Achieving a high ranking in search engine results is akin to performing a delicate balancing act. You must strike the right balance between content and meta tags, ensuring neither is overused. The four primary elements that need to be harmonized for optimal SEO are Meta Tags, Description, Title, and Content.
Meta tags are words or groups of words embedded in the website's hidden HTML code. They provide a description of the site or a set of keywords reflecting the site's content. Search engines use these tags to retrieve information about your site. However, the placement and effective use of meta tags are crucial. Websites like Net Mechanic and Meta Tag Builder offer tools to help you create and place meta tags correctly.
When creating meta tag keywords, avoid these common mistakes:
The description of your website appears in your meta tag and in the search engine results. Choose descriptive words that are also present in your site content, meta tag keywords, and title. Add a touch of marketing flair with phrases like "Click Here for ___", inspiring users to click for more details, promotions, or online orders. However, avoid overusing "hype" words as they could lower your ranking.
The title of your website is the crown of your page. It should align with your meta tags and content. It's picked up by search engine spiders, displayed in search engine results, and on the browser's title bar. Keep it descriptive but concise; anything over 100 characters needs revising. Remember, only about 55-65 characters will be visible on the title bar, depending on screen size and resolution. Make those first characters count!
Despite all the clever tactics, content remains king. Your site must have substantial text to back up the title, tags, and description. Repeating keywords or phrases from your description not only boosts your rankings but also your credibility. Use actual words instead of text images. Including text in an alternative image tag is a great complement, but it can't replace the actual content on your website. Confirm to your viewers that while you may have used clever marketing techniques to get them there, their click won't be wasted.
