Google Optimization Tip: Bank Holidays During Bank Holidays )especially wet ones!( we often see an increase in traffic in certain sub-categories. It is important that retailers are aware of these opportunities, and can maximize on the increased traffic effectively and in good time. The March bank holidays kick off the unofficial Home Improvement Season, with popular products being: gardening equipment, sheds, conservatories, greenhouses, DIY tools and equipment. Of course,

Valentine's Day 2007 was estimated to be worth £1.3bn to retailers, with shoppers spending an average of £95.80 )British Retail Consortium Feb 2007( . Preparation for this event should begin as early as possible. The key products for retailers during this period are: Flowers - If you sell flowers, be sure your keyword coverage is as comprehensive as possible, prioritising the most popular products. It would be a good idea to manage your budget for each bouquet differently,

Posted by Emily Whitchurch Are you planning a sale or promotion offline? Do you have a big TV branding campaign ready to launch? Make sure you are equally as prepared online. Add catchy slogans or jingles from radio or TV campaigns to your online branding campaign. Maybe even create new ads that mimic the language and offers you are pushing offline. Make sure that there is continuity between the two; make the most of your offline efforts by supporting them online.

Posted by Emily Whitchurch Remember that when users search for your products, they search in a variety of ways. If you're selling hats, it's important to think about more than just the generic "hats", "cheap hats" keywords, which will also be highly competetive. Think about: types of hats )"bowler", "beret", "beanie", etc.(, brands of hats )"nike", "burberry", etc.(, Occasions when hats may be worn )"wedding hat", "prom hat", etc.(, colours and fabric of hats )"red hat",

Posted by Emily Whitchurch 1( Keywords: Trial generic seasonal keywords: christmas/xmas gift/present for dad/gran/mother/cousin, etc. "Gifts under £X" - Users search on the terms gifts under £10, so consider creating separate ad groups by price range, with relevant landing pages. Cover off all online inventory and consider adding "gift" or "Xmas present" to appropriate keywords. Remember to add keywords for your seasonal products: christmas cards, stocking fillers,