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
When reputable websites link to your website, it shows search engines that your site is trustworthy and valuable to visitors.
HOW TO GET 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). Contact magazines, newspapers, and news stations to offer advice, quotes, or guest blogs about upcoming stories and topics. 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.
HOW: To increase page speed, always optimize your website's images before uploading them. 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.
HOW: A list of mobile-testing tools for your website can be found at https://www.userbrain.com/blog/free-usability-testing-tools
KEYWORDS
Keywords are the building block of SEO, and effective keyword research lays the foundation for search-results success with your website. Identify the terms and phrases your audience uses when searching online for content related to your service/product.
Discover high-impact keywords using tools to help your website appear in the right searches and audience for your business. A great way to find phrases using your keyword is by using these tools: https://keywordseverywhere.com/
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. Consistent, quality blog posts 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. To avoid being one of the 91% of websites receiving ZERO traffic, 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.
