Is someone searching for you?
Last week we introduced search engine optimization in Part 1 of this two-part series and determined that it was a valuable tool for growing businesses. Today, we delve deeper into the practice of search engine optimization, commonly abbreviated as SEO, and reveal some of the best practices that can answer all your questions for putting this tool to work.
How do I use search engine optimization? While the secret details of how search cycles within search engines really work remain secret, we do know that using the following best practices will aid in your website or blog pages chances of being found and indexed.
- Keywords: Keywords are especially important as they are the connecting factor in search results. Be sure to think of your audience and how they would search for your topic of service. These are real people, they are not robots and your keywords should reflect this. Doing keyword research will be essential, and while it is tedious, it is an important step that shouldn’t be skipped. When creating content, be sure to include at least one keyword with a maximum of three. Always include a keyword in the title and at least three to five times within the content, including one time in the first paragraph.
- Hyperlinks: Including links in your content is a known way to drive traffic and improve your find-ability on search engines. Outbound and inbound links are both building blocks in an effective search engine optimization structure. Always be sure to include three to five hyperlinks within your content with one being in the first paragraph.
- Frequent posting: Post often and be consistent. Posting on the same days and at the same time of day each week will positively influence search engine optimization.
- Be mindful of length: Try to create content between 300 and 500 words. Don’t be afraid to turn longer posts into series by breaking them up.
- Images: Always include and image that is not copyrighted and be sure to include a photo credit. Creative commons are great for this purpose. Also, if your site has the ability to do so, include a caption under you image for added SEO.
- Make readers DO SOMETHING: A call to action is extremely important and lets readers know why you created this content how it pertains to your services.
The art of search engine optimization can be a daunting process to learn, but these tips will set you on a path for success. Here at Three Girls Media & Marketing, we specialize in creating content that will entice positive search engine optimization and will drive traffic to your site, thus growing your following. Contact us today to learn more!
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Photo Credit: Search Engine People Blog