The essential steps to rank a website on Google, including technical SEO basics, content optimization, and advanced linking strategies.
Start with the Technical Basics
Technical SEO is the foundation. Without it, your website won’t even qualify to play the game. Google prioritizes user experience, so ensure your site is fast, mobile-friendly, and easy to navigate. Pages should load in less than a second. Core Web Vitals and UX metrics are non-negotiable.
Focus on Retention Over Bounce Rate
Retention matters more than bounce rate. Google wants users to stay engaged with your content. Whether users are reading, scrolling, or clicking deeper into your site, retention signals satisfaction.
Pogo-sticking, where users quickly return to search results, sends negative signals. Offer relevant, engaging content that keeps visitors on the page.
Content Optimization: Less is More
Focus on the first 500 words. This section carries the most weight for SEO. Incorporate semantic keywords and relevant phrases early on. Avoid keyword stuffing; instead, explore the topic holistically.
Play the “Game of the Mystery Word” by describing concepts without overusing the exact keyword. This approach helps Google understand your content while keeping it natural.
Explore modern content strategies.
The Power of Links
Links are essential for moving up the rankings. Both internal and external links signal trust and authority. However, it’s about quality, not quantity. Build clusters of related content within silos and strategically interlink them to create a seamless flow of relevance.
Use external backlinks to strengthen your domain authority. If you’re investing in high-quality links, ensure they’re supported by second-tier links to maintain value over time.
Learn about advanced link-building strategies.
Private Link Networks: A Strategic Approach
Private link networks (not to be confused with PBNs) provide control over your linking strategy. These networks allow you to direct authority precisely where it’s needed. Linking the link—building backlinks to your already linked pages—further amplifies their power.
Schema Markup for Machine Understanding
Help Google understand your content with schema markup. Adding structured data clarifies key elements like names, prices, or reviews. This extra layer of information improves visibility and accuracy in search results.
Learn how to implement schema markup.
The Topical Mesh Strategy
The Topical Mesh combines silos and clusters to maximize internal linking. This strategy isn’t just for organizing content but for creating a network of relevance that Google recognizes and rewards.
Three phases of the Topical Mesh:
- Buyer Persona Analysis: Understand the user’s intent and build content around it.
- Silo Building: Structure your site into clearly defined categories.
- Cluster Linking: Interlink silos to create a robust network of authority.
Visit TopicalMesh.com to explore the full strategy.
Go Beyond Google
Search doesn’t end with Google. Platforms like YouTube and TikTok are critical for modern SEO. Apply the same principles—semantic relevance, structured data, and interlinked clusters—to these platforms.
Offer Perspectives
Unique perspectives set you apart. Generic content is no longer enough. Whether it’s through personal anecdotes, expert reviews, or case studies, offer something fresh. Demonstrate authority by including authorship, reviews, and citations in your content.
Apply, Refine, Dominate
SEO success comes from aligning your strategy with Google’s expectations. Focus on technical excellence, content optimization, and strategic linking. The Topical Mesh provides a proven framework to rank and stay on top.
