Introduction
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the process of optimizing your website to rank higher on search engines like Google, Bing, and Yahoo. While content is a key factor in SEO ranking, it is not the only one. There are other tactics you can use to help improve your search rankings. In this blog post, we will explore 9 tactics beyond content that you can use to improve your SEO ranking.
1. Optimize Your Website for Mobile Devices
When it comes to search ranking, Google prioritizes mobile-friendly websites. Mobile search has surpassed desktop search, making it crucial for website owners to optimize their websites for mobile devices. You can use Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test to check if your website is mobile-friendly. If it’s not, consider implementing a responsive design or a dedicated mobile website to improve your mobile user experience.
For example, check out the mobile-friendly website of ZipRecruiter. The website has a simple and easy-to-use interface that is optimized for mobile users.
2. Improve Page Load Speed
Page load speed is another important factor that affects search rankings. A slow-loading website can increase bounce rate, which negatively impacts your ranking. Google’s PageSpeed Insights tool can help you evaluate your website’s speed and identify areas for improvement. You can also optimize your images, reduce server response time, and minimize HTTP requests to improve page load speed.
For instance, have a look at the fast-loading website of Amazon. The website has a fast load time, allowing users to access the website quickly and easily.
3. Use Keywords in Page Titles and Meta Descriptions
Page titles and meta descriptions are crucial for both search engine ranking and user engagement. Use relevant keywords in your page titles and meta descriptions to help search engines understand your content and rank it accordingly. You can use Google Keyword Planner to research relevant keywords for your website. Remember to make your titles and descriptions compelling and unique to encourage clicks from users.
For example, analyze the page titles and meta descriptions of Walmart. The website uses relevant keywords in the titles and descriptions, making it easy for users to understand what the webpage is about.
4. Create Quality Backlinks
Backlinks are links from other websites that link to your website. These links are important because they signal to search engines that your website is authoritative and relevant. Quality backlinks from authoritative websites can improve your search ranking. You can create backlinks by guest posting on relevant websites, submitting content to directories, or using social media to promote your website.
For instance, check out the backlink profile of Apple. The website has a strong backlink profile, with links from authoritative websites like Forbes and TechCrunch.
5. Utilize Social Media
Social media can help increase your website traffic and improve your search ranking. Sharing your content on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn can help drive traffic to your website. Social media also helps improve brand awareness and can lead to quality backlinks.
For example, have a look at the social media presence of HubSpot. The company has a strong social media presence and regularly shares its content on various social media platforms.
6. Optimize Your Website’s URL Structure
A well-structured URL can help search engines understand your website’s content better. Use relevant keywords in your URL structure to help search engines identify your content and improve your search ranking. Keep your URLs simple and descriptive, and avoid using special characters or symbols.
For instance, analyze the URL structure of The New York Times. The website uses a clear and concise URL structure that helps search engines and users identify its content.
7. Use Structured Data Markup
Structured data markup is a code that helps search engines understand your website’s content better. Using structured data markup can help improve your search ranking and visibility. There are several types of structured data markup, including schema.org and Open Graph. You can use Google’s Structured Data Markup Helper tool to create structured data markup for your website.
For example, check out the structured data markup used by Yelp. The website uses structured data markup to help search engines identify its reviews, ratings, and other content.
8. Use Google My Business
Google My Business is a free tool that helps businesses manage their online presence across Google, including search and maps. You can use Google My Business to verify your business information and provide accurate and up-to-date information to customers. This can help improve your search ranking and increase visibility in local search results.
For instance, have a look at the Google My Business listing of Starbucks. The business has a verified Google My Business listing that provides accurate information about its locations, hours, and reviews.
9. Improve Your Website’s Security
Website security is essential for both user experience and search engine ranking. Google prioritizes secure websites, meaning websites that use HTTPS instead of HTTP. You can improve your website’s security by implementing an SSL certificate, using secure passwords, and keeping your website software up to date.
For example, examine the SSL certificate used by Bank of America. The website uses an SSL certificate to ensure secure connections between users and the website.
Conclusion
SEO ranking depends on several factors, and content is just one of them. Other tactics like optimizing your website for mobile devices, improving page load speed, using relevant keywords in page titles and meta descriptions, creating quality backlinks, utilizing social media, optimizing your website’s URL structure, using structured data markup, using Google My Business, and improving your website’s security can help improve your search ranking. By implementing these tactics, you can help your website rank higher on search engines and improve your online visibility.