Search Engine Optimization (SEO) involves a set of strategies to improve your website’s ranking when users perform a search through e.g., Google, which is still the most popular search engine. While advice on SEO abounds on the internet, the arena is always in flux, with some practices being relegated to the past and new strategies being recommended. Here are the latest dos and don’ts.
Keywords and Metadata Descriptions
In their enthusiasm to crowd keywords onto their websites, many site owners make the mistake of having their own pages competing in terms of ranking. You should spread your passwords across different pages and make sure that they are relevant and specific enough for a defined search. Make use of long-tailed keywords. Also include related keywords.
Avoid awkward phrasing to include your defined search terms as this will appear unnatural to users and the search engine. Be wary of keyword stuffing.
Metadata Descriptions
Your metadata description must relate to your content. Google will find a portion of your content that best captures what your site is about. However, you can follow the link to choose this description.
Link Exchanges
Link exchanges are a no-no. You should not agree with other website owners to have mutual links to each other’s sites. It is good when other sites link to your website because of the value users get from it.
A Google+ Page
As a business, you need a Google+ page. This will be especially useful to users wanting to find your premises or contact you for information and will make your site easier to find. Here is how you create a Google+ page.
Social Media Presence
Social media is one of your best resources. It is vital to create and sustain a social media presence. This means getting active on social media groups, posting comments that showcase your expertise, and updating your content frequently.
Deal with Negative Reviews
Potential customers are going to look through all the reviews on your website. Rather than burying your head in the sand, you need to address these comments with a complete response. Perhaps only an explanation is needed, but if a customer points out a problem, you will not get new customers if you cannot handle your reply professionally or fail to address an issue. Thank the customer, tell them how you will resolve the problem, and send them a gift for making you aware.
Get Expert Help
Terms such as keyword stuffing and metadata descriptions may be new to you. This is probably true of most website owners who have not had SEO training. Learn more about SEO and get the professional help that you need. Use freelance seo services of a freelance SEO consultant UK or a freelance seo expert.
A freelancer is a great option as this specialist will likely have broad SEO experience, yet the services provided will cost a fraction of what you would pay an agency. Know that you can get a comprehensive suite of solutions and ongoing assistance, or you can pick those areas where you are not comfortable enough with your knowledge and only pay for the selected services.
Follow these dos and don’ts and don’t be afraid to get outside help if you need it.
