Ranking on the first page of Google is the dream of every small business owner. Most of us know that often means hours upon hours of keyword research, carefully constructed content, and tweaking the SEO component of our websites. Understanding SEO is one thing. Implementing it correctly and consistently is quite another. These five steps will ensure you make the most of the time you spend on small business SEO optimization.
- Backlinks
In the world of search engine optimization, a backlink is a link from another website to your website. Backlinks help Google rank the popularity and relevance of your website. Google ranks pages with backlinks more highly in search results than those without backlinks.
- Speed
Attention spans are short – which means people will simply click your page closed if it takes more than a few seconds to load and Google will rank your site lower. Remove anything – huge images and looooong videos – that make your page load slowly. - Meta Descriptions
The meta description is that little blurb Google puts right under your hyperlink in web searches. Use that space wisely and be sure to include a call to action. Make sure each meta description is unique, too, because Google frowns heavily on duplicates.
- Image Tags
Image searches work just like other searches. Tagging your images with relevant keywords and search phrases ranks your images and your pages and blogs higher. Use descriptive words, not cutesy ones – and don’t engage in keyword stuffing your image tags or anywhere else on your site. - Consistency
Regular, consistent content is one of the best ways to get Google’s attention. The easiest way to accomplish this small business SEO optimization goal is with a regular small business blog. Fresh, unique blog content is a small business marketing must-have.
Small business SEO optimization is an important tool in your marketing strategy. Perhaps the only thing more important is outstanding customer service. SEO packs an amazing marketing punch. Put these five strategies to work on your website, then come back and share the results.