Squarespace SEO is a hot topic – everyone wants to show up in search! But, how do you do it? What’s the best way to show up in search? There are over 200 ranking factors that go into SEO… and I’m not going to cover them all today, but there are a few that you need to think about. (And check out this post if you’re curious about Squarespace vs Wordpress SEO.)
1. SSL Certificate: More Than Just Security
- What is it? An SSL certificate encrypts data on your site, ensuring safe transactions for your visitors.
- Why it matters for SEO: Google prefers sites with SSL protection. It’s not just about payment security; it’s about overall site trustworthiness.
- Quick tip: If you’re on Squarespace, you can activate SSL right from your settings without any extra cost.
2. Register with Google Search Console
- What it does: It’s your direct line to Google. By registering, you can access Google Analytics and submit your site map.
- Why it’s essential: You’re essentially telling Google, “Hey, my site exists!” It helps Google index your site faster and more accurately.
- Remember: Submitting a sitemap is crucial. It’s like giving Google a roadmap to your site.
3. Clean Up Your URLs
- The problem: Default settings, especially on platforms like Squarespace, can create long and messy URLs.
- The solution: Use clean, simple URLs with relevant keywords.
- Important: If you change a URL, set up a 301 redirect. This ensures visitors from old links aren’t met with a 404 error page.
4. Boost Your Site Speed
- Why it matters: Google wants to provide users with a top-notch experience. A fast-loading site is part of that experience.
- Quick win: Compress your images. Use tools like Photoshop or free online platforms like tiny PNG.
5. Optimize Your Page and Post Titles
- Common mistake: Many focus on blog post titles but neglect page titles.
- How to optimize: Use your keywords at the beginning of the title, followed by your site or brand name. For instance, instead of “The Fun Dietitian – Atlanta, Georgia,” use “Atlanta Dietitian – The Fun Dietitian.
Bonus Tip: On Squarespace, each page setting has an SEO tab. This allows you to optimize both the page title and description. Don’t miss out on this!
Struggling with your Squarespace SEO? I offer comprehensive website audits that cover design, copy, and of course, SEO. And if you have any Squarespace questions, drop them in the comments or explore my other articles.
