Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the practice of improving online content to rank higher in search engine result pages (SERPs). A well-optimized site requires knowledge, processes, technical components and tools that work in unison to produce organic search visibility rankings that increase awareness and traffic.
SEO is an ever-evolving industry, necessitating agility and an in-depth knowledge of Google’s algorithms to keep up with. Below are some trusted resources and tips for becoming an SEO professional.
A meta description is a short paragraph that appears beneath your page title on search engine results pages, optimized to include relevant keywords you’re targeting and optimized with information that attracts clicks. To create an effective meta description, begin by considering what questions your target audience is asking and which search terms they would enter in an engine; use that knowledge to craft an answer-rich descriptive paragraph that addresses their inquiries.
Your page URL and meta title should also incorporate your desired keywords, so they can match with relevant search queries on search engines.
Keep this in mind when optimizing content for target keywords on your website: content is key! Publish informative, engaging pieces regularly while optimizing it with these terms in mind.
One way to enhance SEO is by building backlinks to your site. The more quality links there are, the higher it will rank in search engine results – leading to increased visitors and sales leads. Tools such as Moz’s Link Explorer or Ahrefs’ tool may help in this endeavor.
One final tip is to conduct keyword research to understand which terms will most frequently be searched by your target audience, so as to focus on creating useful, relevant content while increasing your odds of ranking highly on search engine results pages.
SEO should be seen as an investment for the long-term success of your online business, taking the time to learn best practices and implement them consistently can make your website more effective at attracting and converting visitors into customers.
Search Engine Land is a leading digital marketing news publication. Covering SEO, PPC, social media marketing and web hosting among other topics related to online marketing; since 2006 Search Engine Land has provided actionable SEO advice.
Do you have any additional tips to add? Feel free to share in the comments below; we are always on the lookout for ways we can assist our readers with improving their SEO. Furthermore, check out our guide of top SEO tools – this resource is great for beginners as well as experienced users alike!