Some trends are just fads, while others become classics that never go out of style. When it comes to SEO, it’s important to know one from the other. Before you dive into your SEO strategy for 2021, it’s a good idea to brush up on which trends have sunk into oblivion and which ones are now the new normal.
There are several SEO marketing strategies that are sure to be decisive in the year ahead. A few of these are tried-and-true tricks that should already be a part of your arsenal. On the other hand, some may stand out as new innovations.
Read on to learn more about the SEO strategies you need to know for 2021.
1. Make high-quality content your main focus.
The quality of the content on your website will affect its rank popularity dramatically. This isn’t a new development by any means. Nonetheless, far too many websites still rely on poorly written text to fill their pages.
Gone are the days when keyword stuffing could get you anywhere near the top of SERPs. In 2021, its clear Google will only reward websites containing high-quality content that meets users’ needs, is written naturally, and has just the right balance of keywords.
2. Aim for more conversions rather than more traffic.
As with content, quality is key with traffic. After all, what’s the point of having thousands of viewers for your website if only a handful of them ever click the “Buy Now” button? Remember the goal isn’t necessarily more traffic, but more conversions.
Instead of constantly striving for increases in traffic to your website, consider what you can do to bring your target audience to your site. This could mean choosing different platforms to promote your product, using different keywords, or changing up your service offering. The ultimate result will be an improved bottom line, even if your traffic numbers level off.
3. Position yourself as an authority in the field.
Google only wants users to receive data from proven sources, and this is a good thing. However, if you fail to show what makes you a trustworthy source of information, you may notice a ding in your rankings. That’s where the E.A.T. concept comes in.
Standing for Expertise, Authority, and Trust, the E.A.T. concept requires those who publish material online to display evidence of their standing in the field. One of the best ways to ensure your business is trusted is simply by introducing yourself on the “About” page of your website. Here, you can list your achievements and credentials and explain what makes you and your team proven professionals in your niche.
Positive customer reviews on various platforms outside of your own website can also bolster your company’s reputation online. In addition, be sure to only link to authoritative sources the majority of people know and trust.
4. Make local SEO and overall content optimization a priority.
Just because people are currently home more than they are out and about doesn’t mean there’s no longer a place for Local SEO in your digital marketing strategy. Google is constantly updating its algorithm for filtering and displaying local search results, and now is the time to make sure your business is totally optimized for this crucial feature.
What’s great about Local SEO is it allows you to cut through the noise and appear as a convenient solution to users’ needs. Of course, it’s important to keep in mind that the majority of local searches occur on a mobile device. Therefore, your content needs to be easy to access via mobile search in order to make the most of your ranking on SERPs.
While you’re in the process of optimizing your web content for local searches from mobile devices, consider how voice search may come into the mix. Starting paragraphs with question words like “what,” “how,” and “when” can help organize content according to the most common spoken queries.
Online fads come and go, which is why consistently focusing on the right tactics is key in the world of digital marketing. By concentrating on these four proven techniques, you can bring your SEO strategy up to speed for 2021 and beyond.