Just like a chameleon, the algorithms behind search engine optimization are ever changing. Search engine optimization requires both short and long-term efforts to stay relevant.
Despite the uncanny nature of search engine optimization, some elements have remained unchanged. Those that have decided to remain constant are what we refer to as cornerstone elements.
Look at keywords, targeting them might have become obsolete but the essential nature of keywords isn’t in doubt.
The issue is that; there are a lot of SEO techniques out there. Knowing the one to stick with is become difficult by the day. Remember the 200 Ranking Factor churned out by Brian Dean? Imagine having to implement each of the 200 tips. Which is why we’ll focus on the cornerstone elements;
1. Page Speed Will Always Be Critical To SEP
1 Second Delay Will Get You Booted Off The First Page.
Check and re-check to fish out anything slowing down the load time of your website. 5 years ago, you’ll never have to worry about the load speed and time of a website. Today, it’ll mark the end of your stay on search results.
It’s never a good experience for a user to have to wait for a longer time before accessing your website. Imagine waiting for a store to open when their competitors have opened 2 hours earlier.
2. Humans First, Then Machine.
Don’t attempt to manipulate the Search Engine.
The benefits of providing real and engaging content cannot be quantified. Write for humans and not the machine. Give a priority to the humans who have eyes to read and the ability to click the “BUY” button.
Putting the readers first through valuable content will keep you up there in the search result. When writing, assume that Google and other search engines don’t even exist. When you provide helpful content, Google will reward you with a good place in the search results.
3. The Power of Meta Descriptions
Meta description is the first impression you make on the visitor.
Surprised?
Don’t be, meta descriptions when well crafted can be the game-changer that keep you in the search results. Being the first thing people see when the results are displayed, it’ll determine whether your page will be clicked or not.
Write a separate meta description for every page. Otherwise, you’ll be penalized. You don’t have to be reminded that duplicate content is what Google hates the most. Don’t be hated by search engines.
4. Social Signals is Positively Related to Ranking
Social media is there for everyone, use it to your advantage.
This is quite new but it has become a cornerstone element with the dominance of social media in recent years. It’s not that Google specifically stated that social signal is part of their ranking factors but it’s really working.
Try to complement your SEO strategies by bending towards social signals with likes, shares, pinned tweets and more, you’ll see the huge difference it can make. Take yourself to social media, it’s a huge SEO asset.
5. Be Consistent. Be Disciplined.
Results won’t come with a little effort, do more.
The challenge of many is being able to regularly provide their target audience with quality, and engaging content. Maintaining a high level of discipline through persistency in providing contents will get you highly ranked.
Try to follow a pattern of engaging content. Bring in some spice into your contents also, don’t be boring. Search engines love spice, it’s the variety of life. Consistency should not be an option for you, it should be a must.
Do you need more guidance, help or clarification with any of the above, the Chief Marketer is just a message away.