Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Essential Checklist

Before Launch:

Site Information:

• Create a site title under 60 characters with relevant keywords
• Write a unique site description (50-300 characters)
• Add distinct SEO descriptions for each page, blog post, product, and event
• Optimize page titles for browser tabs and social shares

Design Elements:

• Upload a favicon for brand visibility
• Add social sharing images for site and individual pages
• Create a custom 404 page with navigation links
• Ensure all content follows SEO best practices

Technical Setup:

• Connect a custom domain
• Link social media profiles
• Activate SSL certificate
• Optimize URL slugs for readability
• Configure blog post URL structure

Location Details:

• Add business address and map (if applicable)
• Create Google Business profile
• Link location information across platforms

Post-Launch Tasks:

Verification Steps:

• Register with Google Search Console
• Submit site for Google indexing
• Verify with Bing Webmaster Tools
• Connect Google Analytics

Ongoing Optimization:

Content Management:

• Regularly update site content
• Create URL redirects when changing page addresses
• Maintain an active blog
• Monitor analytics and search performance

Content Best Practices:

Text Optimization:

• Use strategic keywords naturally
• Structure content with proper headings
• Create clear, readable content

Image Guidelines:

• Add descriptive alt text
• Use SEO-friendly file names
• Keep images under 500 KB
• Maintain total page size under 5 MB

Page Organization:

• Implement proper meta descriptions
• Use relevant tags and categories
• Create internal links
• Optimize URL structure

Monitor and Adjust:

• Track rankings regularly
• Analyze traffic patterns
• Update keywords based on performance
• Review backlink profile

Note: Rankings may fluctuate initially after changes. Allow 1-2 weeks for search engines to index updates before making additional adjustments.

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