Ever wonder why some websites seem to magically appear at the top of Google’s search results while others languish on page 10? Well, it’s not magic—it’s off-page SEO, and I’m about to break it down for you. If you’re ready to skyrocket your site’s rankings and leave your competition in the dust, buckle up. We’re diving into the world of off-page SEO strategies that actually work.
What the Heck is Off-page SEO?
Off-page SEO is anything you do outside your website to try to improve its search engine rankings. That’s right, we’re talking about the external efforts that can make or break your site’s visibility. Google looks at off-page factors like backlinks and brand mentions to decide what you should rank for and where. The most important difference comes down to control. You have full control over on-page SEO, but not off-page SEO. So, let’s focus on what you can influence and see some real results.
Backlinks: The Secret Sauce of Off-page SEO
Backlinks are clickable links from one website to another, and they’re one of Google’s top ranking factors. No joke. If you’re new to link building, we recommend starting with these three tactics:
- Find and replicate your competitors’ best links. If it worked for them, it can work for you.
- Write a post for another site in return for a link. Guest posting is a win-win.
- Pitch your content to pages that curate industry resources. Get your name out there.
But before you go chasing every link in sight, there are three crucial things to check: Authority, Relevance, and Placement. A link from a high-authority, relevant site that’s placed in a prominent spot on their page? That’s gold, baby.
Google Business Profile: A Must for Local Businesses
If you run a local business, like a convenience store or dental clinic, you need a Google Business Profile. It’s non-negotiable. Reviews are a ranking factor for ‘map pack’ results, and 17% of SEOs think they’re the most important factor. So, how do you get more reviews?
- Ask customers to leave reviews. Simple, but effective.
- Prioritize getting reviews on your Google Business Profile. That’s where it counts.
- Build trust by responding to reviews. Show you care.
- Don’t offer or accept money in exchange for reviews. That’s a no-no.
- Don’t discourage bad reviews or request good reviews. Keep it real.
Expert Content: The Key to Credibility
Hiring expert writers will likely increase your chances of ranking. Why? Because Google loves credibility. When your content is written by someone who knows their stuff, it shows. And Google’s algorithms are smart enough to pick up on that. So, invest in quality content and watch your rankings soar.
Brand Mentions: The Unsung Hero of SEO
Google’s Gary Illyes is on record saying that mentions help rankings. That’s right, when people talk about your brand, it can boost your SEO. So, how do you get more brand mentions?
- Get featured on podcasts. Share your expertise with the world.
- Get interviewed. Position yourself as a thought leader.
- Respond to journalist requests via HARO. Get your name in the news.
And don’t forget about unlinked mention link building campaigns. Reach out to websites that have already mentioned you and ask them to add a link to your website. It’s a simple way to turn mentions into valuable backlinks.
What About Social Signals and Branded Searches?
Let’s clear up some misconceptions. Social signals are not a ranking factor. Sure, they can drive traffic to your site, but they won’t directly impact your SEO. And branded searches? They often correlate with organic search traffic, but there’s no evidence to suggest that they’re a direct ranking factor. So, focus on what really matters: backlinks, brand mentions, and expert content.
Ready to boost your rankings? Check out our other resources and start implementing these off-page SEO strategies today. Trust me, your competition won’t know what hit them.
