How to Rank on the First Page of Google

Introduction

• Presenter: Brian Dean, founder of Backlinko
• Objective: Step-by-step guide to ranking on Google’s first page
• Credentials: Ranked #1 for competitive keywords like “link building tools” and “SEO checklist”

Step 1: Find Three Keywords

• Tools:
  1. Answer the Public: Finds questions people ask, turning them into long-tail keywords
  2. Reddit: Explore subreddits related to your target audience
  3. Exploding Topics: Tracks trending topics and keywords with low competition
• Explanation: Long-tail keywords are specific and less competitive

Step 2: Create Epic Content

• Study Insight: 94% of online articles have zero backlinks
• Essential Elements:
  1. Long and In-depth Content: Longer content generally gets more backlinks
  2. Add a Hook: Include elements like stats, case studies, unique strategies, interviews, or visualizations
• Example: Brian’s 4,700-word article on link building has over 1,000 backlinks

Step 3: Keyword Optimize Your Content

• Modern Keyword Optimization: Focus on context rather than keyword stuffing
  • Key Placements for Keywords: Title, headers, first 100 words, URL, and meta description
  • LSI Keywords: Related terms to give Google more context
• Finding LSI Keywords: Search your target keyword and check the suggested keywords at the bottom of the search results

Step 4: Optimize Your Content for Users

• User Behavior: Google monitors user interaction to determine ranking
• Tips to Reduce Bounce Rate:
  1. Actionable Info ASAP: Start with a short intro and dive into actionable content
  2. Design Matters: Clean and straightforward design enhances readability and engagement

Step 5: Build Backlinks

• Importance: Backlinks remain crucial for SEO
• Technique: Broken Link Building
  1. Find Broken Links: Use tools like Check My Links extension for Chrome
  2. Identify Replacement Content: Find relevant content on your site
  3. Outreach: Personalized emails are more effective

Bonus Step: Use Unique Images

• Study Insight: Unique images can positively impact rankings
• Implementation: Use personal photos, custom illustrations, or original screenshots

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