On Page Optimisation :
It’s easy to underestimate the importance of on page optimisation. Although it sounds complicated it really is as easy as making sure each page/post/product contains the following (if you are using the Yoast plugin on WordPress it will help you to do most of these things) :
- Meta title tag : These need to be an accurate, concise and precise description of your content as is possible in 56 characters.
- Meta Description : A clear and concise 155 character description of the on page content, watch out for duplicates, each needs to be unique.
- Image Alt Tags : Always label your images correctly using the alt tag. This tag tells google what the image is and helps for those using a screen reader. Using an image that says image39985 just isn’t going to be google friendly.
- Outbound Links : Always include at least 1 link to another website on each page.
- Inbound Links : Sometimes referred to as deep linking, this is where you link back to other content or products on your website.
Just getting the above set in place for every page/product/blog post will make a big difference.
Keywords :
Have you developed a keyword strategy? Or even know how to get the best out of your key words. The Advanced SEO Guide suggests four simple steps :
- Think like a consumer : It’s easy to choose keywords based upon your business but don’t forget to think about what your buyers will be searching for. Ask your customers, keep an eye on what keywords people use to find your website. How do they differ from those that you use? Pick both short and long tail keywords.
- Look for gaps : Selling products online has never been easier, this can however mean you can find yourself in a crowded marketplace. When looking for keywords don’t compete against other established companies. Instead seek out gaps when you can dominate.
- Rank for priority : Don’t spread yourself too thin therefore choosing your targets wisely and look for high volume, low competition in your keywords.
- Consolidate gains : If you begin to rank for certain terms, continue to target these keywords and expand your target list.
* What are long tail and short tail keywords? Long tail keywords are three and four keyword phrases which are specific to the products you are selling. So for example in the case of my party supplies business Charlie Moo’s I use “handmade party bags” or “party loot bags”, specific phrases searched by my customers as lets face it not many people will be searching for Charlie Moo’s. Short tail keywords are search phrases with only one or words “birthday” “party” *
