September 5, 2024 - Have you wondered how long it takes to grow your business’s organic search ranking?
The truth is, there’s no clear consensus on this. Typically, it can take anywhere between 3–12 months to notice an improvement in your organic search results, but this can be contingent on a number of different factors — some in your control, others not so much.
Let’s explore what factors influence your organic ranking and dispel some common myths.
Factors that Influence Your Timeline
Not all timelines are the same. However, these key factors may determine how quickly you’ll see results.
1. Competitive Markets
Being in a highly competitive niche market or territory can make your organic search optimization take longer. Patience and persistence are key. In less competitive spaces, you might see results a bit sooner.
2. GBP and Listing Optimization
Optimizing your Google Business Profile, along with listings on top platforms like Microsoft Bing and Yelp, can significantly enhance your visibility. These platforms often serve as first impressions for potential customers, so ensure your profiles are accurate, complete and engaging.
3. Website Age and Authority
Newer websites often take longer to gain traction in search results compared to older, established sites. A study by SEMrush found that domains that ranked on the first page of Google typically had an average age of 2-3 years.
4. Create Quality Content
High-quality content that answers user queries thoroughly and engagingly is a key factor in search engine rankings. When you cater to the needs and questions of users, search engines take notice, potentially speeding up your journey to the top of search results.
5. Backlinks
Think of backlinks as digital website endorsements. The more high-quality sites link back to your content, the more credible and authoritative your site appears to search engines. Just remember, always choose quality over quantity!
Dispelling Common Myths
Myth 1: You can “set and forget.”
Reality: Actually, the correct phrase is never set and forget. Optimization is an ongoing process that requires continuous updates. It doesn’t hurt to slightly refresh your content every 3–6 months.
Myth 2: More keywords, better results.
Reality: Focus on quality over quantity. Keyword stuffing can hurt your ranking.
Myth 3: Social media doesn’t impact your ranking.
Reality: Social signals can enhance your optimization efforts indirectly by increasing your content’s visibility and generating backlinks.
Pro-Tip: Let Melon Local Optimize Your Organic Search
At Melon Local, we specialize in planting and nurturing your digital organic garden! From optimizing your business listings to managing your online reputation, book a demo with us today to learn more about how we can grow together!