Officially, social media has absolutely no impact on SEO in terms of search rankings. Social media is an important part of digital marketing strategy, however; and while SEO can be a concern for business owners, it’s important to have a well-rounded strategy that includes social media alongside SEO and digital ads.
If social media isn’t a ranking factor, you are surely thinking, then why even bother?
While social media posts aren’t used directly by search engines like Google when it comes to SEO, that doesn’t mean they aren’t important—or that they don’t contribute to SEO in other ways.
In this article, let’s break down how your social media strategy can impact SEO.
Social sharing drives traffic.
It goes without saying that search engines aren’t the only way for potential customers or fans of your business or brand to find your website. They may see a link on Facebook or Twitter; they may spot your Instagram photo because their friend liked it. This will lead them to your site, which increases your organic search ranking.
Social media boosts brand awareness
One of the biggest benefits of social media is that it allows you to boost awareness of your brand and reach customers. As I mentioned previously if just one person likes your Facebook post, it has the possibility of showing up in the timelines of other Facebook users—and with 1.71 billion active Facebook users, those are significant numbers. And it’s not just Facebook: I’ve personally followed brands because they showed up in my friend’s likes on Instagram, or they were retweeted by my friends on Twitter.
Consistently interacting on social media can boost your brand awareness and ultimately, drive traffic to your website—which, as we know, impacts SEO.
Social media directly influences Local SEO
Geography plays a major role in search experience these days; 80% of smartphone users are searching for businesses near them when they are out-and-about. Social media websites often use geographic information and location tracking to help users find businesses near them. Think about websites like Yelp or even Facebook that provide mapping services.
If you have a highly engaged Yelp or Facebook page that accepts and encourages reviews, you’re more likely to rank in search engines when it comes to Local searches.
Different search engines are impacted by social media differently
While Google may not take into account social media when it comes to search engine rank, that doesn’t mean it’s the only one to consider. Google is the biggest search engine—but Bing, according to Search Engine Land, uses the social authority of users when assigning weight in SEO. That’s pretty big news, truth be told.
As well, it’s been known for a while that Google places priority on Google+ social media and rankings. So, when thinking of how social media can impact SEO, it’s important to remember that all search engines should be taken into account.
The Takeaway
What can we learn from these 4 facts about social media and SEO? That a well-rounded digital marketing plan is important. Digital marketing isn’t just about SEO; it’s not just about ads, and it’s not just about social media. It’s about everything that impacts your business on a digital landscape
Author Bio
This article was written by Sam Hartford an IT professional and Web Designer.
In the past i have worked for a leading IT Solutions & Managed service provider in Rotherham dealing with a range of IT platforms, such as - on site field engineering and remote support, dealing with all types of servers such as Virtual & Physical, Hyper–V, VMware, Windows server 2012 R2, SBS - Small Business Server 2008 2011, SQL, Terminal, Exchange, Active Directory, Group Policy, TCP, IP, DNS, DHCP, VPN, RDP, hybrid & cloud, Office 365 and managed security solutions such as Antivirus and Spam filtering.
Prior to this, I worked for Wickersley School & Sports College as the Lead IT & Network Technician and also supporting local primary schools with IT Support and engineering visits & Project Management, while also running my own company AJR Solutions, providing IT & Creative Solutions.
I’m very creative and have a huge passion for design and love how design can have a massive impact on a business image, presence and value also visit -
www.thelogocreative.co.uk | www.ajr-designs.co.uk | www.rotherhamwebdesign.co.uk
Also part of the AJR Solutions Group of businesses.