Improve SEO: meta descriptions (part 3)
Lesson 3
Here’s the process I use to write a meta description for a website page:
Use keywords as you create a description of the website's purpose.
Keep the description relevant to the keywords. That said, never keyword stuff. You want content that reads as if you were talking to someone.
Think about what the user has just searched for. Write your description providing a result that provides them with a well-founded resource.
Say the most important part first. (It’s hard to tell where your text will end, but you will be cut off.)
Edit what you wrote to remove any unnecessary words—obviously, not any of the keywords. For example, if you’ve used two adjectives for a noun, grab your thesaurus, and replace them with a single, more definitive descriptor.
Squarespace allows you to add page descriptions not only on your homepage but on every page). Capitalize on this and add a description for each page you want found, using the same process.
Use the menu at the top of the page to optimize your content structure
Let's say that you're selling online courses on your website. Place a page in the navigation menu where your potential customers can see all your courses in one place. You add a meta description about your courses to this page.
Organize website navigation with individual pages for each product
You can improve the structure of your content by adding links to each course. Create a meta description for each course, giving search bots more chances to find your keywords. This also makes it easier for your target audience to find the exact service or product the want.
You can block a page from results if you choose to do so. An example from my own site is the redirect page after a visitor clicks on my design note in my footer. I've set up my page so that Google will not display my "thank you for visiting" page.
I've done all that so now my site will get a higher ranking, right?
Meta descriptions are a great place to start, but far from the only way to improve your SEO ranking.
Google uses artificial intelligence (AI) technology to determine search results. You can't guarantee where your description will be ranked. Still, your chances improve substantially when you provide a compelling description of your website.
Write for your visitor, not for search engines. Let the reader what they're going to find when they click on your link. Don’t avoid showing emotion here. If they will feel welcomed and appreciated by your approach, let it show through!
Read more from Google about writing snippets here.
Find more information on the process on my GET STARTED page.
I’m a boutique web designer offering custom site designs for life coaches and professional organizers. If you’re hoping to create an online presence you’re proud of this year, check out my services to see which is the right fit for you! Ready to talk about your new site? Schedule your consultation call here.
