The Best SEO Tools for 2024
What is SEO:
Search Engine: Google (the largest search engine) receives over 8.5 Billion searches a DAY and the average person searches Google 3x a day.
Optimization: information added to a website that helps your company appear in search results for FREE!
Is SEO Important?
91% of websites receive zero traffic due to a lack of SEO on the website and not showing up in internet search results [hubspot.com].
In your highly competitive market, having a beautiful website is only half the battle to success. For small businesses to truly grow, they must incorporate Search Engine Optimization (SEO) elements into their website to attract the right audience. Since the metrics used for SEO are always changing, it’s hard to hit a moving target. That is why we’ve put together a list of the most important SEO elements that will help increase your website’s appearances in search engine results.
BACKLINKS
Quality backlinks (links from other websites to your site) from reputable sources are a powerful signal to search engines that your website is trustworthy and offers value to its visitors. To find backlinks, build relationships within your industry and the industry you sell to. Ask to write guest blogs on their site (with a link back to your site). Reach out to magazines, newspapers, news stations to see if you can offer advice, quotes, or guest-blogs on upcoming stories and topics for reporters.
My favorite backlink resource: https://www.connectively.us/
PAGE SPEED
For search engines, loading speed matters for your website. Users expect sites to load very quickly, and search engines reward faster-loading pages with higher rankings.
One of the easiest ways to increase page speed: ALWAYS optimize your website's images before uploading them to your site.
My favorite Page Speed testing tool: https://pagespeed.web.dev/
MOBILE-FRIENDLY
Most internet users access websites on mobile devices, so a mobile-friendly design is non-negotiable. Google prioritizes mobile-friendly websites in its search rankings, so ensure your design adapts seamlessly to various screen sizes.
A list of mobile-testing tools: https://www.userbrain.com/blog/free-usability-testing-tools
KEYWORDS
Keywords are the building blocks of SEO, and effective keyword research lays the foundation for search-results success. Start by identifying the terms and phrases your target audience is likely to use when searching for content related to your website. Use tools to help you discover high-impact keywords, ensuring your website is optimized for the right searches with the right audience for your business.
Keyword Planner: https://keywordplanner.net/
BLOGGING
I know, I know…writing in your “free time” is the last thing you want to do, but I promise you, it will pay off. Consist, quality blog post are important for attracting both readers and appearing in search results. By regularly producing valuable, well-planned content, you create a foundation for growth.
Blogging tip: if you cannot think of topics, use AI tools to generate ideas and outlines
If blogging is 100% not an option for you, look into companies that offer blog posting as a monthly service.
DOES SEO REALLY WORK:
On average, traffic to your website (from internet searches) is responsible for 53% of all your website visitors. Unless you want to be one of the 91% of websites receiving ZERO traffic, then I suggest adding SEO to your website to help double your website visitors. By incorporating backlinks, page speed, mobile responsiveness, strategic keywords, and a blog you'll be well on your way to creating a website that not only looks fantastic but also advertises for you 24/7. Watch, as your online presence propels your company to success.
For more information, contact Propel Web Designs.
