Low-Hanging Fruit for Improved On-Page SEO: Simple Tips to Boost Your Website’s Visibility
Want to make your website easier to find without needing a degree in SEO? You’re not alone! Many small business owners and marketers are looking for simple, effective ways to improve their website’s visibility without diving into the deep end of technical SEO.
The good news? You don’t have to do it all at once to see results.
There are plenty of low-hanging fruits in SEO—quick, beginner-friendly fixes that can boost your site’s ranking and attract more visitors. From using alt text for images to improving page load speed, small adjustments can make a big difference in your website’s search performance.
Whether you’re a local business here in Des Moines, Iowa, or just getting started with SEO basics, these simple strategies can help.
In this post, we’ll explore essential on-page SEO tips that any business can implement. So, if you’re ready to give your website a quick boost, read on!
Use Alt Text for Images
What is Alt Text and Why Does It Matter?
Alt text (alternative text) is a short description of an image that helps search engines understand what the image represents. Not only does this improve your site’s on-page SEO, but it also makes your content more accessible for visually impaired users.
By adding relevant keywords to your image alt text, you’re giving search engines more information to help index your page accurately, which can lead to higher search visibility.
How to Write Effective Alt Text
Creating alt text is simple but requires a thoughtful approach to make it descriptive and SEO-friendly.
Here are a few tips:
Be Specific and Descriptive: Clearly describe the image’s content. For example, instead of saying “shoes,” describe it as “red running shoes with white laces.”
Use Keywords Naturally: If relevant, include a primary keyword naturally. For instance, “Central Iowa running shoes store” could work well if you’re targeting local customers.
Avoid Keyword Stuffing: Adding too many keywords can harm readability and potentially be flagged as spam by search engines.
Example of Good vs. Bad Alt Text
Let’s look at an example to see the difference between effective and ineffective alt text.
Bad Alt Text: “Image1” or “shoes”
Good Alt Text: “Red running shoes with white laces available at Central Iowa’s top running store”
Real-World Impact: How Alt Text Boosts SEO
According to research by Moz, optimized image alt text can improve search engine rankings by reinforcing keyword relevance on the page (Moz, 2019). This is especially useful for websites with multiple images, like product pages. Adding descriptive alt text helps search engines index these images effectively, potentially driving more organic traffic from image search results.
For local businesses, incorporating location-based keywords (i.e. “Des Moines, IA” or “Ankeny, IA”) in alt text (when it makes sense) can help attract local traffic. For instance, using “locally made furniture in Ankeny, Iowa” as alt text for a furniture product image makes it more likely to appear in local searches.
Optimize Meta Descriptions
What are Meta Descriptions and Why They Matter
A meta description is a brief summary of a webpage that appears below the title in search engine results. While it doesn’t directly impact rankings, a well-crafted meta description can significantly improve click-through rates (CTR), drawing more traffic to your site. An effective meta description entices users to click by giving them a clear idea of what they’ll find on the page.
According to Search Engine Journal, optimizing your meta descriptions can boost CTR by up to 30%, which helps attract more visitors and signals to Google that your content is relevant (Search Engine Journal, 2020).
Best Practices for Writing Meta Descriptions
Creating meta descriptions that encourage users to click requires balancing information and appeal. Here are some key tips:
Keep It Short and Sweet: Aim for around 150-160 characters. Search engines often cut off longer descriptions, so be concise.
Incorporate Keywords Naturally: Include a primary keyword (like “on-page SEO tips” or “Central Iowa SEO services”) to match the user’s search intent.
Use Actionable Language: Phrasing like “Learn more,” “Discover tips,” or “Find out how” makes it clear that the content is helpful and engaging.
Highlight the Value: Answer the question, “What’s in it for the reader?” For instance, “Discover simple SEO tips to boost your site’s visibility without tech jargon.”
Example of Effective Meta Descriptions
Let’s compare a basic meta description to one optimized for SEO and engagement.
Basic Meta Description: “This page is about SEO tips.”
Optimized Meta Description: “Learn five simple on-page SEO tips to improve your website’s visibility and attract more local customers in Central Iowa.”
The Real SEO Impact of Meta Descriptions
Research by Backlinko suggests that well-written meta descriptions are associated with higher CTR, which can indirectly boost rankings. Google uses CTR as a signal of content relevance, so drawing in more clicks tells search engines that your page is valuable to users (Backlinko, 2021).
For local businesses, including location-based keywords in meta descriptions can attract targeted, local traffic, making it easier for nearby customers to find you.
Use Header Tags (H1, H2, etc.) Strategically
Why Header Tags Matter for SEO and Readability
Header tags (H1, H2, H3, etc.) are more than just formatting tools; they help organize content for both readers and search engines. Using header tags correctly improves your page structure, making it easier for search engines to understand your content’s hierarchy. Clear headings also enhance readability by breaking up text and guiding readers through the content flow.
According to Ahrefs, pages with well-structured header tags are more likely to rank higher because search engines can better assess relevance and context (Ahrefs, 2020). Think of headers as road signs—they direct both search engines and users, helping them navigate your page.
Best Practices for Using Header Tags
To maximize SEO benefits, follow these best practices for using header tags effectively:
Use H1 Tags for the Main Topic: Each page should have a single H1 tag that indicates the main topic. Typically, the H1 is your page or post title.
Organize Subtopics with H2, H3, etc.: Use H2 tags for main sections and H3 tags for sub-sections. This structure helps search engines see the logical flow of your content.
Incorporate Keywords in Headers: Naturally include relevant keywords (e.g., “on-page SEO tips” or “how to improve SEO for Des Moines businesses”) in your headers to reinforce topic relevance without keyword stuffing.
Keep It Clear and Concise: Make sure each header is straightforward and descriptive, so readers instantly know what the section covers.
Example of Effective Header Tag Structure
Here’s a simple structure using header tags for a blog post about SEO tips:
• H1: Low-Hanging Fruit for Improved On-Page SEO: Simple Tips to Boost Your Website’s Visibility
• H2: Use Alt Text for Images
• H3: How to Write Effective Alt Text
• H2: Optimize Meta Descriptions
• H3: Best Practices for Writing Meta Descriptions
• H2: Use Header Tags Strategically
• H3: Why Header Tags Matter for SEO and Readability
• H3: Best Practices for Using Header Tags
How Header Tags Benefit SEO
According to a study by SEMrush, pages with a clear hierarchy of header tags rank better for target keywords. Google prioritizes content that’s organized in a way that’s easy to follow and relevant to the search query (SEMrush, 2019). Using keywords in headers naturally supports SEO by clarifying the page’s topics, making it easier for search engines to match your content with user intent.
For local businesses, including location-based keywords in headers can help capture more regional searches. For example, a blog section with the header “Best On-Page SEO Tips for Ankeny, Iowa Businesses” would appeal directly to a local audience while supporting SEO goals.
Improve Page Load Speed
Why Page Load Speed Matters for SEO and User Experience
Page load speed is a critical factor for both SEO and user satisfaction. Studies show that if a page takes longer than three seconds to load, users are more likely to leave, and Google takes note of this. Faster-loading pages rank higher because they provide a better user experience, which aligns with Google’s goal to deliver relevant, high-quality content quickly.
In fact, research by Google found that a one-second delay in load time can reduce conversions by up to 20% (Google, 2018). Slow pages frustrate users and increase bounce rates, which negatively impacts SEO.
Quick Tips to Boost Page Load Speed
Improving page speed doesn’t have to be complex. Here are a few beginner-friendly techniques:
Compress Images: Large images are one of the main culprits of slow load times. Tools like TinyPNG or ImageOptim can reduce image size without sacrificing quality.
Minimize Redirects: Each redirect adds loading time. Limit redirects to ensure users are taken directly to the right page.
Enable Caching: Browser caching stores elements of your site in users’ browsers, reducing load time for returning visitors. Most website platforms offer caching plugins or built-in features.
Use a Content Delivery Network (CDN): A CDN stores copies of your site on servers worldwide, delivering pages from the nearest server to the user for faster loading times.
Tools to Measure and Improve Page Speed
Here are some free tools you can use to check your website’s speed and get tips on how to improve it:
Google PageSpeed Insights: This tool analyzes your page load speed and provides specific recommendations to enhance performance. Try it here.
GTmetrix: Offers detailed insights into various elements that may slow down your site and suggests improvements. Check it out.
The Real SEO Impact of Faster Load Times
Page speed is a confirmed ranking factor in Google’s algorithm, meaning faster sites are more likely to show up higher in search results. According to HubSpot, improving page load speed can increase SEO rankings and reduce bounce rates, leading to more conversions (HubSpot, 2021).
For local businesses, page load speed can impact how effectively you connect with nearby customers. A fast website can make a strong first impression, keeping visitors engaged and making it more likely they’ll explore your services.
Create an Internal Linking Strategy
What is Internal Linking and Why It’s Important for SEO
Internal linking refers to linking one page of your website to another page within the same domain. This helps search engines understand the structure of your website and establish a hierarchy for the most important pages. A solid internal linking strategy not only supports on-page SEO but also guides users through your content, increasing their time on your site and enhancing their overall experience.
According to Search Engine Journal, internal linking is a vital factor for SEO because it distributes authority throughout your site, helping more pages rank (Search Engine Journal, 2020). Internal links also make it easier for search engines to crawl your site, allowing them to index more pages and better understand your content.
Best Practices for an Effective Internal Linking Strategy
Implementing an internal linking strategy doesn’t need to be complicated. Here are some simple tips:
Link to Relevant Content: Connect pages that logically relate to each other. For instance, if you have a blog post about “on-page SEO tips,” link it to a guide on “SEO basics for beginners” to create a cohesive flow of information.
Use Descriptive Anchor Text: The clickable text in your links, known as anchor text, should describe the content of the linked page. Avoid generic phrases like “click here.” Instead, use descriptive terms like “SEO tips for Central Iowa businesses” to improve SEO and provide context.
Focus on High-Value Pages: Link to pages that are important for conversions or lead generation, such as product pages, services pages, or key blog posts. This signals to search engines that these pages have priority.
Keep a Balanced Link Structure: Ensure you don’t overload any single page with too many internal links. Aim for a natural flow that’s user-friendly and keeps readers engaged without overwhelming them.
Example of an Effective Internal Link
Imagine you’re writing a blog post on “SEO Tips for Small Businesses in Ankeny, Iowa.” Here’s how you could naturally add an internal link:
“One of the simplest ways to improve your SEO is by optimizing meta descriptions. To learn more about this, check out our post on ‘Low-Hanging Fruit for Improved On-Page SEO.’”
This internal link guides readers to relevant content while signaling to search engines that both pages are connected.
How Internal Linking Benefits SEO
Internal links help establish a clear structure for your site, making it easier for search engines to discover and rank your content. A study by Moz found that effective internal linking can boost rankings for specific pages by up to 20%, as it enhances the site’s overall authority and relevance (Moz, 2019).
For local businesses in Des Moines, IA or Ankeny, Iowa, an internal linking strategy also makes it easier for users to navigate through related content, such as blog posts and service pages, helping to create a more engaging website experience. By guiding visitors to valuable content, you encourage them to stay longer and explore more, which positively impacts SEO.
Focus on Mobile Optimization
Why Mobile Optimization is Essential for SEO
With the majority of web traffic now coming from mobile devices, optimizing your site for mobile users isn’t optional—it’s essential. Google uses a mobile-first indexing approach, meaning it primarily evaluates the mobile version of a website when determining rankings. If your site isn’t mobile-friendly, it could hurt your visibility on search engines and frustrate users, causing them to leave.
According to Think with Google, 53% of mobile users will abandon a page if it takes longer than three seconds to load (Think with Google, 2018). A mobile-friendly website not only improves SEO rankings but also enhances user experience, keeping visitors engaged and reducing bounce rates.
Quick Wins for Mobile Optimization
Making your site mobile-friendly doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few straightforward steps to get started:
Use a Responsive Design: Responsive design ensures your website adjusts to fit various screen sizes. Most modern website platforms offer responsive themes, making this step easier.
Optimize Text for Readability: Text on mobile screens should be large enough to read without zooming. Stick with a font size of at least 16px for body text to enhance readability.
Streamline Navigation: Keep mobile menus simple and accessible. Use collapsible menus (hamburger icons) to save space and make it easy for users to navigate.
Eliminate Pop-Ups and Intrusive Elements: Mobile users can be put off by pop-ups that are difficult to close. Google penalizes sites with intrusive interstitials, so limit or avoid pop-ups on mobile.
Tools to Test Mobile Friendliness
To make sure your website is optimized for mobile, use these free tools for testing:
Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test: Enter your URL, and Google will analyze how mobile-friendly your site is, offering specific suggestions for improvement. Try it here.
Google PageSpeed Insights: This tool not only analyzes mobile speed but also provides recommendations to improve both speed and user experience. Check it out here.
The SEO Benefits of Mobile Optimization
According to a report by HubSpot, mobile-optimized websites see an average increase in page views by 30% due to reduced bounce rates and improved usability (HubSpot, 2020). When visitors have a positive experience on mobile, they’re more likely to stay on the site, explore more pages, and convert, all of which signals to Google that your site is relevant and valuable.
For local businesses, mobile optimization is especially beneficial. Many local searches are done on mobile, so a mobile-friendly site ensures nearby customers have a smooth experience as they look up services, products, or directions on the go.
Conclusion
Improving your website’s SEO doesn’t have to be overwhelming or technical. By focusing on these low-hanging fruits, you can boost your site’s visibility and make it more appealing to both users and search engines. From using descriptive alt text for images to enhancing mobile optimization, each of these small steps adds up to a better user experience and stronger SEO.
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Recap of the key actions:
1. Use Alt Text for Images – Describe your images with relevant keywords for improved indexing and accessibility.
2. Optimize Meta Descriptions – Craft enticing, keyword-rich summaries to encourage more clicks in search results.
3. Use Header Tags Strategically – Structure your content with H1, H2, and H3 tags to improve readability and SEO relevance.
4. Improve Page Load Speed – Make simple tweaks to ensure your site loads quickly, boosting user satisfaction and rankings.
5. Create an Internal Linking Strategy – Guide visitors through your content and reinforce important pages with internal links.
6. Focus on Mobile Optimization – Ensure your site looks great and works seamlessly on mobile devices.
Even small improvements can make a significant difference in your site’s performance. Start with one or two of these tips and see how they impact your visibility. Consistent, user-friendly updates build a strong foundation for SEO, helping you reach more potential customers and keep them engaged.
If you’re ready to take your SEO further or need assistance with a comprehensive strategy, reach out to us! Let’s work together to help your business thrive online.
Citations:
Moz - “Image SEO Best Practices” (2019): Read more
Search Engine Journal - “The Power of Meta Descriptions” (2020): Read more
Backlinko - “Google CTR Study” (2021): Read more
Ahrefs - “Header Tags and SEO” (2020): Read more
SEMrush - “The SEO Benefits of Properly Structured Header Tags” (2019): Read more
Google - “The Importance of Speed in Conversions” (2018): Read more
HubSpot - “Why Page Load Speed is Critical for SEO” (2021): Read more
Google - “The Importance of Speed in Conversions” (2018): Read more
HubSpot - “Why Page Load Speed is Critical for SEO” (2021): Read more
Search Engine Journal - “The Importance of Internal Links for SEO” (2020): Read more
Moz - “How Internal Links Affect SEO” (2019): Read more
Think with Google - “The Importance of Mobile Speed and User Experience” (2018): Read more
HubSpot - “The Benefits of Mobile Optimization” (2020): Read more