Are you new to digital marketing and wondering how some websites appear at the top of SERPs while others are buried on third, fourth, or fifth pages? If yes, then it might be time you should understand what is on-page SEO, common on-page SEO mistakes, and what the best practices for on-page SEO are.
What Is On-Page SEO?
On-page SEO is the practice of optimizing web pages to rank higher on search engine result pages (SERPs). It entirely focuses on everything within your website and includes optimizing title tags, meta descriptions, content, internal linking, and image alt text.
This on-site SEO helps websites to rank higher on Google and drives more traffic.
Why Is On-Page SEO Important?
On-page SEO is important because search engines like Google rely on different on-page factors to determine what a web page contains and whether your web page meets the user’s search intent.
When a webpage is relevant and matches a user’s search intent, the search engines (Google) display it to the user, and it drives more organic traffic.
Key On-Page SEO Elements
a) Craft keyword-rich title tags
A meta title is an HTML element that defines the title of a webpage. This is the first thing users see in the search results. Craft a keyword-rich title tag that is not more than 60 characters, and also avoid duplicate title tags, so that every page has a unique title.
b) Craft Click-Worthy Meta Description
Meta description is a summary that describes the content of a webpage. It is not a direct ranking factor, but like title tags, meta descriptions can influence users to click on a page. It should not be more than 160 characters, and use your keywords naturally.
c) Heading Tags
Create your content using heading tags H1, H2, and H3. Well-structured content is helpful for both users and search engines. The primary keyword should always be used in the H1 tag.
d) Internal Linking
Link your webpages to related pages or articles within your site using descriptive anchor text to help search engines understand your site structure and keep users engaged.
e) Keyword Optimized URL
Use short, concise, and keyword-optimized URLs that are easy to read and rank better in search results. Do not use numbers, special characters, or Uppercase letters in your URL.
f) Write Compelling, Relevant Content
Write useful content that matches the reader’s search query and provides in-depth knowledge. Search Engines prioritize high-quality and compelling content. Spread targeted keywords in your content naturally, and try to use them in subheadings.
g) Mobile Responsive Design & Page Speed
Almost 96% of mobile users use their phones to search for anything on Google, and over 62% of global traffic is generated by mobile devices. So, a fast and mobile-responsive website is the most important factor in generating more traffic.
h) Image Optimization
Including only images does not help, but providing proper descriptive alt text that will explain your images to both search engines and users does.
Step-by-Step Guide to On-Page SEO
- Do Keyword Research
Start your On-page by doing keyword research. Use keywords that your targeted audience is searching for, using tools like Google keyword planner, Ahrefs, Ubbersuggest, and Semrush.
- Write title tags and Meta Description that are keyword optimized
Craft keyword-rich title tags and meta descriptions for every page of your website, and make sure each page has a unique title and description.
- Divide your content with Proper Heading Tags
Divide your content using heading tags H1, H2, H3, and use your keywords naturally in the headings.
- Write Useful Content
Write unique, useful, in-depth content matching readers’ search intent. Crafting original and useful content is a crucial on-page SEO step.
- Craft Keyword Optimized URL
Use clean, short URLs that are readable and meaningful, and include keywords.
- Naturally Use Internal and External Links
Strategically link to other relevant pages within your website and include external links to authoritative sources.
- Optimize for Mobile and Page Speed
Optimize your website for mobile and use tools like Google Page Speed to optimize the page speed of the website.
Conclusion
On-page SEO is a crucial step to rank higher on search engine result pages. Master the basics, avoid the common mistakes, and apply the best practices to achieve better results.