RSS (Really Simple Syndication) is a system for delivering web content directly to internet users. The concept behind RSS is eliminating the necessity of having to constantly check various websites for updates. With an RSS, time is saved through the convenience of having content automatically compiled into a user’s RSS reader (such as Google Reader). Unfortunately, you must have an RSS feed on your website to have the capability to post updates.
Web pages with RSS capability are typically denoted by a button somewhere beside the content that says “subscribe to this page” or something similar. Also, users of the latest versions of Mozilla Firefox and Internet Explorer determine an RSS page by the appearance of the orange RSS icon in the navigation bar. Users can subscribe to their favorite RSS enabled website by simply clicking the orange RSS icon.
Now that we have considered the benefits and implications of RSS for the web user, we shall now look at it through the lens of the small business owner. RSS is a growing need within the web world where top news sources and top companies are posting blogs. For a business owner, having an RSS feed will contribute to a strong presence on the web. Additional benefits of an RSS feed include announcing upcoming events, listing new items for sale, listing clearance items, listing specials, and anything else beneficial to an individual or a business. An often overlooked benefit that an RSS feeds provides is that it helps with a website’s search engine optimization.
Search engine optimization (SEO) is a series of practices that enable a website to become prominent in search engine results. An important component in SEO is link building, by having an RSS feed, you are able to capture many outside links to your website. Search engines look to outside links leading to your website as building credibility and thus, will place your website higher in the relevance of certain search terms. RSS can help you build links due to the fact that your feed has the ability to be easily implemented in third party websites who enjoy your content.
Another way of using RSS content to optimize your site is by placing widely searched keywords that relate to your core business into RSS feeds. Perform a Google search on your core business and take note of the common keywords you find in the results. These are the words that you need to include in your RSS content for successful SEO.
RSS is beneficial to both the web user and small business owner alike, because it essentially opens up another channel of communication between the two. Search Engine Optimization in conjunction with an RSS feed expands that channel and brings your website into the forefront of the internet. If you want more information or if your website does not currently have an RSS feed but you would like one, please contact us at Info@seyboldinc.com.
