Optimizing internal linking on your website is crucial for both user experience and search engine optimization (SEO). Here are some best practices to follow:
- Use Descriptive Anchor Text: Anchor text should be descriptive and give a sense of the topic or keywords the linked page is targeting. This helps search engines understand the context of the link.
- Establish Site Architecture: Internal links are most useful for establishing site architecture and spreading link equity. Make sure that all your pages are interconnected and easily navigable. Avoid hiding or burying your main link navigation in ways that search engines cannot access.
- Find Internal Linking Opportunities: Look for pages on your site that rank for related topics and ensure they link with descriptive anchor text. This helps distribute link equity across your site and makes it easier for search engines to crawl and index your pages.
- Place Internal Links Strategically: Placing internal links towards the top of your page can reduce your bounce rate and improve dwell time. This signals to Google that users are engaging with your content, potentially increasing your page ranking.
- Regular Audits: Regularly audit your internal links to identify any issues or areas for improvement. This can help you spot pages that are receiving excessive internal links and may need to be revised or restructured.
- Use Normal Dofollow Links: When using internal links to pass PageRank around your site, ensure you’re using normal dofollow links. NoFollow links do not pass PageRank and are typically used for off-site links.
Remember, the goal of internal linking is to enhance the user experience and help search engines understand and navigate your site. By following these best practices, you can create a more cohesive and engaging website for your visitors, while also improving your SEO efforts.