Search Engine Optimization is an exciting and evolving field in the digital marketing universe. When done correctly, the method can yield some high-quality results, which can be rewarding for the implementing business. However, one thing that most SEOs overlook is going back to the basics and fine-tuning their fundamentals.These are those technical things that are the basic building blocks of any SEO strategy. While it is important to focus on the latest and greatest SEO strategies being churned out by experts across the Internet, these basics can undermine your SEO efforts if left unattended. To help you get back to the basics, here are four simple ways you can boost your content and link building efforts.
You put in a lot of effort keeping your web pages fresh and relevant. You update the content to reflect the latest developments and as a result, your pages rank well. One thing you may have neglected to update is your meta content. Meta titles and meta descriptions tend to be forgotten when the rest of the page is updated.This can hurt both the ranking of your page and the overall user experience. Search engines also update their meta content guidelines from time to time, as in the case of Google increasing meta description character count from 160 to 320. To keep your meta descriptions fresh and relevant, review them from time to time and update accordingly.
For desktop use, mobile readiness is not a ranking factor. It is, however, a ranking factor for mobile searches. Google has in fact created two separate indices for mobile and desktop search. That means your website could be ranking in desktop searches but not in mobile searches.To rank on both indices, Google has been pushing for responsive website design. This helps provide a seamless experience for visitors across devices. To see if your website meets Google’s responsiveness guidelines, test your website using the Google Mobile Responsive Test, which will grade your website on a few mobile usability factors like page load time, graphic sizes, etc.
Like outbound and inbound links, search engines expect your internal links to point to relevant and updates pages. This can be a problem if your website evolves often, as in the case of an e-commerce website or news website. When this happens, internal links can get broken or point to irrelevant pages.To avoid search engines penalizing your website for this, perform an internal link audit and update/delete links that no longer provide value. The audit will also tell you how well your past efforts have worked in creating a cohesive mesh of information for users visiting your site.
A. Utilizing SEO Tools
To navigate the complex terrain of SEO, arming yourself with the right tools is paramount. Tools like Ahrefs and Google Trends can be your guiding lights in keyword research and trend analysis. Ahrefs, for instance, provides insights into competitor strategies and backlink profiles, empowering you to refine your content and link-building approaches. Google Trends, on the other hand, unveils the popularity trajectory of keywords, aiding in the selection of those on the upswing.
B. Image Optimization for Better Page Load Speed
In the fast-paced digital world, page speed matters. Large, uncompressed images can significantly slow down your website, affecting both user experience and search engine rankings. Enter image compression tools like Squoosh. These tools allow you to reduce file sizes without compromising image quality. A faster-loading page not only improves user satisfaction but also aligns with search engine preferences, contributing to better rankings.
C. Featured Snippets and their Impact
Featured snippets are coveted positions on search engine results pages that directly answer user queries. Optimizing your content to appear in featured snippets can significantly boost visibility. When crafting content, consider common questions related to your topic and structure your content to directly answer them. Use these questions as H2 headings, providing concise and informative answers. Google often pulls content from featured snippets for quick answers, increasing your chances of being prominently displayed.
In the ever-evolving landscape of SEO, mastering content and link-building strategies is an ongoing process. By implementing the simple yet effective techniques outlined in this guide, you’re not only enhancing your site’s visibility on search engines but also creating a valuable resource for your audience. Remember, the synergy between quality content and strategic link building is the foundation for a successful online presence.
1. How can I improve my link building strategies?
Improving your link building strategies can be achieved through various methods. One effective way is to focus on creating great content that naturally attracts relevant links. Additionally, actively engaging in outreach to build backlinks by offering to contribute guest posts or participating in broken link building. Embracing white hat link building practices and link reclamation are also essential for creating a strong link profile.
2. What are some easy link building strategies?
There are numerous easy link building strategies that can be implemented to get links to your site. Utilizing link magnets, which are highly useful content pieces, can naturally attract new links. Another approach includes finding broken links and proposing your content as a replacement, known as broken link building. Additionally, reaching out to relevant websites for link building opportunities and creating a compelling link building service can be effective for earning high-quality links.
3. How do I earn links to my site?
Earning links to your website requires the creation and promotion of exceptional content. By consistently producing new content that provides value to your audience, you can attract links pointing back to your site. Additionally, leveraging passive link acquisition methods, such as establishing your site as a reliable link builder, will naturally result in websites linking to yours.
4. What are effective link building tactics for content marketing?
Incorporating effective link building tactics into your content marketing strategy is crucial for enhancing your link profile. This can be achieved by creating content that is both informative.
Talk with one of our SEO specialists today and see how we can supercharge your marketing campaigns!
