You can’t separate the two anymore. Content marketing and SEO got together like bacon and eggs and Batman and Robin.
If you think that SEO is the only way to get your site to the top of the search engines then you are highly mistaken and headed for a fall. The combining of the two strategies is paramount in today’s world of search engine domination and if you don’t integrate them seamlessly into your website and endeavors you’re looking for major trouble.
There are some steps that you can take that will get you off to a great start and keep you there.
First of all, make sure your site is palatable. Meaning it’s easy to digest by the surfer. They shouldn’t have to anguish trying to navigate your site nor get deluged by useless promo. They have to be able to know where they are and what they’re in for or you’ll get a bad reputation from the start.
Integrate competent SEO including Local SEO. Both are essential for your battle plan and if you miss out on this you’ll be bleeding traffic, revenue, and potential for more. SEO doesn’t mean stuffing your site with keywords and keyphrases, but more with putting the relevant words and terms you need to explain what services and/or goods you offer. Also, where you’re located, your history, shipping, and more. People want that info at a click not a cluck.
Link building is essential but you have to do it smartly. Don’t just settle for any old links but instead get links, high authority links from reputable web sites that have power. Link back to them and in your descriptions clearly state the name of their site and your relationship. Not just link to “popularsite.com”, but instead say, “If you need to know more about (state niche) visit our friends at popular site.com”. See, it makes all the difference in the world and makes you look like a colleague instead of some fan boy.
The use of KPIs is a major plus. Key performance Indicators allow you to keep an eye on what is going on with your site and especially the interactive and engaging content. Your social media links and engagement, call to action conversions and more. Miss this step and it’s like trying to find your way around room full of grease with the lights out.
Make sure you know who you’re targeting. Your audience is your wellspring and their participation in your site, your lifesblood. You’ve got to get their attention, get them to interact, and then control them with goodies and offers that they can’t get anywhere else. They’ll boast about it on social media and the next thing you know you’ll be awash with traffic.
Finally, keep on keeping on. Don’t lose ground by resting on your laurels. Once you get the momentum going don’t stop. You have to keep up the effort by updating content, interacting with visitors, hunt for more relevant sites to exchange links with, keep on top of the latest in SEO and content marketing. This is an ongoing effort and you should be enjoying it. Spend the time enjoying it and applying it and you’ll do just fine.