Simple SEO Strategies to Improve Search Ranking

April 1, 2022

Every business would love to rank on the first page of Google, but how do you compete without the resources some of these large companies have in their back pocket?

Before you make any heavy investments or try to do it all yourself, here are some simple everyday strategies you can use to improve your search ranking by creating a more Google-friendly site:

Tip #1: Use keywords familiar to your target audience

Keywords help your potential customers find your website. Therefore, ranking for words or search terms commonly used by your target audience is of the utmost importance. Use a keywording tool, like Google Keyword Planner to get ideas for keywords that will help you reach your intended audience. Metrics like search volume, will help you gauge how well these keywords are likely to perform. Moz’s Link Explorer is also an excellent keywording tool to find long-tail, less competitive relevant keywords.

Tip #2: Take link building seriously

Ensure other sites with high domain authority link to yours through link building strategies, like guest blogging, testimonials, and internal linking. Link building helps Google crawlers find your site, gives greater visibility to your site, and enhances page authority in search results.

Tip #3: Develop an awesome site structure

Build your site with a logical link structure and make every page reachable from at least one other static text link on your website. Great site stru cture provides a better experience for users, reduces bounce rates and improves your overall rankings.

Tip #4: Provide high-quality content that your users want!

Create helpful, information-rich content that accurately describes your business and utilizes keywords and clear language your visitors can identify with. By prioritizing your information for your users, as opposed to search engines, your website will naturally rank higher as it fulfills your user’s intent.

SEO trends and best practices are constantly evolving. Therefore, as you do your own SEO, explore ways to expand your understanding and knowledge.

Is SEO still feeling like a major undertaking? You’re not alone. Many of us leave SEO up to the pros, but knowing what to look for in a Search Engine Optimizer or an SEO firm can be very stressful, especially if it’s new to you. With many factors to consider, a firm offering a solid “FIRST Page Ranking Guarantee” can seem enticing.

However, reputable firms don’t guarantee search engine rankings.

Let us explain:

Scams are alive and well. There are many companies offering up unrealistic guarantees and, in most cases, it’s a marketing tactic designed to lower your guard. If you encounter this, run Forrest run! Leave them in the Spam folder and move on. Because…
No one can guarantee a #1 ranking on Google. Google preaches this themselves and advises people to beware of such claims. Why? Because search engines control search engine rankings.
Rankings are uncontrollable and unstable, at best. Keyword rankings will vary day-to-day based on a variety of factors and making guarantees when you’re unable to control the algorithm itself, is shady. Real shady.

So, if you’re wondering how to decide on selecting a reputable firm, you need to do some work.

Define your SEO goals. In what areas are you looking to improve your online presence? It’s important to do your research on SEO Best Practices to identify and select a reputable SEO strategist or firm.
Find testimonials and reviews. Gauge credibility and reputation by reading reviews and testimonials from previous clients. Don’t just take their word, verify it.
Ask questions! Understand where your money will go, how they plan on tracking your data, and the commitment needed to implement recommended changes.

Relationships with Google are complicated, to say the least. Be skeptical and research any potential firms you’re considering. SEO requires a cohesive and collaborative partnership, and no short-term strategy will provide you with long-term results. If you’re looking for more information, Google has many resources available to help when trying to choose an SEO firm or strategist.

Whichever path you choose (DIY or hire), be informed. SEO is one piece of your digital marketing strategy, but by following these simple SEO tips, you can improve your search engine ranking and increase your web traffic. Sounds pretty great to me!

We’ve listed some additional resources below to get you started on you SEO journey:

If you’re looking to raise your company profile, you may want to consider investing in a Google Business Profile or a Search Marketing campaign. Contact a Media Advisor today to learn more about how Directwest can help!