So, you've built your website and you want to make sure you can rank higher in Google searches, but you don't know if you're targeting the right keywords. How do you do that and what's the best way to do it? Where do you begin? Well, we have found that these three WordPress plugins are essential tools for better ranking in search engines!
All in one SEO Pack
Well, What is it? - This tool is a power house. This is the core plugin for helping Google understand the content on your site and what terms you should be relevant for. This tool also helps you understand more completely what your specific relevant search terms should be.
Why do I need it? - By helping Google better understand how relevant your content is, you get a leg up over your competition. We can get into the nitty gritty of why and how this works, but for now, just know that it works, and it works really well.
So, how do I use it? - Like most plugins, it has a simple, free installation via the “add new” plugin feature. Once installed, simply add your page title, keywords, and description to each page/post of your site, and voila! Google will read the information you include before your page is even displayed in search results.
Google XML Sitemaps
Well, what is it? - This builds a sitemap for Google to review. Basically, this tool allows Google to index your site extremely fast, allowing a better understanding of what pages are included and how they fit with your other content.
Why do I need it? - A sitemap is imperative if you want Google to be able to quickly index your site's pages, visualize the hierarchy, and respond with fast search results. Without a sitemap, you run the risk of your site not being properly indexed by Google, meaning you won't be relevant!
So, how do I use it? - If you're familiar with WordPress plugins, you've probably had experience installing something and then kind of staring off into space trying to figure out where it went or what you should do - this is one of those plugins! However, instead of it being lost on your site somewhere, it's actually working right away. All you need to do is install the plugin and you're done, no settings to worry about!
W3 Total Cache
Well, what is it? - This is one of the most misunderstood plugins out there. In fact, many people will install the first two plugins I mentioned and then think that this one doesn't apply to them, but it does! In a nutshell, this plugin looks at the amount of time it takes to load your pages and caches your site's information, dramatically speeding up your load time.
Why do I need it? - If your pages are taking too long to load, your site will start to lose credibility. Google defines a credible site as a user-friendly site with relevant content. Without this credibility, Google sees your site as a nuisance to visitors and will slap it. If you are using a plugin like this, Google will reward you by giving your site credibility. No one likes a site that takes forever to load, so use this plugin to show your readers that you're concerned about them!
So, How do I use it? - For the most part, you simply need to install the plugin and make sure it's activated. It works on its own quite well. There are a number of settings you can get into if you
know your way around the plugin, but just activating it and leaving the settings alone will work wonders!
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By now, you're likely wondering if any of this applies to you. If you have a website running on WordPress, I can reply with a resounding YES! By building a higher ranking in Google, you increase the traffic to your site and expand your reach to more potential customers. These tools are an absolute necessity, and, you guessed it - they're completely FREE! I encourage you to utilize these essential tools for better ranking sites and more visitors.
Photo credit goes to Flickr user frankieleaon
