20 SEO Techniques for Higher Rankings That Drive Results and Success

You’re here for more traffic, better rankings, and real results. We get it – you’ve put in the work, but now it’s time to level up with SEO techniques that go beyond the basics. Whether you’re aiming for more sales, in-store visits, or just solid leads, these advanced SEO techniques for higher rankings can do the heavy lifting. Not only will they boost your website’s visibility, but they’ll also help you get that sweet return on investment (ROI) you’ve been craving.

So if you’re ready to get real about SEO and finally see the payoff, stick around. These SEO techniques for higher rankings will get your site where it needs to be. Let’s dive in and make it happen.

What Advanced SEO Techniques for Higher Rankings You Can Use Today?

#1. REOPTIMIZE YOUR OLD CONTENT FOR SEO WINS

If you’re not reoptimizing old content, you’re missing out on easy traffic and valuable conversions. More than half of businesses are now doing content marketing, which means there’s a lot of valuable content sitting out there, aging without attention.

That’s wasted potential! Think of those older, underperforming posts as a bike with a flat tire—it’s still valuable, but without a little fix-up, it’s not going anywhere. So, if you’re noticing a drop in rankings in your Google position check, it’s time to roll out some SEO techniques for higher rankings and bring those posts back to life.

Why Reoptimize Old Content?

Refreshing old content that’s not performing well is one of the most efficient ways to increase site traffic and drive more conversions without reinventing the wheel. Rather than creating new content from scratch, reoptimizing lets you build on the hard work you’ve already done, squeezing more value out of each post. If a blog post once brought in traffic but has lost its steam, it can often regain that momentum with a few adjustments. The goal? Get it back up there on the SERPs, where it can bring in fresh eyes and new leads.

How to Find Content Worth Reoptimizing

Here’s a breakdown of how to find those hidden gems buried in your content archive:

#1. Google Analytics: Head to Google Analytics and check out your organic traffic and conversion data. Look for pages that have taken a dip in recent months or aren’t delivering the traffic they once did. If a page’s traffic has dropped, or if it’s underperforming compared to others, it’s a good candidate for reoptimization.

#2. Google Search Console: Use Search Console to dig into impressions and click data. You want to find pages with high impressions but low clicks; this often means people are seeing the page, but the title or description isn’t grabbing their attention, or it’s ranking lower on the first page. Tweaking these pages with stronger keywords, fresh titles, and updated meta descriptions can help improve click-through rates (CTR).

#3. Ahrefs or Similar SEO Tools: Ahrefs and similar tools like SEMrush can give you detailed data on keyword rankings and traffic trends over time. For instance, if a page ranked high for a valuable keyword in the past but has slipped to page two or three, it’s time for a tune-up. Check which keywords it’s ranking for and whether you need to refresh them or add new, high-value keywords.

Key Pages to Focus On

Not all old content needs a revamp—focus on the pieces that will give you the most bang for your buck. Here’s what to look for:

#1. At least six months old: Fresh content typically doesn’t need reoptimization yet. Pages that are six months or older, especially if their traffic has waned, are the prime candidates for this strategy.

#2. Pages with a strong track record: If a post drove significant traffic or conversions at one point, it’s worth the effort to bring it back up to speed. Check your analytics for content that once performed well but has recently seen a decline in engagement.

#3. Content related to your products or services: Pages tied to your core business are particularly valuable since they’re more likely to convert visitors into customers. Make sure these pages are updated to reflect the latest keywords, information, and trends in your industry.

Steps to Reoptimize Content Effectively

Once you’ve identified your target pages, it’s time to get into the nitty-gritty of reoptimization. Here’s what to look for during your audit:

#1. Title Tag Updates: Update your title tags to make them more relevant and enticing. A slight tweak to include high-traffic keywords, or making the title more action-oriented, can boost click-through rates.

#2. Keyword Insertions: Check for new, relevant keywords that you can naturally insert into your content. This could be long-tail keywords that capture search intent better or keywords that have recently gained traction.

#3. Internal Linking: Adding fresh internal links to and from your page is an easy way to boost its SEO juice. Link to other pages on your site that are relevant to your updated content to create a web of related information.

#4. Refresh Outdated Information: Update any outdated information, links, or stats. If the post includes numbers or references that are a few years old, swap them out with fresh data. This shows Google and users that your content is still accurate and relevant.

#5. Add New Content: Sometimes, older posts need more than a touch-up—they need extra content. Add new sections, subsections, or case studies to improve the depth and relevance of your post. Look for questions or related topics people are searching for and expand on them to make your content more comprehensive.

#6. Optimize for Readability: Breaking up large paragraphs, adding bullet points, and including images or updated visuals can make your content more engaging. A better user experience can lead to higher engagement and a lower bounce rate, which benefits your rankings.

When you use these SEO techniques for higher rankings, you can take your old content and give it a new life, attracting more traffic and driving the conversions that matter most. Don’t let valuable content gather dust; give it the revamp it deserves and watch it start working for you again.

#2. USE KEYWORDS WHERE THEY COUNT

keywords are a big deal if you want to rank, but here’s the thing—not all keyword placements are created equal. It’s not just about cramming keywords in every paragraph or sprinkling them everywhere. To make your content perform better on search engines, you need to know where to place your keywords for maximum impact. With SEO techniques for higher rankings, keyword placement is all about being intentional and strategic, and here’s how to do it right.

Why Placement Matters as Much as Frequency

Dropping keywords randomly can actually hurt your SEO by making your content look spammy. Instead, focus on placing your keywords in key areas that signal their relevance to both users and search engines. These “hot spots” are where search engines look first, so using keywords there boosts your chances of ranking higher, faster.

Where to Place Your Keywords for Maximum Impact

#1. Title Tag: This is one of the most influential parts of your SEO game plan. The title tag is what users see on search results, and it’s a major ranking factor. Make sure your keyword shows up in the title tag for that page, ideally closer to the start. For instance, if your keyword is “SEO techniques for higher rankings,” start with something like, “SEO Techniques for Higher Rankings: 10 Proven Tips.”

#2. URL: URLs are a small but powerful way to show search engines what your content is about. Keep them short, clean, and include your primary keyword. A URL like yourwebsite.com/SEO-techniques-for-higher-rankings looks way better to search engines (and users) than a messy, keyword-less URL.

#3. First 100 Words: Putting your keyword early on in the content helps search engines understand the main focus of the page right away. It also signals to readers that they’re in the right place. So, weave in your keyword naturally within the first couple of sentences. If you’re targeting “SEO techniques for higher rankings,” you might start your post with, “If you’re looking to climb up the search rankings, these SEO techniques for higher rankings are the way to go.”

#4. Headings and Subheadings (H1, H2, etc.): Search engines love structure, and using your keyword in headings helps them (and readers) understand the hierarchy of information. Use your keyword in at least one H2 heading (or an H1 if that’s your main title). This helps Google scan the content and get a sense of its structure and relevance.

#5. Image Alt Text: Alt text isn’t just for accessibility; it also helps search engines understand what your images represent. If it’s relevant, add your keyword in the image alt text—just keep it natural. Instead of stuffing keywords, try something like, “A step-by-step guide to SEO techniques for higher rankings.”

Fine-Tuning the Placement Without Overdoing It

It’s easy to go overboard with keywords, but moderation is key. You want to keep things natural. Don’t try to force the keyword in where it doesn’t make sense; search engines are smarter than that, and they value quality, user-friendly content. Overuse can backfire, making your content look spammy, so aim for a natural balance.

Using these SEO techniques for higher rankings—like focusing on strategic keyword placement—gives your content a better shot at climbing the search results. Instead of playing a numbers game with keywords, place them thoughtfully in these high-impact areas. This way, you’re signaling relevance to search engines and giving your readers a better experience.

#3. MAKING YOUR WEBSITE MOBILE-FRIENDLY

If your website isn’t mobile-friendly in 2024, you’re behind the curve. With so many people glued to their phones, scrolling, shopping, and searching, having a site that works well on mobile isn’t just smart; it’s essential. To stay competitive and use SEO techniques for higher rankings effectively, a responsive site is key. Let’s break down why and how to get it done.

Why Your Site Needs to Be Mobile-Friendly

Think about it, over half of all internet traffic comes from mobile devices, and more than 40% of online transactions happen on phones or tablets. People are shopping, browsing, and making decisions on the go. If your site doesn’t load well on mobile, you’re probably losing visitors, and that’s traffic you can’t afford to miss.

Plus, Google’s gone all-in with mobile-first indexing, which means it evaluates your site based on the mobile experience first. If Google’s crawlers see your site struggling on mobile, it can hurt your rankings. So, if you’re serious about SEO techniques for higher rankings, having a mobile-friendly site isn’t just nice—it’s non-negotiable.

How to Get Your Site Mobile-Ready

Now, here’s where things can get a bit technical. Building a mobile-friendly site isn’t always a DIY project, especially if you’re not tech-savvy. You’ll probably want a developer to make sure your site’s design adjusts seamlessly across devices, and that it loads fast without losing functionality. A developer can help you with all the essentials: flexible layouts, image scaling, faster load times, and more.

If you’re using a website builder like Wix, keep in mind that while it might give you a quick fix for mobile-readiness, it may not offer the full control you need for a long-term SEO strategy. SEO pros generally recommend more customizable platforms like WordPress, where you can tweak elements as you grow.

Not sure if your site is hitting the mobile-friendly mark? Try Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test tool. It’s a free and super-easy way to see where your site stands. Once you’ve got a handle on any issues, you’ll know what changes need to be made to help your site climb the rankings.

Final Word, mobile-friendly sites aren’t just for google; they’re for your visitors. At the end of the day, SEO techniques for higher rankings are important, but let’s not forget why mobile-friendliness really matters—your users. A smooth, easy experience on mobile means visitors are more likely to stay, engage, and convert, giving your site a better chance of success.

#4. CRAFTING AN INTERNAL LINKING STRATEGY

Whether your website’s big or small, having a smart internal linking strategy is a total game-changer if you’re aiming to rank higher. This isn’t just an SEO extra—it’s essential. Without internal links, your site’s like a bunch of islands with no bridges. You need clear paths for users and search engines to explore your site smoothly, and that’s where this SEO technique for higher rankings comes in.

Why You Need an Internal Linking Process

Think of Google’s crawlers as little robot visitors. They roam around your site, figuring out what each page is about and how it all connects. But here’s the catch: if a page doesn’t have any links pointing to it, it’s like putting up a “Do Not Enter” sign for these crawlers. They simply can’t access it, and neither can visitors. And when your pages are hidden from crawlers, they won’t show up in search results, which means missing out on potential traffic, conversions, and revenue.

Having a solid internal linking process does a lot more than just “keep the crawlers happy”:

#1. Creates Connections Across Your Content: Linking between pages helps search engines understand the structure of your site and how different pages relate to each other.

#2. Passes Authority (a.k.a. Link Juice): When you link from high-authority pages, like your homepage, to less popular pages, it transfers some of that authority to help those pages rank better.

#3. Highlights Important Pages: Internal links can bring visibility to older or deeper pages that otherwise wouldn’t get much traffic.

If you’re serious about using SEO techniques for higher rankings, then making your pages accessible through internal linking is a crucial step.

How to Build an Internal Linking Process

Building an internal linking process doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s a straightforward plan to help you build a link structure that’ll support your SEO goals.

#1. Audit Your Links with Tools: Start with a link audit to understand where you’re at. Tools like Moz’s OpenSiteExplorer or Ahrefs’ internal backlink report let you see how many links each page has. This helps you find the pages that don’t have any internal links and could benefit from a bit more visibility.

#2. Plan Your Linking Strategy: As you create new content, make it a habit to link to other pages on your site that genuinely add value for readers. Link from popular, high-authority pages to newer or lower-traffic pages to give them a boost in rankings. This doesn’t mean stuffing links in randomly; it’s about building a natural flow that keeps users interested.

#3. Use Anchor Text That Feels Natural: Anchor text is the clickable text of your link, and it should feel like it belongs in the sentence. While including keywords can be helpful for SEO, don’t force it. The goal is to make the anchor text relevant and clear so readers know exactly what they’ll find on the other side.

#4. Revisit and Update Links: This isn’t a one-and-done deal. Revisit old content regularly and look for opportunities to link to newer pages. The more connected your site, the better it’ll perform in search and user experience. By keeping your internal linking up-to-date, you create a web of content that’s easy for users and crawlers to explore.

With a thoughtful internal linking strategy, you’re doing more than just boosting your SEO—you’re creating a better experience for every visitor. It’s all about giving your audience a seamless journey through your content while using smart SEO techniques for higher rankings to improve your visibility.

#5. OPTIMIZING CONTENT FOR GOOGLE RANKBRAIN

With Google holding over 90% of the search market, getting your SEO game on point is non-negotiable. And if you’re not optimizing your content for Google RankBrain, you’re missing out on one of the key players in the search engine game.

Why You Need to Optimize for Google RankBrain

RankBrain is Google’s machine-learning algorithm that plays a massive role in determining how content ranks. Essentially, it looks at how people interact with search results. If users click on your site and quickly bounce back to Google because they didn’t find what they were looking for, RankBrain takes note. If this keeps happening, your rankings take a hit.

Google has made RankBrain one of its top three ranking factors, which is why optimizing your content for it is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. Without it, your content might not perform well in search results, even if you’ve nailed everything else. So, if you’re serious about SEO techniques for higher rankings, focusing on RankBrain is essential.

How Do I Optimize Content for Google RankBrain?

The main thing RankBrain cares about is click-through rate (CTR). CTR is pretty straightforward—it’s just the percentage of clicks your page gets when it shows up in search results. However, boosting your CTR isn’t as simple as it sounds. You need to think about both your SEO strategy and your audience. If you miss the mark on either, your CTR won’t hit the sweet spot, and that’ll hurt your rankings.

Here’s how to optimize for RankBrain by focusing on two key areas:

Title Tag

Meta Description

These are the first things users see in search results, and they heavily influence whether they click on your page or not. So, what’s the trick to getting them right?

#1. Optimizing Your Title Tag and Meta Description

You’ve probably already heard that your title tag and meta description should include your core keyword. This is crucial for SEO techniques for higher rankings. But, the real challenge comes in crafting them in a way that not only tells Google what your content is about but also grabs the attention of users.

To really hook readers and get them to click on your link, check out these tips:

Address the problem your content solves: People search for solutions. Make it clear that your page is what they need.

#1. Use emotions in your title tags: Positive emotions like “easy,” “fast,” or “proven” get clicks, but don’t shy away from negative ones like “stop wasting time” or “avoid these mistakes.”

#2. Power words work wonders: Words like “ultimate,” “essential,” “step-by-step,” or “guaranteed” add punch to your titles and make them irresistible.

#3. Pick the right format: Titles that offer lists or how-to guides tend to get more attention. People love structured, actionable content.

The key here is making sure your title tag and meta description aren’t just eye-catching—they need to match what your content delivers. If you’ve got a title like “5 Ways to Wash Your Dog,” but your content only covers one, people are going to bounce. Google takes note of this, and so will RankBrain.

Optimizing for RankBrain is all about getting people to click—and then keeping them engaged. So, use your title tag and meta description to make a strong first impression. Make sure they align perfectly with your content, and that your pages actually deliver what they promise. These simple yet powerful SEO techniques for higher rankings will help you boost your click-through rate, stay in Google’s good books, and keep climbing those search rankings.

#6. TARGETING KEYWORDS WITHOUT FEATURED SNIPPETS

Google has changed the game. It’s no longer just a search engine; it’s a full-on portal. So if you’re not adjusting your SEO approach, you could be leaving traffic on the table. One of the biggest shifts in how Google serves up search results? Featured snippets—those neat little boxes at the top that answer the search query directly.

Targeting keywords without featured snippets could be one of the most effective SEO techniques for higher rankings you’re missing out on.

Why Focus on Keywords Without Featured Snippets?

Let’s break it down. Featured snippets may only show up in about 15% of all searches, but once you start digging into your keyword strategy, you’ll realize that a lot of the keywords you’re targeting already have a featured snippet. And here’s where things can get tricky.

If you can grab that snippet, great. You’re all set. But if you can’t? Well, you might be missing out on clicks, and that hurts.

Why? Because snippets steal traffic. If you don’t own that snippet, you’re looking at a significant dip in your CTR (click-through rate). For example, if you rank #1 but the snippet’s already there, you could lose about 9% of your potential clicks.

The numbers don’t lie: Let’s say a keyword gets 1,000 searches a month. Without the snippet, you could be grabbing about 260 clicks. With the snippet, you’re down to 190 clicks. That’s a loss of 70 clicks a month—and that can add up fast, especially if your content is about something that’s high-traffic, like product pricing guides or troubleshooting tips for your services.

So what do you do? Start focusing on targeting keywords without featured snippets. It’s a smart move to protect your traffic and make sure you’re not competing with Google’s snippet box for attention.

How Do I Go About Targeting Keywords Without Featured Snippets?

Okay, so how can you use this strategy to your advantage? Here’s the game plan:

#1. Use Ahrefs to Check for Featured Snippets

Ahrefs is your secret weapon here. It lets you easily check if a keyword is triggering a featured snippet. This means you can see whether you’re in the running for that coveted spot or if someone else already has it.

#2. Quick Google Search

Sometimes the simplest approach works best. Just pop the keyword into Google and see if a featured snippet shows up. If it does, maybe rethink whether you want to target that keyword or focus on one that’s more up for grabs.

#3. Look Out for Keywords with Questions or Comparisons

Certain types of keywords are more likely to trigger featured snippets. Specifically, questions (e.g., “What’s the best way to…” or “How do I fix…”) or comparisons (e.g., “better than” or “vs.”) tend to have a higher chance of showing up in that top snippet box. Keep an eye on these, but don’t be afraid to steer clear if it’s already snatched up.

Targeting keywords without featured snippets isn’t about avoiding the snippet game entirely. It’s about playing it smart. Featured snippets are awesome if you can win them, but if you can’t, this strategy helps you avoid losing clicks while still keeping your content visible and valuable.

So, give it a shot! Focusing on keywords that don’t trigger snippets gives you more control over your traffic and helps you stay in the SEO game. Keep pushing for those higher rankings without getting caught up in the snippet wars. You’ll be glad you did.

When it comes to SEO, page speed isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a must-have. In fact, it’s something Google cares about a lot, and your users do, too.

Why Should You Care About Page Speed?

people hate waiting for pages to load. Google knows this, which is why page speed is a key ranking factor. If your site takes too long to load, you’re going to fall behind in search results—and no one wants that.

In today’s world, people expect sites to load in two seconds or less. If your site isn’t up to speed, they’ll hit the back button and find a faster competitor. Even if you’re driving traffic through social media or paid ads, page speed still matters. Slow sites lead to high bounce rates, and that’s a killer for both user experience and SEO.

But here’s the good news: making your site faster can have a major impact. Improving your page speed by just one second can boost your conversions by 7%. Yep, you read that right—7% more conversions. So, speeding up your site is not just an SEO tactic, it’s a simple way to get more out of your existing traffic.

How to Speed Up Your Website

Optimizing page speed can sound a bit daunting, especially if you’re not super tech-savvy. But trust me, with the right help and tools, it’s totally doable. And, once it’s set up, it’ll make a huge difference.

You might want to bring in a developer or a designer to help speed things up. Having someone with technical SEO experience on your team makes a huge difference because they can spot issues you might miss. But don’t worry—you don’t have to be a developer to improve your site speed. There are tools like Google PageSpeed Insights that make it easy to track your site’s performance and see where improvements are needed.

The best part? Page speed optimization is an ongoing process. Once you make improvements, you’ve got to stay on top of it, especially when you add new pages or content.

Here are some simple (but effective) ways to speed up your site:

#1. Compress Your Images

Large images = slow load times. So, make sure your images are compressed without losing quality. You can use free online tools to make this happen quickly and easily.

#2. Cut Down on Redirects

Every redirect you add slows your site down. If you don’t need them, get rid of them. If you do need them, make sure they’re set up correctly to minimize the impact on load speed.

#3. Clean Up Your Code

Bloat in your HTML or JavaScript code can weigh your site down. Streamline and remove anything that’s unnecessary. Cleaner code means faster loading times.

If you’ve got a development team, make sure you provide them with guidelines or a wiki to keep everyone on the same page when it comes to page speed. That way, whenever new content or pages are added, they’ll be optimized from the start.

Keep Your Site Fast and Stay Ahead

Speeding up your site is just one part of the equation. You need to stay on top of it. As you add more content or make updates, remember that each new page should also meet the same speed standards. Regularly check your page speed with tools like Google PageSpeed Insights and make sure everything stays optimized.

With the right SEO techniques for higher rankings and a focus on page speed, your site will not only rank higher but also provide a better user experience. And trust me—when users have a great experience, they’ll stick around longer, engage more, and convert better. Now, that’s a win-win.

#7. DITCH THIN CONTENT

Thin content is the online version of a half-hearted attempt—it’s like a single squeeze of ketchup for a whole plate of fries. Sure, it’s there, but it’s nowhere near enough to keep anyone satisfied. In the world of SEO techniques for higher rankings, thin content is dead weight. If you’re serious about improving your site’s performance, it’s time to say goodbye to those underwhelming pages.

Why Thin Content Drags Your Site Down

Thin content is low-value, bare-minimum stuff that doesn’t do much for your users—or for search engines. Imagine pages with less than 250 words, affiliate pages without original insights, pages that are just there to channel traffic, or even duplicate content. Google doesn’t necessarily penalize thin content directly, but it does judge it. If your site has a bunch of thin content, Google thinks, “This site isn’t bringing much value to the table.” That negative perception can hurt your rankings—not just for that one weak page but for the whole site.

How to Tackle Thin Content Like a Pro

#1. Run a Content Audit

Go through your site and take a good look at each page. Ask yourself: Does this page give real value? Does it fully answer the questions visitors might have?

#2. List Out Thin Pages

Make a simple Google Sheet and document all the pages that need help. That way, you’ve got a clear list to work from.

#3. Make Your Move

Decide if each page is worth saving or if it’s better off gone. If there’s potential to bulk it up with relevant info, go for it. If not, it’s probably best to delete it.

#4. Set Up Redirects for Deleted Pages

When you delete a page, make sure to redirect users somewhere more useful instead of leaving them hanging. This keeps people engaged on your site and shows Google that you’re serious about quality.

Why Killing Thin Content Boosts Your Rankings

This isn’t about just cutting down your page count—it’s about beefing up the quality of what’s left. Clearing out thin content tells Google, “This site is packed with solid info.” That’s a big boost for both your credibility and ranking potential. In the end, better content means a better experience for your users and a stronger performance in search results. So, if you’re looking to use SEO techniques for higher rankings, killing thin content is an absolute must.

#8. GO AFTER DEAD LINKS?

A dead link (or broken link) is simply a link that goes nowhere, usually because the page it’s pointing to was deleted or moved. Dead links hurt user experience, so many site owners don’t want them around. By finding these broken links on pages linking to your competitors, you can propose your content as a fix. The benefits are twofold:

#1. Dead Links Are Opportunities: Websites that link to competitors’ broken pages are, in essence, already “vouching” for the value of similar content. They’ve shown they’re open to sharing content on this topic, making them more likely to consider linking to your content if it’s relevant and helpful.

#2. It’s Easier Than Cold Outreach: You’re not just asking for a random favor. Instead, you’re providing real value by notifying site owners of a broken link and offering a relevant, helpful replacement. This can give you a much better shot at earning a backlink than cold, unsolicited pitches.

How to Snag Dead Links

Step 1: Use Screaming Frog to Find Dead Links on Competitor Sites

Screaming Frog is a tool that crawls websites, identifying the status of each page. In this case, you’ll use it to scan a competitor’s site for 404 errors. Here’s how:

Enter a Competitor’s URL in Screaming Frog: Type in the URL of a competitor you know has similar content to yours, ideally with a strong presence in your industry.

Adjust the Settings:

Go to Configuration > Spider.

Uncheck the Check External Links option. You only need internal links on the competitor’s site to find those broken (404) pages.

Click Ok and run the scan.

Review the Results:

Once the scan finishes, find the Client Error (4xx) response codes—these indicate broken pages on your competitor’s site.

Export this data into a .csv file so you can work with it easily.

By the end of this step, you’ll have a list of broken competitor pages, i.e., your potential opportunities!

Step 2: Organize and Refine Data in Google Sheets

Now that you have a list of dead links, it’s time to sift through and prioritize. Google Sheets is ideal here because it lets you keep all your findings organized and easily accessible.

Import the Screaming Frog Data: Drop the .csv file into Google Sheets.

Identify Relevant Pages:

Go through each 404 page link to identify which of these pages have content you can realistically replace.

For example, if one of the dead pages was a guide to “The Basics of Email Marketing,” and you have similar content, mark it as a priority.

Filter out links to pages that aren’t relevant to your site or business goals, so you’re left with high-priority opportunities.

Create a Tidy List for Outreach: Make a shortlist of relevant broken links, so you’re only pitching sites with content directly relevant to yours.

Step 3: Find the Backlinks to Dead Pages with Ahrefs

Ahrefs helps you find all the other websites currently linking to each of these 404 competitor pages. This step is essential because it shows you which websites might be interested in linking to your content instead.

Enter Each 404 Page URL into Ahrefs:

Go to Ahrefs, and under Site Explorer, type in the URLs of each 404 page you identified.

Once it loads, go to the Backlinks report, which will list all the websites currently linking to this page.

Evaluate Each Linking Site’s Quality:

Look at each site’s Domain Rating (DR) and URL Rating (UR). These metrics tell you how authoritative a site is.

A high DR indicates a powerful site; ideally, focus on backlinks from higher DR sites for the most SEO impact.

Add the best backlink opportunities (with high DR and relevance) to your Google Sheet so that you can track your outreach.

Filter Out Low-Value Links:

Only add links from reputable sources that align with your industry. Low-quality sites with little authority aren’t worth pursuing.

Step 4: Outreach

Now that you’ve got a list of target sites and pages, it’s time to reach out!

Craft Your Message:

Your message should be simple, helpful, and direct. Let the site owner know they’re linking to a 404 page on your competitor’s site and offer your content as an alternative.

Here’s a sample message:

“Hey [Website Owner’s Name], I came across a link on your site to a page that’s no longer available. Since it looks like you’re interested in [topic], I thought you might like our article on [related topic]. It could be a solid alternative for your readers!”

Be Personal but Brief: Customize each message to show you’ve done your research. A little personalization can make a big difference, but keep it short to respect their time.

Follow Up: If you don’t get a response after a week or two, consider a gentle follow-up. Sometimes, a reminder can go a long way in securing that link.

When you follow these steps, you turn your competitors’ missed opportunities into your gains. This SEO strategy not only helps you snag valuable backlinks but also allows you to serve site owners with a better resource for their readers, increasing your chances of getting that link.

#9. CLAIMING DEAD LINKS TO COMPETITORS’ PAGES

Link-building is essential in any SEO strategy, as these “online shoutouts” signal to search engines that your content is credible and valuable. Yet, acquiring quality links isn’t easy—traditional outreach can feel like a long uphill climb. One efficient workaround is targeting “dead links” on your competitors’ sites—broken links that lead to nonexistent (404) pages. By pinpointing these, you can offer site owners an improved alternative: content from your own site. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to do it.

Why Go After Dead Links?

When a link points to a dead page, it essentially leads to a dead end—no value for users or site owners. Websites want smooth, functional navigation, so these broken links are often a priority to fix. That’s where you step in. A dead link signals an opportunity to fill the gap with your own relevant content. And because the website already linked to similar content, they’re likely more receptive to linking to your piece. It’s a much stronger outreach angle than a cold pitch, making it an effective SEO technique for higher rankings.

How to Snag Dead Links from Competitors

Here’s a step-by-step process for identifying dead links on competitor pages and positioning your content as a valuable replacement.

#1. Finding Competitor Dead Links Using Screaming Frog

Screaming Frog is a powerful SEO tool that crawls websites, helping identify each page’s status code, including any that return a 404 error. To get started, enter a competitor’s URL into Screaming Frog, making sure to adjust a few settings:

Configure Spider Settings: Under Configuration > Spider, uncheck “Check External Links.” This ensures the crawl only analyzes internal links, which makes the scan quicker and more relevant to your purposes.

Run the Scan: Once set up, start the scan and wait for it to complete. When done, filter the results to show only Client Error (4xx) codes, indicating broken pages on your competitor’s site.

Export this data into a .csv file for easy organization and to begin narrowing down the most relevant pages. By the end of this step, you have a goldmine of dead links on competitor sites.

#2. Organizing and Refining Data in Google Sheets

Now that you have a list of dead links, it’s time to organize and assess which pages can be valuable targets for outreach. Drop your .csv file into Google Sheets to make it easy to sort and annotate.

Identify pages with content that you could realistically replace with your own. For example, if a dead page was a “Guide to Social Media Basics,” and you have a similar guide on your site, mark it as a high-priority target. Filter out irrelevant pages to refine your list, ensuring you’re only spending time on high-potential links.

#3. Discovering the Backlinks with Ahrefs

With a refined list of competitor dead pages, you now need to see who’s still linking to them. Ahrefs is ideal for this step because it allows you to see every site currently pointing to each 404 page.

Run Each URL Through Ahrefs: In Ahrefs Site Explorer, enter each URL from your list of 404 pages and access the Backlinks report. This will show you all websites linking to these dead pages.

Evaluate the Quality of Each Backlink: Look for sites with high Domain Rating (DR) and URL Rating (UR)—these are your best prospects because they pass more “link juice” to your site. Add the highest-quality linking sites to your Google Sheet.

Focusing on high-authority sites keeps your efforts concentrated on valuable opportunities while weeding out low-quality or irrelevant links that won’t do much for your SEO.

#4. The Outreach Process

Once you’ve gathered your target URLs and identified the best sites linking to dead pages, it’s time to reach out. This is where the magic happens, and your pitch can make or break the success of this SEO technique for higher rankings.

Craft a message that’s brief yet informative, highlighting the value you’re offering. Here’s a sample approach:

“Hi [Site Owner’s Name], I noticed that one of the links on your site points to a page that’s no longer live. Since I have a piece on [topic] that aligns with what you were linking to, I thought it might serve as a valuable resource for your readers.”

The key here is to be respectful and helpful, offering a solution rather than simply asking for a favor. Emphasize the relevance of your content, and mention how it could benefit their readers by filling a gap caused by the broken link. Personalize each message where possible; a little effort in customization can significantly boost response rates.

If you don’t hear back, a polite follow-up after a week or two can sometimes work wonders, as site owners often appreciate a gentle reminder about an issue they may want to fix.

When you follow this approach, you’re not only filling gaps in the web but also earning valuable links that help improve your visibility. The “dead link” strategy is an effective, mutually beneficial SEO tactic that helps websites solve a problem while giving you a great reason to request a link.

#10. BREATHE NEW LIFE INTO YOUR CONTENT

When it comes to boosting visibility and getting more engagement, repurposing your content is one of those SEO techniques for higher rankings that can really pay off. Reformatting your existing content into new, shareable formats keeps things fresh for your audience and lets you reach more people. Plus, while a solid blog post or guide is valuable, relying solely on articles won’t cut it in today’s content-heavy world. With around 53% of companies publishing content—and half of those doing so daily—it’s easy to get lost in the noise.

Why bother repurposing?

Your old content might still be solid, but over time, it naturally starts losing momentum. Instead of letting those pages gather dust, repurposing can help them drive new traffic, boost engagement, and keep conversions steady. And let’s be honest, when it comes to competing for the top of search results, adding value to your site is essential.

Types of content to repurpose into:

Here are a few winning formats to breathe new life into your content:

#1. Videos: Quick clips, tutorials, or “how-to” videos that bring your topic to life.

#2. Infographics: Perfect for turning detailed info into visually engaging content.

#3. Social media posts: Snippets or visual graphics tailored for social feeds.

#4. Podcasts, slideshows, or email series: Great options to connect with different audiences.

These formats make it easy for your audience to consume and share your content in a way that feels fresh and engaging. And that added reach? It can help your SEO by encouraging more links, shares, and visibility overall.

How do I actually repurpose my content?

Repurposing isn’t just about rehashing what you’ve already written. It’s about picking the right pages and crafting a fresh take that resonates with today’s audience. Here’s a guide on how to get started with purpose and strategy:

#1. Spot the Right Pages: First up, check your site analytics to see which pages have taken a hit in traffic, conversions, or rankings. Look for those that still hold value but aren’t performing as well as they once did—especially pages on page two or three of search results that could be boosted to the front page. You’ll also want to make sure that the content aligns with your business goals, whether that’s building brand awareness, attracting leads, or driving sales.

#2. Pro tip: Focus on pages that can deliver a solid ROI. If a page doesn’t serve a core goal, like lead generation or sales, you might want to skip it or keep it low on your priority list. However, don’t dismiss pages that support your broader SEO goals; even a low-converting page, like a trends article, can be useful if repurposed into a format that generates shares and backlinks.

#3. Choose the Best Format for Repurposing: Each piece of content has potential, but not every format will do it justice. Here’s where a little research comes in. Think about what format aligns with your topic and what’s hot in your industry. Some content will do better as a video, some as a sleek infographic, and others might be best suited for quick, catchy social media posts.

Example: Let’s say you have a blog post on “2024 SEO Techniques for Higher Rankings.” Rather than just updating the text, you could turn it into a dynamic infographic or a quick video with actionable tips. This reformat not only caters to visual learners but also gives your SEO topic a shareable edge.

#4. Research the Trends: Before diving in, do a little digging into the keywords, audience preferences, and SERP landscape to understand what’s already performing well for your topic. Check out which types of content show up in search results. This can help you decide if a video, infographic, or another medium will be worth your time and investment.

#5. Make It New and Add It to the Page: Once you’ve created your shiny new content, integrate it into the original page or create a new spot for it. This can involve adding a video, embedding an infographic, or adding a social media graphic that makes the page stand out. Repurposing is a great way to keep the page relevant and offer users more value, helping to boost your ranking potential.

Repurposing content is all about working smart, not hard. You’ve already put in the effort to create valuable content; now, it’s about tweaking and reformatting it to keep the momentum going. Every time you repurpose, you’re giving search engines and users another reason to see your page as relevant and high-quality.

So, whether you’re turning a blog post into an infographic or breaking down an article into social media nuggets, it’s one of the best SEO techniques for higher rankings that’s simple, strategic, and totally worth the time.

#11. KEEP VISITORS ENGAGED AND ON YOUR SITE

Here’s the scoop:

One of the most important SEO techniques for higher rankings is to keep users on your site as long as possible. And trust me, Google is watching. Ever heard of something called “pogosticking”? It’s when a user clicks on your site from Google’s search results but quickly bounces back to the results page to find a better answer. When people “pogostick” away from your site, it sends a clear message to Google: “This site didn’t deliver.”

So, if users aren’t happy and quickly leave your page, Google’s likely going to downrank you. But here’s the big question: how can you keep users on your site longer?

#1. Make Your Content Super Scannable with Bullets and Subheadings

No one wants to read a massive wall of text! To keep people on your site, make sure your content is super easy to read and easy on the eyes. This is where bullets and subheadings come in handy.

Why? When you break your content down with bullets, lists, and clear subheadings, it:

Keeps readers interested because they can skim and find the info they need fast.

Helps stop them from immediately bouncing back to the search page.

Gives your page a clean, structured look that invites readers to stay and scroll.

This approach doesn’t just keep people happy; it actually encourages them to stick around longer. And the longer they stay, the more Google thinks, “This page is helpful.” The result? Your ranking potential goes up.

#2. Deliver Exactly What They’re Looking For

Don’t just aim to cover the topic—go above and beyond with your answers. If your content gives readers what they’re looking for, they won’t have any reason to go back to Google for a second try.

That means being direct, helpful, and even adding a bit more than expected. For example:

Add visuals like images or videos to make explanations clearer.

Include real-life examples to show your tips in action.

Answer related questions that people might have so they don’t have to leave your page for more info.

Think of this as building a “one-stop-shop” experience. The more complete and valuable your content, the longer people will stick around, and Google loves that.

#3. Keep it Casual and Engaging

If your content sounds stiff or overly formal, you risk losing the reader’s interest fast. People want something that feels like a conversation, not a lecture.

Here are a few ways to keep your tone casual:

Use language that’s friendly and easy to understand.

Write like you’re talking to a friend, with simple words and a laid-back vibe.

Keep paragraphs short, so it’s easier to read and feels more engaging.

This approach makes your content relatable, keeps users comfortable, and keeps them reading. A conversational style can make all the difference in helping readers feel connected, and connected readers are less likely to bounce.

#4. Add Interactive Elements

Get creative with interactive elements to keep users engaged even longer. Consider adding:

Quizzes or polls: These are great for getting users to interact with your content and spend extra time on your page.

Comment sections: A space for comments invites discussions and keeps users on the page while they read what others have to say.

FAQs or quick-scroll links: Make it easier for users to find exactly what they need, especially on longer pages.

When you make your page interactive, it doesn’t just make people stick around—it actually keeps them coming back, which is excellent for boosting your site’s credibility.

#5. Wrap it Up with a Solid Call to Action (CTA)

End your page with a call to action that encourages users to explore more of your site. Whether it’s linking to another blog post, a guide, or a product page, your CTA should give users a reason to stay on your site longer.

The more engaged people are, the better your SEO performance. Google loves content that keeps users happy, engaged, and on the page.

So, if you want to master SEO techniques for higher rankings, make your pages scannable, serve up high-value content, keep things friendly, and don’t be afraid to get interactive. Every small step you take to keep users on your page is a step toward higher rankings.

#12. UNLOCK “SUGGEST” KEYWORDS FOR MAXIMUM SEO

You’ve probably heard about using Google Suggest to find long-tail keywords, right? It’s a classic go-to SEO technique for higher rankings. But here’s the trick: you don’t have to limit yourself to Google! Other platforms have their own suggestion tools that can help you uncover powerful, niche-focused keywords that’ll give you an edge.

#1. Go Beyond Google, Try YouTube

Think about it—YouTube is the second-largest search engine in the world. People are searching for all kinds of “how-tos,” tutorials, and more, which means there’s a goldmine of keyword ideas waiting for you. Just start typing your main keyword into the YouTube search bar, and see what pops up!

These suggested searches are based on what real users are searching for, so they’re already validated as high-interest topics. For example, if you’re in the fitness niche, typing in “workout” might bring up “workout for beginners” or “workout at home with no equipment.” These are the kinds of phrases you can work into your content to tap into a highly targeted audience.

#2. Wikipedia

Wikipedia is another underrated tool for finding keywords and topic ideas. Just type in your main topic and check out the sections on the Wikipedia page, especially the “Contents” box at the top and any subtopics listed. For instance, if your main topic is “digital marketing,” you might see related subtopics like “SEO,” “content marketing,” “social media strategy,” and more. These can give you new ideas on what to cover in your content and keywords to target.

Pro tip: Dive into Wikipedia’s “See also” section at the bottom of the page, which lists closely related topics and terms. These are often highly relevant long-tail keywords that can help you rank higher in search results by addressing specific search intents.

#3. Bing Suggest, Don’t Skip It

Google might be king, but Bing has its own unique audience, which means it generates different keyword suggestions. Go ahead and use Bing Suggest the same way you would Google Suggest. Type in a broad term, and check out the autocomplete suggestions Bing throws at you. Often, these keywords are less competitive than what you’d find on Google, which means they can give you an extra ranking advantage with the right content.

Also, Bing’s audience skews slightly older, so if you’re targeting that demographic, Bing’s suggestions might better match their searches and provide some excellent insights.

#4. Pinterest Suggest for Visual and Niche Content

Pinterest’s suggestion tool is great for visual-driven industries like fashion, fitness, home decor, and food. Type in your main keyword, and you’ll see Pinterest’s auto-suggestions appear in the search bar. For instance, if you search “meal prep,” you might get suggestions like “meal prep for beginners,” “meal prep ideas,” or “meal prep on a budget.” These are exactly the phrases people are looking for, and incorporating them into your content can help attract Pinterest traffic and improve your SEO at the same time.

Extra tip: Pinterest also has keyword bubbles right below the search bar with related terms. These are perfect for expanding your list of long-tail keywords and making sure you’re covering all bases in your content.

#5. Amazon Suggest for Product-Based Keywords

If you’re in eCommerce, Amazon Suggest is a fantastic tool for finding keywords that match buyer intent. Type in your product or niche term in Amazon’s search bar, and see what comes up. For example, typing “yoga mat” might bring up suggestions like “yoga mat for travel” or “yoga mat for beginners,” which gives you insight into what buyers are looking for. These types of keywords are especially valuable because they often indicate a person’s readiness to buy, making them a high-value addition to your SEO strategy.

Using These Keywords in Your Content

Once you’ve gathered these suggested keywords, it’s time to put them to work in your content. Here’s how:

Incorporate long-tail keywords naturally into your headers, body text, and meta tags to make sure your content is well-optimized.

Cover related topics that came up during your research to give a well-rounded answer that keeps readers on your page longer.

Use keyword variations and related phrases in different parts of your content to make it more comprehensive and useful.

By branching out to alternative search engines and platforms, you’re setting yourself up to rank for unique keywords that aren’t as saturated, all while covering search intent across multiple audiences. These diverse suggestions can help make your content more robust and improve your chances of grabbing those higher rankings you’re after.

#13. GET RID OF ZOMBIE PAGES FOR BETTER SEO AND RANKINGS

These are those lifeless pages on your site that do… pretty much nothing. They’re not bringing in traffic, not driving conversions, and frankly, they’re just sitting there taking up space. By deleting these Zombie Pages, you’re giving your site a major SEO boost and sending Google all the right signals for higher rankings.

Think of it like clearing out old junk. When you “prune” these pages, you’re left with only the strongest, most valuable content that users—and search engines—actually want to see.

Why Delete Zombie Pages?

Google doesn’t want to rank sites stuffed with low-quality, thin content. A bloated site filled with pages that don’t serve a real purpose sends a message to Google that your content might be weak, which can drag down your entire site’s ranking potential. In fact, Google themselves have said they prefer “one stronger page versus many smaller pages.” They want quality, not quantity.

Real-world results back this up. For example, an eCommerce site once saw a massive 31% bump in search engine traffic and a 28% increase in revenue after deleting a staggering 11,000 Zombie Pages. Another case? Proven.com chopped 40,000 dead-weight pages from their site, which led to an 88.3% jump in organic search traffic. These are huge gains, and all because they got rid of content that was only holding them back.

How to Find and Delete Zombie Pages (SEO Techniques for Higher Rankings)

So, how do you go about finding these Zombie Pages? Here’s what you should look out for:

#1. Traffic Levels: Use Google Analytics or a similar tool to check page views. If a page has minimal or zero traffic over several months, it’s a strong candidate for pruning.

#2. Search Rankings: Look at where the page ranks in search results. If it’s buried on page 10 or beyond and not targeting a valuable keyword, consider cutting it.

#3. User Engagement: Check engagement metrics like bounce rate, time on page, and conversions. Zombie Pages tend to have low engagement and don’t really contribute to user satisfaction or site goals.

#4. Content Quality: Thin content (like a product page with just a single sentence description) or outdated info that no longer aligns with your goals? Time to prune.

Once you’ve identified these Zombie Pages, delete them or consolidate them into more valuable content. For example, if you have a bunch of similar pages covering the same topic, combine them into one ultimate guide. This strategy not only reduces clutter but also strengthens the quality of your site’s content, making it more authoritative and user-friendly.

Deleting Zombie Pages is one of the simplest but most powerful SEO techniques for higher rankings. It’s like cleaning out your closet—once you get rid of the stuff that doesn’t fit or isn’t adding value, you’re left with the real gems. And Google will recognize the effort by rewarding you with better rankings and more organic traffic. The more you clean up, the more you’ll see your site’s true potential shine.

If you want that SEO boost, give those Zombie Pages the chop.

#14. RUN AN INDUSTRY STUDY FOR MAJOR SEO GAINS

Want to grab some backlinks from top blogs and news sites in your niche? Here’s a secret weapon: publish an industry study.

It sounds simple, but it’s a gold mine. Industry studies are like gold in the world of SEO. When you publish one, you’re not just putting out content; you’re offering something super valuable that others in your field will want to link to and share. And as we all know, quality backlinks from authority sites are a huge deal when it comes to climbing up those search rankings.

Why Industry Studies Work Like Magic for SEO

A well-researched, data-packed industry study is exactly the kind of content that attracts the attention of influential bloggers, news outlets, and industry leaders. Here’s why it’s so powerful for boosting SEO:

#1. Gets You Backlinks: Authority sites love linking to data-driven, insightful reports. They trust your findings, and linking to your study adds value to their content. Plus, when respected sites link back to you, Google notices and bumps up your rankings.

#2. Traffic, Baby: BuzzSumo dug into this and found that publishing an industry study can lead to a massive spike in traffic. Why? Because people want to read, share, and talk about fresh, relevant data. This naturally increases your visibility.

#3. Press Mentions and Social Shares: You’ll find that once your study gets picked up by the right publications or shared across social media, your brand exposure skyrockets. News outlets, influencers, and even competitors may share your study—helping you reach a wider audience and potentially gain more backlinks.

#4. Boosts Your Authority: Publishing an in-depth study positions you as a thought leader in your industry. When others see that you’ve gathered and analyzed valuable data, they’ll start looking to you for expertise. Over time, this strengthens your site’s reputation, which is a powerful SEO asset.

How to Make It Happen

Now, how do you create an industry study that’ll really move the needle for your SEO rankings?

#1. Pick a Hot Topic: Start by identifying a topic that’s both relevant and interesting to your niche. Think of something that hasn’t been fully explored or an area that could use fresh insights. If the topic is something others in your industry are already talking about, even better.

#2. Collect Solid Data: The backbone of your study will be data. You can gather it through surveys, interviews, case studies, or pulling stats from credible sources. The more original and insightful your data, the more likely it is to get noticed.

#3. Analyze and Offer Insights: Once you have the data, dive deep into it. Present trends, patterns, and findings in a way that offers real value to your audience. Don’t just throw numbers out there—interpret them and show what they mean for your industry.

#4. Design and Present It Well: It’s not enough to just have great data; you need to present it in a visually appealing way. Use charts, graphs, and infographics to make your study easy to digest and share. The better the design, the more likely people will link to it or share it on social media.

#5. Promote Like Crazy: Once your study is live, don’t just sit back and wait for people to find it. Reach out to journalists, bloggers, and influencers in your niche. Let them know about the study and how it could be valuable to their audience. You can also use social media to amplify your findings and encourage others to share.

Industry studies are one of the best SEO techniques for higher rankings, hands down. Not only do they help you gather high-quality backlinks from authority sites, but they also boost your visibility, traffic, and social media presence.

Plus, they position you as a trusted voice in your niche. So, if you want to level up your SEO game and get noticed by the big players in your industry, running an industry study is a no-brainer.

#15. ADD RELATED KEYWORDS TO YOUR CONTENT FOR BETTER SEO RESULTS

When it comes to on-page SEO, it’s not just about cramming your main keyword into every nook and cranny of your page (although, yeah, that’s still important). If you really want to rank higher and stand out on Google, you’ve got to think bigger. Enter the world of related keywords—and trust me, they’re game changers.

Why Adding Related Keywords Matters

Google is way smarter than it used to be. Thanks to their Hummingbird update, Google doesn’t just look at the exact keywords on your page anymore. It’s all about the topic. That’s right, Google is trying to understand the context and meaning behind your content, just like a human would.

So, how do you optimize your content for this level of sophistication? Simple: add variations of your main keyword and sprinkle in related terms throughout your page.

Why? Because Google Hummingbird helps the search engine look at the broader meaning of a page rather than just focusing on exact keyword matches. So, by using synonyms and related phrases, you give Google more signals about the topic of your page. This ultimately helps your page rank higher because it makes it clear to Google that your content is authoritative and relevant.

How to Add Related Keywords for SEO Success

#1. Use Synonyms: Instead of repeating the same keyword over and over, look for different ways to say the same thing. For example, if your main keyword is “SEO techniques for higher rankings,” you could also use variations like “SEO strategies for better rankings” or “search engine optimization tips.” This gives Google a clearer picture of your content’s overall topic.

#2. Include Latent Semantic Indexing (LSI) Keywords: These are keywords that are closely related to your main topic. They don’t have to be exact synonyms, but they should still tie into the general theme of your page. So if your content is about “SEO techniques,” you might also include words like “backlink strategies,” “content marketing,” “on-page SEO,” or “ranking factors.” These LSI keywords signal to Google that your page is comprehensive and covers the topic from all angles.

#3. Natural Context: Don’t force these related keywords into your content just for the sake of it. They should flow naturally and make sense in the context of your content. Google’s algorithms are pretty advanced and can tell if you’re keyword stuffing (and that’s a no-go). Use related keywords where they fit organically to improve the user experience.

#4. Cover Related Topics: When you’re writing, think about all the aspects of your main keyword’s topic. So, if you’re writing about “SEO techniques for higher rankings,” you might also mention things like “keyword research,” “site speed optimization,” “mobile-friendly websites,” or “backlink building.” By touching on related topics, you help Google understand the breadth of your content, which boosts your chances of ranking for a wider range of search queries.

#5. Don’t Forget Long-Tail Keywords: These longer, more specific phrases often tie in naturally with your main topic. For example, you might target a broad keyword like “SEO techniques for higher rankings” but also work in longer variations like “best SEO techniques for higher rankings in 2024” or “SEO techniques for higher rankings in a competitive niche.” Long-tail keywords are often less competitive and can attract more targeted traffic.

Why This Works

By strategically adding related keywords to your content, you’re telling Google that your page is comprehensive and that you’re an expert on the topic. Not only does this help your content rank better for the main keyword, but it also improves your chances of ranking for additional, related queries.

Google Hummingbird is designed to understand the context, and when you optimize for this, you’re essentially telling Google that your page is a valuable resource on that particular subject. This makes it more likely to show up in search results when people are searching for variations or related terms.

To truly improve your SEO and boost your rankings, it’s no longer enough to focus solely on your main keyword. With Google Hummingbird in play, your content needs to be more sophisticated. Adding related keywords and synonyms helps Google understand the topic of your page in a deeper way, which can lead to better rankings, more visibility, and more organic traffic.

So, don’t just stop at the basics—use these SEO techniques for higher rankings to make sure your content is seen by more people and ranks higher on search engine results pages.

#16. ADD TEXT TO INFOGRAPHICS, PODCASTS, AND VIDEOS FOR BETTER SEO

Visual content like infographics, podcasts, and videos can be absolute goldmines when it comes to driving traffic and snagging backlinks. People love this stuff—it’s engaging, shareable, and often makes complex topics easier to digest. But here’s the thing: Google can’t read visuals.

I know, it sounds a bit wild, but it’s true. Google can’t look at your infographic or video and automatically understand what it’s about unless you give it some context. That’s where adding text comes into play, and it’s one of the best SEO techniques for higher rankings you can use. Here’s why and how you should do it.

Why Add Text to Visual Content?

#1. Google Needs Context: Google’s algorithms are awesome at understanding text—whether it’s a blog post, a landing page, or a product description—but they can’t “watch” videos or “see” infographics in the way humans can. Without proper text, Google doesn’t know what your video or graphic is about, and that means it won’t know how to rank it in search results.

#2. Boosting SEO for Visuals: Adding descriptive text can help Google figure out the topic and value of your visual content. Whether it’s a catchy video title, a thorough video description, or some alt text for your infographics, you give Google the crucial information it needs to index and rank your content properly.

#3. Increasing User Engagement: Text doesn’t just help Google—it also helps your audience. Infographics and videos often carry a lot of information, and having clear explanations in text form allows users to better understand and engage with the content. It also helps people who prefer to read or who might have accessibility needs (like those with hearing impairments for podcasts or videos). The more accessible your content is, the better.

How to Add Text to Your Infographics, Podcasts, and Videos

Infographics:

Add a Descriptive Title and Alt Text: The title of your infographic should clearly describe the topic, and you should include alt text when you upload it to your site. Alt text is a description that helps search engines understand what’s in the image, which is critical for SEO techniques for higher rankings.

Include Text in the Infographic Itself: Instead of relying on just visuals, try to add a little bit of explanation or context within the infographic itself. For example, use short captions, quotes, or data points to back up your key visuals.

Embed the Infographic in a Blog Post: Create a blog post that accompanies your infographic. This lets you add a ton of text and keywords around the visual, giving Google even more context to rank your content.

Podcasts:

Write a Show Notes Summary: When you upload a podcast, include show notes or a transcript. This gives Google a text-based summary of your podcast and helps it crawl your content. For example, if your podcast is about “SEO techniques for higher rankings,” you can include key points or timestamps to explain what you discuss, boosting your SEO.

Use Descriptive Titles: The podcast title is key. Make it search-friendly and reflective of the main topic of the episode. This helps you get found by listeners and search engines alike.

Include Links in Show Notes: Show notes are a great place to link out to relevant resources, blogs, or your own website. Internal and external linking helps improve your SEO.

Videos:

Use a Strong Video Title: Just like podcasts, the title of your video should reflect the main theme of your content. It should be something searchable, like “Top SEO Techniques for Higher Rankings in 2024.” This makes it easier for both people and search engines to find your video.

Write a Detailed Video Description: The description box is prime real estate! You should include a summary of what the video is about, as well as some keywords and SEO techniques. A detailed description with the right keywords will make your video easier to discover on YouTube and through Google search.

Use Captions or Subtitles: Adding captions not only makes your videos accessible but also helps Google understand the content. Plus, it can help people engage longer with your video, boosting its performance.

Create a Blog Post to Complement the Video: A lot of people use video content as the centerpiece of a blog post. By embedding the video within a blog post, you can surround it with tons of text-based SEO goodness that’ll help improve the page’s overall ranking.

Why This Works for SEO

By adding text to your visual content, you give Google the chance to index and understand the material. This is key because Google rewards content that it can properly index and understand, and that means better chances at ranking. Plus, well-optimized text gives users more context and improves their experience, which is another ranking factor.

For example, if you’re using SEO techniques for higher rankings in a video, but you don’t add a clear description with keyword-rich text, Google might not know that your video is relevant for search queries around SEO. But if you give it a detailed description and a transcript, Google will be able to properly categorize your video and boost its rankings.

To wrap it up: visual content is fantastic for engaging users, but to make sure it helps your SEO efforts, you’ve got to add text. Whether it’s a blog post to go with your infographic, a detailed description for your podcast, or captions for your videos, this text helps Google—and your audience—understand the value of your content.

When you follow these SEO techniques for higher rankings, you can get more eyes on your content, boost your rankings, and create an overall better experience for your audience.

#17. USE THE GOOGLE SEARCH CONSOLE FOR A MAJOR SEO BOOST

If you’re not using Google Search Console (GSC) yet, you’re missing out on some killer SEO insights. Trust me, it’s one of the best tools to level up your SEO game and give you that extra push in SEO techniques for higher rankings. Here’s how you can tap into this goldmine and get your content to perform better on Google.

Step 1: Log In and Dive into the Performance Report

First things first—log into your Google Search Console account (if you don’t have one yet, set it up—it’s free, and it’s essential). Once you’re in, head straight over to the Performance Report. This is where all the magic happens.

The Performance Report gives you an overview of how your website is performing in the search results. You’ll see metrics like total clicks, impressions, average position, and more, but here’s the juicy part: Pages.

Click on Pages, and you’ll see a breakdown of which pages are driving the most traffic. This is key because it tells you where your traffic is coming from and which pages are working hard for you.

Step 2: Dig Deeper and Uncover Hidden Keywords

Now, here’s where it gets super interesting. When you click on one of the pages that’s bringing in traffic, you’ll see all the keywords that page is ranking for. And this is where you’ll discover a goldmine.

You might find a bunch of keywords you didn’t even know you were ranking for! And I mean, some of them could be random, or keywords you accidentally optimized for. But here’s the thing—if you’re already ranking for these terms without even trying, imagine what could happen if you actually put effort into optimizing for them!

Step 3: Optimize Your Content for More Traffic

So, now that you’ve got a list of hidden keywords, you can use them to supercharge your content. How? By sprinkling those terms into your post where they make sense. Add them in your headings, body text, or even meta descriptions—basically, anywhere that feels natural and flows well.

By adding those keywords to your content, you’re signaling to Google that you’re relevant for those search terms. Google loves when you’re on point with your content, so it’ll probably bump your rankings for those keywords. It’s like getting a little SEO boost without having to work extra hard for it.

Why This Works for SEO

Google Search Console helps you spot those low-hanging fruit keywords that you’re already ranking for (without even trying!) but haven’t optimized enough for. And the best part? You don’t need to create new content—you’re just optimizing what’s already working for you.

By adding these relevant, but maybe underused, keywords to your content, you can start ranking for even more search queries. This means more visibility, more clicks, and more traffic. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that Google will see you as even more relevant for the queries you target. All of that helps you improve your rankings without having to go back to the drawing board.

Step 4: Keep Monitoring Your Progress

The key to making this work long-term is monitoring your progress. After updating your content with the new keywords, head back to Google Search Console and see how things are going. You can track the keywords you’re ranking for, check your click-through rates, and monitor how your pages are performing over time. If you see your rankings improving, you know you’re on the right track!

To sum it all up, Google Search Console is an absolute powerhouse for finding keywords that are already working for you. Instead of guessing which terms to target, you get real data on which ones are already bringing traffic.

SEO techniques for higher rankings don’t always need to be complicated. Sometimes, it’s as simple as optimizing your existing content and making sure you’re tapping into those overlooked keywords. So, dive into Search Console, uncover those hidden gems, and optimize your way to the top of the rankings.

#18. CREATE CONTENT AROUND SHOULDER NICHES FOR MASSIVE SEO WINS

Some niches can feel a bit boring. If you’re in an industry that’s a little more technical or niche-specific, you might think it’s impossible to create content that people actually want to link to or share on social media. But guess what? That’s where Shoulder Niches come in—and they’re about to become your secret weapon for ranking higher with your SEO techniques for higher rankings.

What Exactly Are Shoulder Niches?

So, what are Shoulder Niches? In simple terms, shoulder niches are topics that are closely related to your main niche but not quite as competitive or crowded. These are areas where you can still create high-value content, but they’re niche enough that you can stand out and attract an audience who’s interested in what you have to say.

For example, if your main business is about selling fitness equipment, some shoulder niches could be things like:

Home workout routines

Nutrition tips for fitness enthusiasts

Stretching and recovery techniques

Mental health and fitness

Fitness technology (like apps or wearables)

These are all related topics that still tie into fitness, but they’re not direct product sales. By creating content around these topics, you can start tapping into audiences who are already interested in the broader category (fitness) without the intense competition of targeting the same keywords as, say, buying gym equipment.

Why Shoulder Niches Are a Goldmine for SEO

Here’s the thing—when you focus on shoulder niches, you’re basically carving out a space for yourself in an area that’s not overcrowded. This can help you score some valuable SEO wins. How? Let me break it down for you:

#1. Less Competition

Because these topics are related to your main niche but not as high-traffic, there’s less competition. This makes it easier to rank higher for your target keywords and drive traffic to your site.

#2. More Opportunities for Content

There’s a lot of room to create content here. You can write blogs, create videos, host podcasts, and even develop downloadable resources—all around topics that are interesting, relevant, and useful. The key is to think about what your audience is interested in and what problems they need solutions for.

#3. Attracting a Wider Audience

When you expand into shoulder niches, you can capture the attention of a broader audience. For example, someone looking for workout routines may not have initially been in the market for fitness equipment, but after consuming your content, they might decide to buy from your site.

#4. Building Authority and Earning Backlinks

Content around shoulder niches gives you more opportunities to get backlinks. This content is often shareable because it’s informative, practical, or just straight-up helpful. More backlinks mean more credibility, which boosts your SEO. When you create shareable content, other industry bloggers, media outlets, or influencers are more likely to link to your content, driving more traffic and improving your site’s authority.

How to Find Shoulder Niches

Finding shoulder niches doesn’t need to be complicated. Here’s how you can identify them:

#1. Think about Your Audience’s Interests

Put yourself in your audience’s shoes. What other topics are they interested in? If you’re in the fashion niche, for instance, some shoulder niches could include styling tips, fashion history, or sustainable fashion. All of these topics are related, and your audience might be interested in them.

#2. Use Keyword Research Tools

Keyword tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ahrefs, or SEMrush can help you find related terms with good search volume and less competition. You can search for long-tail keywords that have a connection to your core niche.

#3. Look at What Your Competitors Are Missing

Take a look at your competitors and see if they’re missing out on any important sub-topics that are related to your niche. If there’s a gap in content, that’s a great opportunity to jump in and start producing material around those shoulder niches.

#4. Check Google’s Related Searches

Scroll to the bottom of Google’s search results, and you’ll find a section for “Related Searches.” This is a treasure trove of potential shoulder niches that you can target with your content.

#5. Content Ideas for Shoulder Niches

Once you’ve identified a few shoulder niches, it’s time to get creative and build out some content around them. Here are some content ideas to consider:

#6. How-to Guides

Create easy-to-follow guides on topics within your shoulder niche. These are super helpful and shareable. For example, “How to Create a Home Gym on a Budget” if you’re in the fitness niche.

#7. Infographics and Visuals

Infographics work great for explaining complex concepts quickly and clearly. Create one about, say, “The Best Stretches for Post-Workout Recovery,” and make it shareable.

#8. Case Studies and Industry Insights

If you’ve done any studies or surveys, publish your results in a detailed post. For example, “What Are the Best Supplements for Muscle Recovery? A Study on Fitness Trends.”

#9. Interviews with Experts

Reach out to thought leaders or influencers in your shoulder niche and conduct interviews. This will not only provide fresh perspectives but can also help you earn backlinks and exposure.

#10. Lists and Roundups

People love listicles. Think of something like “Top 10 Fitness Apps for 2024” or “5 Must-Know Nutrition Tips for Bodybuilders.”

Don’t let the so-called “boring” niche thing hold you back. By getting creative with shoulder niches, you can open up a whole world of SEO opportunities. Not only will you be creating content that’s more likely to rank, but you’ll also reach new audiences and attract more links, shares, and traffic.

Using SEO techniques for higher rankings doesn’t always have to be about fighting for the most competitive keywords. By carving out a space in those shoulder niches, you’ll build authority, attract more visitors, and see your SEO game improve—without the intense competition. So, go ahead, dive into those adjacent topics, and make your content shine.

#19. GET BACKLINKS FROM YOUR VISUAL ASSETS

Let’s talk about getting backlinks from your visual assets like infographics, charts, and other visuals. You’ve probably heard that visual content is a great way to get traffic and engagement, but here’s the deal: getting backlinks from them is a whole different ball game.

Sure, in an ideal world, people would just link back to your site whenever they use one of your charts or infographics. But let’s face it, we don’t live in a perfect world, right? People aren’t always going to just hand over those sweet backlinks. But don’t worry, I’ve got some good news. Most of the time, all it takes is a little friendly nudge, and you’ll be surprised how many people will be more than happy to link back to you.

If you’re already creating cool visual content (and I hope you are, because it’s one of the best SEO techniques for higher rankings), you should definitely be spending some time promoting it to get backlinks. Trust me, it works, and it’s one of those strategies that often gets overlooked.

The Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Backlinks from Visual Assets

#1. Find a Visual Asset on Your Site

The first step is simple: find a visual asset you’ve already published. This could be anything from an infographic, chart, diagram, to any other visual content that adds value to your audience. If you’ve got a killer infographic on, say, “10 Proven Tips for Better SEO,” that’s exactly what you want to use.

Pro tip: Make sure the visuals you choose are high-quality, informative, and useful. You want these assets to be share-worthy.

#2. Track Who’s Using Your Visuals

Now comes the fun part. You need to figure out who’s using your visuals (without crediting you). This is where a tool like Google Images comes in handy.

Go to Google Images, and click the camera icon to search by image.

Upload your infographic or visual, and Google will show you where it’s being used online. You’d be amazed at how often people grab your visuals without linking back.

Tools like BuzzSumo and Ahrefs can also help with this. They’ll show you who’s mentioning or sharing your content, and that can point you to where your visuals are being used.

#3. Reach Out and Send a Friendly Nudge

Once you find websites or blogs that are using your visual assets, it’s time for the next step: outreach. Here’s where you’ll send a friendly message to let them know that you noticed they’ve used your visual but didn’t link back to your site.

Now, don’t be all pushy or demanding. Approach this with a nice, polite tone. Here’s a basic template you can use:

Subject: Just Noticed Your Use of My Infographic.

Hey [Name],

I came across your post on [topic] and saw that you’ve used the infographic I created on [topic name]. That’s awesome! Thanks for sharing my work with your readers!

I noticed, though, that there’s no link back to my site. If you’d be open to adding a link to the original source, I’d really appreciate it. Here’s the link: [your URL]

Thanks again, and keep up the great work on your content!

Best regards,

[Your Name]

#4. Don’t Just Ask Once—Follow Up!

Here’s the thing: not everyone responds right away, and that’s okay. People get busy, and emails get buried. If you don’t hear back in about a week or two, don’t be afraid to follow up. A gentle reminder can do wonders.

#5. Bonus Tip: Offer More Visuals to Make It Worth Their While

When you reach out, why not sweeten the deal? If they’re already using your visuals, they might be interested in more. Offer up additional content or suggest new assets they could use in the future. This gives them more reason to keep linking back to you.

For example, you could say something like:

“Hey, I’ve got some other infographics and visual resources on [related topics] that might fit well with your upcoming content. Let me know if you’d like to check them out!”

Why This Strategy is a Game Changer for Your SEO

If you’re still wondering why this works, here’s the deal. Backlinks are a huge ranking factor for SEO techniques for higher rankings. The more quality backlinks you get, the more Google sees you as an authority in your niche.

Plus, if people are using your visuals and linking back to your site, it means your content is valuable. Visuals tend to get shared a lot because they’re easy to consume, and this helps you build traffic and brand recognition.

By getting backlinks from your visual assets, you’re essentially making your content work even harder for you—boosting your authority, getting traffic, and moving you up in search engine rankings. It’s a win-win.

Getting backlinks from your visual assets is one of the easiest, yet most effective ways to improve your SEO. It’s all about finding who’s using your content, reaching out in a friendly way, and reminding them to link back to you. The best part? You don’t even need to create new content for this—just leverage what you already have. By using this simple technique, you’re going to see your SEO rankings improve, and who doesn’t love a little extra traffic?

So go ahead, get out there, and start asking for those backlinks. You’ll thank yourself later when you see your site climbing those rankings.

#20. ADD “WHAT IS X” DEFINITIONS TO YOUR BLOG CONTENT

Let’s talk about one of those underrated SEO hacks that could seriously boost your rankings—adding “What is X” definitions to your blog content.

Here’s the thing: most people totally miss this one, but it’s actually a game-changer. So, what do I mean by “What is X”? Well, let’s break it down. When someone types in a broad term like “search engine optimization” or “content marketing,” they’re usually looking for one thing: a definition.

Why You Need to Focus on Definitions

Think about it: people search for things like “What is SEO?” or “What is content marketing?” because they want to understand the basics of a topic. And here’s the secret: Google knows this, which is why the pages that rank on the first page for these types of definition searches almost always answer the question: “What is X?”

Take the term “inbound marketing” for example. If you search for it on Google, you’ll notice that two of the top three results are focused on answering the question: “What is inbound marketing?” It’s no coincidence. These pages are optimizing for the specific search intent of people who want to understand the topic in simple terms.

How to Use This SEO Technique to Your Advantage

So here’s the takeaway: if you’re targeting any term that could be searched as a definition, you need to include a “What is X” section in your content. If you’re not, you’re missing out on some serious SEO traffic.

Here’s a simple formula for including this in your content:

#1. Identify your target keyword

Let’s say you’re targeting the keyword “content marketing.” Now, consider that people who search for this term may also want to know, “What is content marketing?”

#2. Add a “What is X” section

In your blog post, include a section dedicated to answering that question. For example:

“What is Content Marketing? Content marketing is a strategy used to create and share valuable content in order to attract and retain customers. It’s about delivering content that resonates with your target audience, helping you build trust and authority in your industry.”

This section doesn’t have to be lengthy, but it should be clear, concise, and provide a solid definition.

#3. Make it SEO-friendly.

To really optimize for SEO techniques for higher rankings, include relevant related terms (like inbound marketing, content strategy, or digital marketing) and synonyms. By doing this, you’re helping Google better understand your content and increasing your chances of ranking for multiple related keywords.

#4. Use formatting to highlight your definition.

Make sure the definition stands out in your post. You can bold or italicize key phrases, use subheadings, or even add bullet points for clarity. This makes it easy for both readers and search engines to digest the information.

Why Does This Work?

Now, you might be wondering: “Why is this such a big deal for SEO techniques for higher rankings?” Well, Google loves clear, structured content that directly answers searcher intent. So if someone searches for “What is SEO?” and lands on your post with a well-written definition, they’re more likely to stay on your page and keep reading, which signals to Google that your content is high-quality and relevant.

Plus, when you target definition terms, you’re tapping into a huge pool of search queries that are often underutilized. By focusing on “What is X” keywords, you’re not just appealing to people who are familiar with the topic; you’re also targeting those who are looking for a simple explanation before they dive deeper into more complex content.

A Real Example of Success

Let me give you an example. One of the top-ranking articles on SEO is focused on answering the question “What is SEO?” That article is probably optimized for both the long-form “SEO techniques for higher rankings” and specific definition queries. Why does it work? Because people typing in those questions want clarity—and this kind of content gives it to them.

By implementing a “What is X” definition in your own content, you can start ranking for these highly targeted keywords and drive more organic traffic.

If you’re looking for a simple but effective SEO technique to boost your rankings, then adding a “What is X” section should definitely be on your radar. Whether you’re blogging about a broad topic like SEO, digital marketing, or even more niche subjects, answering these definition-based queries can make a huge difference in how Google views your content and ranks it.

Remember, always focus on clarity, conciseness, and relevance in your definitions. Throw in a little SEO magic, and watch as your content climbs up those search engine rankings.

So, go ahead—next time you’re writing about a topic with a clear definition, don’t forget to answer the question: “What is X?” Your SEO rankings will thank you later.

Conclusion

In conclusion, dominating SEO with advanced techniques for higher rankings requires more than just a one-time effort. It’s all about continuously fine-tuning and optimizing different aspects of your website. Whether you focus on page speed optimization, content enhancement, or building quality backlinks, every tweak you make counts.

Don’t forget the power of mobile optimization, technical SEO, and user experience—Google values a seamless, fast, and relevant experience for users. By staying consistent, up-to-date, and using a holistic approach, you’ll see your rankings climb, and your site move toward that top spot in search results. So, put these strategies into action, and watch your SEO efforts pay off.