Unlocking TikTok’s Q5: The Golden Opportunity for Post-Holiday Marketing

Unlocking TikTok’s Q5: The Golden Opportunity for Post-Holiday Marketing

The holiday rush may end, but the shopping doesn’t stop. Welcome to Q5, the post-holiday period that runs from Christmas through early January. TikTok has published a new guide for this period and why you need to take advantage. While other marketers may ease off their campaigns, this “hidden gem” of a shopping season offers untapped opportunities for brands to engage eager consumers still in spending mode.

TikTok has become the go-to platform for post-holiday discovery, trends, and shopping inspiration. At Amber 90, we specialize in helping brands leverage this golden window to maximize their ROI. Here’s everything you need to know about TikTok’s Q5 and how to create impactful campaigns.


What is Q5, and Why Does it Matter?

Q5 refers to the period immediately following Christmas, extending into January. During this time, consumers:

  • Redeem holiday gift cards and cash gifts.
  • Look for post-holiday deals.
  • Focus on self-care and New Year’s resolutions.

Key Benefits of Q5 Marketing:

  1. Reduced Competition: Many brands pause campaigns after the holiday season, lowering ad inventory costs.
  2. High Shopping Intent: Consumers actively seek deals, trends, and inspiration for their post-holiday spending.
  3. TikTok’s Unique Role: The platform’s engaging content and discovery-driven nature make it the perfect channel for Q5 campaigns.

Consumer Behaviour During Q5

TikTok’s data highlights key trends in user behaviour during this period:

  • Shopping Surges in January:
    • While holiday-specific content declines, shopping-related posts peak as consumers search for deals and trends.
  • Self-Care Takes Center Stage:
    • 69% of TikTok users plan to buy products for themselves during Q5, focusing on fitness, skincare, and tech.
  • Emerging Categories Gain Traction:
    • Beyond retail, categories like gaming, finance, and wellness see increased engagement.

Why TikTok is Perfect for Q5 Marketing

TikTok offers several advantages that make it the ideal platform for post-holiday campaigns:

  1. High Engagement Rates:
    • Users actively discover new products and trends, making TikTok a powerful tool for influencing purchase decisions.
  2. Efficient Ad Inventory:
    • Lower competition for ads during Q5 reduces costs while maintaining high visibility.
  3. Proven ROI:
    • TikTok’s retail return on ad spend (ROAS) for offline conversions is 1.9 times more efficient than the media average.

Best Practices for a Successful Q5 TikTok Campaign

1. Leverage TikTok Commerce Tools

  • Use Video Shopping Ads to showcase products and drive direct traffic to your site.
  • Optimize campaigns with TikTok Shop for seamless in-app purchases, supported by shoppable videos and Shop Ads.

2. Tap Into Creator Content

  • Partner with influencers to create authentic shopping hauls, unboxings, and reviews.
  • Collaborations help build trust and increase conversions, as users rely on creators for recommendations.

3. Highlight Gift Card Offers

  • Nearly 40% of users plan to shop during Q5 using holiday gift cards.
  • Promote exclusive deals or incentives to drive gift card redemptions.

4. Target Emerging Categories

  • Expand your focus to include categories like fitness, finance, and gaming, which gain traction during the New Year’s resolution period.

5. Optimize for Self-Care Content

  • Appeal to the “treat yourself” mentality by offering products and services aligned with self-care, wellness, and personal growth.

Lessons from Last Year’s Q5

TikTok’s internal data provides several takeaways from successful Q5 campaigns in 2023:

  • Shopping-Related Content Peaked in January:
    • Consumers remained highly engaged with deals and product trends well into the new year.
  • Ad Inventory Was More Cost-Effective:
    • Brands stretched their budgets further with reduced competition for ad space.
  • Lower Funnel Strategies Yielded Results:
    • Campaigns focused on high purchase intent drove significant conversions.

Why Your Brand Can’t Afford to Ignore Q5

Skipping Q5 marketing could mean missing out on a unique opportunity to:

  • Engage high-intent shoppers.
  • Maximize your ad budget with lower costs.
  • Establish a strong start to the New Year by meeting consumer needs during a high-engagement period.

TikTok’s robust ecosystem of ad formats, commerce tools, and shopping solutions makes it a prime platform for Q5 campaigns.


Amber 90: Your Partner in Q5 Marketing Success

At Amber 90, we help brands unlock the full potential of TikTok campaigns. With deep expertise in social media strategy and data-driven marketing, we’re here to make your Q5 season a success.

What We Offer:

  • Customized TikTok strategies tailored to your brand and audience.
  • Expert campaign management to optimize performance and ROI.
  • Proven success in leveraging TikTok’s tools to drive conversions.

Conclusion: Make Q5 Your Brand’s Golden Opportunity

Q5 is more than just a post-holiday lull—it’s a period ripe with opportunity. By leveraging TikTok’s unique tools and targeting strategies, your brand can turn this overlooked season into a revenue-driving powerhouse.

Ready to win big this Q5?
Contact Amber 90 today to create a strategy that drives results and positions your brand for success in 2025.

2024 Social Media Trends: Insights to Shape Your Strategy for 2025

2024 Social Media Trends: Insights to Shape Your Strategy for 2025

Social media is constantly evolving, reshaping how we connect, share, and engage. With platforms adjusting their features and audiences shifting their habits, businesses must stay updated to remain competitive. As 2024 wraps up, Pew Research has highlighted key trends in its Social Media Fact Sheet, offering valuable insights into the year’s online landscape.

For Canadian businesses, these trends hold significant implications. At Amber 90, we analyze global data and contextualize it for the Canadian market, helping brands optimize their strategies. Let’s dive into the trends that will shape social media in 2025 and what they mean for your business.


Social Media Usage in 2024: A Snapshot

Globally, YouTube and Facebook remain the dominant platforms, with Instagram following close behind. TikTok continues to be a major player, particularly among younger users, while platforms like LinkedIn and Pinterest show steady growth.

Highlights from Pew Research:

  • Most-Widely Used Platforms:
    • YouTube: Used by 94% of U.S. adults aged 30-49, and 93% of those aged 18-29.
    • Facebook: Still popular across all age groups, with particularly high usage among 30-49 year-olds (78%).
  • Younger Demographics:
    • TikTok and Snapchat dominate among users aged 18-29.
  • Professional Networks:
    • LinkedIn continues to see growth, especially among older users and professionals.

Canadian Perspective

While global trends are a helpful baseline, Canadian preferences often differ slightly:

  • TikTok’s dominance: The platform’s younger audience aligns with Canada’s high smartphone penetration rates.
  • Facebook’s resilience: Despite global declines, it remains strong in Canadian suburban and rural communities.
  • LinkedIn’s relevance: Increasingly used for professional networking and recruitment in Canada’s growing tech and finance sectors.

Demographic Trends: Who Uses What?

Understanding platform demographics is critical for targeting the right audience.

Age:

  • 18-29: Favour TikTok, Snapchat, and Instagram for entertainment and connection.
  • 30-49: Heavy YouTube and Facebook users; LinkedIn for professional growth.
  • 50+: Facebook dominates, with growing interest in Pinterest and YouTube for informational content.

Gender:

  • Women: More active on platforms like Instagram and Pinterest.
  • Men: Lean toward YouTube, Reddit, and LinkedIn.

Community:

  • Urban users dominate Instagram and TikTok.
  • Suburban and rural communities favor Facebook and YouTube.

Strategic Insights for Canadian Businesses

To capitalize on these trends, businesses must align their strategies with platform-specific strengths.

Platform-Specific Opportunities:

  1. TikTok and Instagram:
    • Create short-form, engaging video content to connect with younger audiences.
    • Use trending hashtags and challenges to boost visibility.
  2. Facebook and YouTube:
    • Focus on community-building and educational content.
    • Leverage YouTube Shorts to complement long-form videos.
  3. LinkedIn:
    • Share thought leadership content and connect with decision-makers in industries like tech and finance.

Ad Spend Optimization:

  • Allocate budgets based on platform growth and audience preferences.
  • Experiment with emerging ad formats like TikTok Spark Ads and Instagram Reels Ads.

Why Social Media Metrics Matter More Than Ever

As social platforms evolve, so do their measurement tools. For instance, Meta’s transition to ‘Views’ as the primary metric across Facebook and Instagram reflects a broader shift toward simplified analytics.

What This Means for Businesses:

  • Better Insights: Unified metrics across platforms make it easier to assess content performance.
  • Actionable Data: Metrics like time spent and repeat views reveal deeper engagement patterns.
  • Opportunities to Refine: Use analytics to identify high-performing content and replicate its success.

Amber 90: Your Partner in Social Media Success

Navigating the ever-changing social media landscape can be daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Amber 90, we specialize in crafting tailored social media strategies that leverage platform-specific strengths.

Why Choose Amber 90?

  • Proven Expertise: From TikTok to LinkedIn, we know what works.
  • Custom Strategies: Every brand is unique, and so is our approach.
  • Data-Driven Results: We use analytics to refine and optimize campaigns for maximum ROI.

Preparing for 2025: Key Takeaways

  1. Audit Your Presence: Ensure you’re active on platforms where your audience is most engaged.
  2. Invest in Video: Short-form content continues to dominate.
  3. Leverage Professional Platforms: Build authority with thought leadership on LinkedIn.
  4. Analyze and Adapt: Use insights to refine your strategy continuously.

Conclusion

The social media trends of 2024 offer a roadmap for success in 2025. By understanding platform preferences and aligning your strategy with audience behavior, you can ensure your business stays ahead in the digital game.

At Amber 90, we don’t just follow trends—we help you lead them. Let’s shape your social media future together.

Ready to grow your brand online?
Contact Amber 90 today.


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Facebook’s New ‘Views’ Metric: What It Means for Your Business

Facebook’s New ‘Views’ Metric: What It Means for Your Business

Social media is always evolving, and staying ahead of the curve is crucial for any business aiming to maximize its online presence. The latest shift from Meta to use ‘Views’ as the primary metric on Facebook and Instagram marks a significant change in how brands measure and analyze their content performance. At Amber 90, we specialize in helping businesses navigate these updates, ensuring you stay competitive in the digital landscape. Here’s everything you need to know about the new Facebook Views metric and how it impacts your social media strategy.


What Is the New Facebook ‘Views’ Metric?

Meta has introduced ‘Views’ as the primary performance metric across Facebook and Instagram. This shift replaces variable metrics such as ‘Plays,’ ‘Impressions,’ and ‘Watch Time’ with a single, streamlined measurement.

Key Details:

  • Definition of Views: The number of times content (photos, videos, text posts, or Stories) appears on a user’s screen, including repeat views.
  • For Non-Video Content: ‘Views’ replaces ‘Impressions.’ Each time a user sees a post, it’s counted—even if they view it multiple times a day.
  • For Video Content: ‘Plays’ is now renamed ‘Views,’ with no changes in how the data is calculated.

This change unifies performance metrics across both platforms, simplifying reporting and providing a clearer picture of your audience’s engagement.


Why Did Facebook Make This Change?

Meta’s decision reflects the growing dominance of video content across social media platforms and the need for a more intuitive analytics framework.

The Benefits of ‘Views’:

  1. Simplified Metrics: One consistent metric across all content types makes it easier for creators and brands to track engagement.
  2. Cross-Platform Alignment: Facebook and Instagram now use the same primary metric, streamlining your social media strategy.
  3. Insightful Engagement Data: Capturing repeat views highlights highly engaging or rewatchable content.

What Does This Mean for Your Data?

If you’ve noticed changes in your Facebook Insights, you’re not alone. The new ‘Views’ metric introduces some nuances in how performance is measured.

Key Changes:

  • Repeat Views Counted: A single user viewing the same photo or post multiple times will now count as multiple views, potentially inflating numbers compared to previous ‘Impressions.’
  • Video Metrics Updated:
    • Minutes Viewed: Replaces ‘Watch Time,’ rounding data to the nearest minute.
    • Average Minutes Viewed: A simplified version of the previous ‘Average Watch Time.’

While these updates simplify reporting, businesses should reassess their benchmarks to avoid misinterpreting inflated numbers as sudden spikes in success.


How Can Businesses Adapt to the New Metric?

Adjusting to Facebook’s ‘Views’ metric is more than just a numbers game—it’s an opportunity to rethink and refine your social media strategy.

Steps to Optimize Your Strategy:

  1. Analyze Repeat Views: Identify content that drives multiple views to understand what resonates with your audience.
  2. Focus on Video Engagement: With video at the forefront of Facebook’s strategy, invest in short, engaging videos that encourage replays.
  3. Reassess Performance Goals: Update KPIs to align with the new metrics and establish new benchmarks for success.
  4. Leverage Meta Business Suite: Utilize updated tools and dashboards to track and interpret performance effectively.

Why Work with Amber 90?

Navigating changes like this can be overwhelming, but that’s where Amber 90 comes in. As experts in social media marketing, we help businesses leverage updates like the Facebook ‘Views’ metric to maximize engagement and ROI.

Here’s What We Offer:

  • Tailored Social Strategies: Customized plans based on your brand’s goals and audience.
  • Performance Analytics: In-depth reporting and insights to ensure you understand the story behind your data.
  • Content Optimization: From video to text posts, we create content that captivates and converts.

Our team stays ahead of social media trends so you don’t have to—making Amber 90 your trusted partner for digital success.


The Bigger Picture: Preparing for the Future of Social Media

Facebook’s move to the ‘Views’ metric signals a broader trend towards video-first content and unified performance metrics across platforms. For businesses, it’s a chance to adapt, innovate, and thrive in an ever-changing landscape.

Key Takeaways:

  • Understand how ‘Views’ are calculated and adjust your strategy accordingly.
  • Focus on creating rewatchable, engaging content to maximize repeat views.
  • Partner with experts like Amber 90 to stay ahead of social media updates.

Conclusion

The new Facebook Views metric isn’t just a change in terminology—it’s a shift in how businesses can analyze and optimize their content. By simplifying metrics and aligning Facebook with Instagram, Meta has created a more intuitive way to track audience engagement. With Amber 90 by your side, you can turn these changes into opportunities to grow your brand’s online presence.

Ready to elevate your social media strategy?
Contact Amber 90 today and let’s transform your engagement into measurable success.

CPA Marketing: Building a Recognizable, Trustworthy Brand

Introduction: Why Marketing Matters for CPAs

Marketing is crucial for CPAs who want to grow their practices and stand out in a competitive landscape. Often in an industry focused on numbers, the importance of creating a compelling personal brand and digital presence is overlooked. Yet, an effective CPA marketing strategy can differentiate you from competitors, foster long-term client relationships, and generate consistent leads.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore CPA marketing techniques tailored specifically for certified public accountants. From branding and digital presence to social media, content creation, and lead generation, this guide will help you understand how to build a brand that resonates with your target audience and becomes synonymous with trust and expertise.

1. Building a Personal Brand: The Key to Differentiation

Creating a strong personal brand is crucial for CPAs aiming to establish trust and authority. Today’s clients aren’t just looking for services; they want to work with someone they feel connected to.

Why Personal Branding Matters

  • Visibility: A strong personal brand allows you to be recognized as a thought leader, increasing visibility within your niche.
  • Client Trust: Prospective clients are more inclined to work with a CPA they feel they “know.”
  • Competitive Advantage: A well-defined brand helps you stand out from larger firms that might lack a personal touch.

Steps to Build Your Personal Brand

  1. Define Your Unique Value Proposition (UVP): Identify what sets you apart from other CPAs. This could be niche expertise (such as working with startups, healthcare providers, or freelancers) or a personalized approach to financial planning.
  2. Be Authentic: Share your journey, values, and motivations for becoming a CPA. Personal storytelling helps clients relate to you as more than just a financial professional.
  3. Consistent Messaging: Ensure your tone, voice, and visual elements like logo and website design remain consistent across all platforms.
  4. Be Present Online: Invest in professional headshots and create short video introductions. Visual elements help clients put a face to the services they’re considering.

2. Crafting a Strong Digital Presence

Your website is often the first impression potential clients have of your firm. A well-designed, informative website is a cornerstone of effective CPA marketing.

Essential Elements of a CPA Website

  • SEO Optimization: Optimize your website for search engines by targeting keywords like “CPA marketing,” “CPA in [city],” and “tax services for small businesses.” Updating content regularly can boost your search engine rankings.
  • Professional Design & Navigation: A clean, user-friendly website builds trust. Easy navigation ensures visitors find the information they need without hassle.
  • Clear Call-to-Action (CTA): Each page should encourage visitors to take action, whether it’s booking a consultation, subscribing to a newsletter, or downloading a resource.
  • Client Testimonials and Case Studies: Display testimonials and case studies to build credibility. Detailed success stories help convey the value of your services.
  • Educational Content: Include educational content, like blogs, guides, and videos, that provides value to potential clients and positions you as an authority.

3. Social Media Marketing: Be Where Your Clients Are

Social media is a key tool for CPA marketing, helping to engage your audience and expand your reach.

Key Social Media Platforms for CPAs

  • LinkedIn: LinkedIn is a must for CPAs. Share articles on industry trends, provide tax advice, and engage with professional networks.
  • Facebook: Create a business page to share news, updates, and reminders (like tax deadlines). Use targeted Facebook ads to reach potential clients.
  • Instagram: While unconventional for CPAs, Instagram can help humanize your brand. Share images of your firm’s culture, client success stories, and behind-the-scenes moments.

Tips for Effective Social Media Marketing

  • Engage Consistently: Actively participate in LinkedIn groups related to your niche. Comment on posts, share insights, and network with potential clients.
  • Visual Storytelling: Create short videos and infographics to simplify complex tax topics, making them more accessible for your audience.
  • Regular Posting: Maintain a consistent posting schedule with the help of a content calendar to ensure you stay relevant.

4. Content Marketing: Establish Thought Leadership

Content marketing is an essential part of CPA marketing, positioning you as an authority in the field by offering valuable insights and educational resources.

Types of Content to Consider

  • Blog Posts: Write about relevant topics like “Common Tax Mistakes Small Business Owners Make” or “How to Maximize Tax Deductions as a Freelancer.” This helps attract visitors searching for information and demonstrates your expertise.
  • Whitepapers & E-books: Offer in-depth downloadable resources like “A Small Business Owner’s Guide to Tax Preparation.” This content can be a valuable lead magnet.
  • Video Content: Create explainer videos that break down complex topics, such as the benefits of hiring a CPA for tax planning. Videos are more engaging and often easier to digest.
  • Webinars: Host webinars on topics like tax planning for startups. Webinars can help generate leads by requiring registration.
  • Podcasts: Consider creating a podcast or guest-appearing on local business podcasts to extend your reach and connect with a broader audience.

SEO-Optimized Content

To make sure your content is discoverable, use keyword research tools to find terms like “CPA services,” “tax planning for small businesses,” and “cpa near me.” Integrate these keywords naturally throughout your content to rank higher on search engines.

5. Email Marketing: Nurture and Convert Leads

Email marketing is one of the most cost-effective ways to keep your clients and prospects engaged.

How to Effectively Use Email Marketing

  • Segment Your Audience: Tailor your messages to different client segments—such as small business owners or individual taxpayers—ensuring each email is relevant.
  • Educational Newsletters: Provide updates on tax deadlines, industry changes, and tips to help clients manage their finances. This keeps you top-of-mind and establishes authority.
  • Lead Nurturing Sequences: Use automated email campaigns to nurture prospects, guide them through the decision-making process, and eventually convert them.
  • Clear CTA: Each email should include a call-to-action—whether it’s booking a call, reading a blog, or downloading a guide.

6. Paid Advertising: Target the Right Clients

Paid advertising is a crucial part of a well-rounded CPA marketing strategy, allowing you to reach your ideal audience more efficiently.

Effective Advertising Platforms

  • Google Ads: Target prospects searching for terms like “CPA near me” or “small business tax accountant.” These high-intent keywords increase the likelihood of conversions.
  • Facebook & LinkedIn Ads: Use demographic and interest-based targeting to reach small business owners, entrepreneurs, and individuals in need of tax services.
  • Retargeting Ads: Retarget website visitors with ads encouraging them to return and book a consultation.

Creating High-Converting Ads

  • Clear Messaging: Address a specific pain point, like “Reduce your tax stress with professional CPA services.”
  • Compelling Visuals: Use professional imagery and short, informative videos to capture attention.
  • Strong CTA: Ensure your ads have a clear call-to-action that directs users to schedule a consultation or learn more.

7. Analytics and Tracking: Measure Your Success

To determine the effectiveness of your CPA marketing strategies, you need to track and analyze your efforts.

Tools for Tracking and Optimization

  • Google Analytics: Monitor website traffic, visitor behaviour, and conversion rates. This helps you understand which pages are performing well and which need improvement.
  • Hotjar (Heatmaps): Gain insights into how users interact with your site, allowing you to optimize elements that may be causing drop-offs.
  • UTM Tracking: Use UTM codes in your ads, emails, and social media campaigns to understand where your traffic is coming from and which campaigns are driving results.

8. The Role of Professional Help: Partnering with Amber 90

Managing both your CPA practice and your marketing efforts can be overwhelming. That’s where Amber 90 comes in—we specialize in CPA marketing and can help you build a recognizable, trustworthy brand.

How Amber 90 Can Help You

  • Custom Marketing Plans: We craft marketing strategies tailored to your goals and strengths, ensuring your unique value proposition is effectively communicated.
  • Content Creation & SEO: We develop content that’s optimized for search engines and designed to attract your ideal clients.
  • Ad Management: Our team manages your Google, LinkedIn, and Facebook ads to maximize your return on investment.
  • Analytics & Insights: Receive detailed monthly reports that provide actionable insights to continually refine your marketing efforts.

Conclusion: Take the Next Step Towards Growth

CPA marketing is about more than just advertising your services—it’s about building trust, demonstrating expertise, and forming lasting relationships. However, successful marketing requires consistency, creativity, and a dedicated effort. Let Amber 90 take the burden off your shoulders, ensuring your marketing drives the results you’re looking for.

Download our comprehensive marketing guide today and schedule a free consultation to learn how Amber 90 can help your CPA firm grow.