When it comes to web design, usability, responsiveness, and aesthetics are considered quintessential elements that make it brilliant. Nonetheless, one important factor that must not be disregarded is the organization and legibility of URLs.

In addition to being essential for search engine optimization (SEO), user-friendly URLs significantly improve the user experience as well. An SEO-friendly URL structure not only enhances the user experience but also plays a significant role in improving a website's search engine rankings.

In this blog, we will discuss the importance of SEO-friendly URLs in web designing and some useful insights on how to create them effectively.

What Are SEO-Friendly URLs?

SEO-friendly URLs are web addresses that are structured in a way that is easy for both search engines and web surfers to understand because there are relevant short-tail or long-tail keywords that define the topic or niche of the webpage. The SEO-friendly URLs are concise and free of unnecessary parameters and symbols.

They should be clear, and descriptive, and indicate the content of the page, making it easier for search engines to index and rank the page accordingly. Ergo, SEO-Friendly URLs matter so much to the website owners that they spend quite a fortune to make it look and feel relevant.

So, what does it exactly do?

Improved Search Engine Rankings

Search engines such as Google use URLs as one of the many factors in determining a page's relevance to a given search query.

SEO-friendly URLs of webpages that include relevant keywords and meta-tags help search engines and bots understand the content of a page. And, this leads to better indexing and higher rankings.

For example, a URL like “https://www.AMCPR.com/web-design-tips” has more potential to rank well in SERPs as compared to a generic URL like “https://AMCPR/page1?id=1234”.

Enhanced User Experience

SEO-friendly URLs are not only beneficial for search engines but also for their visitors. Clear and descriptive URLs give users a good idea of what to expect on a page, which can increase click-through rates (CTR) and reduce bounce rates.

Readers or users tend to spend more time and attention on web pages that have readable, concise and understandable URLs. When users see a URL like this, they immediately know what the page is about, leading to a better overall user experience.

Easy Sharing And Linking

It is recommended that URLs be short, clear, crisp and descriptive. This type of URL is more likely to get shared and linked to by other websites and social media platforms.

Concise yet descriptive URLs drive more traffic to your main site and improve your website's authority and credibility. A URL with no complex parameters is easier to remember and share than a complex one filled with numbers and symbols.

Better Click-Through Rates (CTR)

A well-crafted URL can improve your website's click-through rates from search engine results pages (SERPs). When users see a URL that matches their search query, they are more likely to click on it.

For instance, if someone is searching for tips on improving web design, they are more likely to click on “https://www.AMCPR.com/web-design-tips” rather than “https://www.AMCPR.com/articlepost/12!345”.

How Can You Create SEO-Friendly URLs?

If you are updating the URLs on an already-existing website, you should begin with a comprehensive URL assessment. Create a detailed optimization strategy and make changes gradually. This methodical approach will reduce the possible effects on SEO.

Use Relevant Keywords

Including relevant keywords in your URLs helps search engines understand the content of your page. However, it's important not to overdo it. The keywords should be natural and relevant to the content of the page. For example, if your page is about SEO strategies, a good URL might be “https://www.EXAMPLE.com/seo-strategies”.

Keep URLs Short And Descriptive

Shorter URLs are generally better for both search engines and users. They are easier to read, remember, and share. Ergo, aim to keep your webpage URLs under 60 characters if possible.

For instance, “https://www.EXAMPLE.com/benefits-of-seo” is more effective than “https://www.EXAMPLE.com/understanding-the-numerous-benefits-of-search-engine-optimization”.

Avoid Unnecessary Parameters

Dynamic URLs with long strings of parameters can be confusing and unattractive. Whenever possible, use static URLs that are clean and easy to understand.

For example, instead of “https://www.EXAMPLE.com/index.php?id=12345”, use https://www.EXAMPLE.com/product-features”.

Use Hyphens To Separate Words

When creating URLs, use hyphens (-) to separate words rather than underscores (_). Search engines like Google recognize hyphens as word separators, which helps with readability and indexing.

Avoid Stop Words

Stop words such as “and,” “or,” “but,” and “the” can often be omitted from URLs without losing meaning. This can help keep your URLs concise and focused.

For example, “https://www.EXAMPLE.com/best-coffee-shops-nyc” looks cleaner and crisper than “https://www.EXAMPLE.com/the-best-coffee-shops-in-nyc”.

Maintain A Consistent URL Structure

A consistent URL structure helps both users and search engines navigate your website more easily. Use a logical and hierarchical structure that reflects the organization of your content.

For example, a blog section will follow this structure “https://www.EXAMPLE.com/blog/category/post-title”.

How To Implement SEO-Friendly URLs On Your Website?

Plan Your URL Structure

Before you start creating your website’s URLs, plan your website's URL structure. Consider the main categories and subcategories of your blog post or content and how they will be organized. A well-planned URL structure will make it more SEO-friendly.

Use A Content Management System (CMS)

Modern content management systems (CMS) like WordPress, Joomla, and Drupal offer tools and plugins to help you create SEO-friendly URLs. These tools can automatically generate URLs based on your content titles and allow you to customize them as needed.

Redirect Old URLs

If you are updating existing URLs to make them more SEO-friendly, it's important to set up 301 redirects from the old URLs to the new ones. This ensures that any existing links to your old URLs will still work and that you don't lose any search engine rankings or traffic.

Monitor And Adjust

Regularly monitor the performance of your URLs using tools such as Google Analytics and Google Search Console. Look for any issues such as broken links or duplicate content and make adjustments as needed to maintain optimal SEO performance.

​Conclusion

SEO-friendly URLs are a fundamental component of well-designed websites that impact user engagement, brand recognition, and search engine rankings. They go beyond simple aesthetic improvements.

At Allen Marketing Communications, Inc., we make sure that all aspects of your website, including URLs, are intelligently optimized for people and search engines alike. All of our services, including our all-inclusive digital marketing, website development, PR and our specialty Website Design services, are designed to increase your online presence.
So, are you ready to implement SEO-friendly URLs on your website?

Let our SEO and website experts help you optimize your website and achieve your digital marketing goals. See the website growth in a few days!

​By Sanjay Poddar, founder Yukti Digital, and consultant to Allen Marketing Communications, Inc.

Functional beverages are fortified with vitamins, minerals, probiotics, and other healthy ingredients to help consumers maintain their physical and mental and hydration goals.  Popular functional beverages include vitamin-enriched waters, energy drinks, sports drinks, teas, and juices.

Did you know . . .
 

• “The $50 billion US functional beverage market is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 4.5% from 2022 to 2027, reaching $62 billion.1 Energy drinks lead as the largest functional beverage category at $16.0 billion (accounting for one-third of the market), followed by sports drinks at $12.2 billion.2 While energy drinks continue to show solid growth (est. CAGR +3.2%, 2022-2027), sports drinks are growing even faster (est. CAGR 5.6%)”  (Source: Glanbia Nutritionals)
• “89 percent of consumers prefer functional food and drink over supplements when it comes to supporting their health.” (Source: Prinova)
• “Consumers ages 18 to 34 were the largest demographic group purchasing functional beverages, accounting for 40 percent of sales.” (Source: Gitnux)

In this blog, Allen Marketing Communications, Inc., a boutique food and beverage PR agency based in New York City, showcases key trends in the functional beverage market.

Plant-Powered Beverages

The plant-based revolution extends to beverages. Research reveals “plant-based functional beverage segment is expected to grow a CAGR of 5.9 percent from 2021 to 2026.” (Source: Gitnux)

Plant-based milk infused with adaptogens such as Ashwagandha, Curcuma or turmeric or functional mushrooms such as Lion's Mane are gaining significant traction. In fact, many companies are employing a variety of adaptogenic components, such as medicinal mushrooms for a pure and long-lasting effect.

Probiotics - Gut Feeling Good Drinks

Probiotics and fermented beverages are on the rise as consumers discover the connection between gut health and overall well-being. Other healthy drinks such as Kombucha, Kefir, and yogurt drinks are experiencing a surge in popularity across the country.

Research reveals “the probiotic drinks segment of the functional beverages market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8.4 percent from 2021 to 2028.” (Source: Gitnux)

Prebiotics and postbiotics are two new trends that are gaining traction as they may improve intestinal health. Prebiotics are primarily made up of non-digestible fibers and serve as food for the “good’ bacteria in our digestive systems. When gut microorganisms consume prebiotics, they produce bioactive chemicals known as postbiotics, which are a relatively novel family of nutrients.

Functional Waters

Water is getting a functional makeover! As customers look for more health benefits and hydration, functional waters loaded with vitamins, minerals, or electrolytes are becoming increasingly popular.

Research shows “functional waters made up 12 percent of the global functional beverage market,” (Source: Gitnux) There has been a surge in demand for natural and organic functional beverages, since consumers are turning away from artificial sweeteners, flavors, and additives.

Sports Drinks

Sports drinks including electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals have occupied this space and engaged the health-conscious people’s attention. According to Fortune Business Insights,” this market was valued at US$6.5 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow to US$9.4 billion by 2029.”

Here are additional benefits of hydrating functional beverages:
 

• Helps to remain hydrated all day
• Provides hydration assistance a person is sick
• Combat intense heat
• Helps with post hangover situation
• Assists with weight control
• Improves skin condition

Caffeine Alternative Drinks

Consumers are ditching all the caffeine in traditional energy drinks and opting for natural and healthy alternatives. Consumers are looking for natural ways to boost one’s energy with ingredients such as cacao beans, guarana, guayusa, coffee cherries, kola nuts, and ginseng. The lower caffeine halo is making such drinks super healthy and yet can fill your day with energy.

These are gaining popularity since they provide an invigorating and uplifting feeling without giving users the jitters.

Expand Your Business With Functional Beverages

The functional beverage market is brimming with potential and Allen Marketing Communications, Inc. is here, helping brands tap into this lucrative market.

Our food and beverage PR professionals can help companies develop their unique selling proposition and craft compelling stories to stand out in the food and beverage market. Contact us today.

​By Joanna Allen, chief executive officer, Allen Marketing Communications, Inc.

 
The allure of digital nomadism has captivated many, offering the freedom to work remotely while exploring the globe. When accompanied by a pet, this lifestyle gains an additional layer of joy and complexity. Balancing professional responsibilities with the needs of a furry companion presents unique challenges, but with the right approach, it can be incredibly rewarding. Careful planning, adaptability, and a thorough understanding of your and your pet's needs are crucial for success. Today, we share effective strategies to ensure a thriving nomadic career alongside your pet.

Showcase Your Professional Skills
A well-developed portfolio is essential, highlighting your skills and projects, especially pet-related ones, to attract industry-specific opportunities. Leveraging online platforms and social media enhances your visibility, making you an appealing candidate for projects that value animal welfare and involvement. This showcases your professional abilities and your passion for animals, potentially opening doors to unique opportunities in the pet industry.

Form an LLC
Forming an LLC offers digital nomads liability protection and a professional business structure, which can enhance credibility with clients. Additionally, it provides potential tax benefits and allows for easier management of income and expenses while traveling. Using a formation service like zenbusiness.com to register your LLC can be significantly more cost-effective than hiring an attorney.

Network for Success
Building a robust network is key to finding work and support as you navigate the nomadic lifestyle with your pet. Engaging with fellow digital nomads, potential clients, and professionals in online forums and local events can unearth opportunities and offer insights into balancing work and pet care on the road. These connections are invaluable for career growth and overcoming the logistical challenges of nomadic life.

Master Time Management
Effective time management requires you to juggle work tasks and pet care. Utilizing time management apps like Todoist helps, but flexibility is paramount to adapt to unforeseen circumstances. Prioritizing and scheduling allow for a harmonious balance between meeting professional deadlines and catering to your pet's needs, ensuring neither is neglected.

Create a Routine for Balance
A routine accommodating work commitments and pet care is vital for nomadic success. Regular exercise and mental stimulation for your pet are as important as meeting work deadlines. Finding a balance ensures you and your pet enjoy a high quality of life, fostering a positive environment for work and companionship.

Train Your Pet for Travel
Preparing your pet for nomadic life involves gradual acclimatization to travel. Starting with short trips and progressively extending them builds comfort and confidence. Prior research into pet-friendly destinations ensures you and your pet have enjoyable experiences, making travel a positive aspect of your nomadic lifestyle.

Invest in Pet Insurance
​For nomadic pet owners, investing in pet insurance provides essential financial protection against unforeseen health issues. By comparing various insurance plans and providers, you can find coverage that fits your lifestyle and budget, offering peace of mind during travels with your pet. Choosing the right insurance plan ensures you can confidently explore new places with your pet.
 
In essence, melding remote work with pet companionship as a digital nomad is enriching and complex. It demands meticulous planning, dedication to flexibility, and a commitment to your pet's welfare. By implementing these strategies, you can navigate the challenges and reap the rewards of a fulfilling nomadic career, ensuring you and your pet thrive on this adventurous path. This lifestyle isn’t without obstacles – but with a strategic approach, these can be managed, allowing you and your pet to enjoy the remarkable experience of discovering the world together.
 
Guest Post: Jesse Clark from Soulful Travel
Image via Pexels

Content creation provides a treasure trove of information to boost your company’s SEO (Search Engine Optimization) for better online visibility. Although it is important to create new content, we also believe in the power of repurposing and refreshing existing content including SEO. It's a win-win you provide valuable information.

Our partner agency, Yukti Digital, showcases interesting ways to make your content relevant and up-to-date to maintain your website’s visibility in search engine results. While creating fresh content is crucial, don't overlook the potential of your existing blog posts. With a few strategic updates, you can breathe new life into old content and boost its SEO performance on SERPs.

So, check out expert ways to refresh and optimize your old blog posts and how our boutique travel and lifestyle consumer marketing public relations agency can assist your business in this endeavor.

Update Outdated Information

Start by reviewing your old blog posts for any outdated information or statistics. Update facts, figures, and references to ensure accuracy and relevance. Experienced marketing agencies conduct thorough content audits to identify outdated information and make necessary updates, keeping your content current and credible.

SEO experts can also find out the broken links or viral trends that are gaining pace again.

Refresh Title And Meta Description

Craft compelling blog titles and meta descriptions that should accurately reflect the content of your blog post. It should entice users to click.

It is also essential to incorporate relevant keywords to improve visibility in search engine results pages (SERPs). A specialized team that has expertise in keyword research and optimization can ensure your titles and meta descriptions attract the right audience.

Optimize Headings And Subheadings

Break up your content with clear headings and subheadings to improve readability and SEO. Use descriptive, keyword-rich headings that accurately summarize the content below. An experienced digital marketing agency can optimize the blogs’ headings and subheadings for improved SEO, helping search engines understand the structure and relevance of your content.

Add New Multimedia Elements

Enhance the visual appeal of your blog posts by adding new multimedia elements such as:

• Relevant blog images
• Relevant blog videos
• Thorough infographics
• Interactive content such as GIFs, charts, etc.

Visuals not only engage readers but also improve SEO by increasing time on the page and reducing bounce rates. Our creative team can design and produce high-quality multimedia content to complement your blog posts.

Incorporate Internal And External Links

Include relevant internal links to other pages on your website to improve navigation and encourage deeper engagement. Additionally, add external links to authoritative sources to provide additional context and credibility.

SEO experts and audit teams can conduct link audits and implement strategic linking strategies to enhance the SEO value of your blog posts.

Optimize For Target Keywords

Identify target keywords related to your blog post’s topic and add them manually throughout the content, be it web pages, blogs, or articles. Use keyword variations such as long-tail keywords and short-tail keywords to capture a broader range of search queries.

Our SEO specialists can conduct keyword research and optimization to ensure your blog posts rank well for relevant search terms.

Expand And Enhance Content

Consider expanding on existing content by adding new insights, examples, case studies, or expert opinions.

Every time, you don't have to restyle or rewrite the whole blog content, but you can simply expand the existing content to improve its reach and call the crawling bots of the search engines so that you have uploaded a new article.

Provide additional value to readers by addressing common questions or concerns related to the topic. Experienced content creators can produce high-quality, informative content that enriches your blog posts and increases their SEO potential.

Optimize For Featured Snippets And Improve Readability

Structure your content to answer common questions or address specific queries that can trigger featured snippets in search results. Your content can appear on those question’s answer lists which appear along with the first page website page suggestions.

Format content using bullet points, numbered lists, and concise paragraphs to increase the likelihood of appearing in featured snippets. Reading bullet points and short or to-the-point answers are easy for readers to read. This also increases the reading time.

Ensure your blog posts are easy to read and navigate by using short paragraphs, bullet points, and engaging and expressive headings. Break up text with white space and use a clear, legible font for optimal readability. Choose our designers who can enhance the formatting and layout of your blog posts, improving user experience and SEO performance.

Promote Social Sharing And Engagement

Encourage social sharing and engagement by adding social media buttons and calls-to-action (CTAs) to your blog posts. Prompt readers to share their thoughts or questions in the comments section, fostering community interaction. The social media experts can develop customized social sharing strategies to amplify the reach of your refreshed blog posts.

Implement Schema Markup

Utilize schema markup to provide search engines with additional context about your content, enhancing its visibility and relevance. Implement schema markup for relevant elements:

• Reviews
• Ratings
• FAQs
• Breadcrumbs

An experienced technical SEO team can implement schema markup and structured data to improve the visibility and performance of your blog posts in SERPs.

Monitor Performance And Iterate

Analysis and constant improvement are the two main keys to achieving optimum SEO results.

It is recommended to track the performance of the refreshed blog posts using analytics tools to measure key metrics such as traffic, engagement, and conversions. Analyze data regularly and iterate your strategies based on performance insights.

Our travel and lifestyle PR agency provides comprehensive analytics reporting and ongoing optimization to ensure your refreshed blog posts continue to deliver results over time.

Conclusion

By implementing these 11 strategies, you can breathe new life into old blog posts and optimize them for improved SEO performance. Our marketing agency specializes in content optimization, SEO, and digital marketing strategies to help businesses maximize the impact of their content.

Contact our SEO professionals to see the best result of your efforts and drive measurable results from your content.

​By Sanjay Poddar, chief executive officer, Yukti Digital and a consultant for Allen Marketing Communications, Inc.