On-Page Optimization – Steps 4 & 5 – Link and Image Optimization
We have discussed on title, meta tag, and keyword optimization in my previous articles. In this article we are going to discuss on the last two steps of on-page optimization. Link optimization is the fourth step in on-page optimization and ensures that the linking structure is meaningful and correct. This increases the navigability of the website and makes it spider friendly. Image optimization ensures that the images on your website are displayed properly in all browsers. In case the browser cannot display the image, an alternate text is displayed without leaving the reader to wonder what could have been displayed there. Both these on-page optimization techniques increase the readability and navigability of the website and support search engine optimization (SEO).
Link Optimization
Any website will have both internal and external links. Internal link refers to links between the pages of the website and external link refers to links to other websites. It is extremely important that these links are properly set as it will affect the navigability of your website. A user will not be able to find the desired content from your website if these links are not correctly established.
Points to remember in link optimization
• Links should take the visitor to a site or page with useful information. Make sure that there is justification for having a link in that page and ensure that the link provides some useful information.
• The text that you provide on your page which indicates that there is an associated link is called the anchor text. Make sure that this anchor text is meaningful and instantly gives the user an idea of what he might expect to see if he visits the link
• Avoid unnecessary links and ensure that the structure is perfect in all aspects such as meaning, establishment of links, information, etc.
• Having your keywords/title on the link itself could be useful as the search engines attach some weight to it.
Image Optimization
Search Engines cannot read images and can only read text. So it is essential that you use some special tags and give them some meaning.
Points to remember in image optimization
• The text that describes your image is called Alt text or Alternate Text. This text should be short, descriptive, and meaningful. Keywords can also be used as alternate text. In case the browser is unable to display the image, then it will display this text.
• Give your images meaningful names relevant to the image. You can also make your alternate text or something similar the filename of the image.
• Use the Image Title tag and give your image a title. This title will be displayed when the user moves his mouse over the image.
• If you are providing a link to your image the link text or anchor text should be meaningful and relevant to the image.
Having read all my articles on on-page optimization you must now be having a clear idea on how to do on-page optimization. The major concern here is altering the content of the tags and placing the text in appropriate places. You can do it yourself if you have the knowledge, skill, aptitude, and time. If not, you can always seek the services of a search engine optimization company. But remember, search engine optimization is a must for every business as it can take your business to great heights.
