If you just launched your new franchise business website and are trying to figure out what comes next, the idea of search engine optimization (SEO) may seem unfamiliar and daunting.
However, it’s an essential part of every successful franchise website. As you start your foray into the realm of digital marketing, here are 3 common beginner SEO mistakes that all franchise businesses need to avoid.
1. Rebranding. It can be tempting, especially if your business is struggling, to rebrand in order to have a more recognizable name or to reach a more targeted franchise audience. However, keep in mind that if you rebrand your business, you’ll need to rebuild your SEO presence entirely, which takes money, time, and effort you may not have.
2. Focusing only on Google. Yes, Google is massive – it’s the biggest search engine online, and it’s likely to remain so. Just because Google is the biggest, however, doesn’t mean other search engines don’t matter. You definitely want to optimize your franchise website for Google, but not for Google only. Put your website’s URL into other search engines, such as Bing and Yahoo!, and take the time to see if you can increase your SEO for those search engines, as well.
3. Being inconsistent. Improving your SEO takes time, and it also requires consistency. If you only spend a little time every once in a while to boost your SEO results, you won’t make much progress in the rankings. Take your time and pace yourself – and be sure to make working on SEO a regular habit. Soon enough, you’ll see your work start to pay off.