Growing Your Audience Through SEO
Search engine optimization (SEO) can be a powerful tool for publishers to increase visibility and traffic to their websites. However, for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) publishers, the task of implementing SEO strategies can be complicated by systemic barriers such as racism and discrimination in the industry. In this article, we will discuss some SEO strategies that BIPOC publishers can use to overcome these barriers and improve their online presence.
Create High-Quality Content that Reflects Your Audience
Creating high-quality content that reflects the perspectives and experiences of your BIPOC audience is essential for SEO success. This could include articles, videos, podcasts, or other types of media. This not only helps to build trust with your audience but also improves your website’s relevance and authority in the eyes of search engines. BIPOC publishers should strive to create content that resonates with their target audience and represents a diversity of viewpoints and experiences.
Conduct Keyword Research with an Inclusive Lens
Keyword research is a crucial first step in any SEO strategy. However, many tools and resources for keyword research may not accurately represent BIPOC perspectives and experiences. To conduct keyword research with an inclusive lens, BIPOC publishers can use tools like Google Trends, which allows them to identify the most popular search terms related to their content. They can also use social media platforms to see what topics are currently trending among their audience.
Optimize Your Website for Accessibility
Accessibility is a critical factor in SEO, as search engines prioritize websites that are easy to navigate and use. For BIPOC publishers, accessibility also means creating a website that is welcoming and inclusive to all visitors, regardless of their background or identity. This can include using alternative text for images, adding closed captions to videos, and ensuring that the website is easy to use with assistive technologies.
Build Relationships with Other BIPOC Publishers
Building relationships with other BIPOC publishers like Blavity360 can be a powerful way to increase your website’s visibility and authority. By collaborating with other publishers and sharing content, you can tap into their audience and build a community of like-minded individuals. This not only helps to increase your website’s visibility but also promotes diversity and representation in the industry.
Stay Up-to-Date with Trends and Best Practices
SEO is a constantly evolving field, and it’s essential to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices. BIPOC publishers can attend industry events, read industry publications, and engage in the digital community to keep a pulse on important news, updates, and case studies.