5 Ways to Use Google Trends for Marketing (and Actually See Results)
Got your PSL? Perfect. Let’s dive into how Google Trends can seriously level up your marketing game. This is any marketer’s secret weapon for spotting trends, optimizing SEO, and tapping into real-time data. Here’s how to use it smartly.
1. Spot Trending Topics (Before Everyone Else)
Want to be ahead of the curve? Google Trends lets you see what’s blowing up right now. For instance, searches for "inflation relief" spiked by 500% in mid-2022 as people sought ways to cope with rising costs (Ahrefs). This kind of data helps you jump on timely content opportunities that resonate with what your audience is searching for right now.
Whether you’re crafting blog posts, ads, or social content, staying on top of popular searches helps you ride the wave of what people are already interested in. If you see "digital detox" trending, why not plan a post around how your services can help people unplug?
2. Upgrade Your Keyword Game
Stop guessing. Google Trends is your go-to for picking the best keywords. Let’s say you're choosing between “work-from-home tips” and “remote job tips.” With Google Trends, you’ll see which term has higher search volume and seasonality—giving your content a better chance of ranking. Businesses that prioritize blog content with trending keywords can see 67% more leads per month compared to those who don’t (Fundera).
3. Time Your Seasonal Content
Timing is everything, especially when it comes to seasonal marketing. Use Google Trends to predict when interest in key topics starts rising. For example, did you know that searches for "spring cleaning tips" actually peak in late January, well before the season starts? This gives you the edge to plan and launch campaigns earlier than your competitors. Or consider this: searches for "back-to-school sales" start ramping up as early as mid-June, when most people aren't even thinking about the school year yet! Catching these trends early lets you stay ahead of the curve and plan with precision.
4. Localize Like a Pro
If you’re targeting Spanish-speaking markets, Google Trends helps you fine-tune your strategy. You can see what’s trending regionally—like how "sustainable fashion" is trending in Spain but "eco-friendly home products" are buzzing in Argentina. Brands that localize content to match regional trends see better engagement, with localized campaigns generating 6x higher engagement rates (Ahrefs).
5. Get Instant Content Inspiration
Running low on content ideas? Google Trends can show you what’s heating up, so you can create content around what people are actually searching for. For instance, in 2023, searches for “AI-powered tools” surged as businesses and creators started adopting more automation for everyday tasks. Similarly, “sustainable travel” saw a major spike, reflecting consumer interest in eco-friendly vacation options. Using insights like these helps you stay on top of emerging trends, ensuring your content is relevant, timely, and resonates with your audience. Take a look at how Google Trends shows you related content and trending topics:
Pro Tip:
Combine Google Trends with Google Analytics for the ultimate marketing strategy. Know what’s trending and track how it performs on your site—it’s like having a crystal ball, but with data.
If you’re overwhelmed with where to start with your content strategy, we can help. Get in touch for a consultation.
