This next lesson in our Creativity & Data series has us exploring the depths of Google Trends.
In the first lesson, we established the importance of using creativity and data for the growth of your business, walked through the creative process steps, and discussed how to strengthen your creativity muscle.
Now, we’ll start to unpack tools and techniques for effectively combining creativity and data to inspire innovative ideas for your business.
First up is Google Trends.
Creativity is breaking out of established patterns to look at things in a different way.”
— Edward de Bono, inventor of the Lateral Thinking technique
[Part 2] Google Trends
Google Trends highlights longevity, seasonality, and user intent around keywords or topics — information that can guide your future content strategy and help you understand current posts’ traffic patterns.
Use Google Trends to make sure you’re accomplishing your goal with each piece of content you create — whether it’s evergreen content with long-term earning potential or tapping into a viral movement while it’s hot!
Step 1: Watch the Google Trends video
Breakdown of topics:
[1:43] Why use Google Trends?
[1:57] Confirming seasonality and longevity of trends
[2:20] Google Trends for keyword research
[2:45] Use filters to focus your searches: Google Trends screenshare
[6:40] Search term tips
[8:46] Interpreting results: Google Trends screenshare
[12:11] Google Trends best practices
[12:20] Define your goals and content strategy
[13:33] Understanding context of trends
[14:46] Understanding timing of trends w/screenshare
[17:32] Compare terms and topics w/screenshare
[20:43] Uncover regional trends w/screenshare
[23:21] Explore various platforms w/screenshare
[25:50] Home in on relevant categories w/screenshare
[27:41] Crosscheck with keyword research w/screenshare
[29:57] Creative applications for Google Trends research
[32:33] Use Google Trends to develop your content calendar
[33:30] How to use Google Trends in the creative process
[35:10] Additional Google insights tools
[36:43] Rising Retail Categories tool screenshare
Step 2: Download and complete the Google Trends workbook

And now it’s time to take your current keyword strategy to the next level using techniques and tools found in our next lesson, Part 3: Keyword Research Tools!