1. Optimize for mobile
More than 50% of global search queries now come from mobile devices.
In line with this, Google is transitioning towards the use of mobile-first indexing. This means that the mobile version of your website will be used to determine your search ranking, rather than your desktop version. Mobile-first indexing is in trial right now but is expected to roll out sometime during 2018. If you’ve neglected your mobile site (or don’t have one), now’s the perfect (and necessary) time to get started.
Top tip: if you want to know if your current webpage is mobile-friendly, you can use Google’s free test.
2. Optimize for speed
Here’s the deal. Users expect websites to load in under 4 seconds, and for many, even that’s too long. In fact, around 40% of visitors can be expected to abandon your site if faced with loading times above 3 seconds.
Of course, this is reflected in Google’s ranking algorithms. Websites that load quicker enjoy much higher ranking positions, on average. The message here is clear: if you want to boost your SEO, you must first boost your speed.
3. Local Focus SEO
Local businesses need to reach local audiences, and in Alaska it’s no different. For SEO purposes, it’s also wise to develop a local-focused strategy. Why? 80% of consumers use search engines to conduct local searches, and they not only want but expect, local results.
Google rewards local businesses by including a ‘local top 3’ in the SERP for relevant searches. While specifics are confidential, we do know that relevance, distance, and prominence all determine ranking position. Here are 3 quick tips to help achieve expert SEO status for your local listings:
- List your business in all online directories
- Register free with ‘Google My Business’
- Encourage consumers to leave ratings
4. Integrate Structured Data
One of the best ways to boost your SEO is to make sure your content is displayed in a form that is readily understandable by Google’s search robot.
When structured data is used correctly, testimonials and review ratings can be displayed as part of your Google search preview. As well as helping search rankings, this can help your search results look more appealing and increase business credibility. The best way to integrate structured data is by optimising your HTML, but the less savvy can also use a free generator tool.
5. Research your competitors
If you feel like you’re losing out to your competitors, it’s time to check out what exactly they’re doing.
How does that work? It’s pretty simple. Sign up for your competitor’s newsletter to gain insight into their keywords. If you’re able to find the keywords they rank for, you can then reverse-engineer their process for getting there. It may feel cheeky, but hey, they’re your competition after all.
Expert SEO Tips
Use the 5 tips above, and you’ll be well on your way to improving your search ranking results. For more help with your SEO or digital strategy, contact Mammoth Marketing today.
