While some larger brands can rely on the power of a good reputation and repeat custom for ongoing success, SMEs have to work hard to establish an audience.
A well-planned SEO campaign plays a critical role in increasing your visibility and building authority, but organic search can be daunting to newcomers. How do you know which techniques are most effective for growing your brand?
Below, you’ll find five pro SEO tips for SMEs to help you reach a bigger, wider audience online.
Quality Content is Still King
Content is one of Google’s key ranking factors, and it’s vital to make it the best you can.
Avoid temptation to stuff keywords into every paragraph on every page: Google will penalize any website trying to use such outdated, underhand tactics.
Long-form content tends to rank better than shorter pieces, but the value it offers readers is paramount. You need to provide visitors with helpful, relevant information every time.
It’s okay to go into detail on subjects, rather than feeling you need to rush everything to suit today’s busy lifestyles.
Embrace HTTPS
HTTPS is another ranking signal for Google, and has been for a few years now.
HTTPS is used by a staggering 81 of the top 100 websites, and businesses that avoid upgrading to HTTPS may see a negative result soon.
Why?Because all HTTP websites will be labeled as ‘not secure’ in Google Chrome as of July 2018.
Potential customers may view your HTTP site as being a security risk in the very near future. All SMEs should make an effort to upgrade as soon as possible.
Build Solid Links
Not so long ago, companies could buy dozens or hundreds of links to their website to boost traffic. It was a case of quantity over qualify.
This has all changed now. Google and other search engines want to see high-quality links rather than those with little relevancy.
Concentrate on building solid backlinks from quality content, and choose popular websites that have similar themes or topics to your own.
Cater to Mobile Users
Google’s mobile-first indexing means the search engine crawls the mobile version of your website primarily, rather than the desktop site.
This makes perfect sense, given that more and more of us are searching on our smartphones and tablets. Any SME that fails to establish a mobile-friendly website is putting itself at a big disadvantage.
Pay Attention to UX
UX (user experience) is essential in any good SEO campaign. You want to make sure your website gives users everything they need to maximize your chances of conversions.
Focusing on the best UX you can achieve ensures your website is more accessible to visitors and search engines. Great navigation, solid CTAs, fast page speeds, quality content, and good link structure all contribute to outstanding UX.
At Nett Solutions, we can create a bespoke SEO campaign for your SME. Want to learn more? Just give our Orange County SEO team a call now!