Shrikant Portfolio

Tag: Google ranking tips

  • The Archer and the Algorithm: Mastering SEO Strategy

    Introduction: SEO as The Archer’s Quest

    Taylor once sang “I wake in the night, I pace like a ghost, the room is on fire, invisible smoke”. That’s exactly what it feels like when you’re chasing Google rankings.

    You know your content deserves the spotlight, but the algorithm keeps you pacing in the shadows.

    SEO in 2025 isn’t just about throwing content online — it’s about aiming every arrow with strategy, precision, and creativity. In this guide, we’ll explore SEO strategy 2025 step by step: from keyword research to technical optimization, from content to backlinks.

    🎯 Step One: Know Your Target (Keyword Research & Search Intent)

    Why Keywords Still Matter in 2025

    • Google’s algorithm is smarter than ever, but keywords remain the bridge between your content and your audience.
    • The trick is choosing low-competition, high-relevance keywords that align with what your audience actually wants.

    Tools to Use

    • Google Keyword Planner (free, great for India & UK markets)
    • Ahrefs & SEMrush (deep insights on competition & SERPs)
    • AnswerThePublic (discovering audience questions)

    Best Practices

    • Choose long-tail keywords (e.g., “SEO strategy for small businesses in UK”, “technical SEO checklist 2025”).
    • Focus on search intent: is your audience researching, comparing, or ready to buy?
    • Example: A UK business owner might search “SEO consultant UK”, while an Indian startup might search “SEO expert for small business India”.

    👉 If you’re unsure where to begin, read my guide: You Belong With SEO: Making Sure Google Can’t Shake You Off.

    🎯 Step Two: Hone Your Bowstring (Technical SEO Tips 2025)

    Your website’s structure is the bow. If it’s weak, the arrow won’t fly far.

    Core Technical SEO Elements

    1. Page Speed & Core Web Vitals
      • Use Google PageSpeed Insights & Lighthouse
      • Optimize images (WebP format)
      • Enable caching & use a CDN
    2. Mobile Optimization
      • 60%+ of searches in India & UK are mobile-first.
      • Use responsive design & test with Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test.
    3. Crawlability & Indexing
      • Submit XML Sitemap to Google Search Console
      • Fix broken links & 404 errors
      • Use clean URL structures (/seo-strategy-2025/)

    👉 Want hands-on steps? Check my blog: Why Web Performance Matters and How You Can Make Your Site Faster.

    🎯 Step Three: Sharpen Your Arrows (Content Optimization)

    In Swiftie terms, every blog is a track on your album. To hit the top, your content needs to resonate with your audience.

    Content SEO Best Practices

    • Use primary keyword in H1 + naturally across content
    • Break content into H2/H3 sections with secondary keywords
    • Write meta descriptions that entice clicks
    • Add internal links (guide users deeper into your site)

    Content Formats That Rank in 2025

    • Long-form blogs (2,000–3,000 words) – like this one.
    • How-to guides (step-by-step tutorials).
    • Case studies & success stories – show results.
    • Visual content – infographics, short videos.

    👉 Example: My blog How AI Tools Are Transforming Software Development naturally earned backlinks because of timely, practical insights.

    🎯 Step Four: Take the Shot (Backlinks & Authority Building)

    Backlinks are your opening acts — they add authority and tell Google your content is worth promoting.

    Link Building Strategies in 2025

    • Guest posting on niche blogs (SEO, web dev, marketing)
    • Digital PR (share case studies, tools, unique data)
    • HARO (Help A Reporter Out) → journalists love SEO insights
    • Partnerships & collaborations (cross-posting content)

    External reference: Moz’s Beginner’s Guide to Link Building.

    🎯 Step Five: Measure Your Aim (SEO Analytics & Tracking)

    You can’t improve what you don’t measure.

    Key SEO Metrics (India & UK markets)

    • Organic traffic growth (via GA4, GSC)
    • Keyword rankings (Ahrefs, SEMrush)
    • Engagement rate (scroll depth, time on page)
    • Conversions (leads generated from blog → services page)

    Local SEO Focus: India vs. UK

    India SEO Strategy

    • Target terms like “SEO expert India”, “SEO services for startups in India”.
    • Use Indian directories & Google Business Profile.
    • Case studies highlighting Indian SMEs & startups.

    UK SEO Strategy

    • Focus on “SEO consultant UK”, “SEO services for small businesses UK”.
    • Mention GDPR compliance, local case studies.
    • Build backlinks from UK marketing agencies, business blogs.

    Key Takeaway: Aim With Intention

    SEO isn’t about luck. It’s about strategy and precision. The Archer doesn’t shoot into the void — every arrow is calculated.

    Your website can do the same. With the right blend of:

    • Keyword targeting
    • Technical optimization
    • Quality content
    • Strong backlinks

    You’ll not just hit Google’s first page — you’ll own your niche in 2025.

  • You Belong With SEO: Making Sure Google Can’t Shake You Off

    When it comes to websites, getting noticed on Google is a little like trying to get Taylor Swift’s attention in a sold-out stadium. There are millions of voices, but only a few manage to stand out. That’s where SEO steps in. Search Engine Optimization isn’t just some techy buzzword; it’s the reason your site gets found instead of lost in the noise.

    Think of SEO as your “You Belong With Me” moment. Your website already has the talent, the story, the personality. It just needs the right spotlight so the world (and Google) can see it. You can explore more about my work and projects on the home page.

    Why SEO Matters More Than Ever

    In 2025, SEO isn’t optional. With AI-powered search engines, voice queries, and algorithm updates rolling out faster than surprise albums, websites need strong optimization to survive. A well-optimized site:

    • Brings in organic traffic without draining your ad budget
    • Builds credibility and trust with your audience
    • Keeps you visible when your competitors are trying to shake you off

    And let’s be honest, showing up on page 10 of Google is like releasing a secret single and not telling anyone. Nobody’s going to find it.

    The Core of Good SEO (Swiftie Edition)

    1. Keywords Are Your Love Story

    The right keywords connect you with the right audience. Don’t stuff them everywhere; weave them naturally into your content. Think of keywords as the chorus in a song – clear, memorable, and repeated at just the right time.

    If you’re new to keyword research, check out my blog on web development SEO strategy for a step-by-step guide.

    2. Website Speed All Too Well

    If your site loads like a 10-minute ballad, users will bounce before the first verse. Optimize images, use caching, and make sure your hosting is reliable. Google loves websites that move swiftly.

    Related read: Why Web Performance Matters and How You Can Make Your Site Faster & WebAssembly 2025 – Performance & UX

    3. Mobile First Magic

    Most of your visitors are on mobile, scrolling while waiting for coffee or commuting. If your site isn’t mobile-friendly, it’s game over. Your design should adapt seamlessly, like Taylor switching eras on stage.

    4. Content That Hits Different

    Great SEO isn’t only technical. It’s about creating content that feels authentic and connects with your audience at first glance. A strong first impression can change everything, and I explored this in Enchanted to Meet Your Website if you’d like to dive deeper. And if you’re curious about how tech is changing the game, my blog on AI tools in software development dives into how developers are using AI to work smarter.

    For inspiration on creative content, read Vibe Coding with AI in Web Development

    5. Links Are Your Opening Acts

    Internal links guide users deeper into your site, while backlinks from credible sources give you authority. Think of them like tour support acts. The bigger the name that links to you, the more credibility you gain.

    (Example: Check out Google’s own SEO Starter Guide for a solid foundation.)

    Keeping Up With The Algorithm

    Google updates its algorithm as often as Taylor changes setlists. Instead of stressing, focus on fundamentals: valuable content, technical performance, and user experience. Trends will shift, but a strong foundation will keep your site from disappearing into the crowd.

    Key Takeaway

    SEO isn’t about chasing trends or gaming the system. It’s about building a website that belongs at the top because it delivers real value. With the right strategy, Google won’t be able to shake you off. So whether you’re a startup, freelancer, or small business, remember this: your site deserves to be seen. Play the long game, keep optimizing, and make sure your digital stage is as strong as your story. If you’re curious about how I can help, take a look at my services and let’s build something that even Google can’t shake off.