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1. Optimize for Core Web Vitals:

The future of ranking is tied to user experience. Google’s Core Web Vitals initiative underscores this.

• Largest Contentful Paint (LCP): This metric is about loading speed. A slow LCP can deter users. Consider optimizing images, upgrading web hosting, or using content delivery networks to enhance LCP.
• First Input Delay (FID): This deals with interactivity. Use browser caching, minimize JavaScript, and ensure server efficiency to enhance FID.
• Cumulative Layout Shift (CLS): A webpage should be stable. Minimize ads, embed dimensions, and utilize web fonts to control CLS.

2. Mobile-first Indexing:

Given that mobile usage surpasses desktop globally, Google’s mobile-first indexing is paramount. Ensure responsive designs and prioritize mobile user experience. Simplify menus, offer clickable phone numbers, and guarantee quick loading times. Regularly test and optimize your website’s mobile experience.

3. In-depth Content:

Google favors comprehensive content. Beyond length, consider content relevancy, uniqueness, and user engagement. Harness tools like Google’s “People also ask” for content ideas. Implementing long-tail keywords can also target niche audiences more effectively.

4. Schema Markup:

Structured data can drastically improve your SERP standings. By offering search engines clear signals about your content’s context, you bolster your chances for rich results. Understand various schema types like ‘Product’, ‘Recipe’, or ‘Event’, and implement them as per your website’s content.

5. Voice Search Optimization:

As voice-activated assistants grow popular, your content must cater to this shift. Ensure content readability, incorporate frequently spoken queries into your content, and consider the conversational tone. Also, remember that voice search often fetches results from featured snippets, so aim for that coveted position.

6. E-A-T: Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness:

A key determinant of your website’s trust factor. Establish your credentials with detailed author bios, highlight industry accolades, and engage with audiences transparently. Regularly update your content and source high-quality outbound links.

7. Video SEO:

As videos dominate online content consumption, you must optimize them for search engines. Host videos on your domain before sharing on platforms. Add SEO-friendly titles, descriptions, and use high-quality thumbnails. Additionally, provide subtitles to cater to diverse audiences.

8. Local SEO:

In a global marketplace, local businesses must stand out. Regularly update business hours, post local content, or share local news. Engaging in local PR can also generate brand trust and credibility. Maintain consistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone Number) information across platforms.

9. Diverse Backlink Portfolio:

Backlinks remain a ranking factor powerhouse. Diversify your backlink sources. Engage in industry forums, webinars, or even podcasts for a broader backlink portfolio. Prioritize relevance and authority over sheer quantity.

10. Regular SEO Audits:

SEO isn’t a set-and-forget strategy. Regular audits can reveal broken links, slow-loading pages, or unoptimized content. It’s also an opportunity to reassess keyword strategies, as user intent and industry trends evolve.

11. User Experience (UX):

Beyond technical SEO lies the realm of user experience. A clutter-free design, intuitive navigation, and accessible content are pivotal. Monitor metrics like bounce rate and session duration to gauge user satisfaction.

12. Continuous Learning:

The SEO world is in perpetual motion. Subscribing to SEO blogs, attending workshops, or even conducting in-house training sessions can maintain your competitive edge. Embrace change and be ready to adapt.

SEO in 2023 is a vast field, requiring both depth and breadth in strategy. With this comprehensive guide from Helps2, Kansas City’s trusted marketing guide, you’re equipped to soar in the digital arena. Ready to dive deeper into any of these strategies? Contact us today!