Improving Search Engine Rankings Comes at a Cost

Despite popular belief, search engine optimization isn't entirely free. In fact, some companies spend tens of thousands of dollars each year trying to get their websites ranked in the number one position organically. This is not only expensive, but can take loads of time. If you think SEO doesn't cost a cent, than think again. However, if you have the time to spend, you sure can save a lot.

Before undergoing any changes to a blog or web site, you must determine what keywords people are using to search for your programs. You want keyword terms that are frequently used but have little or no competition from other websites.

This dramatically enhances the chances of increasing web page ranking significantly. Marketing professionals can research possible keywords by talking to current students and using free online tools such as AdWords Tool which provides estimates of search volume and advertising competitiveness.

Once you've done your initial keyword research, its time to start investigating your competition for that given keyword. Do a search for the keyword or keyword phrase you've chosen and analyze the websites that appear in the first three positions. You definitely want to evaluate on page factors as well as off page factors like the number of inbound links to their website and directory listing. This research gives you a good understanding of your competition.

You can also learn more about a topped ranked website by researching it via Alexa.com for additional ranking information. Try for keyword phrases that have less than two million competing pages, less than PR 5, and less than five hundred in-bound links. If the top competing websites are too large, you should pick a different keyword phrase to focus on.

After choosing the most effective keyword phrases for your niche, design web pages to optimize readability for web site browsers and search engines. Basic areas of on-page optimization you should consider include having the appropriate headers for landing pages, a clear call to action and clean navigation. Your keyword phrase should also be used in meta tags and throughout your web page. Don't overdue it though, keyword stuffing can result in significant penalties from search engines.

Without a doubt the most important factor in Google rankings is a combination of Google page rank and the number of web sites that are linking to your own website. Referred to as inbound links, Google evaluates their authority and places a value on your site with higher listings on search results. You are always better off receiving links from web sites that are established and popular than new sites that have neither a strong web presence or inbound links. When link building be certain that link text includes your keywords.

As you focus on search engine optimization your chances of improving rankings increases twofold. Search engine optimization is ideal for anyone who doesn't want to spend a great deal of money on performance based advertising like Google Adwords. Instead of spending cash, spend time and energy on improving organic rankings. Pay attention to on page optimization factors and start researching and contacting other sites for link building. This will enhance website value and improve rankings.