When you’re looking at the topic of social media for SEO, there seems to be a ton of supposed expert information online to weed through. I’d like to keep it simple today by offering you three ideas to help you get to the top of Google using social networking.
Since the summer of 2012 and the rise of Google’s Penguin and Panda updates, news of Google’s shift in focus toward social media has spread all across the internet. Articles from a variety of sources claim that these updates have brought about the end of SEO as we know it.
In a certain sense, they are right. Old on and off page tactics alone are no longer feasible methods of attaining good rankings in organic searches. Instead of massive backlinks to no-name websites, Google is looking for quality content and active communication through social media for SEO. In order to get Google’s attention, your social networking profiles, blogs, and reviews need to be regularly updated with quality content. Based on this recent trend, here’s what I suggest:
1. Tailor your social networking to your customers
Be sure to build blogs and social media sites that your customers will enjoy. Feature pictures of events happening such as live music, sales, or special occasions. Allow your customers to provide feedback informally and respond to their comments online and in your place of business.
2. Attain a plethora of customer reviews
Try to get as many reviews from customers or clients as you can. Don’t be afraid to offer discounts or coupons for honest feedback. Address negative reviews promptly and professionally in store and online. If you have the budget, allow for customers to quickly fill out a review in the store via tablet or laptop.
3. Update your social networking constantly and consistently
Don’t fill up your twitter with meaningless chatter, but keep your followers and subscribers up to date on the happenings in your business. Update for new items, sales, events, weekly specials, or even funny moments. Don’t worry about posting several times a day. Just make sure that what you do post is relevant and meaningful for your clients.
For more specific recommendations on using Facebook and Google+ check out this additional blog!