How to Play by Google’s Rules

A New Google Algorithm could make or break your website’s online visibility. The Penguin Algorithm, released in April 2012, penalizes websites that use questionable content practices to boost ranking. It rewards those who Optimize Websites with solid content and authoritative links. To keep your blogging or content marketing ranking well, follow these guidelines to stay on Penguin’s good side.

Use keywords naturallyKeywords still matter, but they need to sound natural. Before writing content, know which keywords to optimize for. If you are not sure how to do this, research or hire SEO Help and consider learning the basics. Second, naturally incorporate your keywords into your writing. Write for people first, then search engines. Finally, review your content, preferably aloud. Does it sound natural and engaging?These guidelines also apply to title tags. While beginning tags with keywords is still good practice, add text that is relevant to your business or topic, such as your company name.

Build quality links

Link Building once meant getting as many inbound links as quickly as possible. The new rules focus on quality by gaining links from trusted sources relevant to your content. Also, don’t build links too fast, or your efforts risk looking like spam. It is also important to diversify the link sources. For example, don’t rely solely on links from your social media fans.

Craft your anchor text carefully. Use your business name more often than keywords. Include some natural-sounding links such as “visit our website”. They may not contain keywords, but they tell the search engines that you write for real readers.

Provide strong, fresh content

Think like a shopper and go for quality and freshness. Start a blog and update it frequently. If you are not sure how to blog, there are many online resources to help you get started. For tips and inspiration, find some bloggers that you enjoy and follow them regularly.

Share your expertise by writing informative content such as how-to articles and white papers. Let the world know your business buzz through press releases and other updates.

Think like a visitor

Use webmaster tools to see how Google views your website, so that you can catch problems early. Check regularly for any technical issues such as bad links and fix them immediately. Your visitors will reward you with positive attention and better ranking.

Remember
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About Denisse Marie

Denisse Marie has a passion for assisting solopreneurs (single-entity companies) and small businesses with online marketing and business management. Denisse Marie is a Certified Internet Marketing Specialist and Certified Social Media Specialist. Follow Denisse on Twitter @denissemarie16 or Like Denisse Marie on Facebook.com/denissemarielv

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