Understanding the 7 core principles of on‑page SEO
On-page search engine optimisation (SEO) is one of the pillars of digital marketing. In terms of search visibility and website traffic, it’s an essential strategy that lays the foundations for sustained growth. But what can you expect from on-page SEO?
To help you get started, we’ve taken a look at the core strategies and principles you need to know.
1. Keyword Optimisation
Keyword optimisation is a must for SEO. It involves finding the keywords and phrases that your target audience is actively searching for, and using them in your content. This helps search engines like Google match your content to the right queries, putting your site in the spotlight for the searches that matter the most.
2. Metadata and URLs
Your metadata and URL tell search engines more about the content of different web pages. By optimising yours to include keywords and easy-to-understand descriptions, you can give your visibility a boost.
Make sure to use engaging copy and a call to action (CTA) in your metadata, too. This ensures you’re reeling in potential leads, making the most of your search visibility.
3. Page Load Speeds
Google uses your load speeds to rank your site in the search results, making it a crucial part of on-page SEO. To get to grips with your speed, we recommend using Google’s PageSpeed Insights (it’s one of our top SEO software recommendations).
To optimise load speeds, keep plug-ins to a minimum, compress file sizes, and enable browser caching.
4. Image Optimisation
For your images to make an impact, they need descriptive alt text. This helps search engines understand what your images are, which can provide further context for your content so that you’re ranked for the right results. It also improves site accessibility, which is a must for web development best practices.
5. Website Crawlability
Search engines need to easily navigate your site to understand and rank your content. This is known as your site's crawlability, and while some of it is technical, it overlaps with on-page SEO. Your pages need to be properly mapped, for instance, with a network of internal links that make sense, and intuitive navigation is a must.
6. Mobile Responsiveness
With the majority of search traffic coming from mobiles, Google favours sites that work seamlessly across devices - not just desktop. This calls for responsive interfaces.
You need content and features that work just as well on smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktops (and any other future tech that comes our way). That means text that’s easy to read, working features, and flawless user experience (UX), no matter what your users are browsing on.
7. Checking for SEO Errors
Regularly auditing your site for SEO errors helps keep performance on track. Keep your eyes peeled for issues like broken links, missing meta tags, duplicate content, and crawl errors. Using tools like Google Search Console can help you quickly spot and fix these problems.
Final Thoughts
Just because you might not be coding or building intricate site maps doesn’t make on-page SEO easy. This is a time-consuming task that requires years of experience to get right, which is where we come in.
At KAU Media Group, we work with brands to develop and deliver clear SEO strategies that get results. Learn more about how we can help by reaching out to our team today.
