How To Optimize The Site’s Images

1. Post high-quality images with the right format and the right size.

Standard photos must be in JPG format. Graphics and images that require transparency must be in PNG. To optimize graphics with limited colors, use PNG-8 over PNG-24. It is also better to reduce the number of colors from 256 to 16. Don’t forget to use SVGs (vector graphic images) for icons and logos for scaling. It won’t increase the size of the file. When using images, its actual width must not exceed the width of the largest container used (multiplied by two for retina displays).

2. Publish content using responsive images.

The latest CMS like WordPress version 4.4 already has the scrset attribute built-in. Not all blogs and CMS are fortunate. They must enter and code the srcset attribute which provides the browser a list of image variants. The attribute makes it possible to show the image on different screen sizes. When combined with the sizes attribute, the images can load on different screens without too much effort. Srcset and sizes attributes are vital to an SEO and social media marketing company. They impact user experience (UX) through the increased appeal of the post and the decreased loading times.

3. Use the right file name.

The file name of the images allows Google and other search engines to know what is the image about and what is on it. The right file name makes it easy for the image to appear on image search engines.

4. Add alt tags.

The alt tag is the abbreviation for the alt attribute on an img tag. The alt tag of an image describes what is on the file. It also describes the function of the image on the page. Screen readers, non-visual browsers, Braille readers read the text on the tag to make the image accessible.

The code of the alt tag looks like this:

<img src=“image.jpg” alt=“image description” title=“image tooltip”> The alt tag is not only helpful for the blind and visually impaired people. It is also has a purpose for SEO. It can be used to describe the image using keywords. The alt tag does not have to be spammed or stuffed with keywords to be effective. A phrase with 16 or fewer words is enough to describe what is on a particular image. Use descriptive, concise and accurate words when filling out the alt tag. However, not all images on a site have a purpose. Some are on the site for design reasons. If that’s the case, the images must be part of the CSS and not the HTML. If the change is not possible, make it an empty alt attribute like this: <img src=”image.png” alt=””> The empty alt attribute ensures screen readers skip over the images.

5. Create an image XML sitemap.

Provide search engines about the images and its information on your site by creating a sitemap. Adding the image-specific tags to an existing sitemap is fine and works just as well as separate one. The images listed on the XML sitemap helps the search engine like Google index the images. Indexing helps the images appear in search results.

5. Fix the alignment and utilize captions.

An image with the same width as the text column emphasizes the image. Use proper alignment to ensure the image complements the text. At the same time add captions. Captions help readers to scan the content. They can be used to provide an overview or the purpose of the published content.

6. Refrain using stock photos.

The image that is part of the content must always be relevant to the text. Use original works and photos over stock images. It also helps to use GIFs, but use it sparingly. Too much can distract the reader from the motions of the image.

These are some ways to image optimization. It helps the site improve user experience as well as its SERP ranking. It can also increase conversion rates when buttons and other CTA-related images have the right title and alt tags.

The post SEO Techniques: Image Optimization appeared first on Internet Marketing Reach.

Writers who wish to be part of digital marketing Philippines must understand the difference between SEO writing and writing for white papers. They must follow writing, editing and publish rules to make their narrative attract readers.

Below is a ten-step to follow for better writing this 2018. Search engines are becoming smarter while some readers are becoming lazy. As a writer, you must evolve, too.

1. Become hungry in SEO writing.

One account or writing job is not enough. It is vital to take more job orders or write more about the accounts or topics assigned. Strive to produce more than your word or article quota each week.

A hungry writer develops their writing skills without them knowing. They learn new words, discover different writing styles, and become efficient in their work. They also have a chance to see a different perspective of writing and adapt to them quickly.

2. Create meaningful sentences.

Each word counts. Each sentence must provide value to your reader and client. The moment a user clicks on your page, they must immediately find what they need. If not, you fail to deliver.

Also, the meaning of a sentence does not depend on its length. A long sentence does not necessarily have value while short sentences do not mean you cannot get the message across the reader. It is all about delivery and the right combination of words.

3. Work on grammar.

Learn the rules of grammar. Read the published posts of famous Internet writers. Observe how they write.

Notice that most of them use active than passive voice. A sentence in an active voice is simple and easy to read. It also helps trim sentences of unnecessary words, phrases, conjunctions, and other parts of a sentence.

4. Think of your audience.

When writing for the audience, make it easy to read. Craft a dialogue, paragraph, or prose that hooks the viewers to stay until the end
Use the power of the abstract.

Abstract or indirect descriptions in the text’s body make readers think of the sequence of events. It also activates part of their brain that uses imagery. Use this to change writing style and allow readers to guess what happens next.

5. Use the keywords to guide the paragraph flow.

Use the keywords appropriately. Place it in the first paragraph or within 100 words of the article. Pair it with words that will stick out. Thought-provoking and emotional words near the keyword emphasize its importance.

Discover new words, ideas, and insights to make cohesive paragraphs. Ensure each section retains one idea. The sentences must support the main idea.

6. Use white space.

White space is the best ally of SEO writers. It helps the words in each paragraph stand out. At the same time, it provides a classic and elegant appearance to the page.

White space is only useful when there is content. It is an effective break between images and text. It prevents users to get overwhelmed with visuals.

7. Chunk your paragraphs

Chunking is breaking down difficult text into manageable pieces. Writing using your words is an example of chunking. Chunking paragraphs are ideal as is it helps readers quickly identify key terms and ideas.

One way to chunk is to write the same number of sentences as existing ones. It creates a pattern and maintains symmetry. The text also becomes easy to digest that paragraphs with five or more sentences.

8. Use headings.

Like white space, heading breaks the structure of the article and the flow of the text. It also helps readers identify what they are reading or decide if they should read it. According to Yoast, readers tend to read them carefully over the body of the text.

Headings have a hierarchical structure. Place your keyword on the highest rank or the H1, which is also the title of the page or the blog post. Use it only once while the rest are available to use many times.

9. Refer to the Flesch Reading scale.

Yoast SEO plugin features a content analysis tool which indicates the Flesch Reading Ease score. The score signifies how easy it is to read the text. The score is essential for SEO writing because readability is a ranking factor.

Moreover, complicated and hard to read texts may scare readers. It may prevent them from checking the site or visiting your page. Increase traffic by using reader-friendly words and creating meaningful sentences.

10. Write from the heart.

Do not write for the bots, clicks, or the job. Write to your heart’s content. Compose drafts and write-ups using the brain and edit using the heart.

Serve the people before serving the search engines. Users are the ones who will increase the site’s traffic and return on investment (ROI). Think of the audience to avoid awkward keywords anchors or repetitive writing.

Better SEO writing doesn’t happen overnight. It comes with practice, effort, and hard work. There is no shortcut to improving one’s writing on tips or steps to follow. SEO writing is a valuable skill in the 21st century as search engines progress and made to think like humans.

The post A Writer Becomes A Marketer: Better SEO Writing in 10 Steps This 2018 appeared first on Internet Marketing Reach.

To rank the business online and have access to the market, here are some online marketing strategy for your local SEO.

1. Use Google My Business and Bing Places for Business.

Google My Business (GMB) is a powerful tool in local searches. It is also strict with its verification process. Once the name of the business, address, and contact numbers in the entry fields, you must verify your account using the verification pin the company sends to the store’s physical location. This process ensures the listing and its information is accurate and genuine. Under Google’s terms of service, only the business owner qualifies to claim his or her GMB page.

After verifying the listing, optimize it for search engines. Fill out the fields and add a description, business category, operating hours, types of payment accepted as well as the features and amenities of your shop. A business logo, few photos of the shop, its products, services, and staff increases the legitimacy of the business. If the company provides services, hiding the headquarters or the address of the warehouse is acceptable.

Don’t forget to business’ name, address, and phone number (NAP) in Bing. It has the same process as Google. Both tools help rank the keywords used on the business’ website in local search.

2. Encourage ratings and review on Google.

Glassdoor, Yelp, Zomato, and other niche-related websites for ratings and reviews are great, but nothing beats the power of Google. Encourage customers and passers-by to leave a rating or a review by placing a sign to the storefront. Don’t forget to mention it upon ringing the cashier. The star ratings and a few words from your customers is the most excellent marketing strategy for your store. Inform customers of the business’ online presence to know where they can leave their reviews.

3. Make a contact page.

The contact page transforms curious users and site visitors into customers. A comprehensive contact page lands new clients, an investor, or anyone interested in the business to visit the actual store.

A business contact page must have the exact address of the business, phone or mobile number, and e-mails. It can also include a contact person from sales, operations, or the HR. Some contact pages have forms allowing customers to leave their concerns, messages, and suggestions to the company inbox.

4. Be part of interviews.

Exposure thru the local news and publications may be old school, but it’s part of SEO once they begin to post their article on their website. It also establishes your credibility within the area and become a lead establishment in your niche.

Interviews aren’t only on TV. Podcasts or a Google+ Hangout within a comfortable area builds relationships with users and customers. Sign up on Help A Reporter Out (HARO) to connect with journalists and provide insights on the business niche and other relevant information?

5. Use Yoast SEO plugin for WordPress blogs.

Optimize your CMS. If on WordPress, use the Yoast SEO plugin. It’s free and easy to use. It guides users to adjust their title tags, meta description, and sitemap among others. It’s also ideal for managing content and keywords.

USe the plugin to optimize the business sites’ title tags, headers, and meta description. Place the keywords related to the brand or business, so people can easily find the business using these queries.

6. Publish more content.

The goal may not be to create a how-to site or excite your brand thru your newsletters and updates. However, writing new content helps the site rank on the target search terms or keywords in the location of the business.

Ensure all published content is high-quality and original to prevent plagiarism, violations, and other sanctions from Google and other search engines. Most of all, high-quality content is a ranking factor in Google, so the pages are likely to appear in search results when you create such material.

7. Use Google Search Console.

Search Console is another tool by Google used to provide information and target local customers an users. Submit the business site’s sitemap for crawling. The console makes sense of your site structure, so bots can locate all the URLs in the site. It best to submit the sitemap on a quarterly basis to crawl new pages.

The tools in the Search Console also point to the site’s error. It presents data which helps the business improve its online presence and performance. Lastly, it sends an e-mail covering site issues that need fixing.

8. Fill out directories.

Citations are what make local SEO different from other search optimization techniques. They are mentions of your business NAP on local search sites. They are similar to entries on old-school yellow pages. When listing on online directories, ensure there are no wrong spelling, lacking numbers, or unrecognizable abbreviations on the business information.

The local newspaper and government agencies in the commerce sector are some websites covering the area or location of the business. They are the best sites for citations.

Online reputation must be part of marketing. Ratings and reviews cover this aspect of Internet marketing. Local SEO helps solidify the business reputation as it builds the brand and makes it available to users in the area or the surrounding location.

The post SEO Techniques: Local SEO appeared first on Internet Marketing Reach.

Keywords

SEO all boils down to link profile and content. Ultimately! Google uses these factors in determining the position on the SERPs. Believe or it now, Google reviews the websites MANUALLY at any one time, but only when you chose to follow black hat.

Since we are talking about keywords, let’s take a look at contents in general. Contents must be structured in such a way that Google will like it. So, if you cannot build internal and external links at the moment, the site may still rank because of its contents. Google will list the site based on the keywords on the content.

The secret is writing good and unique keyword-rich text contents and building quality links to that page. What looks spammy to your eyes looks spammy to Google as well.

• The ideal word count is between 300 and 2,000 words or even more as long as the content is unique and informative
• The ideal keyword count is 1 in every 100 words
• Don’t keyword stuff
• The ideal keyword density is 2 to 4% (If the page within the KD range, the site is relevant. If KD is under, it’s irrelevant. If KD is over, it’s a spam!)
• The main keyword must be in the URL
• The main keyword must be in the sub-headline(s)
• The targeted keyword must be repeated between 3 and 10 times, depending on the actual count of the words in the keyword and length of the content

Title

Some argues that this is the most important on-page SEO factor. Indeed, that is, after the contents themselves! Google, Bing and Yahoo display a hyperlinked title. This is what we click to go to the website or web page. There are several factors in making perfectly optimized page titles.

• The keyword must be in the page title
• Page title must be highly relevant to the contents of the page
• Title must only be up to 70 characters or Google will truncate it (Google indexes up to 1,000 characters in the title, but it solely determines which words will be considered as part of the title)
• The title may  have up to 12 words though keywords must be in the first 8 words
• The title must be optimized for a unique keyword (new page, new keyword, new unique title)
• Write titles for humans and search engines
• Put a title (Google may choose the relevant search snippet title if you fail to put one)
• The title should be 100% unique

We all love to save bandwidth as possible. Google is not an exemption. If it thinks the titles are spammy as well as the keywords and Meta descriptions, it’ll stop right there. It will not even look at the contents. What for, right?

Content

Some SEO experts argued that there is no optimal word count per page. However, there are proofs that the longer the contents, the better it performs on search engine provided that the content is fresh, informative, keyword-rich and relevant. There are websites that rank high on Google with 50 words or less. It was revealed later though that these sites have a good link profile, good hosted domain or both.

• There should be no wrong spellings, wrong punctuations and grammatical errors
• Texts must be properly formatted
• Contents must be published regularly
• There should be no duplicate contents
• Contents must be at least 300 words

Link

• Don’t link out from the homepage other than the internal pages
• Deep link to relevant sites
• Limit the number of internal and external links per page
• The internal links should only be between 2 and 10 links depending on the length of the content
• External links must not exceed the 100 mark for the whole website
• External links must be relevant to the contents of the pages
• The anchor tag must be relevant to the external link
• There must be no broken links

Canonical

• Redirect non-WWW pages to WWW pages
• There must be 301 redirects

Image

Google and Bing also count ALT tags, but observe how some sites over-optimize the tags. These tags are invisible elements hence Google penalizes such.

• Put the main in just one ALT tag in a page
• Use descriptive texts to guide the visitors
• Use a title tag when hyperlinking the image to another page
• Use ONLY relevant images
• Include caption and place the targeted keyword on the caption
• Compress the image to its right size

URL

• Use clean URLs (Google judges the relevance and trustworthiness of URLs)
• Don’t use stop words in the URL

Technical

• Use authorship markup
• Use semantic SEO markups
• Integrate social media widgets
• Check site speed
• Check usability
• Check accessibility
• Put an XML sitemap
• Create and submit a Robots.txt file
• Make the site responsive

Comply with these best practices, and notice how they can make your SEO perform better.

Image credit: iblogzone.com

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