5 FREE and Easy Tips for Better SEO
- Anika Watkins
- Jun 27, 2016
- 3 min read
We all know by now that Search Engine Optimization is a great way to attract people to your website. What you might not know – is how easy is it to compete with the big guys. Google and Bing treat all businesses equally, as long as you are relevant to the search.
Yes - that's right. Small locally owned shops have an opportunity for a high search ranking. Even better, it means you don't have to spend tons on marketing and advertising just to compete. It is possible to reach your customer organically.
To get started we've put together some simple tips to help you maximize your efforts. If that wasn't enough, we also created a handy SEO Optimization Checklist to keep your on track.
Tip #1: Smaller is Better
When it comes to getting attention, the best thing you can do for your business is to bring it home. That's right, dial the focus down from national to local. This will relieve a lot of marketing stress and let you connect with your community. We suggest a little old-fashioned networking with other businesses and influencers, as long as they are relevant. Reach out to local newspapers and bloggers to see if they would be willing to do a story about your business. This will allow search engines to associate your business with your location. In return, you'll more likely appear higher in search results.
Tip #2: Define Your Focus
Set yourself apart from your competition. The internet is a blessing, but it comes with its struggles. With everyone online promoting their business, you will need to be more specialized. Start brainstorming segments of your market where you can stand out. Are you a carpet cleaner with all natural products? Then corner that aspect of the market. Hone in on a niche that makes you unique and make sure your marketing materials reflect this.
Tip #3: Start Blogging!
Adding new content to your website is great for boosting SEO. It's helpful because it lets search engines know your site is receiving updates. The more often you update the better. That doesn't mean you should blog three times a week. Once a month will be beneficial. If you've got the time, we also recommend trying to keep your post between 750 - 1,500 words. Search engines like longer posts. They regard them as more relevant. Don't forget to post with an image between 800 to 1,000 pixels.
Tip #4: Link and Review
The more links about your business on the web - the better. Think of it as having signs dotted around the web pointing towards your business. Places like Yelp, Google+, Yellow Pages etc., should all have free options to claim your business. Sometimes local papers will allow you to do the same thing. Spend time and do your research. Are there local blogs with business listings? If so reach out! This is also an opportunity to ask for reviews. Search engines love a good review, just as much as you do! In fact, the more reviews you have the greater your chances of ranking in the top 10.
Tip #5: Optimize Your Site For Mobile Use
You can't forget your mobile users. So many people are willing to shop online. It's worth giving them the respect of a functioning mobile site. If someone pulls your site up on their phone or tablet and they can't use it, they will leave. Search engines notice these things too, so invest the time in making sure your website is mobile optimized and user friendly.
Now that you've got your marching orders it's time to get started! We know this journey can be a bit difficult so we decided to add this bonus worksheet to make it easier for you! Click below to get it now!
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