The real aim of SEO is to create search relevance and build authority, because authority is positively correlated with better rankings. While the end result may be the same, this is a better approach because the effort it takes to get there is much more focused and the results often last a lot longer. This strategy also creates a positive customer experience, which is a win-win in the digital game.
But if you’ve been trying to “do SEO the right way” and aren’t seeing the fruits of your labor, you may want to take a closer look at your site to determine if one of these issues is to blame:
Some web designs are heavy on the cool factor and light on content. Homepages that have a lot of flashy visual elements are sometimes conspicuously lacking on the content side of things. Whether it’s a homepage, category page or anywhere else on your site, there needs to be content to let the search engines know what the page is all about so that it can rank well. Adding keyword optimized text to your site is one surefire way to improve your presence in the organic results.
2. Not being in the Local Game
Having a Google business listing is a great way to bolster your organic efforts. A map listing and Google+ page will make sure that you’re in the local game and keeping up with your competitors. Having multiple opportunities to appear when someone searches means more real estate for your business in the search results.
3. A Mobile Mess
Mobile-friendliness is now going to be even more of a factor in Google’s search algorithm, which means that your site needs to be responsive to create a good experience for visitors on all platforms. Ensuring that the pages of your site will render properly should be a top priority.
4. Using the Wrong Keywords
Going after keywords that are too generic can set you up for failure because competition from businesses much larger than yours can be insurmountable. This is why it’s critical to choose the right keywords early on after analyzing search data and then stick with them moving forward. Long tail keywords can help you attract very targeted traffic but may not have the search volume to be worth your time. You have to have the right balance with your keywords, which is why hiring a reputable SEO company is so helpful!
5. Old Stale Content
Updating your content regularly is important to not only maintain accurate information on your site but also to keep your content fresh for the search engines. The best way to keep a steady stream of new content flowing is to maintain a company blog.
6. It’s Hard!
Perhaps the most common reason why businesses don’t see the SEO results that they’re hoping for is because it requires a lot of work – A LOT! Failing to put in the time and effort needed to succeed will result in rankings that are much lower than anticipated. When it comes to SEO, there’s just no substitute for hard work.
Image courtesy of Google Doodles - Thank you Google!
Kate Pierce is the owner of LionShark Digital Marketing LLC, a West Michigan internet marketing company. Her areas of expertise include Paid Search, Search Engine Optimization, Social Media, Web Consulting for small businesses, Copywriting and Local Online Marketing. She lives in the Grand Rapids area with her husband and enjoys cooking, watching sports and spending time outdoors. Like a true digital marketing expert (i.e. geek), she loves talking about marketing theory and SEM trends… so don’t say you weren’t warned!