanning salon in the canton of Aargau:
The operator used to just post pictures with summer vibes. It was only after they started using Ads Manager that they were able to target women between the ages of 20 and 40 within a 10 km radius – with the result that they were fully booked in the off-season.
Ads Manager is like a dimmer switch – the better you use it, the more targeted your advertising will be.
Advertorial – advertising that reads like an article
Packaged advertising – informative, credible, readable. What exactly is an advertorial?Advertorial is a word created from "advertisement" and "editorial" – in other words, an editorially prepared advertising article. It looks like a normal article, but is paid for and has a clear marketing objective.
Unlike traditional advertisements, advertorials offer readers real added value – tips, background information, explanations. This makes them more credible and means they are read more often. But be careful: they must always be labeled as advertising.
An example from a trust office in the canton of Zug:
Instead of an advertisement, the office placed an advertorial entitled "5 tax tips for self-employed people in Switzerland." It offered real benefits – and ultimately led to an invitation for a free initial consultation. The result: greater visibility, more trust, and more leads.
A good advertorial does not sell – it convinces through its content.
Affiliate marketing – commission for referrals
Others recommend your offer – and earn money in the process. What is affiliate marketing and how does it work?Affiliate marketing is a digital recommendation in exchange for commission. Others (known as affiliates) link to your product or service – usually via blogs, portals, or social media. If a purchase is made via this link, they receive a predefined commission.
So you only pay for results – no clicks, no costs. This makes affiliate marketing particularly interesting for web shops, online courses, and booking portals.
A case study from a fitness studio in Lucerne:
The studio offered partners 10% on every sale made via an affiliate link. Fitness blogs and a local yoga portal linked to the detox program. The result: 40 new customers per month – without any advertising budget. Only on a performance basis.
Affiliate marketing is like a digital recommendation card – only with tracking and payment.
Algorithms – the invisible decision-makers
They determine what is seen – and what is lost. What is an algorithm in online marketing?An algorithm is a sequence of calculations used by platforms such as Google, Facebook, and Instagram to decide what is displayed to whom. It analyzes user behavior, content, timing, and relevance – and then displays the "most suitable" result.
In marketing, this means that chance does not decide, but rather a system. Those who position themselves well (e.g., with relevant content, strong keywords, or interactions) receive preferential treatment. Those who ignore this disappear into digital nirvana.
An example from a bookstore in Basel:
Although posts were made regularly, there were no likes or reach. It was only when the store started posting questions, surveys, and local book recommendations that visibility increased. Why? The algorithm loves interaction – not one-way communication.
An algorithm is like a digital bouncer – if you're interesting, you get in.
Average Order Value (AOV) – what a customer spends on average
Helps you understand how lucrative your orders really are. What is the average order value in an online shop?The average order value (AOV) indicates how much a customer spends on average when placing an order in your online shop. The formula is simple: total sales divided by the number of orders.
A high AOV can make your advertising costs more profitable because you earn more per order. Strategies such as cross-selling ("This also goes well with that") or minimum order values help to increase the AOV in a targeted manner.
An example from a web shop for barista accessories:
By introducing a bundle offer ("milk jug + tamper + cleaning brush"), the AOV rose from 48.50 CHF to 71.20 CHF. Fewer orders, but significantly more revenue – with the same advertising budget.
The AOV is like a shopping cart – the fuller it is, the better for business.
Alt text – the image that Google can read
Descriptive text for images – invisible but effective. What is alt text and why is it important?Alt text (alternative text) describes an image for search engines and screen readers. It appears when an image cannot be loaded and is read by Google to understand what is in the image.
This helps with SEO, increases the accessibility of your website, and brings images into Google Image Search. Important: Alt text should be short, clear, and descriptive. No keyword lists, just real information.
A case study from a roofing company in the canton of Solothurn:
The website showed reference images – but without alt text. After retrofitting clear image descriptions (e.g., "Pitched roof with tiles in Olten – renovated in 2023"), traffic via image search increased noticeably.
Alt texts are like subtitles for the web – inconspicuous but indispensable.
Analytics – your digital visitor statistics
Those who know what is happening on their website make better decisions. What does analytics mean in marketing?Analytics involves collecting, evaluating, and presenting data on user behavior on your website. Typical questions: How many visitors come every day? Where do they come from? Which pages do they view, and how long do they stay?
Tools such as Google Analytics provide these insights. They show what works and what doesn't. This turns gut feeling into a control instrument: Which page generates leads? Which ad attracts customers? Which target group jumps ship?
An example from an aesthetic medicine practice in Zurich:After implementing Analytics, it became clear that 60% of visitors were abandoning the form. The solution: a shorter form, clearer language, fewer fields. The result: a 35% increase in enquiries in three weeks.
Analytics is like a digital magnifying glass – it shows you where you shine and where you need to improve.
Anchor text – clickable link text with SEO impact
More than just "click here" – the text in the link helps determine your visibility. What is anchor text?Anchor text is the visible, clickable text of a hyperlink – in other words, what you click on. It plays an important role in SEO because it shows the user (and Google) what the linked page is about. Search engines evaluate appropriate anchor texts as a relevance signal. Accurate, thematically relevant texts help ensure that your website is found for the right search terms. Generic links such as "read more" waste potential. Example from the field of legal advice:
Instead of "Learn more," the link was "➤ How lawyers handle dunning procedures digitally." Result: More clicks, better rankings – simply through targeted anchor text.
Anchor text is like a signpost – the clearer the direction, the more people will follow it.
API – Interface between systems
When systems talk to each other, this usually happens via an API. What does API mean in digital marketing?API stands for "application programming interface" – a standardized interface through which two programs communicate with each other. In other words, it's a kind of translator or connector between two digital systems.
In marketing, an API is used, for example, to connect Google Ads to your CRM, a newsletter tool to your website, or a booking calendar to your back office. This allows data flows to run automatically – instead of manually with copy and paste.
A case study from an event organizer in eastern Switzerland:
In the past, online bookings were transferred manually to the CRM. With an API between the website and the booking system, this is now fully automated – including payment status and participant lists. This saves time, hassle, and errors.
APIs are like pipelines for data – when they're well laid out, you don't even notice them.
App Store Optimization (ASO) – get found in the app jungle
Like SEO, but for apps – so your app doesn't get lost in the store. What is ASO and what is it for?App Store Optimization (ASO) encompasses all measures that ensure that an app is easier to find in app stores such as the Apple App Store or Google Play. This includes titles, keywords, descriptions, screenshots, reviews, and more.
The goal is to achieve greater visibility – and thus more downloads. Similar to SEO, ASO is also about standing out from the competition. Once optimized, an app can grow organically for years. Example from a fitness studio in Zurich:
The studio app was renamed from "VitalCoach App" to "Gesund abnehmen & fitter werden – Zürich Vital" (Lose weight & get fitter – Zurich Vital). The new set of keywords led to a 350% increase in organic app downloads per month – without paid advertising.
ASO is like window dressing – if you stand out, people will come in more often.
Audience – the right target group for your advertising
If you advertise to everyone, you end up reaching no one. What does audience mean in online marketing?"Audience" is the English word for target group – and in Facebook, Google, or LinkedIn advertising accounts, it means the precisely defined group of people to whom your ads are displayed.
You can narrow down your audience by age, region, interests, behavior, occupation, or devices—the more specific, the better. This helps you avoid wasted coverage and reach only people who are genuinely interested in your services.
An example from a garden center in Appenzell:
Instead of targeting everyone, the Facebook campaign was aimed at homeowners with gardens between the ages of 35 and 60 within a 15 km radius. The result: fewer clicks, but more visits to the store. If you know who you're looking for, you'll find customers faster.
The audience is like applause on the right stage – only those who are in the right place will be heard.
Attribution – who gets the applause for the sale?
Helps you identify which channel contributed how much to the conversion. What does attribution mean in online marketing?Attribution is the assignment of success – for example, which marketing channel was decisive for a purchase, a booking, or a contact request. So-called attribution models are used for this purpose, such as "last click," "first click," or "linear."
The choice of model influences which campaigns are considered particularly valuable – and thus also future budget allocations. If you interpret it wrongly, you will miss the mark.
Practical example from a security systems agency:
A lead came in via Google Ads – but the first contact was a Facebook video. Attribution modeling with "time decay" made it clear that without the video, no interest would have been generated. The video was allocated budget – and the number of leads increased.
Attribution is like a playing field with many players – it's not just the goal scorer who matters.
Audience Development – Systematic Target Group Development
Greater reach, greater relevance – how to grow your target group in a targeted manner. What is audience development?Audience development describes the strategic development and maintenance of a target group. It is not just about reach, but also about relevance, loyalty, and long-term relationships – especially through content marketing, newsletters, SEO, and social media.
Instead of scatter shot, audience development focuses on quality over quantity. It measures which content works, who interacts with which content, and how to turn that into loyal customers.
Example from a therapist network:
Instead of scattering general posts on social media, content was created specifically for pain patients over 50. Interaction increased by 300%, the email list grew steadily, and the network became the go-to resource in the region.
Audience development is like gardening – the better the soil, the more sustainable the growth.
Backlink – digital recommendation from outside
A link from another website to yours – this strengthens trust with Google. What is a backlink in SEO?A backlink is a link from another website to your own. Google sees such links as recommendations – based on the principle that if many people link to a page, it must be important.
Backlinks are a key criterion for ranking in search results. However, it is not the quantity that counts, but the quality of the linking pages. One link from a reputable industry directory counts more than ten from dubious forums.
Example from a law firm specializing in inheritance law in Lausanne:
After an interview with a trade magazine, the law firm's website was linked. Shortly thereafter, it rose to number 1 on Google for "draw up a will Lausanne." A backlink with impact—because the source was credible.
A good backlink is like a recommendation in the Rotary Club – subtle but effective.
Banner ad – digital advertising on the web
Visual ads on websites – sometimes clickable, sometimes overlooked. What is a banner ad?A banner ad is a graphical advertisement that appears on websites. They are familiar as strips at the top, bottom, or side of a page, usually with an image, text, and a call to action.
They are the digital successor to poster advertising: highly visible, often distracting, but also effective – if they are cleverly placed and well designed. Banner ads are particularly suitable for reach campaigns, branding, or promotions.
This is how it worked for a pizza delivery service in Basel-Land:Banners were placed on local news portals at lunchtime: "Hot. Crispy. At your door in 20 minutes." – with a picture of a pizza from a wood-fired oven. Click rate: twice as high as for normal text ads. Timing + imagery = hunger makes people click.
A good banner is like a wink in the marketplace – seen briefly, but often remembered.
Behavioral targeting – advertising that adapts to behavior
Click behavior becomes personalized advertising. What is behavioral targeting?Behavioral targeting means that users are shown targeted advertising based on their behavior on the Internet. For example, if you frequently visit gardening websites, you will be shown lawn mowers – even if you are currently reading the news.
Their behavior (pages visited, search queries, clicks) is tracked and evaluated. This results in an interest profile. As a result, the advertising does not reach everyone, but only those who are highly likely to be interested in it.
A case study from a forklift rental company in Graubünden:
After introducing behavioral targeting, ads were only shown to people who had previously visited industry websites or searched for "construction equipment rental." The result: three times more inquiries and half the cost per lead.
Behavioral targeting is like advertising with intuition – only those who show interest receive offers.
Black Hat SEO – when Google becomes the enemy
Short-term ranking tricks with long-term risks. What is Black Hat SEO?Black Hat SEO refers to search engine optimization methods that violate the guidelines of Google and other search engines. These include keyword stuffing, cloaking, hidden text, and buying backlinks.
Such tricks can lead to better rankings in the short term – but in the long term, they can result in penalties, loss of visibility or even complete de-indexing of the website. Anyone who relies on black hat techniques is playing with fire.
Example from a pseudo shop for garden accessories:
The site suddenly ranked number 1 for "buy hedge trimmers" – through purchased links and keyword repetition. Three weeks later, it had completely disappeared from Google. The trust? Gone too.
Black hat SEO is like tax evasion – it might work, but woe betide you if you get caught.
Bounce rate – when visitors leave immediately
The bounce rate shows whether your website is convincing – or off-putting. What does bounce rate mean?The bounce rate indicates how many visitors leave your website after viewing only one page – without clicking, scrolling, or continuing to read. In other words, they arrive, take a look, and leave.
There can be many reasons for this: slow loading times, unclear messages, missing calls to action, or simply the wrong target audience. A high bounce rate is not necessarily a bad thing – it is normal for a blog article, for example. But what about a landing page with an offer form? That's critical. An example from a window manufacturer in Zug:
After a Google campaign, the bounce rate was 82%. The reason: the landing page did not show any specific offers, no contact details, just text. After redesigning it with a button, phone number, and customer testimonial, it dropped to 39%—and the inquiries came back.
Bounce rate is like a guest who turns around and leaves right away – the question is: Why?
Breadcrumb – the digital breadcrumb trail for better orientation
Helps visitors (and Google) find their way around your website. What is a breadcrumb?A breadcrumb – or navigation path – shows visitors where they are on a website. It usually consists of clickable links and follows the structure: Home › Category › Subpage.
It improves orientation for users. For Google, it provides context about the page hierarchy – a plus for SEO. Breadcrumbs are almost mandatory, especially on websites with many subpages (e.g., online shops).
Example from a plumbing company with an online catalog:After introducing breadcrumbs, customers clicked back to the category more often instead of searching again. The bounce rate fell by 19% – because people knew where they were and where they could go.
Breadcrumbs are like signposts in a warehouse – those who know their way around stay longer and find more.
Branding – your brand in people's minds
It's not what you say, it's what people think about you – that's branding. What does branding mean for SMEs?Branding is the targeted development of your brand – with values, tone, imagery, colors, and messages. It's about how your company is perceived, what it triggers – and whether people remember it.
Good branding ensures that people recognize you, trust you, and think of you when they make their next decision. It starts with the logo, lives in the text, shows itself in the customer experience, and ends not in a file, but in the minds of your target group.
This is what happened at an interior design studio in Lausanne:
Before the rebranding: generic website, random colors, interchangeable language. After: visual style, distinctive language ("We stage rooms, not furniture"), imagery with character. The result: more inquiries – and finally the feeling: This is us.
Branding is like perfume – you only notice how powerful it is when you're gone.
Broken links – dead links that lose visitors
When a click leads to nothing, it's not just the user who leaves. What is a broken link and why is it problematic?A broken link is a reference to a page that no longer exists – e.g. because it has been deleted, moved or misspelled. Anyone who clicks on it usually ends up on a 404 error page. This is annoying for visitors and bad for your SEO. Search engines consider many broken links to be a sign of a poorly maintained website and downgrade them in their rankings. Visitors, in turn, doubt the credibility of the site or simply lose interest. Therefore, check, clean up, or redirect broken links regularly. A case study from a painting company in the canton of Aargau:
On the "Facade renovation" subpage, two links led nowhere – one to the paint supplier, one to references. After the correction, the dwell time increased – and inquiries doubled compared to the previous week.
Broken links are like dead ends in a shop window – no one goes any further if they can't get any further.
Budget Cap – Keep advertising costs under control
Your limit for advertising spending – so Google doesn't go on a shopping spree. What does budget cap mean in online advertising?A budget cap is a fixed upper limit for your advertising spend – per day, per week, or for the entire campaign duration. This ensures that your ads don't suddenly cost twice as much as planned.
The cap acts as a safety net, especially on platforms such as Facebook or Google Ads, where algorithms optimize independently. It protects against unexpectedly high click costs or campaigns that run incorrectly.
A case study from a physiotherapy practice in St. Gallen:
After opening, a Google campaign ran without a limit. As a result, 640 Swiss francs were spent on the first weekend instead of the planned 150. Since introducing a daily cap of 25 Swiss francs, the budget has been stable and appointments can be planned.
A budget cap is like a handbrake – rarely used, but good to know it's there.
Button click tracking – measures whether visitors take action
You not only see who clicks, but also what happens when they do. What is button click tracking and why is it important?Button click tracking measures how often certain buttons on your website are clicked – e.g., "Request quote," "Call us," "Book now," or "Start download." This shows how well your website encourages action. With tools such as Google Tag Manager, you can accurately track clicks on specific buttons and use this information to determine which pages are working and where there is room for improvement. Without tracking, the click remains invisible. An example from a security service in Biel:
There were three contact buttons on the website – but only one was clicked. After placing an eye-catching call to action in the header and implementing targeted tracking, the interaction rate increased by 47%. If you know what buttons are being pressed, you can steer things in the right direction.
Button tracking is like a door counter in a store – without it, you never know who came in – or who didn't.
Buyer persona – your ideal customer on paper
If you know who you're writing for, you'll sell better. What is a buyer persona?A buyer persona is a detailed, fictional profile of your ideal customer. It includes demographic data, goals, problems, values, purchasing behavior – and helps you tailor your marketing and communication precisely.
Unlike target groups, which are often broadly defined ("women aged 30–50"), a buyer persona has a name, profession, motivations, and even favorite drinks. It gives the anonymous market a face – and makes your message more concrete.
Here's how it worked for a men's hairdresser in Winterthur:
Instead of advertising to "all men between 20 and 60," the persona "Tom, 38, working father with little time, values a well-groomed appearance" was created. The result: more targeted Google Ads, more bookings – and the feeling of being understood.
A buyer persona is like a good compass – it shows you where your message needs to go.
Call-to-action (CTA) – the click that makes all the difference
Without a call to action, your website is nice – but useless. What is a call to action in online marketing?A call to action (CTA) is a direct request for action from your website visitors – e.g., "Request a quote now," "Get a free consultation," or "Reserve a table." It is the digital equivalent of a shop door handle.
CTAs guide the user. Without them, they will wander around or leave your site. They should be eye-catching, specific, and benefit-oriented. A CTA is not a command, but an invitation to take the next step.
Example from an aesthetic medicine practice in Lucerne:
Instead of "Learn more," the following was tested: "Show your skin at its best – book a free initial consultation now." Result: 52% more clicks. Because it sounds human, not technical.
A good CTA is like a door sign with open arms – clear, friendly, and targeted.
Campaign Budget Optimization (CBO) – Budget that automatically runs better
Your campaign distributes the money itself – to where it works best. What is CBO in Facebook advertising?With CBO, Facebook (Meta) automatically manages the campaign budget at the ad group level. In concrete terms, this means that you only specify the total budget, and the algorithm decides which target group or ad gets the money – depending on what is currently working best.
Instead of constant manual adjustments, the system optimizes in real time. This saves time, avoids waste – and can improve performance if the ads are clearly structured. A case study from an IT consultant in Zurich:
Instead of splitting budgets manually, CBO was activated. After one week, 80% of the budget was allocated to the target group that delivered the most leads – automatically. The result: 30% more enquiries with the same investment.
CBO is like an intelligent accountant – it knows where your money will do the most good.
Campaign Budget – How much budget does a good campaign need?
No budget means no reach – no plan means wasted money. What does campaign budget mean?The campaign budget refers to the advertising budget available for a specific campaign – for example, on Google Ads, Facebook, or in print ads. It is either set on a daily basis (e.g., $50 per day) or as a total budget (e.g., $1,500 for 30 days). The key thing to remember is that the budget determines how often and to whom your ad is shown – and when it ends.
Example from a window manufacturer: A budget of $1,200 is invested in Google Ads for the fall campaign. The system distributes it over four weeks. After week 1, it becomes clear that the mobile target group is responding much better. So the budget is adjusted – and generates more inquiries for less money.
A good advertising budget is like an engine – too small and it jerks, too big and it burns out.
Canonical tag – shows Google what the original is
Prevents SEO duplicates and ensures clarity in the index. What is a canonical tag and when do you need it?A canonical tag is an invisible HTML element that tells Google which version of a page should be considered the "official" one. This is particularly important when the same or very similar content is available under multiple URLs.
Example: Product pages with color variants or blog articles with tracking parameters. Without a canonical tag, Google classifies this as duplicate content, which can harm your SEO. With the tag, you show that this URL is the main source.
Practical example from a web shop for precision tools:
The product page was accessible under four different URLs due to internal filter functions. After correctly integrating a canonical tag, visibility increased because Google only indexed the main page.
The canonical tag is like an official stamp in the form chaos – it shows which page counts.
Carousel Ad – multiple images, one powerful story
Ideal for products, steps or variants – swipe and click. What is a carousel ad in social media?A carousel ad is an ad with multiple scrollable elements – often images or videos, each with its own link and text. Users can swipe through and decide for themselves what interests them.
Perfect if you want to show multiple products, visualize step-by-step instructions, or use before-and-after comparisons. Carousel ads are among the most clickable formats on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. A case study from a window manufacturer in Lucerne:
The company used a carousel ad to show five different renovation examples – each with a before/after image and a "Request a quote" button. The result: 2.6 times more clicks than with a single image ad. Because scrolling is fun – and builds trust.
A carousel ad is like a digital shop window with a turntable – the more you show, the longer you stay in people's minds.
Chatbot – the automatic conversation partner on your website
Available 24/7, answers questions, filters requests – and never annoys anyone. What is a chatbot in marketing?A chatbot is a digital dialogue system that automatically answers simple queries on websites, in shops or on social media. They range from simple button-based question modules to AI-supported helpers with complex logic.
Chatbots clarify initial questions, filter potential customers, make appointments, or provide information – immediately, around the clock. This is particularly helpful when the team is small or many inquiries arrive at the same time.
This is how it worked for a cleaning service in the Zurich area:
With a chatbot on the home page, visitors could immediately enter their address and desired date. The bot forwarded everything to the team. The result: less phone stress, a better overview, and a clear increase in bookings.
A good chatbot is like a friendly reception desk – polite, fast, always ready to help.
Click-through rate (CTR) – measures the appeal of your ad
How many people look – and how many actually click? What does CTR mean in online marketing?The click-through rate (CTR) shows how many people saw an ad and actually clicked on it. It is expressed as a percentage and is calculated by dividing clicks by impressions and multiplying by 100.
A high CTR indicates a relevant, appealing ad with a strong headline, image, or offer. A low CTR can be a sign of wasted coverage or irrelevant content. This is particularly important for Google Ads, social ads, or email campaigns. Example from a fitness studio in Winterthur:
The CTR of a Facebook campaign was 0.9%. After changing the headline from "Try it now" to "Feel revitalized again – secure a free trial session," it rose to 2.4%. Conclusion: Clear benefits beat marketing buzzwords.
CTR is like the doorbell of your offer – if you don't ring it, no one will come in.
Cloaking – a dangerous SEO masquerade
When search engines see something different from your website visitors. What is cloaking in search engine optimization?Cloaking involves showing search engines different content than real users – for example, a text-heavy, keyword-optimized page for Google, while people see a fancy graphic. The goal: better rankings through deception.
Google recognizes such manipulation and punishes it severely. Cloaking is a typical black hat technique – risky, dishonest, and extremely dangerous in the long term.
Example from a dubious pseudo travel agency:Google saw a detailed page about "family vacations in Graubünden," but visitors were redirected to a gambling site. Result: Google banned the domain completely—it couldn't even be found with the brand name.
Cloaking is like a false label on a medicine package – no one wants to swallow something like that.
CMS – the control panel for your website content
Manage text, images, and pages – no programming knowledge required. What is a CMS and what is it used for?A CMS (content management system) is software that allows you to create, edit, and manage content on your website without writing code. Well-known systems include WordPress, Joomla, TYPO3, and Webflow.
Whether you want to upload images, change text or publish blog articles, with a CMS you can do it all directly in your browser. Ideal for SMEs that want to remain flexible without having to call an agency for every little thing.
An example from a trust office in the canton of Bern:
After the relaunch with WordPress, blog articles, team pages, and forms could be maintained internally. This saves running costs and ensures that content remains up to date and lively.
A good CMS is like a toolbox – you don't need training to use it, but structure helps.
Content marketing – helpful content instead of advertising slogans
Those who are useful are heard – and gain trust. What is content marketing?Content marketing is a strategy in which companies build visibility, trust, and customer loyalty through useful, informative, or entertaining content. This can include blog articles, videos, guides, podcasts, or e-books.
The focus is not on direct sales, but on problem solving and added value – in such a way that your target group thinks: "They know what they're doing – I want to work with them."
An example from a swimming pool construction company in Ticino:Instead of traditional advertising, the company launched a blog series: "5 mistakes in pool construction," "Chlorine: a cost trap?" and "How much maintenance does my pool really need?" The result: more website visits, organic Google rankings – and significantly more inquiries.
Content marketing is like a good tip from a craftsman – free, helpful, and memorable.
Conversion – when a click becomes a customer
The most important metric for your website: what does it really bring you? What does conversion mean in marketing?Conversion describes the moment when a visitor performs a desired action: fills out a form, makes a purchase, registers, or starts a call. In short: when a prospect becomes a lead or customer.
Conversions are the goal of many marketing activities – and the yardstick for their success. Without conversions, traffic is just a number. Only with a clear definition of goals can website visits be turned into business results.
An example from a naturopathic practice in the canton of Vaud:
After introducing a clear CTA "Book your first appointment now" with direct online appointment scheduling, conversions doubled. No more long contact forms, no more waiting – just one click to book.
A conversion is like a handshake after a conversation – it shows that there was a connection.
Conversion funnel – the path from visitor to customer
Every good website has a goal – the funnel is the path to get there. What is a conversion funnel?A conversion funnel describes the individual steps a user takes on your website – from initial contact to the desired action, e.g., a purchase or an inquiry. It visually resembles a funnel: many at the top, few at the bottom.
Typical: Home page → Service overview → Detail page → Inquiry form → Submit. The better this process is optimized, the more visitors will become customers. Identifying (and eliminating) bottlenecks in the funnel is one of the most important tasks in online marketing.
Case study from an insurance service provider in Valais:
The funnel was analyzed – many dropped out at step 2 ("rate calculator"). After improving the loading time and rephrasing the questions, the bounce rate fell by 41% – and the funnel delivered more inquiries.
The conversion funnel is like good advice: step by step to the finish – without any pitfalls.
Conversion Rate – how many visitors actually take action
Lots of clicks are nice – but conversions count. What is the conversion rate and why is it important?The conversion rate is the percentage of visitors who perform a desired action on your website – in other words, trigger a conversion. This can be a purchase, a contact request, or a registration.
It is calculated as follows: number of conversions divided by number of visitors × 100. A high conversion rate means that your website is clear, convincing, and leads visitors to their goal. A low conversion rate? Something is wrong somewhere in the process.
An example from a tanning salon in Solothurn:
Out of 1,000 website visitors, only 8 booked an appointment. After clearly placing the "Book now" button, the conversion rate rose to 3.2%. Small change, big impact.
The conversion rate is like the closing rate in sales – it shows how well the store is doing.
Cookies – small data packets with a big impact
Not sweet, but useful: how cookies work on the web. What is a cookie on the internet?Cookies are small text files that websites store on the user's device. They remember settings, store logins, or track user behavior for analysis and marketing purposes.
There are functional cookies (e.g., language settings), performance cookies (e.g., visitor numbers), and marketing cookies (e.g., for personalizing advertising). Since the GDPR came into effect – and also in Swiss data protection law (revDSG) – consent is mandatory for these cookies. Example from a pizzeria in Zurich:
After introducing a cookie banner, users could specifically agree or decline. Tracking was clearly documented, and Google Ads were only optimized with valid data. Data protection compliant and performance-oriented.
A cookie is like a Post-it note in your browser – it remembers that you've been there before.
Cost per click (CPC) – what a click really costs
Every click is cash – CPC shows you exactly how much. What does CPC mean in online marketing?CPC stands for "cost per click" and refers to the amount you pay when someone clicks on your ad – e.g., on Google Ads or Facebook Ads. You don't pay for the ad itself, only for the actual interaction.
CPC is an important factor in evaluating the effectiveness of your campaign. A low CPC can be an indication of good ad quality or little competition – a high CPC may mean that you should rethink your target audience or message.
An example from an IT agency in Basel:
The first Google campaign had a CPC of $3.50. After optimizing the ad copy, landing pages, and keywords, the CPC dropped to $1.20 – with a better click-through rate. More clicks, less cost.
CPC is like the price per customer in a shop window – the cheaper per click, the more you earn for your business.
Cost per mille (CPM) – cost per thousand views
Perfect for brand awareness – not for direct sales. What does CPM mean in online advertising?CPM stands for "cost per mille," i.e., the cost for 1,000 ad impressions. You don't pay per click, but per view – ideal if you want to reach as many people as possible, e.g., for branding campaigns.
CPM is suitable for raising awareness of your brand, launching new products or promoting events. It is not about direct action, but about visibility. CPMs can vary greatly depending on the platform and target group.
An example from an event agency in Lucerne:
Instagram Story ads with a CPM model were used to promote a summer festival. 75,000 impressions for less than $300 – awareness goal achieved, tickets sold via retargeting.
CPM is like billboard advertising on a main road – you pay to be seen, not to be noticed.
Crawl budget – how often and how deeply Google crawls your website
Every page counts – but Google doesn't visit your site an infinite number of times. What is crawl budget and why is it important for SEO?Crawl budget refers to the number of pages that Google searches ("crawls") when visiting your website. The larger your website, the more relevant it becomes which content is prioritized or neglected.
If Google crawls too many irrelevant or technical pages (e.g., filter URLs, duplicates), less "budget" remains for your important content. Increasing crawling efficiency improves indexing and visibility in the long term.
An example from an online shop for garden accessories:
After removing 2,000 irrelevant pages (e.g., duplicate color selection pages) and setting canonicals, the crawl rate of product detail pages increased by 32%. Google found what matters faster – and ranked it better.
The crawl budget is like a visit from the tax inspector – show what counts and hide the rest.
Crawling – when Google takes a closer look at your website
No crawling means no indexing – no indexing means no Google ranking. What does crawling mean in the context of SEO?Crawling refers to the process by which search engines such as Google automatically search your website. Pages are discovered, analyzed, and, if relevant, marked for indexing. The crawler follows links, checks content, and evaluates structure and technology.
Good internal linking, fast loading times, and clean URLs help your most important pages to be crawled more frequently and efficiently. Faulty pages (404), redirect loops, or technical blockages, on the other hand, disrupt the process.
Example from an electrical company in Obwalden:
After integrating an XML sitemap and optimizing the link structure, Google discovered 22% more pages. This led to better index coverage – and, after just a few weeks, to higher rankings for product pages.
If Google doesn't crawl your website, it's like a shop window in the fog – even the best content won't help.
Cross-device tracking – recognizes users even when they take a detour
From mobile phone to checkout on your PC – without any data loss in between. What is cross-device tracking?Cross-device tracking makes it possible to recognize a user across multiple devices – e.g., if they first see an ad on their smartphone, then do some research on their tablet, and finally make a purchase on their desktop.
Login data, device IDs, or tracking methods such as user matching create a unified picture of the customer journey. For marketing and evaluation, this means better attribution, more targeted remarketing, and more efficient budgets.
Example from a furniture store with online appointment booking:
Many users clicked on ads on their mobile devices but only booked via their PCs. Without cross-device tracking, the bookings would have been "without click origin" – this made it possible to measure the success of the campaign.
Cross-device tracking is like a customer advisor with an elephant's memory – it remembers what you asked yesterday.
CSS – The beauty salon for your website
Not the blueprint, but the styling – CSS turns HTML into a feast for the eyes. What is CSS – and why do SMEs need it?CSS stands for Cascading Style Sheets and controls how a website looks: colors, fonts, spacing, layouts. HTML is the skeleton – CSS is the clothing, hairstyle, and smile on the face. Without CSS, every page would be as charming as a delivery note.
Practical example from a pizza delivery service: The new website loads in seconds, looks great on every device, and finally has a menu in the company colors. Before: Gray text on a white background – Buon Appetito could be better.
CSS is like a hairdresser for your website – only digital, thorough, and without small talk.
Customer journey – the path from curious to customer
Every decision starts with a first step – and many touchpoints. What is a customer journey?The customer journey describes the stages a customer goes through before making a purchase or booking – from initial contact to the final decision. This includes, for example, a Google search, visiting your website, reading reviews, or clicking on an ad.
Each phase – awareness, interest, decision, action – requires appropriate content and stimuli. Those who understand the journey can exert targeted influence and remove obstacles.
Example from a painting business in Lucerne:
Prospective customers found the company via Google, looked at references on Instagram, and finally booked via the website. After evaluating the journey, targeted ads were placed on Instagram—because that's where the decision was made.
The customer journey is like a consultation with breaks – whoever says the right thing at the right time wins.
Customer Lifetime Value (CLV) – the value of a customer over time
It's not the first purchase that counts – it's the entire customer relationship. What does customer lifetime value mean?Customer lifetime value (CLV) is a metric that indicates how much revenue a customer generates on average during the entire business relationship. It helps you recognize how much a customer is really "worth" – and how much you can invest in advertising.
CLV takes into account repeat purchases, contract terms, additional sales, and cancellation rates. It is particularly useful in subscription models, for services with follow-up orders, or in long-term customer relationships.
An example from a fitness studio offering 12-week courses:
The initial booking generated $290 in revenue. However, 68% of customers booked again later. The CLV was over $620. This changed the entire marketing strategy – away from immediate sales and toward long-term development.
CLV is like a glimpse into the future – it shows whether a booking will turn into a relationship.
Custom Audience – targeted advertising for known contacts
Reach your existing contacts – on Facebook, Instagram, and more. What is a custom audience in online marketing?A custom audience is an individually defined target group for online advertising that consists of existing data, such as email addresses, website visitors, or app users. This data is uploaded to platforms such as Facebook or Google in order to target precisely these individuals again.
Ideal for remarketing campaigns, offer reminders, or upselling. Important: Observe data protection regulations and only use data that has been collected legally.
Case study from a security service in Zurich:
After visiting the "Property Protection" service page, the target person was specifically targeted again on Facebook with the CTA: "Ready for complete protection? Secure your free consultation now." The conversion rate for this campaign was almost three times higher than for cold contacts.
A custom audience is like a personal invitation – not anonymous, but familiar.
Dashboard – your figures at a glance
All key figures, neatly sorted – like the cockpit of an airplane. What is a dashboard in online marketing?A dashboard is a clear interface that brings together key performance indicators (KPIs) from various marketing channels and displays them visually, often in the form of charts, tables, or traffic lights.
With a dashboard, you can see at a glance how your website, campaigns, or social media channels are performing – without having to click through ten different tools. Tools such as Google Looker Studio (formerly Data Studio) or AgencyAnalytics make this possible.
An example from a roofing company in Aarau:
Before: Figures from Google Ads, Analytics, and Facebook had to be compiled manually. After introducing a dashboard in Looker Studio: daily overview with leads, budget, clicks – including weather integration for planning purposes.
A good dashboard is like a car dashboard – if you can see it, you can drive better.
Data layer – your website's data counter
This is where information is stored before it is passed on for tracking. What is a data layer in tag management?The data layer is a structured layer of data stored on a website. It serves as a temporary storage location for information such as product names, prices, user actions, or order values before this data is processed by tools such as Google Tag Manager (GTM).
With a clean data layer, you can accurately and flexibly measure what is happening on your website without having to constantly tinker with the source code. Example from an online shop for catering supplies:
All order values were stored in the data layer. This enabled conversion tracking, upsell values, and shopping cart abandonments to be reported correctly to Google Ads and Meta – without error-prone individual integration.
The data layer is like a waiter – it discreetly collects everything that comes to the table and passes it on to the kitchen.
Deep link – the direct path to your content
Not the home page – but exactly the subpage that matters. What is a deep link?A deep link is a link that does not lead to the home page of a website, but directly to a deeper subpage – such as a product, a blog article, or a service page. Deep links are standard, especially for search engines, social media, or newsletter campaigns.
They ensure better user guidance, shorten paths, and improve the user experience. Deep links are also essential for SEO, as they make relevant content directly visible.
An example from a bookstore with an online shop:
Instead of linking to the home page, a link was placed specifically on the subpage .../krimis/schweizer-autoren. The result: a better bounce rate, longer dwell times, and significantly more orders via Google Ads.
A deep link is like a direct entrance to your favorite bookshelf – no one likes detours through the foyer.
Deep link – link directly to the heart of the matter
Instead of just going to the home page, you go straight to where the action is. What is a deep link?A deep link is a link that does not refer to the home page, but to a specific subpage of a website – for example, to a specific product, a blog post, or a contact form.
It is particularly useful if you want to lead users directly to relevant content – without any detours. In advertising, social media, and emails, deep links are indispensable for a high conversion rate.
Example from a trust office:
Instead of linking to the home page, a Facebook post pointed directly to the tax calculator for self-employed people. The result: 78% more interactions – because the target group got exactly what they were looking for.
A deep link is like a direct lift to the penthouse – no one wants to walk up all the stairs.
Demand generation – creating demand before it exists
Don't wait until someone is searching – actively spark their interest. What does demand generation mean?Demand generation is the strategic building of interest and demand – before potential customers even start looking for a product or solution. It is the supreme discipline in B2B marketing and begins long before the sales process.
The focus is on content, events, webinars, checklists, or studies that raise awareness of a problem and make a solution tangible – long before anyone requests a quote.
Example from a security technology agency:A white paper entitled "How secure is your warehouse really?" was advertised on LinkedIn – not direct advertising, but a strong entry point into conversations with purchasing managers. Within three months, 14 concrete project inquiries were generated.
Demand generation is like a good thriller – first you build suspense, then you deliver the resolution.
Display advertising – the digital billboards of the internet
Visual advertising with banners, animations, and videos on external websites. What is display advertising?Display advertising refers to graphically designed online advertising, such as banners, animated GIFs, or video ads that are displayed on third-party websites. They usually appear in advertising networks such as Google Display Network or on news sites, blogs, or forums.
The goal: to build brand awareness, make products visible, and attract interested parties to your own website – often through retargeting.
Example from a painting business:
Advertising banners with before-and-after photos of renovations were placed on regional portals. Recognition on Facebook ads increased visibly – many clicks did not come directly, but through subsequent Google searches.
Display ads are like neon signs – they make visible what would otherwise remain in the shadows.
Domain Authority – how credible is your website?
An SEO metric that indicates how much Google trusts your website. What is Domain Authority?Domain Authority (DA) is a value between 1 and 100 developed by Moz that indicates how well a website can rank compared to other websites. The higher the number, the greater the likelihood of appearing high up in Google search results.
It is calculated based on factors such as the number and quality of backlinks, technical stability, and content relevance. Domain Authority is not an official Google ranking factor – but it is a good benchmark. Example from a bookstore with an online shop:
After a guest article on a renowned literature platform, the Domain Authority rose from 21 to 29. The result: better visibility for niche search terms such as "children's books for three-year-olds."
Domain Authority is like a digital reputation – those who are considered credible are more likely to be recommended.
Double opt-in – double confirmation is better
An important process for legally compliant registration, especially in email marketing. What does double opt-in mean?Double opt-in describes the two-step process for subscribing to newsletters or digital offers. After entering their email address, the user receives a confirmation email – the subscription is only activated after clicking on the link contained in the email.
This process prevents abuse, ensures clean address lists, and is mandatory under Swiss data protection law (revDSG) and the GDPR in the EU.
Example from a fitness studio in Thun:
Previously, every address was automatically added to the newsletter. After switching to double opt-in, the number of subscribers decreased – but the open rate rose from 14% to 39%. Quality beats quantity.
Double opt-in is like a handshake with witnesses – clear, traceable, and binding.
DSP (Demand Side Platform) – Buying advertising like on the stock market
Platform through which advertisers automatically purchase advertising space. What does a DSP do?A demand side platform (DSP) is a technology platform that allows advertisers to purchase advertising space in real time – e.g., banner space on news portals or videos before YouTube clips. The key factor is that the auction is fully automated and takes place in milliseconds.
DSPs compare target groups, locations, budgets, bids – and place the ad where it fits best. Programmatic advertising is based entirely on this technology.
Example from a precision manufacturing company:
Instead of advertising across specialist portals, a DSP was used to target users with CTO roles in German-speaking Switzerland between 7 and 10 a.m. on weekdays. The result: three times more enquiries for the same budget.
A DSP is like an advertising stockbroker – it only buys where the price is right.
Dynamic Ads – advertising that adapts automatically
The ad shows exactly the product that the user has previously viewed. What are dynamic ads?Dynamic ads are advertisements that automatically adapt to the behavior and interests of the user. They are particularly common in online shops – for example, when you have viewed a product and later see it again as an ad on social media or other websites.
The content is automatically loaded into the ad from a product feed or based on visitor behavior – personalized and scalable at the same time.
Example from a Swiss online store for outdoor clothing:
A visitor looks at hiking boots – two hours later, they see exactly the same model as an ad on Instagram. Result: 21% higher conversion rate for returning visitors thanks to dynamic ads.
Dynamic ads are like shop windows that know what you looked at yesterday.
Duplicate content – why twice isn't better
If Google thinks you've copied something, you'll lose points – even without a teacher. What is duplicate content?Duplicate content means that the same text appears in several places on the internet (or on your website). This can happen unintentionally – for example, through print versions, sorting functions in the shop, or when the same services are described on several subpages. Google then does not know which version is relevant – and may downgrade both.
Example from a carpentry business: If five subpages contain exactly the same text, such as "We build carports for you," Google will think "spam." Better: Each page should have its own focus and its own approach—for example, for private customers, architects, or company fleets.
Copying text saves time – but costs visibility.
E-commerce – when shopping becomes possible around the clock
Electronic commerce via the Internet – from the shop to the payment. What exactly is e-commerce?E-commerce (electronic commerce) encompasses all online trade – from product offerings and the ordering process to payment and delivery. Whether it's a web shop for clothing, a booking portal for massages, or digital courses: anything that can be purchased online counts.
Important in e-commerce: user guidance, trust, simple checkout processes, and clever marketing – otherwise, clicks won't turn into purchases.
Example from a window manufacturer with a spare parts shop:
By introducing a simple web shop for replacement seals and handles, the company was able to process over 200 additional orders per year – without hiring an additional salesperson.
E-commerce is like a digital store that is always open – but you only get sales if you have a good display.
Email marketing – more than just newsletters
An old classic that still generates strong sales when well maintained. What is email marketing?Email marketing is the targeted use of emails to inform interested parties, retain customers, and promote sales. This includes classic newsletters, but also automated campaigns such as welcome emails, reminders, or series of offers.
When used correctly, email marketing is highly effective: inexpensive, measurable, direct – and independent of platforms such as Facebook or Google.
Example from a tanning salon:
After introducing an automated customer mailing with birthday coupons, there was a 26% increase in repeat customers per month. Once set up, it runs by itself – just like the timer on a tanning bed.
Email marketing is like a polite reminder – charming, personal, and right on target.
Earned media – when others talk about you voluntarily
Deserved attention – without money, but with quality. What is earned media?Earned media refers to all posts, mentions, and recommendations about your company that you have not paid for or controlled yourself. This includes, for example, press reports, recommendations, reviews, or organic social media mentions.
Unlike paid media (purchased reach) or owned media (your own channels), earned media is a sign of genuine relevance – it has to be "earned."
Example from a restaurant in Lucerne:A TikTok video about the restaurant's homemade lasagna was picked up by a food blogger – free of charge. The video went viral, resulting in over 800 new followers and a three-week booking schedule. No campaign could have achieved this at such a low cost.
Earned media is like word-of-mouth advertising in the digital age – only faster, more visible, and often more effective.
Engagement rate – how much your content really moves people
Likes, shares, and comments say more than clicks alone. What does the engagement rate measure?The engagement rate indicates how strongly users interact with your content – for example, through likes, comments, shares, or saves. It is calculated in relation to the reach or number of followers and is considered an important indicator of relevance.
In social media marketing in particular, the engagement rate often counts for more than the sheer number of followers – because visibility comes from interaction.
Example from a pizzeria in Bern:
A photo of the "Pizza-Böxli for the way home" was shared 82 times – more than any discount promotion. The engagement rate was over 12%, and the term ended up in Google Trends.
Engagement is like applause – the louder the audience reacts, the better the show.
Entry page – where visitors enter your website
First impressions count – often not the home page, but a subpage. What is an entry page?The entry page is the first page a visitor sees on your website – regardless of whether it is the home page or not. Especially with Google searches or advertisements, users often land directly on subpages, blog articles, or landing pages.
A strong entry page makes an immediate impression – with a clear structure, relevant content, and a clear call to action. If you lose here, you won't get a second chance.
Example from a trust company:
An article on withholding tax was the most important entry page for months – not the home page. After optimizing the contact options on this page, the number of new inquiries doubled.
Evergreen content is content on your website that remains relevant in the long term – regardless of trends, seasons or current events. Examples: instructions, guides, glossary articles or frequently asked questions (FAQs). This content has a long life cycle and is ideal for SEO: it is searched for, linked to, and visited for years – without constant updates.
Example from an electrical retailer:
An article entitled "FI switches – what they do and why they can save lives" has been consistently among the top 3 pages since 2019 – because thousands of people search for it and link to it every year. A long-running hit instead of a flash in the pan.
An exit intent pop-up appears just as a visitor is about to leave the website – for example, when the mouse is moved towards the close tab or back button. The goal is to regain attention and offer a discount, a freebie, or a newsletter subscription, for example.
Used correctly, it increases the conversion rate – implemented poorly, it comes across as intrusive or disruptive.
Example from a web shop for painting supplies:
Anyone who leaves the shopping cart sees an exit pop-up with the text: "Something missing? 5% discount on your paint ideas." The return rate increased by 18% – with the value of goods remaining the same.
An explainer video (explanatory video) conveys a service, product, or process in a short amount of time, often using animation. The goal is to attract attention, create understanding, and spark interest.
Ideal for websites, social media, or ads—especially when something needs explanation or raises many questions for customers.
Example from a heat pump supplier:
An animated video showed the switch from oil heating to a heat pump in 75 seconds – using clear language and without overwhelming the viewer with technical details. Enquiries via the website doubled in the first month after publication.
Facebook Ads are paid advertisements on Facebook (and Instagram) that can be targeted to specific audiences based on interests, behavior, location, or demographics. They appear in the news feed, in stories, or as carousel ads.
With a small budget, you can achieve high reach and targeted actions – from website visits and appointment bookings to direct messages.
Example from an aesthetic medicine practice:
A short video on the topic of "wrinkle treatment without a scalpel" was targeted at women over 40 within a 20 km radius. Appointments for consultations doubled within two weeks.
Facebook Business Manager (now Meta Business Suite) is the central tool for professionally managing Facebook and Instagram pages, advertising accounts, user rights, target groups, and tracking (e.g., via pixels) – especially for companies and agencies.
It separates private profiles from business administration, offers structured role assignments, and enables efficient campaign management. Previously, ads were placed via a private profile – chaotically and without any overview. With Business Manager, access rights were regulated, the pixel was correctly integrated, and a uniform structure was created – with measurably better results.
Facebook Pixel is a small piece of code that you embed in your website. It observes who visits your site, what they click on, and whether they make a purchase or leave. The goal? To improve your Facebook and Instagram advertising. And to measure the results.
Thanks to pixels, you can not only track conversions, but also carry out targeted retargeting. This means that visitors to your website will see tailored ads in their feed – as if by magic. In reality, it's just good tracking.
An example from a beauty salon in the canton of Zug:
Without Pixel, the studio didn't know whether their Facebook campaign was generating any revenue at all. After integrating Pixel, it became clear that 80% of bookings came from a subsequent click – not directly. This is what activated retargeting – with 43% more follow-up revenue per month.
FAQ markup is a special code (JSON-LD) that makes frequently asked questions and answers on your website visible to search engines. When integrated correctly, your FAQs appear directly in Google results as an extended preview (rich snippet). This increases the click-through rate and signals expertise – especially for local service providers with offerings that require explanation.
Example from an IT consulting company:
The structured labeling of the FAQ "How much does a server migration cost?" doubled the click rate – even though the article was already a year old.
A featured snippet is a highlighted search result on Google that appears directly above the normal results. It answers a user's question briefly and concisely – usually in the form of a paragraph, list, or table.
To get a featured snippet, content must be clearly structured, relevant, and precise – often with appropriate subheadings or question formulations.
Example from a roofing company:
The question "How much does roof renovation cost in Switzerland?" was answered precisely in an article. Three weeks later, this exact answer appeared in the featured snippet – clicks and enquiries skyrocketed.
The feed is the main view in social networks – a chronological or algorithmically sorted collection of posts. This is where posts from friends, subscribed pages, or advertisements appear – and everything else that makes users scroll.
For companies, the feed is the stage on which to remain visible – with regular content, relevance, and recognizability.
Example from an aesthetic medicine studio:
A carefully curated feed with before-and-after pictures, customer testimonials, and video tips attracted 1,300 followers within six months – without paid advertising.
The footer is the bottom section of a website. It often contains mandatory information such as legal notices, privacy policy, contact details, but also additional information such as opening hours, logos, social media links or seals.
A well-designed footer helps visitors find their way around, builds trust, and is also considered a relevance signal by Google. After adding direct contact details and opening hours to the footer, the number of direct calls via mobile devices increased by 32%. People who read the bottom of a page usually want to take action.
A form conversion occurs when a user successfully submits a form on your website – e.g., contact, quote request, newsletter registration, or appointment booking. It is one of the most important conversions in digital marketing.
The structure, trustworthiness, simplicity, and position of the form are crucial – because every extra field can lead to abandonment.
Example from a security company:
A form that was too long with 11 fields was reduced to 5. The number of incoming inquiries increased by 64% – despite the same amount of traffic. Fewer clicks, more impact.
The frequency cap determines how often a user can see a particular ad within a period of time – e.g., a maximum of three times per week. This prevents the same ad from being displayed too often and becoming annoying.
This limitation is particularly important in remarketing campaigns in order to maintain a balance between recall and fatigue.
Example from a pizza delivery service:
After introducing a frequency cap of 2 impressions per user per week, the click-through rate increased by 14% – fewer annoyed customers, more curiosity.
A funnel describes the journey of a potential customer – from initial awareness (e.g., advertisement) to interest (e.g., landing page) to action (e.g., inquiry, purchase, appointment). Each step is a stage – and with each stage, the number of interested parties shrinks.
A well-planned funnel loses few along the way – thanks to clear guidance, targeted content, and compelling offers.
Example from a gym:
A funnel started with a free training plan sent by email, followed by a consultation. 19% of those interested became new customers – significantly more than with traditional advertising.
Functional design means that the design of a website is not only visually appealing, but also specifically guides user behavior. Colors, spacing, typography, and structures are used deliberately to ensure clarity, readability, and conversion.
So it's not just about "beautiful," but about "effective." Good design leads to clicks, inquiries, and purchases – almost imperceptibly, but measurably.
Example from a bookstore:
The new website was given clear categories, a large search field, and a prominent "Reserve now" button. The number of online pre-orders rose by 71% within two weeks.
Geotargeting allows online advertising to be displayed only in specific geographical regions – e.g., only in Zurich, within a 10 km radius, or even in a specific zip code area. This means that only relevant users see your ad, minimizing wastage.
This is a must for local service providers in particular, because no one from Berlin is looking for a pizzeria in St. Gallen.
Example from a drywall construction company:
After limiting the Google Ads campaign to a 30 km radius, not only did the number of enquiries increase, but so did adherence to deadlines – because customers from the region were able to plan more realistically.
Google Ads is Google's advertising platform. It enables companies to place targeted ads in Google search results or on partner sites based on search terms, location, time of day, or device type.
You only pay when someone clicks – pay-per-click (PPC). Ideal for companies that want to be visible when potential customers are looking for specific solutions.
Example from a fitness studio in Thun:
With Google Ads for "back training Thun," the studio was visible in the top results within 48 hours. Within the first week, there were 12 trial training sessions – with an 80% conversion rate.
Google Ads Editor is free software from Google that allows you to create, edit, and manage advertising campaigns offline. Everything is synchronized once you're happy with it – ideal for agencies or complex campaign structures.
Particularly useful for multiple ads, ad groups, or accounts – changes can be made faster, more systematically, and offline.
Example from a web shop for precision tools:
Over 120 products were added to campaigns. Thanks to Ads Editor, this was done five times faster – and errors in URLs or budgets were corrected before uploading.
Google Analytics is a free web analytics tool that helps you understand user behavior on your website: Where do they come from? How long do they stay? What do they click on? Where do they drop off? It provides data for better decisions – for example, for optimizing page content, advertising campaigns, or user guidance.
Example from a restaurant business:
Analytics showed that over 70% of website visitors were using mobile devices – but the mobile menu was only available as a PDF. After adding a mobile menu, the average time spent on the site increased by 45%. Google Data Studio is a tool for visualizing data. It transforms boring tables from Google Analytics, Ads, or CRM systems into dynamic dashboards – understandable, clickable, and updated live.
Ideal for sharing key figures with teams, customers, or partners – visually appealing and without Excel overload.
Example from a marketing agency:
A weekly Excel report was replaced by a Data Studio dashboard. Instead of 45 minutes of reporting, there was now a link – with live data and a drill-down function for each customer.
Google My Business (now Google Business Profile) is a free tool from Google that lets you manage your business information directly in Google Search and Google Maps, including opening hours, reviews, photos, and offers.
Essential for local businesses: If you enter "hairdresser Lucerne" in Google, you won't find a website – you'll find a My Business profile. Those who shine there win.
Example from a painting business:
After adding 10 project photos and collecting targeted customer reviews, organic inquiries increased by 38%. Previously, the profile was barely visible – now it's a door opener.
Search Console is a free Google tool that shows website operators how Google sees their site: Which search terms generate clicks? Which pages have errors? Is everything indexed correctly? And where can technical improvements be made? It is the most important tool for search engine optimization—especially for anyone who doesn't have an SEO agency but wants to know how things work.
Example from a window manufacturing company:
Search Console suddenly reported an increase in 404 errors. After fixing the issue, the ranking of individual product pages rose significantly. The cause: outdated links after the relaunch.
With Google Tag Manager (GTM), tracking codes, known as "tags," such as those for Google Analytics, Facebook Pixel, or conversion goals, can be centrally integrated without having to constantly modify the source code of the website.
This saves time, minimizes errors, and allows marketing teams to control tracking independently without constantly needing the webmaster.
Example from a plumbing company:
After integrating GTM, forms, phone clicks, and PDF downloads could be measured specifically. This made it clear which services were in high demand and where optimization was needed.
Growth hacking is an approach that aims to achieve maximum impact with minimal effort – often through clever ideas, data analysis, automation, and unconventional tactics. The goal: more users, more revenue, more awareness – quickly and measurably.
Ideal for startups or SMEs that don't want to spend millions on advertising but still want to grow.
Example from a fitness studio:
A free online fitness plan was sent out by email – along with an automatic voucher for the first training session. 42% of recipients came in. No advertising budget – just a clever idea with good timing.
GUI stands for "graphical user interface" – the graphical user interface through which people interact with computers, apps, or websites. Buttons, menus, sliders – all of these are part of the GUI. The better it is designed, the easier it is to use.
Without a GUI, we would all be stuck in command lines – GUIs make technology accessible to normal users.
Example from a web shop for natural cosmetics:
After redesigning the product view with clear buttons, a zoom function, and intuitive color selection, the conversion rate increased by 27%. Easy to use sells better.
A hashtag is a keyword preceded by a hash symbol (#) that sorts posts on social networks by topic. This allows users to quickly find content on specific topics, e.g., #HandwerkSchweiz or #Sommerterrasse. Hashtags increase the visibility and reach of your posts.
But remember: less is more. Three targeted hashtags are more effective than 30 random ones.
Example from a swimming pool construction company:
Before and after pictures were posted with the hashtag #Traumpool2025. Within two months, the company gained 140 new followers and received two requests for quotes via Instagram alone.
The header is the top section of a website – usually containing the logo, navigation, contact information, and sometimes a call to action. It appears on every page and is part of the first impression. It often determines whether a visitor stays or leaves.
A strong header is clear, optimized for mobile devices, and provides immediate orientation.
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Example from a dental practice:
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After adding a fixed header with a "Make an appointment" button that is directly visible on mobile devices, bookings increased by 35% – simply through improved usability.
Header bidding is an online marketing technique in which multiple advertising providers bid for an advertising space at the same time – before the page content is loaded. The highest bidder wins. This ensures greater transparency and better revenue for website operators.
Used primarily on large news or industry portals, it is a complex but lucrative mechanism. After introducing header bidding, advertising revenue per page view increased by 18% – with no change in user experience.
A heat map visually shows which areas of your website are frequently used (red = hot), which are ignored (blue = cold) or where users linger with their mouse. It is based on real user movements and helps to identify weak points or potential for optimization.
Heat maps provide insights that statistics cannot show – intuitive, direct and surprisingly honest.
Example from a window manufacturer:
The heat map showed that 80% of users clicked on a non-clickable photo. After adding a button at this location, the inquiry rate increased by 27%. A hero image is a large, often screen-filling banner image at the top of a website. It is designed to attract attention, evoke emotions, and immediately clarify the theme of the page. It is often combined with a claim or a call to action.
Important: It must not only be attractive, but also relevant, quick to load, and optimized for mobile devices.
Example from an interior design firm:
A hero image with a high-quality before-and-after comparison resulted in a 62% longer visit duration – and twice as many initial inquiries via the contact form.
The Hreflang tag is an HTML attribute that tells search engines which language and country version of a page is intended for which target audience. This is particularly important for websites with multilingual or international content.
It prevents duplicate content issues and ensures that users from Zurich see the German version – and not accidentally the French or English version.
Example from a hotel business:
After correctly integrating Hreflang for German, English, and French, visibility increased in all language regions. Bookings from abroad increased by 21%. HTML stands for "Hypertext Markup Language" and is the markup language used to structure websites. It describes content, headings, paragraphs, links, images – and thus forms the basic framework of every website.
Although mostly invisible to visitors, it is essential for browsers and search engines. No HTML means no internet as we know it.
Example from an IT consulting company:
After correcting incorrect HTML tags, the mobile display was finally error-free – which immediately led to better rankings and more inquiries. HTTPS stands for "Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure" and is the encrypted version of the classic HTTP protocol. It protects data that is transferred between browsers and websites – for example, in contact forms, logins, or online purchases.
Recognizable by the small padlock symbol in the browser – and mandatory for all websites that want to inspire trust. Without HTTPS: Warning. With HTTPS: Security.
Example from a law firm:
After switching to HTTPS, the bounce rate on the contact page fell by 22%. The message is clear: trust starts with the protocol.
An iFrame ("inline frame") is an HTML element that allows you to display content from other websites within your website – e.g., a YouTube video, a Google Maps excerpt, or a booking calendar.
Practical, but technically tricky: iFrames load external content, which can affect loading times, data protection, and mobile viewing. Use with caution.
Example from a tanning salon:
An online appointment booking tool was integrated via iFrame. Customers could book directly on the website without being redirected. The booking rate increased by 43%. Impressions indicate how often an ad, post, or search result has been displayed on a user's screen. It's all about visibility – not interaction.
An important indicator for measuring reach – especially for branding campaigns or social media posts.
Example from a security company:
A LinkedIn campaign was viewed 23,000 times – even though there were only 150 clicks. Nevertheless, brand awareness increased significantly, as evidenced by website traffic with the company name as a search term.
Indexing means that Google "knows" a website and stores it in its search index. Only indexed pages can appear in search results, regardless of how good the content is.
Technical errors, noindex tags, or missing internal links can prevent pages from being indexed – a common SEO pitfall.
Example from a trust office:
The newly created subpages for "Payroll accounting" and "VAT consulting" were invisible for weeks. Reason: They were accidentally excluded from crawling. After correction: 3 new customers per month via Google.
In influencer marketing, companies cooperate with people who have a large reach and credibility on social networks – so-called influencers. They present products, services, or brands authentically to their community.
Whether it's a beauty blogger, a DIY craftsman or a TikTok chef, it's important that the influencer fits the target group and brings not just likes, but genuine trust.
Example from a garden center:
A well-known Swiss gardening YouTuber tested a new raised bed kit. After her video, online orders for this product increased by 320% within two weeks.
An infographic is a visual representation of information, statistics, or processes. It helps to make complex issues quickly understandable – especially in social media, blog posts, or presentations.
Good infographics combine design, structure, and clear language – and are often more popular than long texts.
Example from a roofing company:
An infographic on the topic "When is the right time to renovate your roof?" was shared over 1,200 times and generated several direct inquiries via Facebook.
Instagram Ads are paid posts on the social media platform Instagram. They appear in the feed or in stories and can be targeted to specific age groups, interests, and regions – ideal for locally based businesses.
Example from a fitness studio: Instead of print flyers for the spring detox course, a story ad with before and after photos and a swipe-up link is placed. Result: 62% of course bookings come via Instagram.
An Instagram business account is not a private profile with a logo, but a professional presence with access to statistics, advertisements, contact buttons, and analysis tools. This turns the fun of sharing beautiful pictures into targeted marketing with measurable results.
Example from a hair salon: With a business account, the owner can see which posts work best and place an ad directly on them. The result: a third more bookings via Instagram within a month.
Instagram Insights is the analytics tool available to business accounts. It shows which posts are performing well, when your target audience is online, and how many users are interacting with your content. Perfect for turning gut feelings into data-driven marketing.
Example from a window manufacturer: Insights reveal that short installation videos in the evening have a greater reach than pictures taken in daylight. Posting times and formats are then adjusted – with measurable success.
The interaction rate shows how many users actively interact with your content – relative to its reach. It is considered a quality indicator of whether content is generating interest or being ignored. Social media platforms in particular reward high rates with greater visibility.
Example from a security company: Instead of dry security reports, stories from everyday operations are posted – such as how a runaway dog stumbled into the warehouse at night. The number of interactions skyrockets.
Internal linking refers to links within your website that direct users from one page to another, such as from your blog to your product page. This reinforces important content, improves your SEO structure, and makes it easier for users to find their way around.
Example from a painting business: The blog explains the effects of colors and links directly to the offer page. The result: more inquiries from readers who want to find out more and then book right away.
JavaScript is a programming language that brings websites to life: buttons respond, forms check themselves, content loads dynamically. Without JavaScript, the web would be as rigid as an old phone book.
Example from a bookstore: An interactive book recommendation configurator helps customers find the perfect gift. Made possible by JavaScript – integrated directly on the home page.
JSON-LD stands for "JavaScript Object Notation for Linked Data" – a technique for integrating structured content into your website. It helps Google better understand what your page is about, e.g., opening hours, reviews, or FAQs. This data often appears as "rich snippets" in search results.
Example from a beauty salon: With JSON-LD, treatment times, address, and reviews are displayed directly in the search results. This has a visible positive effect on the click rate – and trust grows as a result.
Carousel ads consist of several scrollable elements – usually images with text and links. Users can swipe through the slides as if they were looking at a mini shop window. This is particularly effective for products, offers or before-and-after comparisons.
Example from a drywall construction company: Five slides show the process of a roof extension – from the shell to the final result. Clicks on the offer page increase by 40% because customers can see exactly what to expect.
A keyword is a term or combination of words that users enter into search engines. If you optimize for the right keyword, you will be found – if you write about the wrong topic, you will remain invisible. Keywords are at the heart of every SEO and SEA strategy.
Example from a law firm: Instead of just "legal advice Zurich," the site is also optimized for "divorce advice Zurich region" – making it much easier to find for specific search queries.
Keyword density indicates how often a particular keyword appears in relation to the entire text – usually as a percentage. Too few and Google does not recognize the focus. Too many and the text seems unnatural. Today, less is often more – quality beats quantity.
Example from a dental center: In a blog article about dental implants, the term appeared too often. The page slipped in the rankings. After rewriting with synonyms and natural language, it rose back to page 1.
Keyword cannibalization occurs when multiple pages on a website are optimized for the same keyword. Google does not recognize a clear relevance and distributes visibility – often to the detriment of all. Better: Structure topics clearly and make each page unique.
Example from a garden center: Two subpages were optimized for "rose care." Both slipped in the rankings. After merging them into a comprehensive guide with video and download, they returned to second place.
The Google Keyword Planner helps you research search terms: It shows how often a term is searched for, how high the competition is, and provides new keyword ideas. Indispensable for Google Ads and for sound SEO strategies.
Example from a fitness studio: Instead of "back training Lucerne," many more people searched for "back school Lucerne." Based on this insight, the website was adjusted – and inquiries increased significantly.
Keyword stuffing means that a particular search term appears so often in a text that it seems unnatural and distracting – both for readers and for Google. This used to be a trick to improve rankings. Today, it's a clear disadvantage: Google recognizes such texts and classifies them as low quality.
Example from a cleaning company: "If you are looking for a cleaning company in Lucerne, our cleaning company in Lucerne is the best cleaning company in Lucerne..." – The reader is out, and so is Google. Better: Clear text with meaningful keyword density and real added value.
A KPI (key performance indicator) is a metric that allows you to measure the success of your measures – be it an online contact form, click rate on Google Ads, or store visits after a newsletter. Good KPIs are specific, relevant, and actionable.
Example from a network of therapists: Instead of likes on Facebook, the number of online appointments booked was set as the KPI. This made it clear that posts were popular but did not bring in any customers. The strategy was adjusted – with resounding success.
The customer avatar describes your ideal customer – with name, age, profession, goals, challenges, and decision-making behavior. This allows you to sharpen your marketing message and strike exactly the right tone to convince your target group.
Example from a pizza delivery service: Instead of targeting "everyone in town," an avatar named Luca was developed: 35, on the go a lot, loves fast, high-quality food. The result: The advertising text was reworded – and orders increased noticeably.
Customer loyalty refers to all measures that ensure that customers come back – whether through newsletters, retargeting, loyalty programs, or helpful content. Strong customer loyalty increases customer lifetime value and makes your marketing more efficient.
Example from a tanning salon: Customers who receive an automated reminder for their next appointment with a discount after their first visit are more likely to return – and recommend the service to others. Customer loyalty increased by 27% in just a few months.
The customer journey describes all the points of contact a customer has with your brand – from a Google search to social media to the contact form. If you understand this journey, you can tailor your content and advertising measures to each stage.
Example of a team of physical therapists: Prospective customers find the website via a blog article on back pain. There they find a video with a CTA to book an appointment. Analysis of the journey made it clear that the video is the key to getting an appointment.
A landing page is a specially designed website that visitors are directed to via advertising, social media, or search engines – with a clear goal: registration, purchase, inquiry. Unlike a traditional website, there are no distractions – just a focus on a single action.
Example from a security company: A separate landing page was created for an alarm system campaign – without a menu, featuring benefits, customer testimonials, and a contact form. The conversion rate was twice as high as on the normal offer page.
A lead is a qualified contact: someone has filled out a form, requested a download, or signed up for a newsletter. There is a concrete connection—and thus potential for sales, consulting, or long-term customer loyalty.
Example from an event organizer: A free download of a guide entitled "10 ideas for a successful company party" generated over 300 email addresses. Each of these leads could be targeted with specific offers.
A lead magnet is a free offer that motivates visitors to leave their details – such as a PDF guide, a voucher, a webinar, or a checklist download. The aim is to generate leads and build trust.
Example from an IT consulting agency: Anyone who signed up for the "SME security check for servers and data" immediately received a guide by email and was then actively contacted. Over 40 new customers were generated from a single campaign.
Lead nurturing is the process of informing, convincing, and guiding leads step by step toward a purchase decision through targeted content, emails, and interactions. It's all about timing, relevance, and the right amount of value.
Example from a solar panel provider: After downloading a guide, the prospective customer receives a series of emails containing checklists, subsidy tips, and sample calculations. Three weeks later, a consultation appointment is scheduled – and often the purchase is made.
Lead scoring is a system for evaluating leads based on their behavior (e.g., clicks, downloads) and characteristics (e.g., industry, position). The higher the score, the more likely a purchase is. This allows marketing automation to be controlled in a targeted manner, and sales can focus on the right contacts.
Example from a precision manufacturing provider: Anyone who visits the product page, downloads a PDF, and then clicks on a contact form receives +75 points in the system. From 80 points, an automatic notification is sent to sales – with success.
Link building is the targeted creation of backlinks – i.e., links from other websites to your own. Google sees such links as recommendations and evaluates them as a sign of trust. Important: Quality counts more than quantity.
Example from an interior design studio: Through a collaboration with a local home magazine, the studio received a backlink from their website – including a picture gallery. This helped boost their Google ranking and also brought in new inquiries right away.
LinkedIn Ads are advertisements on the world's largest business network. They are particularly effective for B2B companies, coaches, or service providers who want to reach decision-makers directly – whether with specialist content, webinars, or offers.
Example of a tax consulting provider for SMEs: A campaign entitled "5 tax traps every entrepreneur should know about" was targeted at managing directors in Switzerland – with great success: over 70 qualified leads in three weeks.
Local SEO improves your visibility in local search results – for example, when someone searches for "hairdresser in Winterthur" or "fiduciary in Zug." This includes your Google business profile, reviews, local keywords, listings in business directories, and location pages on your website.
Example of a garage door supplier: After a targeted local SEO relaunch, the company appeared in the top 3 for search queries such as "buy garage door Lucerne" – with significantly more visitors and requests for quotes.
A lookalike audience is a target group that resembles existing customers based on demographic data, interests, and behavior. Platforms such as Facebook or Google use your data to find new, similar people who are also likely to be interested.
Example from a fitness studio: After uploading the existing member list to Meta, a lookalike target group was created. The ads were delivered in a much more targeted manner – with a conversion rate of over 7%. Marketing automation uses tools to automatically execute recurring marketing processes: sending emails, segmenting contacts, evaluating leads, or triggering campaigns. This leaves more time for strategy – and potential customers receive optimal support.
Example from a swimming pool construction company: After a quote request, a series of three emails with FAQs, construction time information, and financing options is automatically sent. The result: fewer inquiries, more qualified deals – fully automated.
A marketing strategy is a concrete roadmap for your marketing activities based on your overall strategy. It defines which channels you will use (e.g., Google, flyers, recommendations), what messages you will send, how you will address your target audience, and how you will ensure that you have enough margin to make it all worthwhile.
Example from a painting company: The company wants to specifically target owners of old buildings. Instead of just advertising "beautiful colors," the marketing strategy focuses on high-quality consulting, before-and-after photos, and partnerships with architects – with a focus on Instagram, local Google Ads, and craftsman platforms.
A marketing system is not a single tool, but a structured setup consisting of a website, campaigns, CRM, automation, and content – all integrated so that new customers are automatically guided through your digital world. The goal: measurable results instead of random hits.
Example of a window manufacturer: The website explains products, collects leads via a subsidy check calculator, places Google Ads, sends follow-up emails, and tracks everything centrally – a system that continuously generates new projects.
Media planning is the structured planning of advertising measures: Which channels? Which target groups? When to run the campaign? How much budget? Decisions are made on whether to use Google Ads, social media, local portals, or traditional media, depending on the objectives.
Example of a security service: The advertisement "Security concepts for SMEs" was specifically placed on LinkedIn and Google shortly before the summer break – exactly when many companies are arranging their holiday cover. Hit rate: enormous.
The meta description is the short description text that appears under the link in the search results. It does not directly influence the ranking, but it does have a huge impact on the click rate – because if you pique people's curiosity here, you will attract visitors.
Example from a roofing company: Instead of "Your partner for roof renovation in Zurich," it now reads: "Get a quote in 48 hours – flat and pitched roof renovation from a specialist company. Secure your consultation now!" The click rate rose by 32% – without a single change in ranking.
Meta data is invisible additional information in the source code of your website. It provides search engines such as Google with information about what a page is about. This includes the page title (title tag), a short description (meta description), and information about the author or content type. It is usually invisible to your readers, but it is worth its weight in gold to Google.
Example of an electrician: Instead of "Home," the meta title reads: "Elektro Meier – Your electrician for Lucerne & the surrounding area." The meta description follows with a catchy sentence describing the services offered and the phone number. Result: More clicks, more orders.
Meta tags are HTML elements that provide search engines with information about your website. These include, for example, the page title (title tag), the meta description, and the robots tag. They influence how your page is displayed – and whether it should be indexed.
Example from a provider of aesthetic medicine: After correcting the meta tags – including individual descriptions for each page – not only did the number of clicks improve, but so did the bounce rate. Visitors found what they were looking for more quickly.
Micro conversions are small actions that users perform on your website, such as downloading a PDF, playing a video, or clicking on a contact form. They show interest and are often precursors to a real conversion.
Example from an event organizer: The wedding fair page showed many clicks on the program PDF, but hardly any registrations. After integrating a direct registration button, bookings increased significantly. The micro conversion was the key to optimization.
A microsite is a standalone, usually topic-specific mini website that often runs independently of the main site. It is ideal for campaigns, product presentations, or events – wherever clear messages and a strong focus are required.
Example from a garden center: For a spring promotion featuring gardening sets, a separate microsite on the theme of summer gardening was set up – with a competition, promotions, and images. The result: over 12,000 visitors in four weeks – without overloading the main site.
Mobile First is a design and development approach in which websites are first optimized for smartphones – only then for tablets and desktops. This is because the majority of users (including Google) surf on mobile devices – and expect speed, clarity, and convenience.
Example of a pizza delivery service: After switching to mobile-first design with large buttons, short paths to ordering, and optimized loading times, mobile orders increased by 41%. Desktop continued to be supported – but mobile was king.
Mobile optimization encompasses all measures that ensure your website works flawlessly on mobile devices: fast loading times, touch-friendly navigation, readable text, clear structure. It's not just about looks – it's about user experience and conversion.
Example of a hair salon: After mobile optimization, appointments could be booked directly from a smartphone, the location map opened in Google Maps, and the home page was reduced to the essentials. Result: 67% more mobile bookings within 3 months.
Monitoring means continuously observing your online activities, such as visitor numbers, loading times, click paths, and server availability. This allows you to immediately recognize when something is not running smoothly or when a campaign is going through the roof.
Example from a painting business: Monitoring revealed that many users were abandoning the quote form on mobile devices. The cause: a defective mandatory field. After correction, form usage rose again – diagnosis through monitoring.
Multichannel marketing uses several sales channels simultaneously – e.g., website, social media, Google Ads, newsletters, and print. The goal is to meet customers where they are – with consistent messages and coordinated tactics.
Example from a bookstore: Instagram posts with new releases, Google Ads for readings, a monthly newsletter with book recommendations, and a poster at the train station – all with the same message. The response: noticeably higher because it's visible everywhere.
Native advertising is a form of advertising that blends seamlessly into editorial content in terms of both appearance and content – for example, as an article, listicle, or video. The trick is that the advertising is hardly noticeable as such, but adds real value and subtly aims to convert.
Example from a provider of fitness studios: An article in an online magazine entitled "5 simple ways to boost your energy in everyday life" – subtly interwoven with tips from the studio and a link to a free trial week. The article was read over 3,000 times and the conversion rate was 8%. Navigation is your website's menu – main navigation, submenus, footer links. It helps visitors find what they are looking for quickly. Good navigation is clear, self-explanatory, and adapts to both mobile and desktop devices. If you cut corners here, you will lose users – and trust.
Example from an interior design firm: After restructuring the menu from "About us – Services – Gallery – Contact" to "Home ideas – Case studies – Book a consultation," the average time spent on the site increased by 38%. Why? Users were able to find their way around more quickly.
A newsletter is a regular email containing information, offers, or tips sent to prospects or customers. Unlike social media, the distribution list belongs to you. If done well, it will be opened, read, and generate clicks or sales.
Example from a security company: Instead of general product updates, a monthly newsletter with "3 tips for more security in business" was sent out – including a link to a free security analysis. The open rate doubled and leads increased noticeably.
Newsletter marketing is the targeted use of email campaigns to strengthen customer loyalty, promote sales, or turn prospects into leads. Segmentation, timing, content, and analysis are crucial—it's not about quantity, but relevance.
Example of a forklift dealer: Instead of sending the newsletter to all customers, it was divided into target groups – fleet managers, workshop operators, spare parts customers. The content was specific to each group – and sales increased by 27% thanks to greater relevance.
The meta tag "noindex" tells search engines such as Google that a particular page should not appear in search results. This is useful for duplicate content, internal search pages, login areas, or test pages—in other words, anywhere where public visibility is not desired.
Example from a trust office: A subpage with internal information for existing clients was suddenly findable via Google. After inserting Noindex, the problem was solved – and discretion was maintained.
In marketing, nurturing refers to the systematic support of prospects across several stages. The aim is to build trust, clarify questions, and send the right message at the right time – often via email, retargeting, or automated workflows.
Example from a provider of aesthetic medicine: Instead of pushing directly for a surgery appointment, prospective customers were accompanied after initial contact with a series of testimonials, before-and-after videos, and informational webinars. The result: significantly higher conversion rates – with a better gut feeling on both sides.
Off-page optimization includes all measures outside your own website that influence your ranking: high-quality backlinks, local mentions, industry directories, social signals. Search engines evaluate these as "digital votes of confidence." The more reputable sources link to your site, the more credible you appear.
Example of a landscaping company: After a specialist article was published on the blog of a Swiss DIY store, it linked to the company's website. Traffic increased by 44% and visibility on Google climbed several places. Why? A strong external link with relevance.
On-page optimization encompasses all SEO measures directly on your own website: from clear headings and meaningful keywords to fast loading times, clean code, internal linking, and responsive design. The goal is to provide both search engines and users with an optimal experience.
Example of a painting business: After targeted keyword optimization, image compression, and a clear menu structure, the loading time improved by 1.4 seconds – the page jumped into the top 3 on Google and inquiries doubled.
The open rate indicates how many recipients of a newsletter or mailing actually opened it. It depends heavily on the subject line, the time of sending, and the sender's name – and is the ticket to further interaction.
Example from a tanning salon: Subject line A: "Save 10% now!" – open rate 14%. Subject line B: "Your tan is waiting for you ☀️" – open rate 32%. Conclusion: Personality beats percentages.
Opt-in means that a user actively agrees to be contacted – usually by ticking a checkbox or confirming a link in an email. In newsletter marketing in particular, a valid opt-in (e.g., double opt-in) is a prerequisite for compliance with the GDPR and data protection laws.
Example from a law firm: After switching to double opt-in, the recipient list decreased by 12%, but at the same time, click and open rates increased significantly. Quality over quantity – legally secure and more interested.
Opt-out refers to the option for users to actively unsubscribe from an email distribution list, a tracking system, or cookie collection. A clear, easy-to-find unsubscribe link belongs in every email—it's legally required, but it's also a sign of professional marketing.
Example from a fitness studio: After making the unsubscribe link more visible in newsletters, a few unsubscribes were received – but complaints dropped to zero. And the click rate of the remaining readers even increased slightly.
Organic traffic refers to visitors who arrive at your website via unpaid search results – e.g., through Google searches. Unlike paid ads (SEA), organic traffic is based on good content, SEO, and relevance. It doesn't cost any click budget, grows sustainably, and often brings in the most loyal customers.
Example of a bookstore with an online shop: Thanks to a guide section on the topic of "promoting reading among children," the site ranked number 1 on Google—without any advertising budget. Organic traffic tripled in three months.
Outbound marketing is advertising that is actively targeted at potential customers – without them looking for it. Classic examples include print ads, radio commercials, telemarketing, and TV commercials. In the digital realm, display ads and unsolicited emails also fall into this category. Effective, but often intrusive – depending on the target audience and implementation.
Example from a security company: A personalized postcard with a QR code linking to the offer page was sent to 3,000 local business customers. The response rate was 4.7% – outbound can work if it is done intelligently.
An overlay is a graphic element that is superimposed over the actual page – usually semi-transparent, with a note, form, or call-to-action. Often used for cookie notices, newsletter requests, or exit pop-ups. It is important to use them discreetly and let users remain in control.
Example from Vitalstudio: An overlay with a 10% discount code appeared after 45 seconds. The result: 22% more enquiries – without disrupting the flow of reading.
Owned media includes all channels and content that belong to you as a company: your website, your blog, your newsletter list, your customer portal. The big advantage: you are independent of platforms such as Facebook, Google, or Instagram – and have full control over content, frequency, and presentation.
Example from an IT consulting firm: After a platform algorithm change, social traffic dropped by 80%. The company's own email list and a well-maintained blog saved the traffic – thanks to owned media, which no one can take away.
Page speed describes how quickly a website loads and displays. The shorter the loading time, the better for users – and for Google. Slow pages lose visitors, weaken rankings, and cause frustration. Important levers: image compression, hosting quality, clean scripts, and caching.
Example of an online tool shop: After optimizing product images and removing outdated scripts, the loading time dropped from 5.3 to 1.6 seconds. The conversion rate increased by 28% – simply by increasing the speed.
The page title is the text that appears in the browser's title bar and as a clickable link in Google search results. It should be short, concise, and keyword-relevant, as it influences both the ranking and the click-through rate. Each page should have its own page title.
Example from an interior designer: Instead of "Home," the page title was changed to "Interior Design Zurich – Stylish Room Design." Visibility skyrocketed and the click rate doubled.
Paid media encompasses all advertising measures for which you pay for reach – e.g., Google Ads, Facebook ads, banner advertising, or paid influencer collaborations. It is the fastest way to gain visibility, but also the most fleeting. Without a strategy, it gets expensive – but with the right target audience, it's a powerful lever.
Example from a garden center: In the spring season, $3,000 was invested in Google Ads for "flower soil Zurich" – within two weeks, the budget was sold out, but so was the warehouse.
PageSpeed is the loading speed of your website – in other words, how quickly content becomes visible to your visitors. Slow pages annoy users, result in fewer enquiries and poor Google rankings. PageSpeed is influenced by many factors, including image sizes, server performance and programming quality. If you want to win customers online, you need to focus on speed.
Example from a locksmith's workshop: The old website loads in 6 seconds. After optimizing the images and moving the server, it now only takes 1.8 seconds. The bounce rate drops, inquiries increase – and Google moves the page up in the search results.
Performance marketing refers to all digital marketing measures that are designed to achieve measurable results – whether clicks, leads, conversions or sales. This includes, for example, Google Ads, social ads, email campaigns and affiliate marketing. The key factor is that every action is tracked, analysed and optimised.
Example from an event agency: Facebook ads were used to target visitors for an open-air festival in Zurich. The goal: 1,000 ticket sales. The result: 1,240 tickets sold and a crystal-clear cost-revenue ratio – thanks to a consistent performance approach.
A pixel is an invisible image or script that is embedded in a website to track user behavior. It can be used, for example, to track conversions, run retargeting campaigns, or better understand target groups. Well-known examples include the Facebook Pixel and Google Ads Conversion Pixel.
Example from a trust agency: After installing the Facebook Pixel, previous website visitors were automatically targeted with advertising again – within 14 days, four new clients were acquired.
Positioning describes the place your company occupies in the minds of your customers. Not on a city map, but on the mental shelf between "I trust" and "Never heard of it." Those who don't clearly differentiate themselves become gray mice – interchangeable like a bag of screws in a wholesale store. Good positioning makes it clear: What do you stand for? Who are you the best choice for? And why? Example from a carpentry shop: Instead of "We make everything out of wood," the carpentry shop says, "We are your partner for space-saving built-in cabinets in older buildings." Potential customers already have a picture in their minds – and that's exactly the goal.
A pop-up is a window that appears over the current website content – usually with a prompt such as "Subscribe now" or "Get your discount." Used correctly, pop-ups can increase conversions. Used incorrectly, they annoy visitors and drive them away. Important: timing, relevance, and a clear benefit.
Example from a tanning salon: A pop-up with the text "Secure your summer flat rate now – only until Sunday" appeared after 20 seconds. Result: 19% conversion rate for the offer.
PPC stands for "pay per click" – a billing model where you only pay when someone clicks on your ad. It is particularly common with Google Ads and social media advertising. The advantage: if no one clicks, it costs nothing. The disadvantage: poor ad quality can drive up click prices.
Example from a roofing company: With a monthly budget of $500, targeted ads for "flat roof renovation" were placed. Thanks to a high click-through rate and local targeting, each click cost only $1.10 – and two new roofs were sold directly through this campaign.
Programmatic advertising is the automated buying and selling of online advertising space in real time. Algorithms decide where and to whom your ad is shown – based on user behavior, location, device, and interests. The goal: maximum relevance with minimal waste.
Example from a security company: Instead of advertising across news portals as before, programmatic advertising was used to target only visitors who were interested in access systems or burglary protection – reducing waste by 72%. A PWA is a website that behaves like an app: it can work offline, can be saved to a smartphone like an app, and offers lightning-fast loading times. For users, the difference to a classic app is hardly noticeable – for companies, the effort involved in app stores and updates is eliminated.
Example from a fitness studio: Customers rebooked their training sessions via a PWA – no installation required, but with push notifications and offline access included. Usage increased by 47% compared to the old mobile website.
A prompt is the input you use to control an AI such as ChatGPT, DALL·E or Midjourney. It determines what the AI should deliver – text, image, structure or style. The more precise and context-rich the prompt, the better the result. Good prompts are like briefings: clear, to the point and to the point.
Example from an IT consultant: Instead of "Create a blog article about cybersecurity," the optimized prompt was: "Write a blog post about the five biggest security gaps at SMEs in Switzerland – with tips for trustees and architecture firms." The result was ready to print.
Push notifications are short messages that appear directly on the smartphone or desktop screen – even when the app or website is not currently open. They inform, remind or motivate users to take action. They are successful when they come at the right time – and don't annoy users.
Example from a pizzeria: Every Friday at 5 p.m., loyal customers receive a push notification: "Pizza special: 2 for 1 – today from 6 p.m.!" As a result, orders on Friday evenings increased by 36%.
Quality Score is a rating scale from 1 to 10 that Google uses to evaluate the quality and relevance of your ad in relation to the landing page and the keyword being searched for. A high score lowers the cost per click and improves placement. Click-through rate, ad relevance, and landing page quality all have an influence.
Example from a window manufacturer: After revising the ad text and improving the landing page, the Quality Score rose from 5 to 8. The average click costs fell by 34% – while at the same time improving the placement in the search results.
"Query" is the English word for search request. In online marketing, it describes the exact text that users type into Google and other search engines. Search engines analyze these queries to deliver relevant results. For advertisers, they are worth their weight in gold – because if you understand the query, you understand the intention.
Example from a lawyer: The Google Ads campaign for "inheritance law Zurich" generated hardly any enquiries. After switching to specific queries such as "who inherits from an illegitimate child in Switzerland", the contact rate doubled.
The source code is the technical foundation of a website. It consists of HTML, CSS, JavaScript, etc., and determines how content is structured, designed, and delivered. It is usually invisible to visitors, but essential for search engines and developers. Anyone who optimizes a website always analyzes the source code as well.
Example from a garden center: The site looked good, but the source code lacked structured data. After integrating JSON-LD for opening hours and reviews, visibility on Google Local increased by 28%. QR code marketing involves the targeted use of QR codes to link offline media with digital content. Printed on posters, flyers, or packaging, they direct users to websites, offers, or forms when scanned with a smartphone—no typing, no detours.
Example from a hair salon: A QR code with "Book an appointment now" was stuck to the shop window. Anyone who scanned it was taken directly to the online booking tool. Within a month, 19% of bookings came via the code – even in the evenings after closing time.
Ranking refers to the position of a website in the organic search results of Google & Co. The higher the ranking for a relevant search term, the more visible the page – and the more clicks. Search engines evaluate content, technology, user behavior, and external links.
Example of a roofing company: After targeted SEO optimization for the term "roof renovation Lucerne," the website jumped from position 22 to position 3 – and the number of quote requests doubled within two months.
A ranking factor is a criterion that Google uses to determine where your website appears in search results. There are over 200 of them – from loading time and text quality to backlinks. Some carry a lot of weight (e.g., mobile-friendliness), while others are more like fine-tuning screws. If you understand how ranking factors work, you can make targeted adjustments to your visibility.
Example from a photo studio: The page loads slowly, is not optimized for mobile devices, and uses hardly any subheadings. Despite beautiful images, it ends up on page 5. After a relaunch with clean code, fast loading times, and precise text, it suddenly lands on page 1.
Reach describes the number of people who have seen an advertisement, post, or website, regardless of whether they interact with it. Unlike impressions, reach only counts unique users. A high reach is ideal for awareness and brand building.
Example from a gym: With a targeted Facebook campaign for New Year's resolutions, the gym reached over 25,000 people in the region – 1,600 of whom clicked on the trial subscription. Without reach, there would have been no conversion.
Recency describes how long ago a user interacted with a brand, website, or ad. The shorter the time since the last interaction, the higher the likelihood of a renewed response. Recency is often used in retargeting to specifically address "fresh" contacts.
Example from a fitness studio: Customers who had visited the booking page in the last 3 days received a reminder via retargeting ads. This group converted 3 times more often than users whose last visit was over a week ago.
Recurring revenue refers to regularly recurring income – for example, from subscriptions, service packages, or maintenance contracts. Unlike one-time sales, they offer predictable income, high customer loyalty, and better scalability. This is a key success factor, especially in digital business.
Example of an IT service provider: Instead of individual projects, the company offers maintenance packages for SME websites on a subscription basis. Recurring revenue now covers 62% of fixed costs – even when projects are on hold, revenue continues to flow.
Referral traffic is visitor traffic that comes to your website via external links – for example, from blogs, directories, or partner sites. Unlike paid advertising, these clicks are usually free, but they are often qualified. Referral traffic is an important indicator of network strength and trust.
Example from an aesthetic studio: After an interview in a well-known lifestyle blog with a link to the practice, 38% more visitors came to the website – 12% of whom booked an appointment directly. Referral with impact.
Remarketing (also known as retargeting) is an advertising strategy that involves targeting users again after they have already interacted with your website or ad. Cookies or pixels are used to show them targeted ads, for example on Google or Facebook. The goal is to turn visitors into customers.
Example of a pizza delivery service: Users who filled their shopping cart but did not place an order received a Facebook ad saying "Your pizza is still waiting." This increased the conversion rate by 21%. A repost is the republication of content that has already been published on social media – either on the same channel or on a different one. This allows you to revive proven content, reach new target groups, and increase visibility with little effort. It is important to use reposts at the right time and in the right context.
Example from a bookstore: The post about the Christmas promotion went down well in December. In February, the same content was reposted with a few minor adjustments as a Valentine's Day tip. The result: high interaction rates again, without any additional effort.
Responsive design refers to the technique of designing websites so that they automatically adapt to the size of the screen. Text, images, and menus change depending on the device so that the user experience remains the same everywhere. This has become particularly important since the rise of mobile internet use.
Example of a law firm: The old website was barely readable on mobile devices. After the relaunch with responsive design, the time spent on smartphones increased by 64% – and the number of mobile inquiries doubled.
Retargeting is a method of targeting website visitors with advertising after they have visited your site. Tracking pixels or cookies are used to identify who has visited your website, and these people are then shown an ad on other sites, social media, or search engines that invites them to return.
Example from a window manufacturer: Users who opened the online quote form but did not fill it out received an ad three days later with the text: "Window planning still open?" The conversion rate increased by 31%. ROAS (return on ad spend) measures how much revenue was generated with each dollar invested in advertising. It is calculated as the ratio of advertising revenue to advertising costs. For example, a ROAS of 5:1 means that for every dollar invested, five dollars were earned.
Example from a garden center: For $2,000 in Google Ads revenue, $9,400 was spent on plants and accessories. The ROAS is 4.7, which is a very good value.
ROI (return on investment) measures the ratio of profit to the resources used – whether for marketing, a website or machinery. It answers the question: Was the investment worthwhile? A positive ROI means profit, a negative ROI means loss.
Example from a security company: A new website with a booking module cost $8,000. After one year, it generated orders worth $31,000 – ROI: 287.5%. More than solid.
Rich snippets are enhanced search results that display additional information such as star ratings, prices, opening hours, or FAQs directly in the Google preview. They are made possible by structured data (Schema.org) in your website's HTML code. They highlight your search results and have been proven to increase click-through rates.
Example of a painting business: After adding rating stars as rich snippets, the click-through rate on Google results doubled – and so did the number of quote requests.
The Example from a fitness studio: Because the entire "/offers" folder was accidentally blocked, the course overview could not be found on Google. After correcting the robots.txt file, visitor numbers returned to normal.
ROI calculation (return on investment calculation) compares how much profit was generated by an investment – for example, a new website, an advertising budget, or a marketing campaign – with how high the investment costs were. The formula: Example of an electrician: A Google Ads campaign costing $3,000 generated orders worth $12,000 within four months. The profit was $6,000 – a ROI of 200%. A sales funnel describes the individual steps that a potential customer goes through – from initial contact to purchase. Typical phases: awareness, interest, desire, and action. The goal is to minimize wastage and lead to a sale.
Example from an aesthetic medicine studio: Skin treatments are presented via social ads (awareness). A landing page with before and after photos arouses interest. The free consultation appointment is the first step towards booking. Conversion rate: 21%. Schema.org is a joint project by Google, Microsoft, Yahoo, and Yandex that defines standardized markups for content. With structured data, you tell Google exactly what a piece of content means—for example, "This is a recipe," "This is a review," or "This is an event." This enables rich snippets and helps improve visibility.
Example from an event agency: Thanks to Schema.org markup for events, dates are displayed directly in Google – including time, location, and price. Click rate: up 43%. Scroll depth measures how far a user scrolls down your website. This helps you understand which content is actually being viewed – and where visitors are leaving. Tools such as Google Tag Manager allow you to analyze scroll behavior in detail: 25%, 50%, 75%, 100% – everything is visible.
Example from a swimming pool construction company: Many visitors left the site at 50% scroll depth – exactly where the price was listed. After restructuring the page to highlight the benefits before the price, the scroll rate to the enquiry form increased to 88%. SEA stands for search engine advertising – usually via Google Ads. You pay for your ad to appear at the top of the search results for specific search terms. You are billed per click (CPC). The big advantage: immediate visibility, precise targeting of your audience, clear measurement of success.
Example of a construction lawyer: With targeted SEA campaigns on keywords such as "review construction contract Lucerne," the law firm gained 11 new clients in 3 months. Click price: $3.90 – client value: several thousand.
Search intent describes the intention behind a search query. Does someone just want information (informational), buy something specific (transactional), or visit a specific page (navigational)? If you know the search intent, you can tailor your content and ads perfectly to it – for maximum relevance.
Example from a bookstore: The search query "bookstore Zurich opening hours" used to link to the home page. After adjusting the link to a specific opening hours page, the bounce rate dropped dramatically – because that was exactly what people were looking for.
Search volume indicates how often a term is searched for on Google per month. A high value means high demand – but usually also more competition. For keyword strategy, it is crucial whether a term is searched for 20 or 20,000 times.
Example from a drywall contractor: Instead of "interior construction Switzerland" (300 searches/month), the company optimized its search terms to "drywall construction Lucerne" (1,000 searches/month) – with significantly better rankings and more orders.
SEO stands for search engine optimization. The goal is to design your website so that Google understands it, finds it easily, and displays it as high up as possible in search results. This includes technical optimization, high-quality content, a clean structure, backlinks, loading times, and mobile compatibility.
Example of a window manufacturer: Local SEO optimization with location references ("window manufacturer Winterthur") improved the ranking from page 4 to number 1. The number of online inquiries tripled.
SERP stands for the page that is displayed after a search query on Google & Co. – the so-called "Search Engine Results Page." It contains paid ads (SEA), organic hits (SEO), and often special elements such as maps, snippets, or videos.
Example of a security service provider: Thanks to local optimization, the company appears in the search results for "security guard Lucerne" with a Google My Business listing, website link, and FAQ snippet – all on the first SERP.
A session refers to the period of time during which a user is actively on your website – typically up to 30 minutes of inactivity. All interactions (page views, clicks, conversions) are assigned to this session and provide information about the behavior and engagement of your visitors.
Example of a hairdresser with online booking: A user clicks on Google Ads, finds out about prices, looks at picture galleries, and books an appointment – all within one session. This results in clear performance measurement per campaign.
Sitelinks are additional links that appear below the main search result on Google – usually for brand or domain searches. They display important subpages such as "Contact," "Offers," or "Team" directly and significantly increase the click-through rate.
Example from a provider of fitness studios: When searching for the company name, Google directly displays sitelinks to "Training offers," "Online appointments," and "Locations." The click-through rate increases by 38% because users get to their destination faster.
A sitemap is a structured overview of all the pages on your website. It is created in XML format and helps search engines to index your content more quickly and completely. It is essential for indexing, especially for large or new websites.
Example of a garden center with an online shop: After integrating a current sitemap, the number of indexed product pages in Google Search Console rose from 420 to 790 within a few days – and traffic followed suit.
Smart Bidding is a feature in Google Ads that automatically sets bids. It uses AI to determine the optimal bid based on the user, device, location, time, and likelihood of conversion, with the goal of making your campaigns more efficient.
Example from an alarm system provider: Instead of entering manual CPCs, the company activated "Target ROAS." After a short learning phase, conversions increased by 41% – with the same budget.
SMO refers to the targeted optimization of social media profiles and content to increase reach, engagement, and brand awareness. This includes regular posts, hashtag strategies, clear imagery, good links, and a consistent presence across all platforms.
Example from a therapy center: After redesigning its Instagram profile with structured highlight navigation, appropriate hashtags, and a content plan, the number of followers doubled in three months – with the same amount of effort.
Snapchat Ads are paid ads in story format on the Snapchat platform. They appear between user stories or as interactive filters and lenses. Ideal for brands that want to reach teenagers and young adults with creative, fast-paced messages.
Example from a local streetwear store: An AR lens that allowed users to "try on" the latest sneakers led to a 220% increase in store visits within a week – with a minimal advertising budget.
A snippet is the text excerpt that Google displays for a search result. It consists of the page title, the URL, and the meta description. A well-written snippet arouses interest, sets you apart from the competition, and significantly increases the click-through rate.
Example from a specialist heat pump company: By replacing a generic meta description with a clear, regionally relevant text highlighting the benefits ("Your heating solution in Aargau – energy-efficient & eligible for subsidies"), the click rate on Google increased by 54%. Social listening refers to the systematic observation and analysis of public mentions, comments, and sentiments surrounding your brand or industry on social networks, forums, and blogs. Tools help you identify patterns, evaluate feedback, and recognize opportunities such as shitstorms at an early stage.
Example from a catering service provider: By monitoring comments on Google Reviews and Facebook, the company noticed that the term "vegan options" was mentioned frequently – and developed a new offering with an accompanying social media campaign.
Social media encompasses digital platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, TikTok, and YouTube, where content is shared and relationships are built. For companies, they are a communication channel, advertising space, market research, and customer service all at once – direct, personal, and visible.
Example from a security company: Regular posts on Facebook with tips on burglary protection significantly increased organic reach. Interested parties from the region responded in the comments—a modern form of recommendation.
Social proof describes the phenomenon of people basing their opinions and behavior on those of others. In practice, this includes reviews, customer opinions, testimonials, and social media interactions – all of which signal credibility and increase conversion rates.
Example from a fitness studio: After incorporating real customer reviews on their website ("I was skeptical – now I'm a fan!"), trial training bookings increased by 36%. Trust sells.
A sponsored post is a paid post on social media or editorial platforms that looks like normal content but promotes a product or brand. It is successful when it offers added value, entertains or informs without sounding too promotional.
Example from a dental practice: A paid Facebook post titled "5 things that make your teeth happier – point 4 will surprise everyone" reached over 12,000 people organically – and resulted in 42 new appointments in three days.
SOV stands for "share of voice" – in other words, the share of your advertising voice compared to your competitors. For example, if you place 10% of all ads in your industry, your SOV is 10%. This value indicates how present your company is in the advertising market – for example, on Google Ads, social media, or in print. A high SOV means you are being noticed. A low SOV? The phone often stays silent.
Example from a garden center with an online shop: In spring, several providers place ads for "buy plant pots." The garden center invests specifically in Google Shopping and achieves 18% SOV – a clear lead over the competition. Sales are booming.
Strategy means thinking first, then acting. It's about developing a clear roadmap before you just start running – whether it's with flyers, Google advertising, or a new website. Strategy clarifies: Who do you want to reach? With what message? And how? It prevents you from burning money just because your neighbor is trying out TikTok.
Example from a plumbing company: Instead of just revamping the website, a strategy is developed first: focus on emergency repairs, targeted advertising in the evenings and on weekends, clear message: "We come when others go home." That brings in customers – not empty clicks.
Split testing refers to the structured comparison of several variants of a marketing element – such as different landing pages, newsletter versions or ad images. The aim is to use data to find out which variant achieves the best results.
Example from a bookstore with an online shop: Three different subject lines for the summer reading recommendation newsletter were tested against each other. The most emotional wording achieved twice as many opens as the factual version – and significantly increased sales.
An SSL certificate encrypts data transmission between the browser and the server – recognizable by the "https" in the web address. Without SSL, websites receive a warning in the browser and risk making a bad impression on users as well as disadvantages in Google rankings.
Example of an online window manufacturer: After installing an SSL certificate, customer confidence increased noticeably. Previous form abandonment rates fell by 31% – simply by adding "https" and the padlock symbol in the browser.
Stories are short formats that are visible for 24 hours on Instagram and Facebook. They show images, videos or polls in portrait format – often spontaneous, creative and personal. Stories are an ideal tool for companies to build rapport, announce promotions or give a glimpse behind the scenes.
Example from a painting business: The Instagram Story showed one step of a large project every day – from wallpapering to the finish. Customers were thrilled: several new inquiries came in with the comment "We saw you on Insta." The swipe-up link was (and still is on certain accounts) a feature in Instagram or Facebook Stories that allows users to be redirected to an external page by simply swiping up. Today, the "link sticker" is often used, which performs the same function.
Example from a beauty salon: A video showing before and after results was shown in the story – including a swipe up to the booking page. Appointment bookings increased significantly because the barrier to action was removed.
A tag is a small piece of code that is embedded in a website to measure certain user actions, such as clicks, scrolls, page views, or purchases. Tags provide the data basis for analysis, conversion tracking, or remarketing campaigns.
Example from a precision engineering supplier: After installing a conversion tag, it became clear that most enquiries were coming from a specific subpage. This was revised – and subsequently doubled the number of leads.
A Tag Manager (e.g., Google Tag Manager) is a tool that allows you to manage tracking tags, pixels, and scripts without having to directly edit the source code of your website. New tags can be added or edited centrally, even retrospectively and without the help of an IT department.
Example from a gardening company: Previously, new codes had to be programmed into the website for each campaign. After installing the tag manager, campaigns can be conveniently maintained via the user interface – saving money and reducing stress.
Targeting describes the targeted delivery of advertising to specific target groups – for example, based on age, interests, region, occupation, or online behavior. The more precise the targeting, the greater the chance of relevance – and thus of impact.
Example from a security company: Google Ads were initially displayed throughout Switzerland – with moderate success. After switching to targeting only SMEs in the Lucerne area, the click rate rose by 72% – and requests for quotes doubled.
Technical SEO encompasses all measures that ensure your website functions optimally from a technical standpoint – such as fast loading times, mobile-friendly design, correct indexing, structured data, and clean redirects. Without a solid technical foundation, even the best content is of little use.
Example of a pizza delivery service: Despite many positive reviews, the website was difficult to find. Analysis showed that it lacked mobile optimization and had slow page loading times. After technical optimization, the website's Google ranking skyrocketed, along with online orders.
Text ads are paid advertisements that consist solely of text, such as Google search ads. They usually appear above the organic search results and consist of a title, URL, and description. The aim is to generate as many clicks as possible with as few words as possible.
Example from a specialist retailer for power tools: The ad "Buy cordless screwdrivers – delivery within 24 hours" performed significantly better than "Top tools in the shop." Clear benefits and specific promises generate twice as many clicks – with the same budget.
A thumbnail is a preview image of a video, for example on YouTube or embedded clips on a website. It shows at a glance what the video is about – and has a strong influence on whether someone clicks or scrolls on.
Example from a fitness studio: The YouTube video "5 tips for a healthy back" received hardly any clicks – until the thumbnail was redesigned with a clear message ("Pain gone in 10 minutes") and a friendly trainer. The result: click rate doubled, viewing time increased.
TikTok Ads are advertisements on the video platform TikTok. They appear between organic content and thrive on quick cuts, bold statements, and a playful style. TikTok Ads are a powerful tool, especially for younger target groups and trendy products.
Example from a pizzeria in Zurich: With an 8-second clip showing a pizza box "beatboxing," the pizzeria landed in local TikTok feeds. Clicks on the delivery service button increased by 420% – and TikTok became an integral part of the marketing strategy.
Time on site refers to the average amount of time visitors spend on your website. A long dwell time indicates interest and relevant content, while a short dwell time may indicate disinterest or poor user guidance.
Example from an interior design firm: After installing an interactive room configurator, time on site increased from 42 to 173 seconds. Users stayed longer, interacted more intensively, and contact requests increased noticeably.
A tracking pixel is a tiny (often 1x1 pixel) invisible image that is embedded in a website. It is used to measure user behavior, such as page views, conversions, or email opens. Common examples include the Facebook pixel and similar marketing tags.
Example from a security technology provider: Thanks to a built-in tracking pixel, the company saw that many visitors were viewing contact pages but not submitting any inquiries. The analysis led to an optimized form – and the conversion rate doubled.
Traffic describes the number and type of visitors to a website. A distinction is made between sources such as Google (organic), advertising (paid), social media, email, or direct entry of the URL. More traffic means more opportunities for contact, sales, or recommendations.
Example of a garden center in St. Gallen: After a targeted SEO campaign for "patio greening," organic traffic increased by 180%. The phone started ringing again – even in the fall.
Triggers are psychological stimuli or impulses that trigger certain emotions or actions in the user – such as curiosity, fear, joy or urgency. They are used in texts, images or colors and are essential for successful conversion strategies.
Example from a security service: With the headline "Would you be prepared if there was a break-in tonight?", the click rate on the contact form rose by 37%. The trigger: fear of losing control – combined with the promise of a solution.
Trust elements are graphic or content elements on a website that create trust: customer reviews, certificates, seals, well-known references, guarantees, or real customer photos. They reduce uncertainty, especially during initial contact.
Example from a clinic for aesthetic medicine: After incorporating real patient reviews, a Swiss Made seal of quality, and the FMH (Association of Medical Specialists) logo, the booking rate for consultation appointments rose by 52%. UI stands for user interface. This includes all visible elements that visitors interact with – menus, buttons, forms, icons. A good UI is clearly structured, intuitive to use, and adapts to the habits of users.
Example from a precision manufacturing provider: After a UI redesign with a clear menu structure, larger buttons, and visual icons, the bounce rate fell by 46%. Prospective customers found what they were looking for more quickly and made more targeted inquiries.
Unique content refers to content that is unique and has not been copied anywhere else. Texts, images, or videos must be original, authentic, and useful for the target audience. Google rewards such content with better rankings – and users with more trust and attention.
Example from a bookstore in Lucerne: Instead of copying the standard text from the publisher's information, the team wrote their own book recommendations – including dialect phrases and seasonal recommendations. The page rose in Google rankings and the store gained regular customers.
The Unique Selling Proposition (USP) describes the unique advantage that clearly sets a company or product apart from the competition. The USP answers the question: Why should the customer buy from you – and not from someone else? Example from a fitness studio: Instead of making general fitness promises, the studio advertised "20 minutes of training per week – scientifically proven, ideal for busy people." The result: 65% more trial sessions – thanks to clear positioning.
Universal Analytics was the standard version of Google Analytics until mid-2023. It collected data on user behavior, sessions, conversions, and sources – but based on page-based tracking. With the switch to GA4 (Google Analytics 4), UA has been officially replaced.
Example from an IT consulting agency: The agency switched from UA to GA4 early on and trained customers on the new event logic. This allowed evaluations to continue smoothly, including new insights such as scroll depth and video interactions.
An algorithm update is a change to Google's ranking system that determines how well websites rank. Updates can specifically strengthen certain criteria – such as user experience, mobile optimization, or originality – and thus have a massive impact on visibility.
Example from a law firm: After a core update, visibility dropped by 42%. The reason: thin content on many subpages. After revision and targeted text optimization, the ranking returned within two months – stronger than before.
The upload rate (also known as upload speed) refers to how quickly data is transferred from the user's device to the internet – for example, when uploading images, videos, or forms. It plays a particularly important role in video calls, live streams, and cloud applications.
Example from an architecture firm: Customers were able to upload building plans using a form, but the uploads regularly failed. After switching to a host with higher bandwidth, the completion rate increased by 29%—technology was finally no longer a stumbling block.
The URL (Uniform Resource Locator) is the unique address of a website or file on the Internet – e.g., https://www.website.com/services. It consists of a protocol, domain, directories, and often parameters. Clean, descriptive URLs improve user-friendliness and SEO.
Example of a window manufacturer: Before: www.website.com/p=123&id=88. After: www.website.com/windows/pvc – immediately understandable, search engine friendly, and clickable.
Usability stands for user-friendliness. High usability means that users find what they are looking for quickly, understand immediately how something works, and reach their destination with just a few clicks – without instructions and without frustration. The focus is on intuitive navigation, clear structures, and understandable content.
Example of a security service: The old website was a maze. After a relaunch with clear icons, large font, and few main menu items, the inquiry rate increased by 41%—visitors immediately felt secure, even digitally.
User experience (UX) describes the overall experience a user has with a website or app – from the first click to the last interaction. While usability evaluates functionality, UX goes beyond that: How coherent is the design? How pleasant is the process? How emotional does the visit feel? Example from an aesthetics studio: The website was visually tidied up with subtle color gradients, soothing animations, and a streamlined appointment booking process. The result: fewer bounces, more trust, more bookings—all thanks to a compelling UX.
User intent describes the actual intention behind a search query. Does someone want to buy something, find information, or just browse? If you recognize user intent, you can tailor your content accordingly—and Google will rank you higher. There are three main types: information-oriented ("What is...?"), transaction-oriented ("Buy product"), and navigation-oriented ("Login Swisscom"). Example from a staircase construction company: A page with "Overview of staircase types" covers the information intent. A page with "Request a staircase construction quote" meets the purchase intent. Mixing the two dilutes the goal – and loses customers.
UTM parameters are small additions at the end of a URL that allow campaign sources to be tracked accurately – such as newsletters, Facebook ads, or banners. Tools such as Google Analytics recognize that this request came from your spring promotion on Instagram, not by chance.
Example from a painting business: After sending out a spring mailing, the link was tagged with UTM tags. Google Analytics showed that 73% of clicks came from mobile devices via Instagram – a targeted mobile campaign followed promptly.
The value proposition is a company's promise of benefits: short, clear, convincing. It answers the central question: "Why should someone buy from us – and not from the competition?" Good value propositions focus on specific benefits, solve a problem, and address the target group directly.
Example from a fitness studio: Instead of "Individual support and state-of-the-art equipment," it now says: "More energy in everyday life – with 2×20 minutes of training per week." Demand is increasing. Why? Clear benefits, clear language, clear effect.
Dwell time shows how long a visitor stays on your website – from the first click to the moment they leave the page. It is a clear indicator of relevance, readability, and user engagement. The longer the dwell time, the greater the interest. Low values? Then the content or user guidance is often not right.
Example of an event organizer: After adding a FAQ section, an explanatory video, and customer reviews, the average dwell time increased from 42 to 114 seconds – the page became a digital salesperson.
Video ads are advertisements in video format that are played on platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, or Instagram. They convey messages faster, more emotionally, and more memorably than text or images – and are particularly effective in the first few seconds. They are ideal for making complex offers or brand values tangible.
Example from a garden center: A 15-second spot shows the transformation of a balcony into a green oasis in fast motion – with products superimposed. Result: 312% more clicks on the spring catalog compared to the static ad.
Video marketing uses videos specifically for customer acquisition and brand building – whether on websites, social media, or via email. From explanatory films to testimonial series, this format conveys information quickly, emotionally, and visually. It increases the time spent on the site, trust – and often also sales.
Example from a law firm: Instead of long texts, a 90-second video explains "What to do in rental disputes." The click rate triples, and the law firm becomes the digital point of contact for tenancy law.
Viewability measures whether an online advertisement was actually visible to the user – i.e., whether at least half of it was displayed in the visible screen area for at least one second (according to the IAB standard). It determines whether an impression was really valuable or was only counted for technical reasons.
Example from a security company: A campaign had 40,000 impressions but only 18% viewability. After changing the placement to more visible banner spaces, the value rose to 62% – with the same budget, the number of inquiries doubled.
Viral marketing refers to campaigns that spread like wildfire because they are surprising, emotional, or simply entertaining. The user goes from recipient to distributor, sharing content of their own free will. The goal: maximum reach without a media budget – but success cannot be planned.
Example of a pizzeria: A short clip shows the chef throwing a pizza with his eyes closed – including a belly landing. Accompanied by the slogan "We make it fresh. Mostly elegant." The video was shared over 20,000 times – and sales still went up.
The Visibility Index measures the visibility of a website in Google's organic search results. The higher the value, the more frequently and better your site ranks for relevant search terms. Tools such as Sistrix or XOVI calculate it based on rankings, search volume, and click probabilities.
Example from a precision manufacturer: The Visibility Index was 0.03 – barely visible. After targeted SEO work and landing pages on "milling for medical technology," the value rose to 0.21. Inquiries increased by 170% – and the website became a magnet for specialist customers.
Voice search is voice-activated search via assistants such as Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant. Instead of typing, users speak their question. This changes search queries – they become longer, more dialogue-oriented, and often location-based. For websites, this means that content must be formulated in natural language and optimized locally.
Example of a massage practice: Optimisation for questions such as "Which practice helps with back pain in Lucerne?" resulted in top 3 rankings for voice queries. Telephone bookings via mobile devices increased by 42%. VR marketing uses virtual reality technology to bring products, spaces, or services to life. Users put on VR glasses and experience a digital environment – be it a hotel room, a dentist's office, or their future home. It is particularly effective for products or services that require explanation or appeal to emotions.
Example from an interior design firm: Prospective customers can walk through planned room designs in VR in advance. This reduces planning time and increases the closing rate—customers feel more confident and emotionally engaged.
Web design encompasses the visual and functional design of a website – including layout, color scheme, typography, and user guidance. It influences how long visitors stay, how they navigate, and whether they become customers. Good design is not only attractive, but also effective and intuitive to use.
Example from an electrical retailer: The old website was technically flawless, but its design was outdated. After the relaunch with a clear design, icons, and easy-to-understand navigation, the number of inquiries increased by 46%. Web hosting is a service that provides storage space and server resources for your website. Your web host ensures that your site is available 24/7 – with sufficient speed, security, and backup. There are shared hosting, vServer, dedicated server, and cloud solutions.
Example from a trust office: After years of cheap hosting, there were outages – right in the middle of the tax season. Moving to a Swiss provider with guaranteed availability and faster support solved the problem permanently.
A webpage is a single HTML page on the internet – for example, the home page, a blog article, or the contact page. Several webpages together make up a website. The difference is like a book: a page is not the whole book, but part of it.
Example of a law firm: The firm had a "website" with only a single web page – without navigation. It was only by creating additional pages (services, team, advice) that the digital notice board became a professional presence.
A website is the entirety of all web pages under one domain – it is your company's digital home. It informs, sells, convinces, explains – around the clock. Well-structured content, fast loading times, clear CTAs, and an appealing design are a must.
Example of a security company: The old website consisted of three pages with no structure. After the relaunch with clear navigation, regional SEO, and a blog on burglary protection, organic inquiries increased by 84% within four months.
A website relaunch is more than just a fresh coat of paint – it is a complete overhaul of your online presence. The goal: better user guidance, better performance, better conversion. It's not just about looks, but also about SEO, loading times, navigation, and content.
Example of a garden center: The outdated website had hardly any mobile visitors. After the relaunch with a responsive design, seasonal landing pages, and targeted local SEO, sales in the online shop doubled within a year.
A web shop (online shop) is a website with an integrated shop system – i.e. a shopping cart, checkout, product catalog, and payment processing. Successful shops impress with simple navigation, strong product images, clear texts, and a smooth checkout process. Trust elements such as seals of approval and customer reviews are also important.
Example from a fitness studio: After launching a web shop for dietary supplements, massage vouchers, and online courses, sales outside of opening hours became a second source of income – orders came in especially on Sundays and at night.
White Hat SEO refers to search engine optimization that adheres to official guidelines. This includes high-quality content, clear structure, clean technology, fast loading times, mobile optimization, and meaningful links. No cheating, no keyword stuffing, no cloaking – just good craftsmanship.
Example from an interior designer: Instead of SEO tricks, the firm used structured data, helpful content, and local optimization – and within six months, it won two new major contracts through organic Google searches.
A widget is a small, embedded function module on a website. It can be a weather report, an appointment booking, a chat window, or a social media feed. Widgets are often integrated via external providers to make your site more interactive and user-friendly.
Example from a painting business: A widget for quote requests directly on the home page led to more contacts—without customers having to search for a form.
A wireframe is a schematic representation of a website – like a floor plan before construction. It shows the layout, arrangement of text, images, buttons, and navigation. No colors, no frills. The goal: to clarify the structure before investing time in design and programming.
Example from an aesthetic medicine practice: Before the design process, a wireframe was created to optimize user guidance. The result: clear menus, quick appointment booking, significantly more patient inquiries.
WordPress is a content management system (CMS) that allows you to create and manage websites without any programming knowledge. It is open source, widely used, and offers countless plugins, themes, and extensions. Whether you want a blog, web shop, or business website, WordPress grows with your needs.
Example of a bookstore with a café: The new WordPress website not only displays book recommendations, but also allows event bookings and online sales. Thanks to easy maintenance by the team, everything stays up to date – without any technical frustration.
A workflow is a defined work process – for example, in lead processing, email marketing, or the publication of social media posts. It describes the individual steps, responsibilities, and triggers (e.g., clicking on a form) for executing tasks automatically or efficiently one after the other.
Example from a cleaning company: After a quote request, a workflow starts automatically: an email with confirmation, followed by a personalized quote and a reminder email two days later. The time saved in the office: almost two hours per day.
An XML sitemap is a machine-readable list of all the important pages on a website. It helps search engines discover and index new or updated content efficiently. It is a must for good visibility, especially for large or dynamic sites.
Example of an online shop for swimming pool accessories: After submitting the XML sitemap to Google Search Console, the number of indexed product pages increased by 35% – and with it, organic traffic.
Xing Ads are advertisements on the Xing career network. Companies can target users by industry, position, education, or region – particularly suitable for B2B offers, specialist recruitment, or high-priced services.
Example of an IT consultant: Xing Ads were used to target CIOs and IT managers in Switzerland – the result: qualified leads for customized software solutions in the SME segment.
YouTube Ads are paid video advertisements on the YouTube platform. They appear before, during, or alongside videos. There are different formats, such as in-stream ads (before the video), bumper ads (max. 6 seconds), and discovery ads (in YouTube search). Targeting is based on interests, keywords, channels, or demographic data.
Example from a security company: A professionally produced spot with burglary protection tips was played regionally before YouTube videos. The result: high attention, many inquiries, and even press coverage.
YouTube Analytics is the analytics tool for your YouTube channel. It provides data on views, watch time, subscriber growth, audience engagement, target groups, and interactions. If you want to use your videos strategically, these figures are essential.
Example from a fitness studio: The analysis showed that many viewers stopped watching the fitness video after 35 seconds. After shortening the intros to 10 seconds, the average viewing time increased by 48% – and so did the number of appointments booked.
YouTube Shorts are short videos (max. 60 seconds) that are produced in portrait format and consumed on mobile devices. They are ideal for generating attention, showcasing products, or sharing tips – especially with a younger target audience.
Example from a hair salon: Quick before-and-after clips with matching sounds were posted as shorts – the number of Instagram followers doubled, many came to the website via Google and booked an appointment directly online.
The target audience comprises the people who are specifically being addressed with a product, service, or advertising message. It is defined according to demographic, geographic, or psychographic criteria. Only those who know their target audience can truly reach it—and convince it.
Example of a painting company: In the past, flyers were used to advertise throughout the region. After analyzing the target group, the company focused digitally on homeowners over the age of 45 in the catchment area – and the conversion rate tripled.
AI Overview, Gemini Live and visual search are turning everything upside down. Read what local companies need to know and implement now. SEO – three letters, a thousand misunderstandings. Anyone who thinks it's all about Google is seriously mistaken. This guide clears things up: plain language for SMEs, tools for comparison, tips for implementation. The finest design, professional texts – and yet there is silence in the contact form? Perhaps your website is thinking wrong. Read on if you want more than just digital decoration. Success is not a coincidence, but a decision. How to go from a street vendor to a brand with positioning – including structure, strategy and examples from everyday life in SMEs. The entry page is like the reception area of your company – if you stumble there, you won't get any further.
Evergreen content – content that never goes out of style
Timeless content that brings visitors back again and again – like a classic in your repertoire.
What is evergreen content?
Evergreen content is like a thermos flask – it keeps traffic warm, even when the calendar changes.
Exit intent pop-up – last attempt before leaving
When the mouse pointer moves toward the "Back" button, the rescue attempt comes into play.
What is an exit intent pop-up?
Exit pop-ups are like a friendly "Are you sure you want to leave?" – sometimes that's all it takes to make a sale.
Explainer video – complex topics explained simply in 90 seconds
An explainer video gets to the heart of your service – quickly, clearly and convincingly.
What is an explainer video?
Explainer videos are like a friendly consultation – without the waiting room, but with the "aha" effect.
Facebook Ads – Advertising in the social living room
Targeted ads in the Facebook feed – personal, local, and scalable.
What are Facebook Ads?
Facebook Ads are like local flyers with laser targeting – they hit exactly those who are really interested.
Facebook Business Manager – the cockpit for your advertising campaigns
Central control of pages, ads, pixels, and more – all under one roof.
What is Facebook Business Manager?
Business Manager is like a toolbox – if you know where the screwdriver is, you can work more efficiently.
Facebook Pixel – the silent spy for better advertising
Invisible. Powerful. And often underestimated.
What is Facebook Pixel – and why do you need it?
The Facebook Pixel is like a memory for your advertising – once someone has been there, they remain in focus.
FAQ markup – answers that Google understands too
Structured data for frequently asked questions – directly in the search results.
What is FAQ markup?
FAQ markup is like a shop window with questions – the clearer it is, the more people will go in.
Featured snippet – the coveted spot at number 0 on Google
Direct answers above the search results – for maximum visibility.
What is a featured snippet?
A featured snippet is like a window seat – visible, coveted and not easy to get.
Feed (social media) – the digital pinboard for content
A continuous stream of posts, images, and videos – on Facebook, Instagram, and other platforms.
What is a social media feed?
The feed is like a daily window shopping trip – if you show something exciting, you won't be overlooked.
Footer – the digital small print with a big impact
At the very bottom of the page – but often crucial for trust and navigation.
What is the footer of a website?
The footer is like the last word in a conversation – it sticks around longer than you think.
Form Conversion – when a form delivers more than just data
The moment a visitor leaves their contact details – the digital handshake.
What is a form conversion?
Forms are like doors – the lower the threshold, the more likely potential customers are to enter.
Frequency Cap – Advertising with a sense of proportion
Limit how often a user sees your ad – for impact without irritation.
What is a frequency cap?
Frequency capping is like good advertising in the newspaper – it works once or twice, but after ten times it becomes boring.
Funnel – the funnel to the customer
From initial contact to conversion – step by step to your goal.
What is a funnel in marketing?
A funnel is like a good salesperson – it takes customers by the hand and leads them to the checkout.
Functional design – attractive design with a clear purpose
When aesthetics not only appeal, but also guide and sell.
What is functional design?
Functional design is like a well-organized bookshelf – you find what you're looking for and often take more with you.
Geotargeting – advertising exactly where your customers are
Targeted advertising by region, city, or even neighborhood – online and offline.
What is geotargeting?
Geotargeting is like a map – why spread your ads across Switzerland when your customers are just around the corner?
Google Ads – visible exactly when people are searching
Paid ads at the top of Google – precise, measurable, and scalable.
What is Google Ads?
Google Ads is like a shop window right on the main street – anyone looking for you will see you immediately.
Google Ads Editor – Prepare advertising campaigns offline
A powerful tool for professionals – create, edit, and duplicate campaigns.
What is Google Ads Editor?
Ads Editor is like a toolbox for advertising tinkerers – refine offline, shine online.
Google Analytics – the number brain of your website
Visitor flows, click behavior, and conversions – all in one dashboard.
What is Google Analytics?
Google Analytics is like video surveillance for your website – only it's compliant with data protection regulations and provides useful figures.
Google Data Studio – turning numbers into "aha" moments
Interactive dashboards that you and your customers really understand.
What is Google Data Studio?
Data Studio is like PowerPoint on caffeine – only with real numbers and zero blah blah blah.
Google My Business – your digital business card on Google
Be found, build trust, make it easy to get in touch – locally and visibly.
What is Google My Business?
Google My Business is like a shop window right on the digital high street – clean, well-maintained, and inviting.
Google Search Console – Your connection to the Google search engine
Find errors, understand rankings, optimize technical visibility.
What is Google Search Console?
Search Console is like a flight instrument – it shows whether your website is taking off or crashing before customers even notice.
Google Tag Manager – Tracking without programmers
A central tool for managing tracking codes easily and flexibly.
What is Google Tag Manager?
GTM is like a tool wall in marketing – every tracker has its place, and you can find it again.
Growth hacking – grow smart on a small budget
Creative marketing methods that scale rapidly – without expensive campaigns.
What is growth hacking?
Growth hacking is like MacGyver marketing – few resources, big impact.
GUI – when technology gets a face
The graphical interface through which we communicate with software – intuitive or cryptic.
What is a GUI?
A good GUI is like a friendly salesperson – it shows, explains, and doesn't get in the way.
Hashtag – the hash symbol with reach power
#MoreVisibility for your content on social media.
What is a hashtag?
A hashtag is like a digital place name – it shows what something is about and who wants to be part of it.
Headers – the first thing your website says
The top section of your page – and often the most important.
What is a header on a website?
The header is like the reception in a store – those who find their way around immediately stay longer.
Header bidding – digital bidding competition for advertising space
More revenue for publishers, fairer opportunities for advertisers.
What is header bidding?
Header bidding is like a flash auction house – fast, transparent, profitable.
Heatmap – where your website is hot
Color-coded display of where users click, scroll, or exit.
What is a heatmap in web design?
A heat map is like looking through a keyhole into user behavior – sometimes uncomfortable, always insightful.
Hero image – the visual flagship at the top
A big image with a big impact – the star of your homepage.
What is a hero image?
A hero image is like a first handshake – impressive, concise, unforgettable.
Hreflang – Multilingualism that Google understands
Show Google which language version is intended for which region.
What is a Hreflang tag?
Hreflang is like a signpost in a language maze – clear, precise, and indispensable for Google.
HTML – the framework of every website
Without HTML, there would be no websites – just code that browsers can read.
What is HTML?
HTML is like the skeleton of a house – no one sees it, but everything depends on it.
HTTPS – Security before the first click
The "S" makes all the difference – encrypted, trustworthy, visible.
What does HTTPS mean?
HTTPS is like a door lock with a security seal – not a luxury, but standard.
iFrame – embed content instead of rebuilding it
Easily display external content such as maps or videos on your website.
What is an iFrame?
An iFrame is like a window to the neighboring page – practical, but not without risk.
Impressions – how often your ad is seen
Every visual contact counts – whether it's clicked or not.
What do impressions mean in online marketing?
Impressions are like advertising posters – you don't click on them, but you remember what you see often.
Indexing – when Google saves your website
No indexing means no visibility – the prerequisite for rankings.
What does indexing mean for Google?
Indexing is like a phone book entry on Google – without it, no one will find you, even if you have the best offer.
Influencer marketing – reach through recommendation
Leverage trust where it already exists – through well-known personalities.
What is influencer marketing?
Influencer marketing is like word-of-mouth recommendations – only digital and multiplied a thousandfold.
Infographics – complex content visually summarized
Knowledge at a glance – clear, compact, clickable.
What is an infographic?
A good infographic is like an espresso: small, strong, and sticks in your mind.
Instagram Ads – Advertising with a swipe effect
The ads that appear between cat videos and latte art – and still bring in customers.
How do Instagram Ads work for service providers?
Instagram Ads are like flyers on steroids – visible, stylish, and directly clickable.
Instagram Business Account – Your shop window with statistics
The difference between "I'll just post something" and "I sell with a strategy".
Why does a company need a business account?
A Business Account shows what works – and where your budget is better spent than on a new balayage.
Instagram Insights – Who's watching, clicking, and staying?
The integrated spy department for your Instagram strategy.
What does Instagram Insights say about your target audience?
Insights are like looking through a window – if you look, you understand who is really outside.
Interaction rate – the pulse of your content
Likes, comments, clicks – this is where you can measure whether your content is really resonating with your audience.
Why is the interaction rate so important?
The interaction rate shows whether people like your content – or whether they prefer to swipe on.
Internal linking – your website's GPS
It shows Google the way – and your visitors too.
What are the benefits of internal linking for SEO and user guidance?
Internal links are like signposts in a house – if you use them wisely, you can turn visitors into customers.
JavaScript – the brain behind interactive websites
Without JavaScript, nothing clicks, nothing works, nothing loads.
What does JavaScript do on your website?
JavaScript is your website's nimble craftsman – constantly working in the background.
JSON-LD – hidden data that Google is learning to love
The structuring tool for search engines – invisible to visitors, worth its weight in gold for rankings.
What does JSON-LD do on a website?
JSON-LD is like a cheat sheet for Google – discreetly integrated, but with a big impact.
Carousel display – more images, more clicks, more possibilities
Multiple slides in one ad – ideal for variety, storytelling, and products you want to browse through.
What are the real benefits of a carousel ad?
A carousel ad is like a mini brochure in the feed – and costs less than printing.
Keyword – the digital search signal
The word that is searched for – and that determines whether you are found.
What is a keyword in online marketing?
The right keyword is like a door sign – it shows Google that you are the right person to contact.
Keyword density – how often is often enough?
The density of the search term in the text – between visibility and spam threshold.
What is the optimal keyword density?
Keyword density is like salt in soup – without it, it's bland; too much makes it inedible.
Keyword cannibalization – when pages eat each other
Two pages want the same keyword – and Google doesn't know which one to love.
What happens with keyword cannibalization?
Keyword cannibalization is like two salespeople in a store approaching the same customer at the same time – chaos is inevitable.
Keyword Planner – the search term sleuth
Google reveals what your customers are really looking for – before you even know it yourself.
Why do you need the Keyword Planner?
The Keyword Planner is like a detective – it finds out what your customers are really typing into Google.
Keyword stuffing – When the keyword says that the keyword is a keyword
Too many keywords spoil the text – and your Google ranking along with it.
What does keyword stuffing mean?
Texts that people enjoy reading are also preferred by Google.
KPI – when numbers become a top priority
Key Performance Indicators show what really counts – and what is just window dressing.
What is a KPI and why is it so important?
KPIs are like the instruments in a cockpit – if you ignore them, you're flying blind.
Customer avatar – the ideal customer as a role model
A fictional portrait with real implications for your communication.
What is a customer avatar and why do you need one?
A customer avatar is like an ideal customer on paper – the clearer it is, the better you can hit the mark.
Customer loyalty – the second purchase is the best
It costs less to retain a customer than to acquire a new one – this also applies online.
What does customer loyalty mean in digital marketing?
Customer loyalty is like a good relationship with your local bar – the longer it lasts, the more valuable it becomes.
Customer journey – from the first click to becoming a regular customer
The stages a prospective customer goes through before making a purchase – and staying a customer.
What exactly does customer journey mean?
The customer journey is like a hike: if you know the signposts, you'll get more visitors to their destination – your business.
Landing page – land, convince, act
One page, one goal – made for conversion instead of navigation.
What is a landing page and why do you need one?
A good landing page is like a switch at reception – no blah blah blah, just direct action.
Lead – when visitors become real contacts
A lead is more than a click – it's the first step toward becoming a customer.
What is a lead?
A lead is like a business card with a hand signal – interest is there, now it's time to take the next step.
Lead Magnet – the bait for high-quality contacts
An attractive free offer in exchange for contact details.
What is a lead magnet?
A lead magnet is like a door opener – friendly, valuable, and with a clear invitation to talk.
Lead nurturing – building trust until the deal is closed
From initial contact to purchase decision – with tact and sensitivity.
What is lead nurturing?
Lead nurturing is like a good wine tasting – step by step towards a decision, with patience and charm.
Lead scoring – who has a genuine interest in buying?
Assign points, set priorities – and focus on the hot leads.
What is lead scoring?
Lead scoring is like a metal detector for sales opportunities – whoever strikes deserves your full attention.
Link building – collect recommendations for Google
The more trustworthy sites link to you, the higher your ranking.
What does link building mean in SEO?
Good links are like recommendations in real life – if you are linked to by credible sources, you gain trust.
LinkedIn Ads – targeted advertising for decision-makers
If you're looking for B2B customers, you'll find them on LinkedIn – where you can address them on equal terms.
What are LinkedIn Ads and who are they suitable for?
LinkedIn Ads are like a business breakfast – targeted, professional, with the right audience at the table.
Local SEO – be found where you really are
Search engine optimization with a Swiss focus – for local shops, practices, and businesses.
What is local SEO and why is it important?
Local SEO is like a sign on your door – the clearer and more visible it is, the more visitors will come by.
Lookalike Audience – Twins of your best customers
If you have customers, you can find more of them – automatically.
What is a lookalike audience?
A lookalike audience is like a digital recommendation system – anyone who resembles your customers is automatically invited.
Marketing Automation – sell digitally without having to click a single button
Automated processes for more leads, less effort, and better conversion rates.
What is marketing automation and what are its benefits?
Marketing automation is like a good assistant: it works around the clock, never misses a lead, and knows customers by their first names.
Marketing strategy – How do you get your offer to the right people?
If you leave your marketing strategy to chance, you'll usually be disappointed.
What does marketing strategy mean?
Marketing without strategy is like paint without a brush – it doesn't get anything on the wall.
Marketing system – your digital sales machine on autopilot
More than just campaigns: an integrated system that makes you visible, convinces and sells.
What is a marketing system?
A good marketing system is like a modern workshop – every tool fits into the next, no movement is wasted.
Media planning – advertising in the right place at the right time
Strategically plan when, where, and how your advertising will be effective – without wasting your budget.
What does media planning mean?
Good media planning is like a navigation system – it not only shows you the way, but also when it's worth driving.
Meta description – the elevator pitch in Google search results
Short, precise, clickable – your website description in a maximum of two lines.
What is a meta description and why is it so important?
The meta description is like a good book title – if you write it well, people will click on it.
Meta data – what do you reveal to Google behind the scenes?
Meta data is like the blurbs on a bookshelf – it determines whether someone picks up a book or keeps scrolling.
What is meta data?
Meta data is like a sign on your workshop door – without it, no one knows what you do.
Meta tags – invisible information with a big SEO impact
You control how your website appears in search results – or whether it appears at all.
What are meta tags and what are they used for?
Meta tags are like entries in a table of contents – the clearer they are, the easier your page will be found and understood.
Micro conversion – small clicks with big impact
Intermediate steps on the path to conversion – measurable, analyzable, optimizable.
What is a micro conversion?
Micro conversions are like first glances when flirting – those who recognize them understand whether there is genuine interest.
Microsite – small website with a big special task
Focused, powerful, campaign-driven – a landing page with its own address.
What is a microsite and when is it used?
Microsites are like pop-up stores on the internet – targeted, quick to set up, and effective.
Mobile First – think mobile first, then think screen
Websites are designed for mobile devices – not just for ranking, but for genuine user-friendliness.
What does Mobile First mean?
Mobile first is like takeaway thinking in web design – fast, direct, and served to the point.
Mobile Optimization – so your website shines on every smartphone
Technology, design, and content perfectly tailored to mobile use.
What does mobile optimization mean and what is important?
Mobile optimization is like a good hairdresser's mirror – it shows exactly what the customer wants to see – no more, no less.
Monitoring – your digital early warning system for successes and stumbling blocks
Always know what's going on – instead of flying blind through the digital world.
What is monitoring in online marketing?
Monitoring is like a construction site manager with a walkie-talkie – as soon as something goes wrong, action is taken before it gets expensive.
Multichannel marketing – present on all channels where your customers are
Online, offline, social, local – but with a clear line instead of a zigzag course.
What does multichannel marketing mean?
Multichannel marketing is like an orchestra – each channel plays its instrument, but they all follow the same score.
Native advertising – advertising that doesn't look like advertising
Elegantly packaged in an editorial format – yet still a clear sales incentive.
What is native advertising and when is it worthwhile?
Native ads are like good camouflage – they don't stand out, but they work precisely where they're supposed to.
Navigation (website) – the digital guide for your visitors
Clear structures, intuitive menus – so no one gets lost in the jungle of your website.
What is website navigation and what is important?
Good website navigation is like a well-signposted hiking trail – it takes visitors by the hand and guides them to their destination.
Newsletter – the direct line to your prospects
Personal, measurable, efficient – email remains king when it comes to customer contact.
What is a newsletter and how does it work today?
A newsletter is like a personal invitation – if you deliver value, you'll be invited back.
Newsletter marketing – more than just sending emails
Targeted communication with impact – straight to the inbox of your ideal customers.
What is newsletter marketing?
Newsletter marketing is like a good toolbox – when every part fits, business runs like clockwork.
Noindex – when pages should remain invisible
A clear signal to Google: "Please do not display this page."
What does Noindex mean and when is it used?
Noindex is like a "private" sign on a garden fence – those who respect it don't ring the doorbell uninvited.
Nurturing – caring for prospects like seedlings until they become customers
Patience pays off – targeted contact maintenance turns interest into a decision.
What is nurturing in marketing?
Nurturing is like growing tomatoes in a cold frame – with light, patience, and the right amount of water, you'll get a ripe harvest.
Off-page optimization – you don't just convince Google on your own website
Backlinks, mentions, reviews – what counts outside influences the ranking inside.
What does off-page optimization in SEO involve?
Off-page is like word-of-mouth advertising in the digital world – those who are mentioned often and positively automatically grow in reputation.
On-page optimization – when your website impresses Google and customers
Texts, technology, structure – this is where the foundation for a good ranking is laid.
What does on-page optimization involve?
Onpage is like a well-maintained store: if you find what you're looking for quickly, you stay longer – and you're happy to come back.
Open rate – how many people actually open your emails
The most important metric in email marketing – and the first test for your message.
What does the open rate tell you?
The open rate is like the front door – if it stays locked, even the best content inside won't help.
Opt-in – the key to legally compliant communication
Permission is everything – without opt-in, there is no newsletter, no offer, no automation.
What does opt-in mean in marketing?
Opt-in is like a polite nod – whoever gets it can start the conversation.
Opt-out – the respectful way to leave a communication
If someone wants to leave, they should be allowed to do so – otherwise, interest quickly turns to frustration.
What does opt-out mean in online marketing?
Opting out is like a clearly visible exit door – those who choose to stay feel more comfortable.
Organic traffic – visitors who come on their own
The most sustainable way to reach your audience – without a click budget, but with a strategy.
What is organic traffic and why is it so valuable?
Organic traffic is like walk-in customers in your neighborhood – those who feel comfortable come back, recommend you to others, and don't cost you anything in advertising.
Outbound marketing – advertising with a loudspeaker instead of a magnet
The classic method: actively approaching customers – whether they want you to or not.
What is outbound marketing?
Outbound is like handing out flyers at the train station – not everyone will look, but the right person at the right time could be your next customer.
Overlay – content on top of content
Suddenly there – an element that overlays the rest of the content to attract attention.
What is an overlay and how is it used?
A good overlay is like a waiter offering free prosecco – surprising, charming, but not intrusive.
Owned media – your own digital stage
Everything that belongs to you – and that no algorithm decides on.
What counts as owned media and why is it so important?
Owned media is like owning your own piece of land in the digital village – you can design it, maintain it, and you don't have to pay rent.
Page speed – how fast your website really is
Seconds decide – about bounce rate, user experience, and Google ranking.
What is page speed and why is it so important?
Page speed is like the speed at the checkout – the faster it is, the more likely you are to come back.
Page Title – the title that shines in Google
Invisible on the page, but visible in search results – first impressions count.
What is a page title and why is it important?
The page title is like the sign in a shop window – if it's convincing, you get the click.
Paid media – purchased visibility with a plan
Advertisements, banners, sponsored posts – as long as you pay, you'll be seen.
What is paid media?
Paid media is like a billboard on the main road – as long as you pay, everyone drives past it.
PageSpeed – Why waiting is not a good sign on Google
If your website takes longer to load than it takes to make a cup of coffee, your customers will leave – and Google will follow suit.
What does PageSpeed mean?
PageSpeed is like punctuality for tradespeople – the faster, the more trustworthy.
Performance marketing – when every click counts
Measure, control, scale – marketing with clear performance targets.
What is performance marketing and what makes it so efficient?
Performance marketing is like a fitness tracker for your advertising budget – nothing remains hidden.
Pixels – the invisible spy with a marketing mission
Mini image with maximum impact – for tracking, retargeting, and analysis.
What is a pixel in online marketing?
The pixel sees everything – but only to serve your advertising effectiveness.
Positioning – Where do you stand in the minds of your customers?
If you don't stand out, you fall behind – especially in the minds of your target group.
What does positioning mean?
Those who position themselves sharply are compared less – and commissioned more often.
Pop-ups – suddenly appearing in the foreground
Pop-ups that demand attention – sometimes annoying, often effective.
What is a pop-up and when does it make sense to use one?
Pop-ups are like a waiter who asks if you want dessert in the middle of a conversation – it can work, but it doesn't have to.
PPC (Pay per Click) – only pay when someone clicks
You only pay when someone is really interested – efficient and controllable.
What does PPC mean in online marketing?
PPC is like advertising in a mailbox that only costs money when someone opens the door and reads it.
Programmatic Advertising – Advertising via Algorithms
Buy ads in real time – fully automated and highly accurate.
What is programmatic advertising?
Programmatic advertising is like a digital town crier who only calls out where the target audience really is.
Progressive Web App (PWA) – Website with app feel
The advantages of an app, without the download – fast, offline-capable, and mobile-friendly.
What is a Progressive Web App (PWA)?
PWA is like an app you can take with you – light, fast, and without the detour via the store.
Prompt (AI-powered) – the command that determines everything
Without clear input, there can be no useful result – the art of the prompt.
What is a prompt in the context of artificial intelligence?
A good prompt is like a precise assignment – it determines whether the result is brilliant or gibberish.
Push notifications – messages with impact on the lock screen
Short, direct, attention-grabbing – and often underestimated.
What is a push notification and how does it work?
Push notifications are like a quiet knock on the window – when the moment is right, the door opens.
Quality Score – the key to your Google ad
The better your ad, the cheaper the click – that's how Google thinks.
What is the Quality Score in Google Ads?
The Quality Score is Google's report card for your ad – and good students pay less.
Query – what people are really looking for
Behind every click is an intention – and usually a typo.
What is a query in the digital world?
The query is the door opener to intent – if you read it, you understand the customer.
Source code – the basic framework of every website
What you see is the interface – what Google sees is code.
What is the source code of a website?
The source code is the recipe for the website – you can see how it tastes by looking in the pot.
QR code marketing – scan, click, convert
Go straight to action with a square – analog meets digital.
What is QR code marketing and how does it work?
QR codes are like door openers – it only takes two seconds to go from poster to booking.
Ranking – the digital place on the podium
Those who are found are chosen – especially on page 1.
What does ranking mean in online marketing?
Ranking is like a market stall – whoever is at the front sells more.
Ranking factor – What influences my position on Google?
Google is like a teacher: it's not just what you say that counts – it's also how, where, and how often.
What is a ranking factor?
Ranking factors are like grades on a report card – those who do well across the board are moved to the top.
Reach – how many people see my message?
Being seen is the first step to action – reach measures visibility.
What does reach mean in online marketing?
Reach is like volume in advertising – but what counts is the tone that sticks.
Recency – how recent is the contact?
Time is a crucial factor – especially when it comes to online behavior.
What does recency mean in digital marketing?
Recency is like bread from the day before – it simply sells better when it's fresh.
Recurring revenue – income that stays
Recurring revenue is like a subscription to financial stability.
What does recurring revenue mean in a business model?
Recurring revenue is like a standing order from the customer – regular, predictable, reassuring.
Referral traffic – visitors with recommendations
When others link to you, it brings clicks – and often customers too.
What is referral traffic in online marketing?
Referral traffic is like a recommendation between friends – honest, effective, priceless.
Remarketing – reminders that sell
Some customers need two attempts – remarketing makes sure they get them.
What does remarketing mean in digital marketing?
Remarketing is like a discreet reminder – "Hey, you were interested..."
Repost – reuse content, regain reach
Good content deserves to shine more often – the magic word is repost.
What does repost mean in the social media context?
Reposting is like a good joke – if it's funny, you can tell it twice.
Responsive design – your website looks great on every device
Whether on a mobile phone, tablet, or desktop, your website adapts to the screen size.
What does responsive design mean on the web?
Responsive design is like a tailor-made suit for the web – it fits everywhere and always looks good.
Retargeting – the second attempt often counts more
Not every visitor buys immediately – retargeting brings them back.
What does retargeting mean in online marketing?
Retargeting is like a friendly reminder: "Would you like to reconsider?"
Return on Ad Spend (ROAS) – how much does advertising really bring in?
If you invest money in ads, you should also know what you get in return.
What does ROAS mean in online marketing?
ROAS is like the receipt for advertising – it shows whether the purchase was worthwhile.
Return on Investment (ROI) – is it worth it?
ROI shows whether your investment has really paid off.
What does ROI mean in a business context?
ROI is the GPS in the business jungle – it shows whether you are on the right track.
Rich snippets – small stars, big impact
More than just links and text – snippets with extras attract clicks.
What are rich snippets on Google?
Rich snippets are like shop window lighting at night – they draw attention directly to you.
Robots.txt – your website's doorman
This file determines which areas search engines are allowed to access.
What is robots.txt and what is it for?
robots.txt
file is located in the root directory of your website and provides instructions to search engine crawlers: Which pages can be indexed and which cannot? This protects sensitive areas (e.g., admin panels) and prevents duplicate content. Important: This is a recommendation, not a requirement.
Robots.txt is like a door sign for Google: Welcome here – please stay out there.
ROI calculation – is it really worth it?
This calculation tells you whether your marketing measures are worthwhile.
What is ROI calculation?
(revenue – costs) / costs × 100
. ROI calculation is like an annual report for individual projects – it shows you in black and white what you have achieved.
Sales funnel – the path from prospect to buyer
A funnel with impact: from awareness to conversion.
What is a sales funnel?
A good funnel is like a consultation on autopilot – only without the small talk.
Schema.org – Structure for search engines, plain text for Google
Machine-readable code makes your content understandable for Google.
What is Schema.org and what is it for?
Schema.org is like a name tag for your content – it tells Google what you really mean.
Scroll depth – how far do your visitors really read?
Shows whether your content is being read – or quickly scrolled past.
What does scroll depth measure and why is it relevant?
Scroll depth shows where your content is getting lost – or convincing.
SEA (Search Engine Advertising) – paid visibility on Google
You only pay when someone clicks – but only if you do it right.
What does SEA mean in digital marketing?
SEA is like a lighthouse in a sea of search results – visible when it matters.
Search intent – what does the user really want?
Understanding what is being searched for – and, above all, why.
What is search intent and why is it so important?
Search intent is like reading customers' minds – only data-based.
Search volume – how often is a term searched for?
Figures that show whether a keyword is worthwhile – or whether no one is searching for it.
What does search volume mean and how is it used?
Search volume is like a pedestrian counter in front of a store – it shows how often someone passes by.
SEO (Search Engine Optimization) – be found on Google
With targeted measures for better visibility in search engines.
What is SEO and why is it so important?
SEO is like a navigation system for Google – the clearer the route, the faster the customer arrives.
SERP (Search Engine Results Page) – the stage of visibility
This is where websites fight for attention – organically or through paid advertising.
What is a SERP and what appears on it?
The SERP is like a shop window on Main Street – whoever is at the top gets seen.
Session – the unit of time spent on your website
From the first click to the last action – everything counts as part of the session.
What is a session in the context of web analytics?
A session is like a visit to the hairdresser – everything counts, from the moment you walk in to the moment you leave.
Sitelinks – the extra links in your Google ad
More space, more clicks – and a professional impression in search results.
What are sitelinks and when do they appear?
Sitelinks are like signposts at the front door – the clearer they are, the more visitors will come in.
Sitemap – the site map for search engines
Show Google what your website has to offer – page by page.
What is a sitemap and why is it important?
The sitemap is like a table of contents – if you have one, you'll be found faster.
Smart Bidding – automated for the best click price
Google optimizes your bids – in real time, based on data, and with learning capabilities.
What does Smart Bidding do and where does it offer advantages?
Smart Bidding is like an intelligent salesperson – it recognizes good customers and automatically negotiates better deals.
SMO (Social Media Optimization) – greater visibility, more interaction
Optimize your social channels so that the algorithm loves you.
What is SMO and what are its benefits?
SMO is like window dressing in the market street – if you present yourself well, you invite people to linger.
Snapchat Ads – advertising with a wink and filter effect
Short, creative, visual – and perfect for young target groups.
What are Snapchat Ads and who are they for?
Snapchat Ads are like commercials on speed – whoever stands out wins in seconds.
Snippet – small text with a big impact
Shows Google what it's all about – determines whether someone clicks on it.
What is a snippet and how does it influence traffic?
A snippet is like a shop window – people passing by make up their minds in three seconds.
Social listening – listen to what people are saying outside
Identify brand perception, trends, and criticism online – in real time.
What is social listening and how does it work?
Social listening is like a regulars' table on the internet – if you listen, you understand the tone.
Social media – your company in conversation
Platforms where people (and brands) talk to each other.
What is social media and why is it important for companies?
Social media is like the village square of the modern age – those who join the conversation are remembered.
Social proof – building trust through others
When real voices convince – instead of advertising promises.
What is social proof and why is it so effective?
Social proof is like a good word from a neighbor – honest, direct, effective.
Sponsored post – advertising that looks like content
Paid post with an editorial feel – clearly labeled, but cleverly done.
What is a sponsored post and where is it used?
Sponsored posts are like guest posts by invitation – polite, but with a clear goal.
SOV (Share of Voice) – Who speaks loudest in the advertising market?
Visibility is not a matter of luck – it's a race for attention.
What does SOV mean?
If you want to be heard, you have to broadcast – not whisper.
Strategy – What is the plan behind the plan?
Without a strategy, even the best marketing is like a craftsman without a toolbox.
What does strategy mean in marketing?
Strategy is not a game of chess – it's more like a navigation system: it shows you where you want to go and how to get there.
Split testing – direct comparison of variants
More than just A/B – different paths, one goal: greater impact.
What is split testing and when is it worthwhile?
Split testing is like reading a book with three endings – only one really convinces the audience.
SSL certificate – security for your website
The little padlock in your browser that inspires confidence.
What is an SSL certificate and why does every website need one?
An SSL certificate is like a padlock on your digital shop door – if you have one, you remain trustworthy.
Story (Instagram/Facebook) – the stage for your everyday life
Short, fleeting, personal – but with a big impact.
What is a story and how do companies use them?
A story is like a peek through the keyhole – those who openly show what's going on gain trust.
Swipe-up link – the direct route to action
One swipe is all it takes – and your target group ends up where it should be.
What is a swipe-up link and where is it used?
A swipe up is like a digital door – if you place it cleverly, you no longer need a door handle.
Tag (tracking) – the little helpers in the background
They measure, count, optimize – inconspicuous, but crucial.
What is a tag in online marketing?
Tags are like digital sleuths – they show what works and what doesn't.
Tag Manager – the control center for your website data
Install it once – then control everything centrally.
What is a tag manager and why does it save you hassle?
The Tag Manager is like a toolbox with a remote control – once installed, it saves a lot of work.
Targeting – advertising only for the right people
Targeted approach instead of a scattergun approach – efficient and relevant.
What is targeting in online marketing?
Targeting is like a navigation system for your advertising – it takes your message exactly where it needs to go.
Technical SEO – the foundation for visibility
Fast, clean, structured – just the way Google likes it.
What does technical SEO involve and why is it important?
Technical SEO is like the foundation plan when building a house – invisible, but crucial for stability.
Text ads – advertising in words
Concise, clear, clickable – that's how text ads convince.
What are text ads and where are they used?
Text ads are like advertising slogans – when they catch on, they generate clicks instead of noise.
Thumbnail – the eye-catcher
One image, one impression – the preview image makes the difference.
What is a thumbnail and why is it so important?
A good thumbnail is like a cover in a newsstand – if it doesn't shine, it gets skipped over.
TikTok Ads – Attention in 15 seconds
Fast, creative, surprising – advertising in portrait format.
What are TikTok Ads and who are they for?
TikTok Ads are like flying flyers – those who stand out stick around.
Time on Site – meaningful dwell time
The longer someone stays, the better – at least online.
What does time on site mean in online marketing?
Time on site is like a good espresso in a café – if you stay seated, you like it.
Tracking pixels – invisible but indispensable
One point on the page, a quantum leap for marketing.
What is a tracking pixel and what is it used for?
Tracking pixels are like surveillance cameras for clicks – discreet, but with sharp eyes.
Traffic – the flow of visitors to your website
No traffic means no inquiries – it's that simple.
What does traffic mean in online marketing?
Traffic is like walk-in customers in a store – if you don't let anyone in, you can't sell anything.
Triggers – the emotional trigger for clicking
Triggers elicit reactions – consciously, unconsciously, deliberately.
What are triggers in marketing and how do they work?
Triggers are like door openers in the mind – if you find the right one, you'll be let in.
Trust elements – anchors of trust on your website
Credibility is key – and trust elements deliver it.
What are trust elements and how do they work?
Trust elements are like handshakes on the internet – they signal: You are safe here.
UI (user interface) – the control center for users
The interface is like a door – it must be easy to open.
What does UI mean in an online context?
The UI is like the dashboard of a car – if you don't understand it, you can't drive.
Unique content – unique content for maximum impact
Only those who stand out will be found – and remembered.
What is unique content?
Unique content is like a handwritten letter – personal, rare, and effective.
Unique Selling Proposition (USP) – Your unique selling point
Why exactly your offer is better, faster or more appealing.
What does USP mean in marketing?
A clear USP is like a lighthouse in the fog – it shows customers where to steer.
Universal Analytics – the predecessor of GA4
Former standard for web analytics – now retired.
What was Universal Analytics and why is it important?
Universal Analytics is like Windows 7 – long-used, solid, but no longer up to date.
Update (algorithm) – when Google changes the rules
Search engines learn – and constantly change the rules of the game in the process.
What does an algorithm update at Google mean?
Google updates are like MOT tests for websites – those who have maintained their sites well stay ahead.
Upload rate – the speed at which data is transferred to the internet
How quickly content is transferred from your device to the internet.
What does upload rate mean and why is it important?
The upload rate is like the diameter of a pipe – the wider it is, the faster everything arrives.
URL – the web address of a page
Without a URL, there is no access – it is the key to every web resource.
What exactly is a URL?
The URL is like a house number – only those who know it can find it.
Usability – how simple is simple?
When customers think, "That's child's play," then the usability is right.
What does usability mean for websites and digital applications?
Good usability is like a sliding door – it works without you having to think about it.
User experience (UX) – the digital gut feeling
Not just how it works – but how it feels.
What is UX and how does it differ from usability?
UX is like visiting your favorite café – you feel welcome, understood, and want to come back.
User intent – What do people actually want?
If you understand what people are looking for, you'll come out on top – and not just on Google.
What does user intent mean?
Search engines are not oracles – they love clear intentions.
UTM parameters – the tracking compass for your campaigns
Where did the click come from? UTM parameters provide the answer.
What are UTM parameters and what are they used for?
UTM parameters are like bloodhounds – they track every click back to its source.
Value proposition – your value proposition in a nutshell
Why should someone buy from you? Here it is in black and white.
What is a value proposition and what is it good for?
The value proposition is like an elevator pitch – but for your website. Short and sweet, immediately convincing.
Dwell time – how long do your visitors stay?
The clock is ticking – and every second shows how interesting your content is.
What does dwell time measure and why is it so important?
The length of time spent on a site is like the applause after a speech – the longer it is, the more convincing the performance was.
Video Ads – Advertising that moves and inspires
Moving images attract attention – and build trust at the same time.
What are video ads and why are they so effective?
Video ads are like shop windows with movement – you stop, look in, and don't forget them.
Video marketing – selling with moving images
Don't just show, convince – in 60 seconds or less.
What is video marketing and where does it work?
Video marketing is like a business card in HD – direct, understandable, and appealingly to the point.
Viewability – visible or free?
Only ads that are seen are effective – the rest is wasted budget.
What does viewability mean and why is it so important?
Viewability is like a billboard behind a tree – technically there, but completely invisible.
Viral marketing – when your message takes off on its own
A good joke, a powerful moment – and the online community takes care of the rest.
What is viral marketing and does it really work?
Viral marketing is like a good joke at the bar – if it's good, everyone tells it to someone else.
Visibility Index – how visible is your website really?
A value that shows how strong your site's presence is on Google – relative to your competitors.
What is the Visibility Index and why should you know about it?
The Visibility Index is like a digital market stall – those at the back sell the least.
Voice Search – when customers no longer type, but ask
"Hey Siri, where's the nearest pizza place?" – Welcome to the talking Internet.
What is voice search and how is it changing online marketing?
Voice search is like a customer conversation at the counter – those who answer clearly gain trust.
VR marketing – when customers immerse themselves instead of just watching
Virtual reality – going the extra mile for emotion, experience, and the wow factor.
What is VR marketing and where is it used?
VR marketing is like a test drive for your product or service – the customer sees, feels, and decides faster.
Web design – when aesthetics meet user guidance
Not just beautiful, but well thought out – good web design sells.
What does web design mean and what makes a good website?
Web design is like a good front door – it opens invitingly and leads you straight to where you want to go.
Web hosting – where your website is at home
No hosting, no presence – this is where your website lives on the internet.
What is web hosting and what should you look out for?
Web hosting is like the power supply for your shop window – without it, it stays dark.
Webpage – the single page in the Internet book
A webpage is a single page – not the entire website.
What exactly is a webpage and how does it differ from a website?
A web page is like a page in your image brochure – it's good to have several of them.
Website – your complete digital company presence
A website consists of many pages – and should be structured like a good sales pitch.
What is a website and why is it more than just an online business card?
A website is like your storefront – except that it never closes and is accessible everywhere.
Website relaunch – when old becomes not new, but better
New design, new structure, new technology – but please with a plan.
What is a website relaunch and what should you pay attention to?
A website relaunch is like remodeling a store—if it's well thought out, more customers will come in and stay longer.
Webshop – the digital storefront that never closes
Sell products online – with a system, trust, and good usability.
What is a web shop and what does it need to work?
An online shop is like a salesperson who never sleeps – it sells even when you've already finished work.
White Hat SEO – honest work instead of shortcuts
Clean optimization according to Google's rules – sustainable instead of short-term.
What is White Hat SEO and why is it the best strategy?
White Hat SEO is like honest craftsmanship – it lasts longer, causes less trouble, and pays off.
Widget – small module, big impact
Widgets are mini tools that give your website more functionality and life.
What is a widget and what is it used for?
A widget is like a toolbox on your belt – handy, useful, and quick to access.
Wireframe – the blueprint before the design
Sketch, structure, overview – the first step to a compelling website.
What is a wireframe and why is it so important?
A wireframe is like an architect's plan – without it, the website quickly becomes a maze.
WordPress – the world's most popular website system
Flexible, simple, powerful – from blogs to corporate websites.
What is WordPress and why is it so popular?
WordPress is like a well-stocked toolbox – there's an extension for almost everything.
Workflow – when everything runs like clockwork
Clear processes save time, reduce stress, and make digital work more efficient.
What is a workflow in online marketing?
A workflow is like a good mise en place – everything in the right place at the right time.
XML sitemap – the table of contents for Google & Co.
Structured overview so that your content can be found more quickly.
What is an XML sitemap and what is it used for?
The XML sitemap is like a floor plan for a trade fair – those who know their way around can find what they are looking for more quickly.
Xing Ads – Reach specific business target groups
Advertise on the business network for professionals and executives in German-speaking countries.
What are Xing Ads and what are they suitable for?
Xing Ads are like an elevator pitch in a business center – short, targeted, and aimed at the right person.
YouTube Ads – advertising that can't be skipped
Videos that sell – targeted, measurable, impressive.
What are YouTube Ads and how do they work?
YouTube Ads are like a commercial in the cinema – if it's well done, everyone watches it until the end.
YouTube Analytics – a look behind the clicks
Understand who is watching, how long – and why it matters.
What is YouTube Analytics and what does it do?
YouTube Analytics is like a rearview mirror with X-ray vision – you can see not only who's coming, but also why.
YouTube Shorts – 60 seconds that count
Short videos in portrait format – ideal for reach and attention.
What are YouTube Shorts and how can they be used in marketing?
YouTube Shorts are like a well-mixed espresso – short, strong, and memorable.
Target audience – who should actually be addressed?
The better defined, the better the message performs.
What is a target audience in marketing?
The target group is like the recipient on a package – if you address it incorrectly, it will not be delivered.
What has helped others:
Google I/O 2025: The new reality of search is AI
What is SEO? | Website optimisation explained simply for SMEs
Why your website isn't selling – even though it looks good
Strategy with substance: positioning & decisions