
SEO Checklist: Essential Guide to Optimize Your Website
Site optimization for search engines is essential for better visibility and reach. Here's what you need to do before and after launching your site.
Before Launch:
Basic Site Information:
- Add a site title (under 60 characters) with relevant keywords
- Create a site description (50-300 characters)
- Include unique SEO descriptions for each page
- Format page titles correctly for browser tabs and social media
Design Elements:
- Add a favicon (browser icon) for brand recognition
- Include social sharing images for site and individual pages
- Create a custom 404 page with useful navigation links
- Review all content for best practices
Technical Setup:
- Connect a custom domain
- Link social media profiles
- Enable SSL security
- Check URL slugs for meaningful content
- Set up blog post URL format
Location Details:
- Add physical location if applicable
- Create Google Business Profile
Post-Launch Tasks:
Verification:
- Set up Google Search Console
- Submit site for Google indexing
- Verify with Bing Webmaster tools
- Connect Google Analytics
Ongoing Maintenance:
Content Management:
- Optimize new content regularly
- Create redirects for changed URLs
- Update site content frequently
- Monitor site traffic and analytics
Content Best Practices:
Text Optimization:
- Use strategic keywords naturally
- Structure content with proper headings
- Create easy-to-read paragraphs
Image Optimization:
- Add descriptive alt text
- Use readable file names
- Keep images under 500KB
- Maintain total page size below 5MB
Organization:
- Implement tags and categories
- Add internal links where relevant
- Customize URL slugs
- Include social sharing images
Note: Rankings may fluctuate temporarily after changes. Allow 1-2 weeks for search engines to index updates. If rankings don't improve, analyze traffic patterns and consider adjusting keywords.
For additional support:
- Attend SEO webinars
- Consult SEO experts
- Join professional web design communities
- Participate in forum discussions