Google’s monopoly on organic search results and all areas of SEO has us twiddling our thumbs as to how to get ahead of other rankings. While Google’s tactics may not be the most widely received by many critics, the truth is that the search engine provides various complimentary tools to help us further our marketing efforts and play within Google’s own sandbox. Utilizing these tools could make all the difference between a low search ranking and literally putting your business on the map. Here are some of the top free tools that you should consider and implement into your marketing efforts.
- Google Analytics
There is a massive benefit to using Google Analytics to review content on your site. Analytics is more or less easy to use considering the amount of vital information it relays its users, including user experience, success of campaigns, traffic, and conversions. Analytics can be customized to fit your needs and its ever-evolving dashboard adds new features to push your efforts farther. Nearly all marketing campaigns utilize this tool, and if you find that you are not, chances are you’re far behind your competitors.
- Google Webmaster Tools
Google Webmaster Tools is one of the most, if not the most, important tools that Google has to offer. Many would argue that if you had to choose just one, Google Webmaster Tools should be it. Working as a “mechanic” within your site, GWT makes sure that everything on the site is running smoothly and up to standard before any bigger issues arise. You can monitor and maintain your presence on Google search results while understanding how Google- and the world- views your site. Monitor your traffic, optimize your ranking, and do sophisticated marketing analysis all in one place.
- Google Trends
Google Trends shows how often a specific search term or keyword is entered into a search engine across various regions. It also allows the user to compare the volume of searches between two or more terms as well as news related to the specific terms entered. Understanding a specific terms popularity in centralized locations helps you to know whether these keywords are a goldmine for SEO and content marketing, or if they will simply fall flat. The more we know about our consumers’ vocabulary and desires, the more we can cater our content directly to our audience.
- Google Places
Claiming a local presence via Google’s Local Facilities, Places for Business, and Google+ Local is one of the quickest, easiest ways to gain search visibility. Claiming this presence essentially puts you in control of the information shown in Google’s Maps and allows you to engage with other local businesses as well as post news. You are immediately connected directly to customers through Search, Maps, and Google+ regardless of which device they are using.
- Tag Manager
Google Tag Manager allows you to create and update tags for website and mobile apps in no time. Manage your tags and configure mobile applications quickly for yourself, leaving you more time to spend focusing on other areas of business. The web interface is easy to use and tags can be changed at your convenience. Perhaps the most convenient part of Tag Manager is that the powerful debugging tool confirms that every tag is working, allowing you to be certain that your data is there when you need it.
Taking advantage of Google’s free features is an important part of any serious marketing strategy. As the most powerful search engine in the world, it’s important to know that Google rewards those who utilize its services. Stay ahead of competitors by understanding the logistics of your website inside and out while tailoring your strategies to a more powerful internet presence.
