SEOs were early adopters of social media, using them to maximize exposure. The way content is shared remains viral, jumping from one source to another. However, there are numerous social media sources today, which has dramatically increased content, creating a challenge for SEO. There are small changes that can be done to improve visibility, which are highlighted in this post.
1. Structure and Formatting
Although it may seem small, the accessibility of your content is one of the most important things to increase shareability. Content should be made to be easily downloaded and viewed through mobile networks, such as 3G or 4G. Many people today are receiving updates, reading, and updating via Twitter and Facebook on mobile devices. If users can’t access your content through their mobile devices, that means they aren’t sharing them.
2. Language
Although not everyone who views your blog may know English, the truth is English is the language of the internet. Active individuals in the world of Facebook and Twitter will be English speaking. It is then to your benefit to appeal to them.
3. Single vs. Multi-page
Make sure you have a single vs. multi-page view option. Give users the option of how they want to view your content. Don’t flood your pages with advertisements.
4. Post Relevant Content
Often times, site content is dependent on maximizing site visits. It is better to post topically relevant content to your site, than post something completely unrelated to what you do or what your audience expects. Avoid posting things with the purpose of gaining brand or authority, as they often fail. When users view an unrelated posting, they may view it and recognize a disconnect. If posts are unrelated to what you do, attempt to make them relevant and informative to your target audience.
5. Stay Current
Make sure what is posted about is current and if possible, new. If you’re able to obtain new exclusive information, dispersing that information will dramatically increase sharability. People enjoy getting the latest news out there. If you have a new perspective or idea on something, share it with the world. Anything that is certified “fresh” will circulate rapidly and increase viewings. A lot of things that are shared and discussed are keep users engaged with World Wide Web. The internet moves extremely quick and posting news a few days old may not get you the amount of clicks you want. There are a handful of internet resources that help collect this information and could be useful for your purposes. Sites, such as Bitly News collect links that contain the most internet traffic.
Here are a few:
https://www.mashable.com
www.Bitleynews.com
www.tweetverse.com
www.alltop.com
www.buzzfeed.com
6. Psychology of Sharing and Social Spaces
Make sure your titles are attractive and easily digested when posted. The title can be an enormous helper or can killer to your posting. Titles that contain interesting keywords and are informative are more likely attract users in comparison to dry, non-compelling titles. Choose your words carefully, as you are limited to user viewable space when shared through a link, such as on Twitter or Facebook. Visual aids, such as a picture, chart, or graph, can also be great attention getters. It’s all about being as informative as possible, while shortening and easing access to it.
Users like associating themselves with great topics that expose them as an individual. There is a difference between “I like” vs “I share.” People will “like” what they actually enjoy, but they are only likely to “share” things they feel and perceive will make them look good and earn social media capital. People want to share things that showcase them as a unique individual. As a poster, you want to do the same thing.
7. Timing Your Post
Make sure the timing of your post is in sync with your targeted audience. If you’re posting something at the wrong time, you may not be able to reach those overseas or on another coast, and in turn lose shareability. In addition, if you’re posting at a time when there is less online traffic, your post will be overlooked. If your post is visible at the right time, then it will increase the chances of being shared.
Written By: Daniel T.