A key component of your digital marketing strategy is search engine optimization (SEO). You’re already using keywords in your website headlines, meta descriptions, and digital content as part of your SEO strategy. However, have you considered backlinks? Backlinks are when a website is mentioned and linked on another website.
Google Analytics 4
Your Computer Lady regularly sends clients 2-5 reports from Google Analytics to show the traffic on their website. It is crucial information so you know what is happening on the site and what information your visitors find worthwhile. Marketing without measurement is not good marketing!
HEADS UP!!
Google has completely re-written Analytics. Yes, it is a whole new program with a totally different structure.
Today
- You can add the new version – Google Analytics 4 – to your site so that it starts gathering data.
- You can continue using the old version AKA Universal Analytics to gather data and run reports.
July 1, 2023
- Google will stop collecting data with the old version of Analytics.
- You will still be able to see your old data in the old version.
- Google will only collect new data with Google Analytics 4.
December 31, 2023
- Google will delete all data and the old version.
GOOD NEWS!!
We have 1.5 years to get ready for the changeover.
What Needs to Be Done
- Set up Google Analytics 4 as soon as possible to begin collecting data.
- Configure Analytics 4 to gather the data you like.
- Create the reports that you want to use in Analytics 4. Instead of having a limited number of reports to choose from in Universal Analytics, you will be able to create reports in Analytics 4. Better info for sure but more set up work.
Because Analytics 4 is totally different software there is going to be a learning curve.
YCL is already working on the process and learning Analytics 4 so that everyone will be properly set up well before July 2023. We will not wait until the last minute.
I’m bringing this to your attention now so that you will understand the notices you get from Google or news articles that you see. Don’t panic! Your Computer Lady has got your back! I’ll keep you posted as more information becomes available and as I experiment with the YCL website.
Google’s Algorithm
In a webinar last week presented by the Grow with Google team, it was stressed a couple of times that Google’s algorithm does look at your website and social media platforms for activity. One more reason to make consistent blog posts and social media posts. All of the marketing pieces are interconnected.
SEO
Every website should have basic Search Engine Optimization (SEO). Even if your goal isn’t to be #1 on a Google search. You need the basics just to be indexed by search bots. YCL can do the SEO for you or you can do it yourself. This article explains the purpose and “how to” for meta descriptions.
Google Business Page
Your Google Business Page listing has gained in importance. Do a search for your business. Look at the Google Business Listing on the right side of the page. Is the info accurate? Is the info complete with hours, website links, directions? Do you have recent photos? Do you have posts showing on the listing? If not, call today. Let’s get this done!
SEO Reality
I get emails from clients and sometimes from spammers offering to make me a Google star within 30 days for 1 low monthly fee.
Ain’t happening! This is definitely one of those “If it sounds too good to be true, it is” offers.
Here is a snip from an ad by GoDaddy.
SIX months. Don’t even start an SEO plan that you can’t fund and stay with for at least 6 months.
KEYWORDS – A successful SEO campaign is going to be for specific keywords, not everything you do.
20% of their customers don’t make it to the first page of the search results.
I don’t mean to rain on your parade. There are circumstances where SEO can make a difference for your site and for your sales. But it is not a quick fix. It is expensive. It is work to make it happen. Do your research. Get references on the SEO company. Set a budget.
Your Computer Lady does only very basic SEO work. The baby steps. If you want a SEO program, I can give you some referrals. I’d be happy to review the proposals you get to help you get the best options.
Website SEO
Many people ask me about doing Search Engine Optimization (SEO) on their website. YCL does only basic SEO using a special plug-in called Yoast SEO. Real, in-depth SEO is done by full-time professionals who follow the trends and watch for algorithm changes daily. Minimum cost per month starts at $500. Those $99/month “specials” are a rip off! Don’t fall for them. Real SEO takes a lot of time and knowledge. This article describes some steps you can take to do some organic work yourself. It’s a worthwhile read to get a sense of what SEO actually entails and why it takes so much time. If you understand some of the basic steps, you’re better able to judge companies that are offering SEO services. YCL is always available to review proposals and give advice also. Often having someone available “who speaks the language” helps simplify the decision making. Regretfully, there are bad people out there who will try to take advantage of your lack of knowledge. Don’t be dazzled by impossible claims to fame!