Do you know how search engine ranking is determined?
Search Engines do not rank your entire website but individual web pages depending upon the keywords they use, quality of content they maintain, authenticity of information they offer and products/services they feature.
If your webpage has all these qualities, it will be ranked high on search engines. I’m sure, not all of your web pages will have the same quality but the ones that are extraordinary can compel visitors to stay on and further explore your website. This is when internal linking plays its role.
Why Internal Linking is Important?
Internal links can be used to direct the visitor to other pages of your website. Obviously, you will not want them to go through just the landing page but drive them down to a path resulting in conversion. The strategic placement of links on the webpage enhances user experience.
Reduces Confusion
Moreover, it reduces confusion as they do not have to search for the same link anywhere else on the website. They can directly access it and come back to the landing page quickly.
Value Addition
In addition to this, the value of the landing page increases and this gives another reason to search engines to push it to a higher rank. It might get rated as a champion page as well.
Leverage the Page Ranking
Website owners can leverage the page ranking and make maximum use of it by placing relevant keywords or text on it to take visitors to a predetermined path. The most interesting thing is that you get a control over visitor’s actions and compel them to make a purchase.
This can happen only if appropriate links are placed on the landing page. There can be some links or keywords that can turn off the visitors and get your site in trouble. Let’s have a look on them:
1. Unrelated Links
I know you want to promote your other websites too but strictly avoid making it a mess for you as well as your visitors. Do not place links on the landing page that are unrelated to its offerings. Even while building internal links, place link only where it is appropriate and make sure that it offers some additional information to the visitor.
2. Excessive Linking
Excess of everything is bad. Do not try to gain unnecessary attention by placing links more than required. Do only quality linking on the landing page to offer users a pleasant experience and more reasons to search engines to push it higher. Yes, you can always place more links on connected pages.
How to Make the Most of Internal Linking
1. Add Examples in Your Landing Page
If you’re going to add a new page or extend your product line, mention it on the landing page. For new blog posts, announcements or articles, offer examples in such an interesting manner that visitors are compelled to click on to read the whole story.
2. Give Site Map
Make a list of main pages and subpages on the website and give a site map so that it becomes convenient for users to access the information they are looking for. Laying out the whole website and its offerings at one place gives an idea to the readers what all is available. It minimizes confusion and brings clarity among users.
A good internal building drives quality traffic to your website and improves the chances of conversion. What do you have to say about internal linking? Share your views as well as other points that you can think of.