If you perform an online search, chances are the first page results will include several COVID-19 related links. In three months, “coronavirus” and “COVID-19” have become two of the most popular keywords on the internet. How has the pandemic influenced our online and physical behaviors so far?
How COVID-19 is Impacting Search and Shopping Trends
Brick and mortar stores are the biggest victims of self-quarantine and social distancing directives. As the pandemic spreads across the world, people are avoiding making physical trips to stores, unless necessary.
The result is a massive growth in online searches and delivery of groceries, especially those with long shelf lives. They include canned foods, dry grains, and powdered milk. This trend will grow in the coming months as governments struggle to contain the COVID-19 pandemic.
Household cleaning supplies are also in high demand, given their role in reducing the chances of contracting coronavirus. Other changes in behavior are:
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Growing Demand for Medical Supplies and Associated Solutions
You’ve probably bought face masks as a precautionary measure. As COVID-19 spreads and interest in it grows, the online search and purchase of medical supplies are also increasing. They include essential items such as gloves, wipes, and specialized cleaning solutions.
There has been a massive increase in the purchase of certain meds. It applies mostly to people with underlying medical conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. Other medical purchases include fever reducers and traditional flu medication.
The virus has also led to renewed interest in 3D printing as a way of addressing shortages. Manufacturers and enthusiasts are already exploring how they can print vital equipment parts such as breathing filters, face mask clasps, and ventilator valves.
Telemedicine is emerging as a convenient way for people to receive care from home. Other solutions include AI-powered tools to monitor the COVID-19 outbreak, mobile and online alerts, and cloud-based tools for research collaboration.
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A Boost in Digital Media Consumption
Quarantine, social distancing, and other COVID-19 prevention measures mean you’ll spend more time at home. To avoid boredom, you’ll naturally read, listen to, and watch lots of digital content. Video streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube have already recorded a spike in consumption.
More people are visiting food recipe websites or watching cooking shows. Since they can no longer eat out, they’re searching online for home-based alternatives.
Social distancing measures have resulted in the suspension or cancellation of travel plans, conferences, sports, concerts, and other live events. This situation has led to an increase in virtual events. It may also spur investments in fast internet solutions such as 5G to support demand for more bandwidth.
In an attempt to better understand COVID-19, more people are reading about its symptoms, how it spreads, and how to avoid it. This trend is evident in the sudden spike in the keyword’s popularity in search results.
If you’re a content writer, it is the perfect opportunity to help demystify the virus. You can do so by crafting detailed, fact-based blog posts, social media updates, infographics, emails, and eBooks.
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Renewed Support for Cashless Transactions
Cash payments are being discouraged because they might aid the spread of COVID-19. With most people turning to ecommerce sites for supplies, online payment gateways will witness growth.
The most popular are PayPal, Authorize.net, Amazon Payments, Google Checkout, Stripe, Square, Apple Pay, Visa Checkout, Dwolla, and Braintree. Blockchain-backed currencies such as Bitcoin are also likely to receive renewed interest due to the pandemic’s effect on world trade.
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High Interest in Home Improvement Solutions
Now that you’re stuck at home, it’s the perfect time to do all those home improvement projects you’ve been postponing. More people are maintaining, repairing, or upgrading their roofs, plumbing, electrical systems, fences, and furniture.
They’re also purchasing supplies related to hobbies such as gardening, cooking, carpentry, gaming, art, fitness, dancing, photography, and online challenges.
Utilize Your SEO Skills to Take Your Business into The Next Level in this Pandemic Era!
The COVID-19 outbreak has necessitated a sharp shift in online search and behaviors. If you run a business, you should work harder to make it more visible for online customers. You can do so by creating a website and updating it with useful blog posts and other digital content.
Getting listed on Google My Business and Google Merchant Center also makes it easier for consumers to find you online and purchase your products. Remember to engage your fans on social media. Other than promoting your brand, you can offer them tips on how to keep safe during this pandemic.
By following these guidelines, your business will emerge stronger once the COVID-19 pandemic passes.