11 Important Steps to Refine Your SEO Strategy
1. Use Google Analytics to Track Metrics:
One of the first things any SEO should do is get familiar with Google Analytics. Learn all about your site’s performance, audience demographics, and much more.
2. Optimize Existing Pages:
Once you begin tracking your site’s performance over time, you can see which pages are doing well and which need to be revisited. Use SEMrush’s Content Audit and Topic Research tool to start your research.
3. Create Content Based on Keywords:
Spamming pages with keywords is an ancient SEO tactic. Instead, perform thorough keyword research and build a content strategy around your findings. Our Keyword Magic Tool can help.
4. Diversify Your Backlink Portfolio:
A varied backlink portfolio tells Google that your site is an authoritative source and that you’re generating links in a natural way versus relying on outdated spam tactics.
5. Aim for Featured Snippets:
Every page you create should have content organized logically, with the most crucial information at the top. Utilize headers and break up content so it’s easy to read.
6. Optimize Images:
Provide alt text for every image, make images file sizes as small as you can without compromising on quality, and ensure images display correctly on mobile devices.
7. Make Sure Your Site Is Mobile-Friendly:
Most users search via their mobile devices, plus Google has stated that it’s a mobile-first search engine. Run your site through Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test and adjust as needed.
8. Optimize On-Page SEO Factors:
Title tags, meta descriptions, URL structure, and other on-page SEO factors should be optimized to cater to users as well as help search engines understand a given page.
9. Decrease Load Times:
It’s difficult to get a user to stay on a clunky, slow website. Put your best technical foot forward and ensure that your site is running smoothly. Use Site Audit to identify potential issues.
10. Improve Local SEO:
Organic search results are important, but don’t forget about your local presence. Use SEMrush tools like Listing Management and Position Tracking to manage your listing and track keywords in different locations.
11. Track Your Results:
Once you implement an SEO strategy, it’s important to track your results. This way, you can test what works well, find out what doesn’t, and report on your results.