There is no misconception that Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is crucial for businesses of all sizes. Appearing at the top of search results, and thus, staying on top of users’ minds undoubtedly delivers high returns. A majority of users search Google with the intent to buy something. However, the harsh reality is that your offerings are constantly being compared to your competitors’ offerings. Users are researching various products and services they desire – comparing alternatives for pricing, branding, features, and more.
On the same token, your competitors are putting the power of SEO to use. According to Medium, the first page of Google’s search results singlehandedly dominates more than 91% of all search traffic. Not only do high search engine rankings present a valuable source for potential buyers, but it also gives you the opportunity to establish your business as a market leader and to dominate competition.
There are 4 simple guidelines that you can follow to boost your search engine rankings. The misconception that SEO is suitable only for tech-savvy and sophisticated businesses will soon no longer exist. The end result is increased social validation, trust, and merit.
1) Write Compelling Headlines That Fit Your SEO Keywords
The wording of your headline is just as important, if not more important, than the content of your article, social media post, or blog. Your headline is what determines whether someone will read your content in the first place! According to Medium, 8/10 people will read a headline but only 2/10 will read the rest. Following simple guidelines can easily lead to more attention and click-through:
- a) Using numbers: Numbers let users know that they’ll be reading an organized and easy-to-read list. Of course, a good case practice is to avoid excessively long lists (keep it under 9 points).
- b) Use templates for wording: One simple example is “The secret to…”. This entices readers because they’re going to learn something exclusive. Another example is “How To [Desired Result] Without [Difficult Obstacle].
- c) Include keywords that fit your SEO: Make sure to include keywords in the beginning of your headline and in your body as well.
- d) Use appealing adjectives: Positive and powerful keywords are crucial in standing out and catching readers’ eyes. Examples include: surprising, proven, essential, critical, and effortless.
2) Target Multiple Keywords
Google My Business (GMB) is a powerful tool that utilizes both primary and secondary keywords to drive traffic towards your business, if utilized correctly. It is fundamental to choose topics for your business and online content that can be easily targeted by multiple keywords. Your primary keywords would represent a bird’s-eye view, while your secondary keywords give users a deeper and more robust understanding of what is being offered. A good case practice is to include synonyms and related nouns for your keywords in order to maximize keyword variations. As well, you can look for and implement frequently used terms that your competitors are successfully using.
An example of a primary keyword is “seafood restaurant”
Secondary keywords help narrow down a user’s search term. Examples include shrimp linguini, lobster pasta, alcohol, oyster bar, etc.
3) Online Reviews
In the above examples for seafood restaurants, Rodney’s Oyster House appeared for both instances; on a generic search query and on a specific search query. This is due to not only its high rating, but also, its high amount of reviews. Their reviews indicate to both Google and users that this restaurant is trustworthy and consistently delivers high quality food and service, thus attracting more business and winning competition. Online reviews are highly trusted by searchers because they represent unbiased opinions that reflect a business’s qualities. Your hard work should never go unnoticed, so start generating more reviews!
4) Aim To Bring Value To Your Readers
To build a consistent following and to stay relevant, you should always aim to solve your users’ problems and bring value to them. Not everything needs to or must be about promoting your own business. One great place to start is to educate your audience on subjects related to your business’s field through social media posts, sharing articles, or writing blogs. Furthermore, you can include statistics and quotes from credible sources to boost your own credibility and add depth to your content. Associating yourself with authoritative sources and linking out to them also assists in your own SEO as well! Through time, this will build relationships with your audience and they will naturally come to you.
Lastly, it is important to be patient! Achieving higher rankings on Google takes time and effort. OneLocal’s ReviewEdge allows businesses to generate more reviews through automated processes in order to win more business and loyal customers.
Online reviews are an effective, yet highly cost-effective, method to boost your search engine rankings! To learn how to effortlessly generate online reviews, visit our website and book a demo today!
References:
https://medium.com/swlh/why-seo-is-important-to-your-business-survival-412d760528e
https://medium.com/convince-and-convert/7-important-content-writing-tips-for-better-seo-daac7bc96692
