We are often asked how companies can improve their rankings on Google and with Google recently updating its algorithms, it's time to take note as your rankings may start to drop.
We have put together 7 ways to improve your position in the SERP (search engine results pages).
- SSL Certificate
SSL certificates encrypt information sent between the user and the website. You know if your website has one as once installed, it activates a green padlock on your website next to the web address. Your address also changes from HTTP to HTTPS.
Google announced this month that it will rank websites that have an SSL certificate higher than those who don’t.
- Improve Your Page Speed
It is also recommended to reduce the loading time of your website pages, particularly on mobiles. Improving the speed of your website provides a better user experience.
- Google Local Listing (Also known as Google My Business)
A Google local listing is the listing you seen on Google map. The more information you can add to your page, the better. Building the information up on your Google local listing, adding your company’s branding and creating posts all help increase the presence of your company on Google.
-Improved Meta Descriptions
Meta descriptions are a section of text that describes a web page and is displayed on the search results of Google. Robots read this information to see if it is relevant to the search carried out, and users read this to decide whether they should click on your website. Meta descriptions should always include your service, location services and your USP. If they don’t, then it’s time to revamp your meta descriptions!
-Backlinks
Backlinks are links to your website from other websites and they are one of the most important ranking factors but one of the trickiest to acquire. If you can get listed on local directories or get a mention with a link back to your website from a reputable website, then you are on to a winner.
-Local PR
Following on from backlinks, it is important to engage in local PR activities, again this gives you another opportunity for your business and your website to be mentioned. With more searches being localised it is important to create these links to improve your chances of having your business show up.
- Google AdWords
Pay-Per-Click Advertising AKA Google AdWords is a form of advertising on Google, where you only pay when someone clicks on your website. Generally, these adverts are displayed at the top of Google, above any organic listings. Setting a daily budget this type of advertising makes your business much more prominent on Google search.
With a little time and strategy, you can improve your website's ranking on Google.