Climate change is the biggest crisis for the world, and to achieve net-zero target by 2050, developed countries will have to advance their emissions target to 2040, India's G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant said on Wednesday. Addressing 'The Energy Transition ...

Developed nations must advance emissions target to 2040, says Kant

Get it in black, ivory or light blue. These water-resistant rubber rain boots feature a soft sherpa lining to keep your feet warm and dry on cold, rainy fall days and snowy winter ones. They’re easy to slip on and pair with jeans, leggings or even a faux ...

5 winter wardrobe essentials from J.Crew you should definitely buy while they’re up to 50% off

Don’t shuck that Sherpa in the back of your closet just yet, however, as the weather agency predicts San Antonio and the Hill Country will continue to see below average temps through Thursday, November 2, before things start to heat back up.

San Antonio will soon bid farewell to chilly mornings, cooler days

Indias G20 Sherpa Amitabh Kant said on Wednesday that developed countries will have to advance their emissions target to 2040 in order to achieve the net-zero target by 2050.

Developed Countries Must Advance Emissions Target to 2040 to Achieve Net-Zero by 2050: India

Nepal's President, Ramchandra Paudel, emphasized the importance of officially opening up more peaks in the country for exploration during the 50th ann

Nepal's President Ramchandra Paudel suggests opening up more mountain peaks for climbers

Winfrey's top lifestyle gifts range from cool kitchen gadgets and delicious foods to indulgent homebody essentials. Top picks include a gorgeous Le Creuset Bread Oven, the Ooni Volt 12 Electric Pizza Oven, the Harlem Candle Co. Purple Love Luxury Candle, a cozy House No.23 Alaia Sherpa Robe and so much more.

Oprah's Favorite Things 2023: Shop Her Selections for the Home That Also Make Great Holiday Gifts

Whether you’re watching from the sidelines or watching the big game at home on your couch, this sherpa blanket will keep you warm. This two-sided blanket features a flannel side, faux-shearling trim, and a plaid pattern making it the coziest Thanksgiving ...

40 Thanksgiving Gifts for Your Holiday Host That'll Earn You Extra Leftovers

Royal Enfield has unveiled the Himalayan 452, a completely new motorcycle, from its frame to every bolt, without borrowing anything from the old model. This approach allowed the company to build on past experiences and refine its version of the single-cylinder adventure tourer formula from scratch.

Royal Enfield Himalayan 452 Takes on Challenges With Sherpa Engine Brilliance; Check Out The Top Features

With that in mind, we’ve put together this list of bougie gifts you can find right on Amazon. From faux sherpa pullovers to heated towel warmers, there’s a little something in here for everybody in your life — including that reclusive aunt who only ...

Bougie Amazon Gifts That Are Secret Bargains – 37 Finds

With Black Friday for 2023 set to officially launch on November 23, Martin Lewis' website Money Saving expert has issued a warning to anyone planning to bag a deal. Major brands like Ninja, Oodie and Dyson have already launched a range of flash deals, and customers could save hundreds by bagging more budget-friendly items.

Martin Lewis' MSE warning to all Black Friday customers as Ninja, Oodie and Dyson launch flash deals

Sherpa

sherpa

Remember when code was just lines on a screen, without personality or dialogue? Well, buckle up, fellow developers and AI enthusiasts, because the landscape is changing at breakneck speed! Large Language Models (LLMs) are bursting onto the scene, harnessing the power of natural language processing to transform the way we code, create, and communicate. Yan Lekun, the director of Meta AI, says, "The potential of LLMs is huge; they can help us automate tasks, create content, and translate languages," but because there are so many open options, choosing the right LLMs is blindfolded, It’s like walking through a jungle gym. Don't worry, brave developers! This is where I come in, your friendly local AI sherpa, ready to guide you through the hottest open LLMs that will supercharge your career and unleash your inner AI wizard. But there are so many options. Choosing the right LLM can feel like walking into a jungle gym with your eyes closed. Fear not, brave developers! I'm here to act as your Sherpa, guiding you through the hottest open-source LLMs to increase your productivity and unleash your inner AI wizard. So, let's crack open the treasure chest and unveil the top 10 gems: No introduction needed. Bard, Google’s behemoth LLM, boasts an impressive 137B standard, making it a powerhouse for handling complex NLP tasks. While still in development, Bard showed early promise in areas such as rule generation and summaries. Bard (Google AI): Coming in hot at 178B parameters, Jurassic-1 Jumbo is a monster LLM with a reputation for amazing realistic speech understanding. If your project requires you to work with large datasets of text and code, Jurassic-1 Jumbo could be your new best friend. Jurassic-1 Jumbo (AI21 Labs): Together, NVIDIA and researchers at Megatron developed a monster 530B-parameter LLM specifically geared to generate a variety of creative texts, such as poetry, code, writing, pieces of music, emails, documents, and more etc. If you want to add a bit of AI-powered creativity to your project, this is the LLM for you. Megatron-Turing NLG (NVIDIA): This multilingual marvel, backed by a consortium of AI researchers, boasts impressive performance in 46 languages. Need to translate code comments, document international projects, or build multilingual chatbots? BLOOM is your one-stop shop. BLOOM: Clocking in at a whopping 1.75T parameters, WuDao 2.0 is a Chinese superpower LLM that focuses on multilingual capabilities. This model is particularly adept at understanding and responding to natural language in Chinese. WuDao 2.0 (BAAI): This community-driven project offers a smorgasbord of open-source LLMs of various sizes, all trained on a huge dataset of text and code. EleutherAI is a good choice for developers of different LLMs who want to experiment with construction design to find the one that best suits their specific needs. EleutherAI (EleutherAI): Another gem from EleutherAI GPT-J is a 6B parameter LLM based on the OpenAI GPT-3 framework. Although smaller than some of the other options on this list, GPT-J offers a good balance of power and functionality, making it a great choice for developers with limited resources. GPT-J (EleutherAI): Although not strictly open-source, Cohere provides a free layer to their powerful LLM APIs. This makes it a good choice for developers who want to try out LLM before diving headfirst into their models. Cohere (Cohere Corp): LaMDA, short for Language Modeling for Conversational Programming, is Google’s take on the conversational AI model. LaMDA is specifically designed to create realistic and engaging interactions, making it ideal for developers of chatbots or virtual assistants. LaMDA (Google AI): Rounding out our list is Cicero, a real language LLM from Meta AI. Trained in the extensive use of information and law, Cicero excels at such tasks as interviewing and taking information. Cicero (Meta AI): Conclusion: Your Personal AI Playground Awaits Note that this list is just a taste of the vibrant and ever-growing world of open LLMs. Each model has unique strengths and weaknesses, so experiment, explore, and find the one that fits your specific needs and projects. As Fei-Fei Li, executive director of the Stanford Human-Centered AI Institute, aptly puts it, "AI Think of these LLMs as powerful tools in your developer toolbox, in order to maximize your creativity.” has made your work easier, what." Expect to push the limits of possibility and open your eyes. So, dive in, explore, and prepare to be amazed at the potential of an open-source LLM to transform your growth journey. The future is bright and powered by AI, but the story of how it unfolds is yours to write, code by code, with the help of these wonderful language models.

10 Open-Source LLMs That Will Rock Your Dev World in 2024

Introduction In the technicolor tapestry of our dreams, the boundaries between the real and the imagined blur, allowing our subconscious minds to craft surreal stories and uncharted landscapes. But what if we told you that the future holds a tantalizing fusion of artificial intelligence and dreamscapes? That's right, get ready to dive into the wild realm of AI's future role in dream manipulation, where your nightly adventures might be tailored, customized, and personalized in ways that defy your wildest dreams. 🌈 The Dreamy Alliance: AI and Dream Manipulation Imagine a future where AI algorithms decode the cryptic language of dreams, unraveling the patterns, themes, and imagery that emerge from the depths of our unconscious minds. It's like having an AI dream interpreter – a digital Sherpa to guide you through the labyrinth of your own imagination. In this dreamy partnership, AI sifts through the neural symphony of your brain, discerning the whispers of your subconscious thoughts. It deciphers the motifs that appear in your dreams and maps their connections to your emotions, experiences, and memories. Armed with this knowledge, AI can manipulate dream content, enhancing positive experiences, soothing anxieties, or even crafting fantastical adventures based on your preferences. 🦄 Dream Customization and Personalization: A Journey Beyond Sleep Fasten your seatbelts, for we're about to embark on a journey beyond sleep – a world where you're the director of your dream production. In this future, dream customization isn't a mere fantasy; it's a reality where AI takes your cues and crafts dreamscapes that align with your desires. Picture this: You've had a long day at work, and all you want is a serene beach vacation. With the wave of a digital wand, you instruct the AI dream generator to whisk you away to a tranquil shore. As you slumber, your subconscious meanders along the sandy coastlines, under the sun's gentle embrace. You wake up feeling rejuvenated as if you've returned from a mental getaway. But it doesn't stop there. Your dreams are a canvas, and AI is the artist. Seeking adventure? AI conjures up a dream world filled with daring escapades and legendary quests. Craving creativity? Your dreams unfold as a surreal masterpiece, a Dali-esque wonderland where the laws of physics bow to your imagination. ⚖️ The Moral Dilemma: Ethical Considerations and Boundaries Ah, the age-old question: with great power comes great responsibility. As AI dips its digital brush into the palette of dreams, ethical concerns emerge like specters in the night. One might argue that dreams, the last refuge of personal privacy, should remain untouched by technology's hand. Consent becomes paramount. Should AI require your approval before venturing into your dream territory? Could unauthorized dream manipulation result in unintended psychological consequences? Striking the balance between enhancing dream experiences and preserving the purity of the subconscious becomes a delicate dance. 🔮 Therapeutic Marvels: AI as the Dream Therapist Picture a world where AI serves as your nocturnal therapist, aiding in your emotional and psychological well-being. Those battling with phobias could confront their fears in a controlled dream setting, emerging with newfound courage. Trauma survivors might embark on cathartic journeys, reshaping their narratives within the safety of their slumber. But the potential doesn't end there. AI could facilitate dream-based therapies for stress relief, insomnia, and even creative blocks. Imagine AI curating dream scenarios that provide solace, inspiration, or a mental reset button. Your dreamscape becomes an oasis for self-improvement and healing. 🛣️ The Road Ahead: A Dream-Infused Reality As we gaze into the crystal ball of technology's trajectory, the fusion of AI and dream manipulation remains an exciting and uncharted territory. The evolution of brain-computer interfaces and the burgeoning field of neural decoding herald a future where AI could seamlessly enter our dreamscapes. The possibilities are exhilarating. Our dreams could become immersive narratives where we play the hero, explore fantastical worlds, and revisit cherished memories. AI-guided dreams could transcend sleep, becoming a tool for self-discovery, personal growth, and creative expression. However, like any adventure, this journey into AI-manipulated dreams comes with its share of challenges. Ethical considerations, the preservation of personal privacy, and the psychological impact of digital dreamscapes require careful navigation. 🎨 In the End, Dreams Remain Our Canvas As the curtain rises on the AI-dream partnership, we're reminded that, ultimately, our dreams are our most personal canvas. Whether we allow AI to co-create these nocturnal tales or opt for the untamed wilderness of our subconscious, the allure of the dream realm remains. So, dreamers, brace yourselves for a future where AI becomes your co-pilot in the land of slumber. A world where you sculpt your nocturnal narratives, seeking inspiration, resolution, or pure delight. As AI takes its place in the realm of dreams, our sleeping minds may become the new frontier of human-AI collaboration, where every night is an opportunity to unleash the uncharted possibilities of our imagination. Conclusion As technology continues to advance, the idea of AI's role in dream manipulation and personalization beckons us to explore the profound ways in which this fusion could reshape our experiences during slumber. While ethical concerns and the preservation of personal privacy remain vital considerations, the potential for therapeutic and creative applications is nothing short of awe-inspiring. As the stars twinkle in the night sky, so too do the infinite dreamscapes that await our imagination and the guiding hand of AI.

Dreams Unleashed: How AI's Future Role Is Reshaping Dream Manipulation and Personalization

In the dynamic world of blockchain and technology, visionaries are paving the way for revolutionary change. Ishan Pandey sits down with Andreas Schemm, Ecosystems & Operations Director at HUMAN Protocol, to delve into Andreas’s thrilling journey from gaming to virtual reality and finally to the disruptive arena of blockchain. In this candid chat, they explore challenges, innovations, and the future of decentralized ecosystems. Bridging Gaming, VR, and Blockchain: Andreas Schemm's Tryst with the Future Ishan Pandey: Hi Andreas, great to have you here for our "Behind the Startup" series. Please tell us about your background in technology and gaming and how it has prepared you for your role as an Ecosystems & Operations Director at HUMAN Protocol? Andreas Schemm: Absolutely! Thank you for having me on "Behind the Startup''. It's always a thrill to share about my journey, which feels at times like a thrilling roller coaster ride through the fascinating worlds of tech and gaming. Picture this: It's 2005. I'm starting my adventure in the world of startups, diving headfirst into an exciting blend of tech, entertainment, and e-sports. This chapter sets the pace for what's to come.
Fast forward a few years, I find myself at the helm of LaserTag Germany, leading the charge on turning it into a nationwide sensation with its very own German Tournament League. Picture us, coordinating across the country, fostering a team of over 50 passionate people - it was exhilarating! But like every adventurer, I felt that itch to explore uncharted territories. This led me in 2016 to found Project: Gateway VR Studios. Here, I dived deep into the realm of Virtual Reality, gaming, and digital content, conjuring up disruptive solutions. One of our feats that I'm particularly proud of is our creation of a "digital billboard". This tech wizardry allowed us to embed ad spaces into software without those pesky pop-ups or interstitials, delivering a seamless experience for users. It's like subtly placing billboards in a digital universe! Our path-breaking work didn't stop there. We leveraged the burgeoning technology of blockchain to tackle the thorny issues in digital advertising. This was new, exciting and game-changing!
In 2021, I joined HUMAN, a futuristic platform that's redefining the way humans and machines interact. Here, I wear the hat of an Ecosystem & Operations Director, guiding them on Ecosystem Development and Operations. Think of it as being a sherpa, helping navigate the intricate landscapes of Blockchain and Machine Learning to create vibrant job markets. Even amidst these new roles, my heart remains true to the startup scene. I'm currently advising Blockchain Founders Group (BFG) and contributing to Athena Transformations, adding more flavors to my ever-expanding palate in the tech world. Reflecting on this journey, it's the blend of my experiences - leading teams, pioneering in VR and digital content, delving into blockchain, and continually learning and adapting - that equips me to excel in my role at HUMAN Protocol. It's been an exhilarating ride, and I can't wait to see what thrilling twists and turns await around the corner! : Vested Interest Disclosure This author is an independent contributor publishing via our . Be it through direct compensation, media partnerships, or networking, the author has a vested interest in the company/ies mentioned in this story. HackerNoon has reviewed the report for quality, but the claims herein belong to the author. #DYOR brand-as-author program Ishan Pandey: What motivated you to join the HUMAN Protocol Foundation? What aspects of the protocol and its potential impact on industries appealed to you? : Joining the HUMAN Protocol Foundation was driven by a multifaceted fascination with its mission. The essence of decentralization and democratization, pivotal to the foundation, resonates deeply with my beliefs about the future of work. Andreas Schemm The potential of HUMAN Protocol to catalyze opportunities on a global scale and redefine how tasks are distributed and completed enthralled me. Furthermore, the cross-chain compatibility, incorporating Ethereum, BNB Chain, MultiversX, Polygon, Algorand, Skale, and Moonbeam, demonstrated a robust infrastructure that embraces the diversity of blockchain ecosystems, fueling an unbounded potential to revolutionize industries across the board. Ishan Pandey: What strategies do you use as a seasoned technology leader to build and manage teams within a tech company successfully? How do you encourage creativity and teamwork within your teams? Andreas Schemm: Building and managing successful engineering teams necessitate a clear vision, strategic planning, and fostering an environment conducive to growth and innovation. Here are some strategies I utilize: One of the first steps in successfully managing a team is ensuring everyone understands and buys into the shared vision of our work, specifically within the context of the HUMAN Protocol. This includes understanding how the integration of Routing and Execution layers work towards the common goal of facilitating global collaboration and how their individual contributions fit into this bigger picture. Shared Vision: I strongly believe that innovation thrives in a supportive, open environment. Therefore, I encourage creativity by challenging the team to push boundaries and constantly question the status quo. I foster an atmosphere where unconventional thinking is celebrated and where every idea is welcomed and considered. Promoting Innovation: : The complex and multifaceted nature of HUMAN Protocol projects necessitates a high level of collaboration. I stress the importance of cross-functional cooperation, recognizing that the best solutions often come from diverse perspectives converging towards a common goal. Fostering Collaboration As part of our commitment to continual learning, I encourage my teams to learn from failures as well as successes. Rapid iteration, built on lessons learned, is a key part of our strategy, helping us adapt and evolve in the fast-paced tech landscape. Continual Learning and Iterative Development: Trust and responsibility are important facets of successful teams. By entrusting my team with ownership of their work, they feel more committed to the outcomes, boosting motivation and productivity. Empowerment and Ownership: I believe in acknowledging hard work and accomplishments. Celebrating team and individual successes fosters a sense of achievement and bolsters morale. Recognition and Reward: Managing an engineering team in the blockchain space, especially one that's pioneering a disruptive protocol like HUMAN, requires constant adaptation and a willingness to venture into the unknown. It is a challenging but incredibly rewarding journey. Ishan Pandey: What are some of the major challenges you see to the HUMAN Protocol's widespread adoption in different industries? How do you plan to handle those difficulties? The HUMAN Protocol's path to achieving mainstream adoption across diverse sectors is marked by several intricate challenges. Key among these is the fundamental understanding and acceptance of our underlying technology. As we've witnessed, breakthrough technologies often confront initial skepticism and reluctance, especially when they diverge from traditional norms and practices. Andreas Schemm: Another prominent hurdle is the transition from Web2 to decentralized systems. For many users accustomed to the centralized interfaces and ecosystems of Web2, embracing the decentralized paradigm can be intimidating. Ensuring that they can effortlessly onboard and navigate the HUMAN Protocol without facing unnecessary complexities is crucial. It's not just about making the shift; it's about making it smooth, intuitive, and rewarding. While there are regulatory concerns related to the decentralized nature of blockchain protocols, it's important to clarify that these are not our dominant obstacles. However, acknowledging them is essential, and we are continuously staying abreast of the evolving regulatory environment to ensure compliance and adaptability. Ishan Pandey: What are your views on the recent spat between SEC and Coinbase? How does that impact the crypto industry? Further, what are your views on the recent buzz around Bitcoin ETF listing? The recent encounter between the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Coinbase underscores the inherent tension between the innovation driving the cryptocurrency industry and the need for a comprehensive regulatory framework that ensures its stability, transparency, and consumer protection. As new frontiers in financial technology are charted, regulators worldwide grapple with how to best adapt existing legal provisions to accommodate them. Andreas Schemm: Such confrontations, while undoubtedly challenging, are not only inevitable but indeed integral to the evolution and maturation of the industry. They serve as catalysts for important dialogues regarding regulatory oversight, compliance, and the need to balance innovation with protection of investors and market integrity. This dialogue is critical in shaping a regulatory framework that supports the growth of the industry while mitigating the risks associated with digital assets. Moreover, the ongoing conversation about Bitcoin Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) serves as a testament to the increasingly intertwined relationship between traditional financial markets and cryptocurrencies. Bitcoin ETF listings are not merely about providing investors with a more accessible and regulated means of investing in Bitcoin. They signal a broader acceptance and legitimization of cryptocurrencies within the financial mainstream, indicating recognition by traditional institutions of the transformative potential of these digital assets. However, these developments should not be considered in isolation. They should be viewed within the broader legal and regulatory landscape that continues to evolve in response to the disruptive force of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies. As the industry moves forward, it will be crucial for all stakeholders to work in tandem - balancing the need for innovation with the necessity for effective and comprehensive regulatory oversight. This ongoing interplay between law and technology serves as a reminder that the crypto industry is still in its formative years, and we should anticipate further legal discussions, regulatory developments, and even disputes as the industry matures and gains wider acceptance. Ishan Pandey: Can you comment on the current state of the cryptocurrency industry and the direction you expect it to take over the next few years? The cryptocurrency landscape today is witnessing a period of significant metamorphosis and advancement. We are seeing a surge in the development and adoption of decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and a slew of other applications powered by blockchain technology. These disruptive innovations are reshaping traditional financial models and democratizing access to financial services. Andreas Schemm: Looking ahead, I anticipate the next few years to be marked by an acceleration of these trends. We will see an intensification of efforts to harness the transformative potential of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies, pushing the boundaries of what's possible within financial systems and beyond. I envisage a future where DeFi becomes the norm rather than the exception, bringing financial inclusivity and empowerment to unprecedented numbers of people globally. The legal and regulatory environment around cryptocurrencies will continue to mature and evolve in tandem. Regulatory authorities around the world are already grappling with the implications of this rapidly advancing industry, and we should expect to see more comprehensive and nuanced legislation and regulation emerge in response. This evolution will aim to provide greater certainty and security for both consumers and businesses operating in the crypto sphere, contributing to the long-term stability and credibility of the industry. In this transformative period, it is more important than ever to ensure that the law keeps pace with technological innovation. Legal practitioners, policymakers, and industry stakeholders must work collaboratively to shape a regulatory environment that supports the potential of blockchain technology while safeguarding market integrity and investor interests. As such, the convergence of legal, technological, and regulatory perspectives will be pivotal in directing the trajectory of the cryptocurrency industry over the coming years. Ishan Pandey: Looking into the future, what do you envision as the long-term impact of the HUMAN Protocol on the blockchain industry and society as a whole? How do you plan to contribute to that vision? The HUMAN Protocol has the potential to alter how we perceive and engage with work fundamentally. It holds the promise of a global, decentralized, and fair workforce, redefining economic relationships and value exchange. In the blockchain industry, it can stand as a testament to blockchain's real-world utility, far beyond speculative trading. My contribution lies in driving technological advancement, nurturing strategic partnerships, and remaining steadfast in the promotion of HUMAN Protocol's ethos - making work accessible, transparent, and rewarding for everyone. Andreas Schemm: Don’t forget to like and share the story!

From Virtual Arenas to Global Workforces: How Andreas Schemm is Transforming Digital Landscapes

Over a century ago, a historic maritime disaster unfolded, leaving an indelible mark in history. The ill-fated vessel, widely renowned as the Titanic or the Royal Mail Ship (RMS) Titanic, met its tragic fate on the night of April 14–15, 1912. This opulent British passenger liner embarked on its inaugural journey from Southampton, England, bound for New York City. However, its voyage was abruptly interrupted when it collided with an iceberg, causing catastrophic damage. The calamity claimed the lives of around 1,500 passengers and crew, etching a sorrowful chapter in the annals of maritime history. In 1985, researchers successfully identified the precise position of the Titanic wreckage on the ocean floor. As a result, the sinking of the Titanic has acquired significant historical significance, serving as inspiration for numerous stories, movies, musicals, and extensive academic investigations and conjectures by experts. Individuals have since been conducting deep-sea expeditions to the Titanic's sunken ruins, with the goal of investigating, analyzing, and even offering guided tours of the site. On June 19, 2023, a submersible named the Titan went missing while on a dive into the wreck of the Titanic. The submersible was carrying five people, including a pilot, a retired French naval officer, and three paying passengers. The Titan was operated by the underwater tourism company OceanGate Expeditions. The Titan submersible offered a unique opportunity to explore this legendary site, and the people on board were no doubt excited to be part of this adventure. Contact with the Titan was lost about an hour and 45 minutes into the dive. The submersible had a four-day oxygen supply, but it was unclear whether it had surfaced or remained underwater. The US Coast Guard and other agencies launched a search and rescue operation. But the search for the missing Titan submersible came to an end on June 22, 2023, when the U.S. Coast Guard confirmed that debris found near the Titanic's wreck were those of the lost submersible. All five men on board died when the Titan experienced a "catastrophic implosion.” Pic courtesy: New York Post who tragically passed away aboard the OceanGate Titan submersible had previously undertaken this journey an impressive 37 times. of OceanGate, who also died with his Titan sub, has made the trip at least three times. While it is natural for some to question the notion, it is equally inherent within our human nature to pursue such adventures, as it is deeply ingrained in us. The scientist The owner Accidents are an unfortunate reality, encompassing plane crashes, ship sinkings, train collisions, and car accidents. Such occurrences are not uncommon. The unfortunate incident involving the Titan Sub 5 will not deter individuals from venturing into the depths of the ocean or maintaining their interest in touring or examining the Titanic wreckage situated on the ocean floor. This pursuit will persist. And there is nothing foolish about it. Such a courageous mindset and passion for exploration are the driving forces behind the progress of human civilization. This is exemplified by , the Portuguese explorer who is credited with masterminding the first expedition to circumnavigate the world. Ferdinand Magellan This same spirit of daring and thirst for adventure led people like to embark on a journey across the seas, reaching the shores of Africa. He was the first European to cross the continent from west to east and to discover the Zambesi River, Victoria Falls, and several major central African lakes. David Livingstone This same tenacity and passion for adventure can be found in the visionary endeavors of figures like . Their indomitable spirit propelled them to achieve an extraordinary feat on May 29, 1953, when they triumphantly reached the summit of Mount Everest, standing proudly at its pinnacle, towering 29,035 feet. Hillary and Norgay etched their names in history as the first individuals to conquer the formidable Mount Everest, a testament to their unwavering determination. Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay Undertaking such endeavors requires bravery, determination, and profound curiosity. The pursuit of knowledge and progress for humanity is commendable. Therefore, it is unnecessary to engage in speculation about the motives behind these explorations. It is perfectly acceptable not to know. James Cameron, the renowned director of the film Titanic, has personally made 33 visits to the Titanic site. Additionally, he has ventured to the Mariana Trench, a location three times deeper than where the Titanic rests. Hence, it remains puzzling why such accidents occur, despite the extensive experience and expertise involved. The same inherent drive that compelled these individuals to venture into the depths with the ill-fated Ocean Gate submersible in search of the Titanic is reminiscent of the intrepid spirit that propelled explorers to discover new frontiers, conquer vast oceans, traverse the poles, brave deserts, and scale towering mountains. Throughout history, lives have been lost in these daring pursuits. We have always been drawn to the unknown, and we are constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible. The intense scrutiny directed at the submersible destined for the Titanic arises primarily from its unsuccessful outcome. Had they succeeded, we would likely have witnessed a flood of inspirational quotes circulating on social media, praising their daring spirit. In all your endeavors, remember to strive for success, for failure finds few allies. Such is life! The unfortunate incident involving the Titan submersible is a heartrending event, yet it stands as a powerful affirmation of mankind's unwavering drive for exploration. Despite the inherent risks, our indomitable spirit propels us forward to discover and comprehend the wonders that surround us. The yearning to acquire knowledge and embrace novel encounters is an integral aspect of our humanity, an essence that we must always strive to preserve. My prayers are with the families and friends of the five men who died. Also published . here

The OceanGate Submersible Crash and Humanity's Pursuit of Exploration

“Leads are dropping faster than water poured into a leaky bucket” Khan exclaimed to his business partner. He was visibly frustrated. And it was true. A close look at their Hotjar dashboard reveals that they attract visitors to their website all right. But they hit a snag when it comes to converting those users to paying customers. Ouch. Khan and his partner aren’t the only ones battling this problem, however. In fact, according to , a massive 79% of leads are not converted to sales. Marketing Sherpa If you’re losing that many leads, then it’s time to take a step back and analyze the path your customers take to conversion. This is so you can uncover friction in your customer journey that reduces the efficiency of your SaaS sales funnels. A confusing task if you don’t know where to begin. But it doesn’t have to be. This article will show you 4 tactics for optimizing your SaaS sales funnel. But before we jump into that, let’s be clear on what a sales funnel is. What exactly is a SaaS sales funnel? Imagine all the steps your prospects go through on their way to becoming paying customers. The moment they discovered your brand How they decided your product is worth a trial When they decided they’ve found the real deal and became your customer And started spreading the good word about your product All of these stages are what make up the SaaS sales funnel. Source: Klozers Think of it as a multi-staged selling process that begins the moment your prospect first becomes aware of your brand and continues even after the prospect becomes a paying customer. How do you know it’s time to optimize your funnel? Serial entrepreneur turned VC, David Skok, gave a warning in . In his words: his brilliant article “No matter how large or successful your business is, you will have at least one place that is a blockage point in your customer acquisition funnel. This is the point where the conversion rates from one stage to another are not satisfactory or you have a scaling problem…” What does David mean? He’s saying it’s always time to optimize your funnel. A perfect funnel — one that is 100% efficient and requires no fine-tuning — isn’t achievable. There’ll always be stages in your customers’ journey where the conversion rates are less than ideal. And the onus falls on you as the business owner to find these blockages and clear them. There are three main places to look at when searching for funnel blockages. . Are your leads stuck on top of your sales funnel? This means you have no problem driving visitors to your website. But they do not seem interested enough in your offering and messaging to move on to the next stage. Top of the funnel . Are your leads stuck in the middle of your funnel? It means you’re generating leads. But they’re not just qualified. Qualified leads show a clear indication that they’re interested in your business. Middle of the funnel . Are your leads stuck at the bottom of the funnel? This means you’re having no sales. Your leads show intent but you can’t convert them into paying customers. Bottom of the funnel Once you’re able to pinpoint where these funnel blockages are, the next logical question becomes: “How do I eliminate them?” These are 4 tactics for you. 4 tactics for optimizing your sales funnel Create content that solves the specific needs of your prospects It’s not just enough to create content for SEO's sake. Your content has to appeal to prospects at specific stages in their buyer journey. That’s how they get enough information to move from one funnel stage to the other. This stat by the emphasizes that. According to the research, 95% of buyers choose SaaS companies that provide them with sufficient content to navigate the buying process. Demand Gen report Wondering what type of content you should produce at each stage of the funnel? This illustration by Myk Pono provides the answer. It also shows how each content type fits into your customer acquisition framework. Source: Myk Pono Shorten your sales process Have you ever forfeited your spot on a queue because it was too long? At that moment, your time suddenly becomes so valuable that you’d rather go home without what you came for. Or find somewhere else to get it. That’s how your prospects feel when you make them go through multiple (unnecessary) steps on their way to conversion. Time is money. The shorter your sales cycle is, the more optimized your funnel is. Not to mention your customer acquisition costs rise with every increase in your sales cycle. Source: Zendesk Here’s one effective way to figure out where the time traps in your sales cycle are. Revisit your interactions with existing customers. What specific issues extended your sales process? Depending on what funnel stage this issue occurs, create content that provides a solution to your customers. Measure your funnel metrics Remember the saying “what can’t be measured, can’t be managed.” It holds true here. The only way to improve your SaaS funnel is if you have data on what’s wrong. Not everyone realizes this though. This surprisingly revealed that 68% of companies have not identified or attempted to measure their sales funnel. research If you’re wondering what sales funnel metrics you should keep tabs on, these are the most useful ones. Leads Conversion rates Acquisition costs Customer lifetime value Average deal time Cycle time Total sales This by David Skok gives a deep dive into understanding and calculating SaaS funnel metrics. video Do not forget your old customers Often when founders think of their sales funnel, they only think of how new prospects can become new customers. But what about your old customers? 80% of your company’s profit will come from 20% of your existing customers, according to this research by . This underlines the fact that you should include existing customers in your funnel optimization plans. Customer Thermometer How do you do that? One way is to roll out a referral program. Dropbox used this tactic to improve the efficiency of its sales funnel. And , the company’s co-founder, referrals increased their signups by 60%. according to Drew Houston by Avoma gives actionable tips on how to set up a SaaS referral program. This article Conclusion To grow your SaaS business and drive predictable revenue, understanding how your customers become customers is vital. That’s how you get information on how to get new customers to grow your customer base. With this in mind, the importance of a SaaS sales funnel in mapping out the journey your customers take becomes important. What’s also important is optimizing your funnel so that the customers’ journey turns out to be a smooth ride. The four tips detailed in this article will show you how to do that. lead Image Also published . here

4 Tips SaaS Founders can use to Optimize their Sales Funnel

There’s a disparity between Work-to-Earn (W2E) and Play-to-Earn (P2E) that will likely hinder the growth of P2E, as an industry. The disparity is caused by prioritizing monetary wealth over experiential wealth. P2E earners have, on many occasions, stated that they are, in essence, generating income via “Play-as-Work.” This begs the question, if they’re playing other games for fun, what does the future look like for P2E, as it stands alone? There’s a way to bridge that gap, however. Resting between W2E and P2E is a need for involvement and belonging that revolves around creating better opportunities for the people around us, without falling behind in modern society. Do gaming guilds provide this? Sometimes. In some ways. Speaking to my personal experience, having been in gaming clans and guilds for a decade or more, it’s not enough to fill the void. Help-to-Earn (H2E) is a new operational model that seeks to supplement the current P2E and W2E economies. Rather than prioritize monetary wealth, H2E, like , prioritizes experiential wealth. People don’t just want to “live their best life” on Insta or any other platform. They want to build lives, rich with experience, for themselves. The , founded in 2020 highlights this. Gen-Z at large LOG OFF Movement Available opportunities to belong and contribute to a cause that is, at least perceptibly, greater than yourself are the root of satisfaction. These can be hard to find. (especially when you’re locked behind a screen for 6-8+ hours each day—just for P2E purposes.) Never mind the highly addictive content serving and social media algorithms that keep people engaged for hours more. Gen-Z purportedly on screen time. spends half of their daily waking life Many communities of older gamers have come to realize the emergent Pay-to-Win model is far better than a traditional “Grind-to-Win” model, provided a player cares sufficiently about what their time is spent on. Time is not money. Time is the one resource in the world that can be traded for anything. There’s practically no time left in the day to seek these causes, much less support them on a wide scale. Help-to-Earn can provide these opportunities on the micro-scale. This results in the empowerment of entire communities, wherein contributors seek their own paths while retaining enjoyment in the other things they do. Some may guide raids, while others may sherpa couples to the top of Mt. Everest. Can P2E Really Scale, Globally? The meteoric rise and (not-so) steady downtrend of popular Play-to-Earn (P2E) games, such as Axie Infinity, has highlighted several core issues. Economies are, ultimately, driven by demand. If you don’t want it, it won’t matter to you. The thing with games like Axie Infinity is, that they’re progression-centric, but their end never really comes—only an opportunity to become the best. Unfortunately, a vast swathe of the Axie community viewed playing the game as a job. Filip, a Slovakian in their 30s, stated that . When asked what they do for recreation, they replied, they only played Axie Infinity for money “ .” I play real games There are projects, such as “ ” that work to bridge the gaps, but most  aren’t fully available or proven yet in the market. Cradles: Origin of Species MOBA games, such as and are progression-centric in a different sense. Start from the ground floor every time you play. Roguelite games, a genre that repeats on death but allows players to carry some progress forward, embody the concepts underlying League of Legends very well, but with a “P2E” twist—death isn’t all for naught. P2E games seek to cross the work-to-earn bridge, but fall short in the sense that , while pleasant in some circumstances, can just as readily become work, . League of Legends DOTA 2 grinding games sometimes worse Just How Well Can P2E Economies REALLY Scale? In-game economies are driven by advancement—progress—rather than scarcity. In-game base currency, such as gold, in League of Legends or DOTA 2, is often infinite in terms of supply, but time-based variables make the unlimited supply. Having this consistent, cohesive, pattern of feast and famine allows players to familiarize it. This ultimately creates a shortened feedback loop by decreasing the game’s overall difficulty, until the match ends. Players’ brains become wired for extracting dopamine in specific channels. If left unattended, this process can effectively hamstring players’ ability to derive pleasure from life’s daily activities. These activities often provide a service that unifies players with the greater society. Without that, they are left with a deep and unfulfilled need. Much of The Current P2E Landscape Is Rooted In (Unhealthy) Scarcity As a result, many current P2E games are likely to scale very poorly as time goes on and adoption levels out, because the reductions in new cashflows will begin to limit the earning ceiling for players. Without new sources to draw from, other avenues must be used to secure net-new capital. This leads us right back to the current cycle, wherein advertisements and other means are used to draw in new money for the ecosystem. At their base level, P2E games are often driven by scarcity—more specifically, the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO), rather than progress. As a result, the number of potential adopters shrinks. The next logical step creates secondary economies that enable early adopters to make (partially) passive income, such as , and the games’ overall economic sustainability plummet if left unattended. Axie Scholarships How Can We Bridge The Gaps That Hold P2E Back P2E serves to fulfill a desire for progress that simply isn’t present in most modern economic structures. The gaps that P2E fills have been the niche that enabled companies like and to thrive. of the market. Those gaps form the basis for achieving satisfaction, as part of something greater than oneself. This attractive force helps to bind communities together, like glue. Twitch Youtube compensated for their time, as consumers in a cyclically consumerist/creator-centric economy. A few key gaps Gamers now expect that they will be hold P2E back from successfully fulfilling the underlying needs Without this sort of force, P2E will struggle to find support during bear markets, also known as “contraction cycles”, where the amount of money invested declines rather than increases. This relationship is highlighted by the transition from creation to consumption of content. Twitch and other streaming services have helped lay the foundation for P2E by enabling an economy wherein gamers and enthusiasts are able to make a healthy living Experience-as-a-Service--H2E Help to Earn is growing. The H2E movement is empowering people to live the life they want to, full of rich experiences, while minimizing the time they need to spend researching, seeking information on social media, or being trapped in a daze by the phone that was “supposed” to set them free to explore the world. H2E supports the P2E ecosystem by filling some of the voids between Work-to-Earn (Web2 “Jobs”) and P2E. Matthew Hairsnape, co-founder of the discusses the concept briefly : H2E movement here Web3 has surfaced with a rare opportunity. We can, for the first time in generations, fully enable people to seek out their passions and support a lifestyle that they love in doing so, where they would have otherwise been drawn into the W2E trap, grinding their life away in a job they hate. Prince Ea, a well-known creator and Forbes 30 Under 30 resident, that highlights this trend, and its impacts on people in modern society: developed a video Community as a Currency (the currency of Web3) The most successful; web3 projects are built atop communities. None of these projects just “had” a community to start, they’ve built them from the ground up. Communities enrich the project not just in terms of floor value, but in terms of livelihood and longevity. NFT communities have built opportunities for both businesses and individuals to take control of their lives and find the passions that will drive them forward. Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC), Goblintown, Illuminati, Azuki, Doodles, Cryptopunks (CP), and any derivative projects are just a few of the communities that have arisen and come together as the crypto market has settled into a bear cycle, or crypto winter. These communities aren’t for merch sales, they’re for companionship and unity. Apefest 2022 (featured at NFT NYC) was a massive event, to which hundreds or thousands of BAYC, and Mutant Ape Yacht Club  (MAYC) NFT holders travelled to meet up with each other. Yuga Labs, one of the most reputable NFT development firms in the space recently acquired LarvaLabs, the developer that created CP. Others have sought to recreate their success. Few have succeeded. Help-to-Earn isn’t an attempt to recreate this success. It’s an attempt to empower creators, like those who have made the countless NFTs since CP, and the rest of the world’s population to create meaningful and pleasant experiences. Whether that experience is a shared cruise for two, a solo hike to a local mountaintop, or a club full of people that celebrate together, H2E is designed to support it. Join the Help-to-Earn movement this summer and build on these experiences for the rest of your life.

Break Free From the Work-to-Earn Chains, Help-to-Earn Supports Play-to-Earn

Libérese de las cadenas Work-to-Earn, Help-to-Earn apoya Play-to-Earn

Libérez-vous des chaînes Work-to-Earn, Help-to-Earn prend en charge Play-to-Earn

कमाने के लिए काम की जंजीरों से मुक्त हो जाओ, कमाने के लिए मदद प्ले-टू-अर्न का समर्थन करता है

稼ぐための仕事の連鎖から解放され、稼ぐための支援が遊びで稼ぐをサポート

Liberte-se das cadeias de trabalho para ganhar, o Help-to-Garn apoia o Play-to-Ganhar

Thoát khỏi chuỗi công việc để kiếm tiền, trợ giúp kiếm tiền Hỗ trợ chơi để kiếm tiền

摆脱工作赚钱链，帮助赚钱支持游戏赚钱

What Are the Top Startups in Oceania?

Blockchain and digital assets are attracting the best minds in the tech space. And nowhere is that more evident than in the Defi Space. Aaron and Ted first connected at the University of North Dakota where both finished their undergraduate engineering degrees, and incubated innovation and entrepreneurship programs together. Aaron is a Crypto Sherpa and developer with multiple successful projects in his development portfolio. Aaron's background is in the Aerospace industry but has since turned to blockchain. Ted has diverse experience in corporate innovation in the Med Tech industry and is an avid Crypto investor and blockchain innovation expert. Q: Give us some insight into the typical Yields APY farmers can earn, and the atypical yields you have earned. It really depends on the asset, as stable coin yield is almost always >10% and can be upwards of >30% on some pairings. On Ethereum, if you can find anything over 6% it’s really good, but then other LP positions or locked assets can earn 60+% (cvxCRV). There was about a month period where I was in stable coin LP with a coin called IRON. When I jumped in it started at around 500% APY, and eventually ballooned to the point where I was earning 2%/day. That lasted for around a week until the coin that provided a lot of the backing, TITAN, lost a lot of value and there was a bank run and crashed IRON down to $0.74, luckily, I recognized what was happening and got out at $0.96. AK: The yield associated with APY farming is usually closely tied to the volatility of the underlying
 asset. For example, stablecoin farms can offer anywhere from 20-40% depending on the
 stablecoin and yield mechanism (auto-compounding, etc), while more volatile assets can offer
 80,000%+ APY. My returns hover in the 40-60% range across my portfolio, although I have
 experimented with the ultra-high APY pools and farms with varied success. TZ: Q: What's your due diligence process like in researching potential liquidity pools? The first thing I do is try to learn where the yield is coming from and what asset exposure is required. Often you are providing liquidity for tokens on an exchange and are rewarded with one of the tokens, so if I am bullish on both tokens (say TOKE/ETH pairing) and the liquidity incentives look like they’ll outpace any impermanent loss, I’ll allocate value. Things move so fast that I often buy in first with a small % of my portfolio, then do a self-audit of some of the smart contracts to get an understanding of the exact process. If I like what I see, then I’ll allocate more to that position. AK: The most important things to consider when choosing yield opportunities are the assets
 involved, the solvency of the pool and platform, yield mechanics, and the longevity of your
 stake.
 First, we must understand the volatility, trajectory, security, and validity of the underlying assets
 we are using. Traditionally, more volatile and low-volume coins will offer exorbitant yield, but that
 yield may be returned to you in a volatile/low-value asset. What we fear in this situation is called
 impermanent loss. Impermanent loss happens when you provide liquidity to a liquidity pool, and
 the price of your deposited assets changes compared to when you deposited them. The bigger
 this change is, the more you are exposed to impermanent loss. A 1000% APY doesn't mean
 much if you're earning that on a crypto that suffers a 90% price drop. Some pools leverage the
 redistribution of trading fees to offset this loss, but this is not ubiquitous across all pools. TZ: Another good sign of health for yield pools is the TVL, or total value locked. Higher TVL typically
 means more stability and consistency in the yield. This also points to health in the yield platform. On the platform side, pay attention to the yield mechanics, on-ramps, and off-ramps. The closer
 to liquid you can be, the better. Some platforms offer auto-compounding and leverage features
 that simplify the process and save on gas, so keep an eye out for that. Q: Favorite platforms for yield farming? The Blue Chips for sure include Curve and Convex. However, I am very interested in the concentrated liquidity approach of Uniswap v3 and pool optimizers like Popsicle Finance. If I am in a more degen position I likely will stake assets in an automatic yield aggregator vault, like Yearn or Beefy Finance. This is a tax friendly approach as well, if I wait for a year to withdraw, I can take long term capital gains tax instead of short term. AK: For stablecoin yield I prefer to use Curve, Anchor Protocol, and Yearn. There are many more
 out there that are worth investigating, though.
 For yield on “blue-chip” assets, I prefer SushiSwap, TraderJoeXYZ, and UniSwap.
 In the higher-risk category, I have been using Wonderland, AutoFarm, and Beefy Finance with
 good success. TZ: Q: For someone who wants to start earning yield do you guys have some tips? APY that is being paid out in a like asset (asset you stake is the same as the asset you earn) is a mirage. 1000% on POOP coin is always 1000%, whether POOP coin is trading at $500 or $0.50. There is often a lot of ponzinomics that emerges with some farms. Find assets that you like and find ways to earn yield on them. Sometimes that means taking a 30% LTV loan on your Ethereum on AAVE, and then using those stable coins to earn 30% yield on Curve or some other yield producing platform. Start treating your portfolio like a balance sheet. You own assets that can earn a salary for yourself, so be smart and respect your positions. Think about the implications to your tax obligations and how you can optimize. Use leverage only when it makes sense, liquidation is not fun. Start slow and safe(r) with stablecoins or blue chips you have strong faith in. Start with pools that have a track record of security, performance, and solid mechanics
 and contracts. Yield farming can be a playground for scams, be diligent. Understand your risk tolerance and apply that to your portfolio. While crypto
 routinely challenges the statement of “if something is too good to be true, it likely is” this
 still rings true in the yield and liquidity world. Q: Where do you see the Defi and yield space heading in the next few years? A lot of the growth that we will see will be from traditional finance continuing to come online to different blockchain protocols, but there will be a lot of innovation as it is easier than ever to stack these new money Legos together and make some great things. Soon mortgages will be on blockchain, and new payment systems will emerge. I think we will see the fees for doing business will continue to sink, Uniswap already has some pools that only take 0.01% per swap. That will continue to evolve. Yields will dilute for the largest protocols, but there will always be somewhere you can earn +50% on some assets. There will continue to also be new exploratory monetary policies that emerge, like $OHM and $TIME. I’m also interested in the long-term impact that bribes on governance voting will emerge, as it is already providing great benefits for CRV and CVX stakers, and is starting for $TOKE as well. AK: In general, the entire DeFi space is in its infancy. DeFi is vastly superior to traditional finance
 and for that reason, I expect it to continue to grow as we shift toward mainstream adoption.
 Liquidity is the backbone and fuel for DeFi. It helps small projects get off the ground, enables
 decentralized exchanges and rewards the community. I foresee yields dropping over time, but
 the opportunities will always be there and be vastly superior to the abysmal rates of traditional
 finance. TZ: The world of Crypto is evolving, and with it bringing in innovative minds focused on making defi the apparent platform of the future, slowly eating away at exorbitant centralized and legacy financial institutions.

#Yield-Farm Like a Degen: With NDSU Alums Aaron Knudtson, and Ted Zipoy

Here you will learn what’s stopping your excellent site from . hitting the first page of Google No Google doesn’t hate your website, but your poor rank definitely has something to do with the 7 reasons you'll find below. Let’s go! #1- You’re Still In Google Sandbox Do you have a new website? Perhaps it’s still on probation and unable to complete normally? That’s called being in Google's Sandbox. is an alleged filter (supposedly added in March 2004) that stops new websites from ranking highly in the SERPs. Google Sandbox In other words, with the filter actively working against you, you can’t rank even if your SEO is perfect. Seems unfair but Google does this to prevent fly-by-night, churn-and-burn sites from ranking quickly with black hat spam, especially in more competitive and valuable SERPs. How to Get Out of Google Sandbox Faster? the good news. You to get out of the sandbox. First, don’t need to pay for an SEO service you’ll need to wait a bit. Some time needs to pass and usually it’s 6-8 months. Second, proceed with building a trust and social fortress around your site. Third, Open up branded accounts with: Facebook; Twitter; Pinterest; LinkedIn; Reddit; Etc. become active on social media. Google wants to see you participate in your niche and that there's a real person behind your branded account and website. Fourth, Your social activity+social signals you scoop up for your site will . make Google trust you more avoid adding affiliate links. Fifth, Google has no problem with affiliate sites as long as they provide value. But more often than not affiliate sites are thin affiliate sites whose are barely above pure spam and Google actively strives to remove such sites from their SERPS. affiliate campaigns It’s best not to risk it, especially early on when you have no traffic and no one’s gonna be . clicking on your affiliate links and this is a bonus tip as almost no one does this, send local citations to your site. They will funnel a bit more trust to your property and yes, Finally, citations help even if you run an affiliate business. #2- You’re Targeting The Wrong Keywords Source: https://www.sherpamarketing.ca/whats-the-difference-between-short-tail-and-long-tail-keywords-580 By “wrong” I mean head terms that are impossible to rank for. Honestly, this is the most common mistake SEO newbies make. They see a head term with 300 000 searches per month and become fixated on it. They imagine ranking for it, and think that if they could just rank for just that one keyword all their problems would go away. Of course, the real world doesn't work like that at all. First, head terms are reserved for the oldest and strongest of websites on the internet. New sites can never rank for them. Second, head phrases come with extremely murky search intent. Take for example the keyword “ ”. SEO It boasts a huge search volume, with hundreds of thousands of searches per month. But what do these people really want? To read about SEO? To learn the definition of SEO? Are they looking for SEO services near them? Or are they looking for a general SEO specialist to do an SEO audit for their property? Who can really tell? That kind of traffic is next to useless in my opinion. The answer to this problem is to target long tail keywords. Long tail keywords contain the head term + 4-5 extra words. They are usually really low competition and even new sites can rank for them. In fact, to tie this with the previous point, targeting really low competition keywords (or better yet ) is one of the easiest ways to get out of the Sandbox faster, because as soon as you start ranking for stuff you’re officially out of the probation period. KGR keywords #3- Your Site is Ugly and Users Bounce The times when ugly sites but with good content could rank is long gone. Web users are spoiled now and know that they have ample choice of websites for any query they type in search. So, if someone clicks on your site from the SERPS, lands on your page and is welcomed with a website that seems stuck in the nineties, they will immediately hit the back button. This will tell Google that your site is so bad no one can even stand to be on it. And then they’ll demote you and you’ll lose your high ranking position. So in order to successfully compete, you need to have a that’s also decent looking, a branded logo and a consistent color scheme. fast website Notice that I didn’t mention ? custom design That’s because you don’t need to pay a developer to customize your blog. A good premium theme enhanced with Elementor will do the job just fine. #4- Your Content is Mediocre Likewise, gone are the days where you could rank with just words on the page. It used to be that Google would rank anything as long as there were to tell them what the article’s about. at least some keywords present But now in 2021 and beyond there’s more than enough content for any keyword imaginable and content quality is the way to stand out from the sea of mediocrity. What Does “Content Quality” Mean? Quality content is the one that matches the user intent and answers the searcher’s query in full. People online are looking for answers and if you can furnish them with what they need and fast you’ll be in good shape. Again, I mention that you don't need to have custom design for your content to stand out ( does help a ton though). creating engaging visuals Instead do thorough research and really bring your A game with every piece of content you publish. That’s enough to rank for the majority of search terms, because most bloggers are winging it with their content creation, while creating helpful and useful content remains absolutely crucial to rank in Google. #5- You Built Links Too Fast and Now You’re Stuck Never build links without the accompanying social shares. Links are a relative rarity on the web. They happen, but not  nearly as often as you’d think Think about it, how many of your readers have blogs? How many or them are actively publishing content? How many of them are willing to link to you? Some probably, but not too many. And then consider this. How many among your audience have Twitter and Facebook accounts where they can share content? All of them! And many of them will share your content with their followers. The point is that social shares are abundant on the web and they always naturally happen before links. So, before building a single link you need to pave the road for them to happen. What to Do if You’ve Already Built Links Without Social Shares? Luckily, this is an easy fix. Stop all link building and start sending social shares immediately. This will “make” the algorytm believe your links are genuine and you will get unstuck #6- You’re Impatient Maybe you're ranking just fine. Maybe you’re ranking better than normal even though you're on the 5-th page? What do I mean? It takes a page and show it’s true rankings potential. 6 months to fully mature It takes on average to rank on page 1 of Google. 1+ year The point is that ranking in Google organically is a long term process and it seems even longer when you’re impatient. The solution is to create more content so you create topical authority and have more chances of ranking; and to build more links because links can significantly speed up the process. Bonus tip- Proper site architecture is also crucial to speeding up the rankings process. is nothing more than interlinking your site in such a way that PageRank flows to your money pages powering them up and giving them above average ranking position in a shorter time frame. Site architecture Uff, what a mouthful of a sentence, I know :) #7- You Have a Google Penalty Applied to Your Site If you have a Google penalty applied against your site you will struggle to rank even if you do excellent SEO. Penalties are in a lot of ways similar to Google Sandbox, but the difference is that they won’t go away on their own and you have to put in a lot of effort into fixing them. There’s no room for it here as it’s a vast topic for a whole other guide, but basically all Google penalties are divided into: Manual penalties; Algorithmic penalties. You can check for manual penalties in your Google Search Console. Go tp your Google Search Console and click on “manual actions” tab to see if you’ve been affected. If you have an algorithmic penalty you won’t be informed and you’ll have to figure it out on your own. The easiest way to figure out is to see if you have a huge drop off in traffic coinciding with a time frame where there were no known Google core updates. If that’s the case then you need to see what is going on with your traffic. If you see a drop-off like this it’s time to investigate further. Source https://www.gsqi.com/marketing-blog/new-google-panda-rollout-ten-days/ Conclusion It’s going to be harder to rank in Google. That's one that is guaranteed to come true in 2021 and beyond. SEO prediction However, we as webmasters can’t despair over it. Instead we need to equip ourselves with knowledge, skill and perseverance to success. If you have a struggling site, make sure that one of the reasons above is not the culprit for your poor rank. If it is, fix it and move on. As long as you keep moving, learning and doing, you’ll ultimately succeed.

Stories, News & Mentions about SHERPA

Sherpa’s Stories on HackerNoon

Sherpa's News & Mentions