Launching a new website is an exciting endeavour, but it’s crucial to lay the groundwork for search engine optimisation (SEO) right from the start. In this blog post, we’ll explore the initial steps you should take to ensure your website is SEO-ready. Buckle up, because we’re diving into the world of keywords, domain names, and technical foundations!
1. Choose the Right Domain Name (and Stick with It!)
Your domain name is more than just a web address; it’s associated with SEO equity. Ideally, align your company and brand name with your domain. Remember, once you’ve chosen a domain, changing it later can be a headache. Consider popular domain providers like GoDaddy or Bluehost. Bonus points if your brand name contains relevant keywords related to your business.
2. Opt for High-Speed Website Hosting
Your website’s performance hinges on the quality of your hosting provider. Try Siteground for its 100% uptime reliability, quick page load times, and excellent support (especially for WordPress users). Whether it’s a dedicated IP, SSD, or HDD storage, your hosting choice matters. A sluggish website won’t impress search engines or users.
3. Outline Your Site Structure and Architecture
Before diving into content creation, plan your site’s structure. A well-organised sitemap helps search engines understand your website’s hierarchy. Think of it as a roadmap for both users and bots. Consider the main categories, subpages, and how they interlink. A clear structure ensures efficient crawling and indexing.
4. Set Up Google Search Console and SEO Tools
Google Search Console is your best friend. It provides insights into how Google views your site, identifies crawl errors, and offers performance data. Additionally, tools like SEMrush help you analyse keywords, track competitors, and monitor your site’s health. Install these tools early to stay ahead of the game.
5. Prioritise Mobile-Friendly Design
Mobile-first indexing is now the norm. Ensure your website looks great and functions seamlessly on mobile devices. Responsive design matters for both user experience and SEO. Google rewards mobile-friendly sites with better rankings. Test your site using tools like Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test.
6. Study Your SEO Competitors
Learn from the best! Analyse competitors in your niche. What keywords are they targeting? How do they structure their content? Which backlinks do they have? Tools like SEMrush or Moz can reveal valuable insights. Adapt their successful strategies while adding your unique twist.
7. Conduct Thorough Keyword Research
Keywords are the backbone of SEO. Identify relevant keywords related to your business, products, or services. Use tools like Google Keyword Planner or Ahrefs to discover high-volume, low-competition keywords. Create content around these keywords to attract organic traffic.
Putting It into Practice: The Fictional Example of “GreenLeaf Landscaping”
Let’s follow the journey of a fictional company, GreenLeaf Landscaping, as they launch their website:
- Domain Name: GreenLeaf chooses “GreenLeafLandscaping.com” to align with their brand. It’s memorable and contains relevant keywords.
- Hosting: They opt for Siteground, ensuring lightning-fast loading times.
- Site Structure: GreenLeaf outlines their site with clear categories: “Services,” “Portfolio,” “Blog,” and “Contact.” Each service (like “Lawn Care” or “Garden Design”) has its own page.
- SEO Tools: They set up Google Search Console and integrate SEMrush to monitor keyword rankings and competitor performance.
- Mobile Optimisation: GreenLeaf’s site is responsive, providing an excellent experience on all devices.
- Competitor Analysis: They study successful landscaping websites, noting their content strategies and backlink profiles.
- Keyword Research: GreenLeaf targets keywords like “professional landscaping,” “sustainable garden design,” and “lawn maintenance.”
As GreenLeaf consistently implements these steps, their website gains authority, climbs search rankings, and attracts clients seeking top-notch landscaping services. Remember, SEO is a marathon, not a sprint. With patience and persistence, your new website can thrive in the digital landscape.
Sources:
pass-digital-marketing.com 