Elevating SEO: 7 Under-the-Radar Strategies for the Smart Marketer

January 19, 2024

Introduction

In the ever-evolving world of SEO, it’s easy to get lost in the noise of commonplace advice. You’re not here for the basics; you want the under-the-radar, the overlooked, the strategies that make you raise an eyebrow and nod in silent approval. Let's cut through the clutter and dive into eight SEO tactics that are more ninja than norm.


1. Structured Data: The Unsung Hero of SERPs

Think of structured data as your website’s secret weapon. Structured data, or schema markup, is essential for clear communication with search engines, enhancing their understanding of your site’s content and leading to richer search results. This makes your website more accessible and comprehensible to search algorithms, which can significantly improve your presence in search engine results pages (SERPs).

lemon pie structured data

Using structured data, these websites have given Google information to use to show up as a rich result.

DIY SOLUTION

Test specific pages on Google’s Scheme Markup Validator. This will reveal the metadata behind each page that Google can use to create. For a specific type of page, refer to the Google Search Console Developer Docs to learn about how to properly structure your pages.


2. Speed Optimization: More than Just a Loading Bar

Speed Optimization

Page speed is a silent killer in SEO. We all know a slow-loading website is a barrier. By leveragings tools like Google PageSpeed Insights, you can reduce bounce rates and improve user experience, which is increasingly becoming a key factor in search engine algorithms. It’s simple: if you’re not fast, you’re last.

DIY SOLUTION

DIY: Use Google PageSpeed to run a test on your website. With the data given, make the adjustments to your website.

A few things that might be impacting your website's performance

  • large image files
  • not optimized code
  • outdated plugins

3. HTTPS: Non-Negotiable in Today’s Web

Fort Agency Secure Connection

If your site isn’t secure (HTTPS), you’re basically hanging a “Proceed with Caution” sign for both users and search engines. This security measure is vital for protecting user data and enhancing the credibility and reliability of your site in the digital space. It's like choosing between a fortified castle and a tent for your digital domain.

DIY SOLUTION

Go to your website and look at the URL. If it starts with https your website is secure, if it starts with http: your website is not secure and most likely is missing an SSL certificate. An SSL certificate can usually be obtained through your hosting platform.


4. Local SEO: Own Your Turf

In the world of SEO, local is the new global. Local SEO is key to dominating search results in your specific geographic area. It involves not just listing your business accurately but also creating content and keywords that resonate with a local audience, which can significantly boost your visibility in local searches. Nail this, and you’re not just a business; you’re a local landmark.

DIY SOLUTION

If you’re a local business, use search terms on your favorite search engine that a customer would want to find your buy: “restaurants in Madison” or “Best restaurants near me.” If you don’t see your website, look into ways you can improve your site’s overall SEO. Sometimes it can be as simple as including your city or area of operation throughout your website.


5. Backlink Quality: The Gold Standard in Link Building

Chasing backlinks is an old game; what matters now is the quality. Focus on acquiring high-quality backlinks from reputable sources, as these significantly strengthen your site’s authority and search rankings. Quality backlinks are like endorsements from the web’s most trusted sources, elevating your site's reputation and credibility in the eyes of search engines.

DIY SOLUTION

Provide excellent content and reach out to reputable sources to link to your website. It depends on your industry, but it’s all about creating content that someone would want to share on behalf of you.


6. Content Diversity: Predictability is Passé

Diversifying your content types caters to various user preferences and keeps your content strategy dynamic and engaging. This approach not only enriches the user experience but also broadens your reach, appealing to different segments of your audience and keeping your brand fresh and relevant. Mix it up with blogs, videos, podcasts, and infographics. Keep your audience engaged and search engines intrigued.

DIY SOLUTION

DIY: As the ways we consume content evolves it’s good to make it a practice to create a piece of content in all forms of media. If you have a blog that’s just text, level it up with a few pictures, take it to the next level by creating a video. Users will spend more time on your blog and this will boost your overall SEO


7. Stay Agile with SEO Trends

SEO isn’t static; it’s as dynamic as the market itself. Keeping up with the latest SEO trends and algorithm updates is crucial for maintaining and enhancing your search rankings. Be the one who sees the curve in the road ahead and steers accordingly.

There you go, seven not-so-conventional SEO strategies that could be your game-changer. Incorporate these tactics, and watch your brand not just rise in rankings but also in respect. With SEO, it’s not just what you play; it’s how you play it.

Ready to elevate your SEO game with these savvy strategies? Our team at FORT+ is primed to help you implement these tactics and more. We don't just follow trends; we anticipate them, ensuring your brand stays ahead of the curve and on top of search rankings.


Conclusion

There you go, seven not-so-conventional SEO strategies that could be your game-changer. Incorporate these tactics, and watch your brand not just rise in rankings but also in respect. With SEO, it’s not just what you play; it’s how you play it.

Ready to elevate your SEO game with these savvy strategies?

Our team at FORT+ is primed to help you implement these tactics and more. We don't just follow trends; we anticipate them, ensuring your brand stays ahead of the curve and on top of search rankings.

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