SEO Boost: The Benefits of Optimizing Your Footer
Whether you're refining an existing site or embarking on the exciting journey of building one, understanding SEO is essential for enhancing your online presence. While many focus on the more visible elements of a site, the humble footer at the bottom of your page holds untapped potential for boosting your SEO.
In this article, we'll delve into the world of website footers. You'll learn what a footer is, what it should include, and how to optimize it effectively. Plus, we'll explore the various benefits that a well-optimized footer can bring to your business. Let's dive in!
SEO: the (not-so-secret) weapon of digital marketing
Leveraging SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, as a digital marketing strategy involves utilizing unpaid or organic traffic techniques to boost a website's visibility in search engine results. Essentially, SEO encompasses a variety of tactics and elements incorporated into your website to enhance its online presence and visibility.
Among these elements are:
A unique title for each page of your website;
Meta Tags (page descriptions that are invisible to the user but help Google make your site stand out in a related search);
A user-friendly, easy-to-navigate interface;
Quality content;
Keywords in a strategic amount within the content;
Optimized images;
Includes a header and a footer.
What is a footer?
Just because it's at the bottom of the page doesn't mean it should be overlooked! The footer is a section that contains text and is located at the very bottom of a webpage. Almost all websites have a footer since it’s automatically created in content management systems (CMS). Think WordPress, Squarespace, and Wix.
It’s believed that due to its location, the footer generates fewer clicks and attracts less user attention. So many site owners insert a few basic links without worrying about optimizing their footer. This is a big mistake! The footer is a vital element of the user experience and can contribute to better SEO and, ultimately, a higher ranking in search engines.
The classic elements found in a footer
Typically, footers are home to standard elements like privacy policies, terms & conditions, contact forms, the company address, a site map, and a Copyright statement. While these are essential inclusions and form the basic framework of a good footer, they alone are not enough to craft an optimal user experience.
How to optimize a footer?
The footer is often a go-to spot for visitors who are either navigating through your site or seeking specific details. Therefore, incorporating elements like a “back to top” button, a search bar, and a navigation menu is a smart move.
Consider adding features that positively reflect your company’s image. This could include links to awards or certifications, articles mentioning your business, customer testimonials, and social media profiles. Why not also showcase links to your eco-friendly initiatives or charities you support?
Importantly, calls to action are crucial. Encourage user interaction with options like a newsletter subscription form, a downloadable PDF (perfect as a lead magnet or freebie), or a link to a promotional video.
Remember, the footer represents your final opportunity to engage users and encourage further exploration of your website.
The benefits of optimizing a footer
Since the footer is almost always added automatically when creating websites, optimizing the footer is beneficial instead of just putting basic information that will not help improve your ranking on search engines. Here are some of the benefits of using SEO in the footer:
Makes the information presented on your website easier to read;
Offers a more user-friendly interface and facilitates the search for information;
Integrates more keywords while respecting the recommended amount;
Showcases social proof and authority through relevant links to articles and customer testimonials;
Increases organic traffic to your social networks;
Encourages the user to remain on your site longer;
Creates a good last impression on the user before they leave your site.
Whether for the creation or redesign of a website, the footer should play an essential role. It’s part of a whole that improves the user experience and organic ranking. When done correctly, the footer can be one of the most explored elements of a website, and that’s why it shouldn’t be overlooked.
If you need advice on designing an effective, optimized footer that reflects your company's image, don't hesitate to call on the experts at Branddit, who can advise you wisely.
