I Want to be Number One on Google!

I recently received an email from a client who was asking how to improve their website to achieve a higher rank on Google search results. This is the bane of every website owner – how do I rank higher in Google search? A collective chant of “I want to be number one on Google.” It is not impossible, but it is very difficult especially in a highly competitive market like executive protection services.

In this podcast I share ways that I think will help your website get you closer to that elusive number one spot in the search results.

1. Look at the data. Google analytics and Google webmaster tools. Analytics provides very detailed information on your website – visitors, countries, how long visitors are staying, what they are looking at the most, and keywords visitors used to find your website. Google webmaster tools helps improve your website.

2. Keyword Adwords Tool. Also a Google product. This tool helps you find keywords for your market – what is being searched and how competitive are the keywords. Input your website and your competitors website to get some ideas on what keywords will help your website be found by searchers.

3. Search Engine Optimization. Optimize your website content with specific keywords you found from the Keyword tool. Place keywords in page title, meta description or excerpt, and the content itself.

4. Create Content. The more the content, the more the keywords. Helps you stand out as an authority. Content should provide value – information, analysis, etc. Doesn’t mean a blog post. If writing is not your thing try video or audio.

5. Share Content. Share your content via social media networks, newsletters, etc. Always include a link back to your website.

6. Google authorship. Tie your Google + account with your website. Some say this will help your rank – calling it Author rank. Very simple to do.

7. Your website linked on authoritative websites. Authoritative meaning those websites who are authorities in your market or niche; a.k.a “link juice.” Create a simple directory of authoritative websites, mention those website owners; try link swapping; conduct interviews with authoritative website owners – will share your link (interview) on their website; comment on authoritative websites.

8. XML sitemap. eXtensible Markup Language. An XML sitemap uploaded to the root of your website will help the Google bots do their job easier. You can create an XML sitemap here. Connect your XML sitemap to Google webmaster tools.

9. Google local. Used to be Google places. It is a half a page free ad on search results. Simple to set up. Need verification pin.

10. Mobile. Mobile friendly website – adjusts size on mobile device. Smartphones and tablets are dominating the market – start thinking mobile for your business. Get your business listed in Yelp, Foursquare, your community on Patch.com, local newspaper online directory. These are all free and necessary – a wider search net – more opportunity for your business to be found. If your website is on page4 of search results, perhaps your Yelp business listing is on page 1.

Lastly, it takes time to increase your website’s page rank. Think of it as a marathon not a sprint, which I’ve mentioned before in my advice with social media marketing. The above recommendations should start you on your way to the finish line.

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