Here’s how to rank on Google, after the latest major updates at the beginning of 2020.

One of the biggest questions being asked is - do I still need backlinks to rank on Google? The simple answer is, yes. There was a lot of talk in 2019 about backlinks being history, but this isn’t the case at all. One of the biggest keys to good SEO is telling Google that your website is relevant and an authority. So how can you achieve this? Backlinks are the answer. Backlinks are links back to your website from another website with a higher authority than yours - we are talking 50+ here.

Google maps the online world through a number of factors, one of these is via recommendations. Is your website trustworthy and a source of information to a user? Here’s how to create good quality backlinks.

Is anyone recommending you?

This can be via a review, a blog post or a directory. Aim to get yourself reviewed via a website or listing with a higher authority your own. This lets Google know that your site is considered a point of information.

Are you getting any backlinks at all?

Ideally, you want multiple links, all from good quality sources. The more the better, but only from relevant sources - Google will penalise for backlink misuse.

How do I get backlinks?

• Add your website to multiple search engine directories: Google, Bing and Yahoo. The more the better.

• Podcasts are a great way to drive an audience to your site. Get featured on a relevant subject as an authority.

• Set up a Google My Business page (GMB). This is an easy (and free!) way to get your business onto Google. Here you will show up on Google Maps if you have a physical address. You can ask clients for reviews, list products, images, news and offers.

• Write guest posts for higher authority websites, making sure you link back to your own website.

• Social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest will all drive customers to your website.

• Run PR campaigns, and submit through newswires.

• Create and share videos on YouTube

• Enter awards and competitions for your business.

• Get reviewed.

These are just a number of options you can do, depending on your business there are plenty more options to try, such as:

• Add your photos to image libraries

• Classified ads for local newspapers or industry magazines.

• Share infographics on your subject

• Create downloadable PDFs on your website

• Run promotions and giveaways with similar businesses or directories.

Get in touch if you need any help with your SEO.