After creating a fantastic and easy-to-use website, you might notice that your Google ranking is not what you would expect it to be. Focusing on SEO keywords is just scratching the surface of having a high ranking on search engines. You might be tempted to look up loopholes to raise your ranking on searches, however Google has algorithms that can easily identify unethical usage of SEO. Google will penalize your website, which can lower its ranking status.
If you are having trouble trying to find other ways to organically raise your search engine ranking, we have a few tips to follow so your amazing website isn’t penalized.
Link Farms A link farm is a website page compiled mostly of hyperlinks, usually unrelated to each other, on a single page. What Is.com states that link farms were created in response to Google’s PageRank algorithm. Usually, link farms are created by programs, but it can penalize your website should your link appear on there.
Hidden Text Hidden text can be keywords that are written very small or in the same color as the webpage background. Visitors won’t see these keywords but Google will “see” them. Google has remedied this usage of SEO keywords by recognising hidden or secret keyword text. Hidden text can also be called “cloaking” or “sneaky redirects”.
Heavy usage of keywords out of context Avoid using keywords that have no connection to the content on your website. Google classifies this as “ranking manipulation”.
Guest Postings While having guest posts can benefit you in terms of gaining new potential customers, it can also work against you in Google’s ranking system if you feature them too often. Guest posts that out number your own content can influence the number of various links not associate with your website, thus penalizing you on Google search. It’s best to keep guest posts to no more than 20% of your posted content.
Relevance Using 1-2 relevant links within your content will increase your Google ranking. When searching for links, look for those that would benefit your visitors most. If the links can be mutually beneficial for both parties (you and the link to the website), it’s even better.
Real vs Fake When it comes to social media accounts, make sure your accounts are real with a regular flow of engagement with your followers. Google algorithms can identify these fake accounts that purchase fake followers.
Create Brand Signals There are many simple ways to create brand signals that Google can recognize. Make sure your website design is well organized and easy to use. Add you address and phone number in an obvious place so visitors can easily see it. Take the time to create well-thought out content to grow your social media following. The larger number of followers you have will show Google you are a brand.
Build Trust in Your Brand Google will recognize how trustworthy your website is. If you are using links, use those that end in .edu or .gov, or use links to websites that utilize many of these types of web pages. You can also try linking to those who have a powerful brand. By employing these types of links, you also avoid issues when Google updates its algorithms.
We hope that you found these Google ranking tips helpful for your brand and website! Be sure to also check out our DOs and DONTs of SEO keyword usage. Should you need any more assistance, please feel free to contact us today! Our expert staff is happy to help you.
