Three SEO Tips For People Who Like SEO Tips

Tip #1: Replace that spammy footer with an elite on-site directory.

Scenario: You have 20-30 Web sites and you cross-link them in your footers. Change all the Web sites to do the following:

• Remove the footer links
• Add a crawlable link to each site’s navigation that leads to an internal directory. Call it “Properties”, “Affiliations”, “Sister Sites”, etc. Something informative.
• In the internal directory, list all the 20-30 other sites in alphabetical order. Include a paragraph (50-100 words) of descriptive text about each one. Break up the list to include about 10 listings per page and make sure all the directory pages link to each other for easy navigation.
• Each site’s elite directory should use unique descriptive text (as compared to the other sites’ elite directories) but the keyword-based anchors should be similar enough to carve out a long-tail niche.

Pros: Including a link to your elite directory in your on-site navigation helps get it crawled often. Moving all those links from your footer eliminates an eyesore. Creating an elite directory establishes value for your visitors.
Cons: Requires work and patience.

Tip #2: Boost a page’s keyword relevance with fact lists.

Scenario: You have a page of text that is well-written but keyword-weak. You want to boost its relevance without harming the content’s readability.

• Create a list of 5-10 facts about the topic your keywords relate to.
• Write each list item to use the keywords in natural language
• Insert the list in the margin, footer, or near the bottom part of your page as a “sidebar” feature
• Use a unique list for every page that includes a fact list (don’t turn it into boilerplate)

Pros: Increases relevance and interest factors for every page where a unique fact list is included. Lists can be added gradually as time and schedules permit.
Cons: Requires creativity, work, and patience.

Tip #3: Turn your boring “About Us” page into a feature article.

Scenario: You’re worried that people are reading your “About Us” page and not taking action. You want to turn this important page into a useful conversion tool.

• Write a 1-paragraph description about yourself or your company as the opening paragraph.
• Pick three interesting facts about yourself or company that relate to the purpose of the Web site.
• Write 1-2 paragraphs about each interesting fact. Include humor if appropriate. Assign a sub-header to each section.
• Insert a picture with an appropriate call to action with each section. The picture can be of products, people performing service, a happy satisfied face, etc.
• Complete the “About Us” article with the usual information on officers, company history, personal background, etc.

Pros: Adds relevant, interesting content to an otherwise incidental page. Including calls to action helps remind people of the value your Website provides. Uses the natural strength of the “About Us” page to your advantage.
Cons: Requires creativity and faith in your inclusion of an “About Us” page on your site.