What is On-Page SEO?
On-Page SEO (also known as “On-Site SEO”) includes all measures that are implemented directly on your website to improve its visibility in search engines. This optimization aims to show Google and other search engines that your site is relevant and user-friendly. It also ensures that users can easily find the information they are looking for. Examples of On-Page SEO elements include title tags, meta descriptions, internal links and optimized URLs.
Difference between On-Page and Off-Page SEO
- On-Page SEO: Optimization of content and structure on your website (e.g. keywords, headings, internal links).
- Off-Page SEO: Measures that take place outside your site, such as backlink building and social media activities.
Both areas are important for the SEO strategy, but On-Page SEO offers more control and is therefore a good starting point.
Why is On-Page SEO important?
Search engines evaluate the relevance and quality of a page based on various on-page elements. Google takes into account whether the content meets user expectations and is easily accessible.
This means that Google uses on-page signals such as keywords, loading speed and the structure of the page to determine whether a page meets the needs of users. On-Page SEO therefore creates the basis for a good ranking in the search results. Google also has its own Guide to Search Engine Optimization available online.
On-Page SEO techniques for your website
1. Create unique and helpful content
Create content that offers users added value and stands out from the competition. For example, if someone searches for “weight loss tips”, your article should answer this question clearly and completely. Make sure to include keywords in a meaningful and natural way so that the search engine can understand the content more easily.
2. Place keywords strategically
Place your main keyword in important areas such as:
- Title (H1)
- First paragraph
- Subheadings (H2, H3)
This allows Google and users to quickly recognize what the page is about.
3. Optimize Title Tags
The Title Tag is the page title that is displayed in the search results and in browser tabs. It should be:
- Include your main keyword
- Be short and concise (50-60 characters)
- Be unique so that Google can easily distinguish your pages.
4. Write click-strong Meta Descriptions
The Meta Description is a short text that is displayed below the title in the search results. Although it does not directly influence the ranking, it can be decisive as to whether users click on your page.
- Keep it short (approx. 120 characters for mobile devices).
- Use active language and add a prompt such as “Learn more now”.
5. Use headings and subheadings
Use H1 for the main title and H2 and H3 for subtopics to make the page structured and reader-friendly.
6. Use optimized and short URLs
URLs should be clear and simple. For example:
- Instead of www.example.com/post-123, it is better to use www.example.com/tipps-zum-abnehmen.
Use the main keyword and avoid unnecessary words.
7. Add internal links
Internal links connect different pages of your website. They help users with navigation and search engines with indexing. If you are in an article about losing weight, for example, you could link to an article about “diet plans”.
8. Insert external links
Link to trustworthy and relevant external pages. This shows Google that you offer users further and useful information. For example, you could link to a study in a health article.
9. Insert and optimize images
Images increase the attractiveness of a page and can also be read by Google through alt text. Alt text describes the image and is particularly important for image searches. Use concise descriptions and include the main keyword in a meaningful way.
Conclusion
On-Page SEO allows you to design your content and your website so that it is optimized for both search engines and users. With clear, relevant content, a well thought-out structure and the right placement of keywords, you create a solid foundation for success in the search results.
