Do Domain Names Still Matter for SEO in 2025?

by Connie Cermak | Apr 22, 2025 | Domain Names, Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

A Domain by any Other Name Still Matters for SEO in 2025

When it comes to digital marketing in 2025, content reigns, Google’s algorithm evolves by the day, and one question keeps coming up: Do domain names still affect SEO rankings? The short answer: yes — but not in the way they used to.

Let’s dig into why your domain name still holds weight in your SEO strategy — and how to choose one that both users and search engines will love.

The Old School Approach: Exact Match Domains (EMDs)

In the early 2000s, websites like bestmattressdeals.com or buycheapfurnitureonline.net were dominating search results simply because their domain names matched high-volume search queries. This was known as the Exact Match Domain (EMD) tactic — and for a while, it worked.

But in 2012, Google released the EMD Update, which penalized low-quality sites using keyword-stuffed domains. The focus shifted from keyword presence to content quality, user experience, and site authority.

note: For those of you who geek out over Google updates like I do, here’s a list of Google SEO updates since the early 2000’s.

What Matters Now, in 2025

Today, your domain name is more about trust, branding, and relevance than hitting a keyword bullseye. But it still plays a role in:

Click-through rates (CTR): A clear, memorable domain encourages users to click.
User trust: .com domains still carry weight with users, while confusing or spammy TLDs can deter traffic.
Branded search: If your domain becomes memorable, people will Google your brand directly — and that’s SEO gold.
Relevance signals: Including related keywords or LSI phrases can help search engines better understand your content’s theme.

What Is LSI / Latent Semantic Indexing?

LSI helps search engines understand the context of your content by identifying related terms and concepts — not just repeated keywords. Let’s say you’re in the real estate business in Montana. Google expects to see terms like:

homes for sale
Montana real estate
property listings
Flathead Valley homes
local real estate agent
buying vs renting

These are all LSI keywords that support your main topic and help Google determine relevance. And here’s where domain names come into play:

Poor domain examples:

besthomesforsaleinmontanaflatheadvalley.com — keyword-heavy, hard to remember, and overly long.
montanapropertylistingsbyjakeandjulie.net — cluttered, unclear branding, and a less common TLD.

Better domain examples:

MountainNestRealty.com – brandable, short, and relevant.
LiveFlathead.com – easy to remember, location-based, and emotionally appealing.
FindMontanaHomes.com – blends keyword relevance with clarity and simplicity.

The goal when determining your domain is to strike a balance between SEO context and user-friendly branding.

Example: Good vs. Not-So-Great Domain Names

Let’s say you’re launching a site about eco-friendly skincare, here’s a list of great, LSI-friendly domain examples:

GreenGlowSkincare.com – combines brandability with relevance.
PureBotanicalsBeauty.com – speaks to the niche and uses natural language that Google understands.

Vs Not-so-great examples:

buynaturalproducts4cheap.com – outdated, keyword-stuffed, and not trustworthy.
xyz-beauty-skin.tk – hard to remember, unclear, and uses a less reputable TLD.

What to Consider When Choosing a Domain Name

Clarity over cleverness: If people can’t spell or remember it, they won’t find you.
Short and brandable: Think Airbnb, Spotify, Notion — none are keyword-stuffed, but all are unforgettable.
Relevant keywords (if it fits): If it feels natural and supports your brand, including a keyword or LSI phrase is helpful.
Avoid hyphens and numbers: They confuse users and look spammy.

TLD trust: Stick to .com if possible — or use location- or industry-specific domains like .co, .studio, or .health with care.

Final Thoughts: Is Your Domain Holding You Back?

While domain names alone won’t make or break your rankings, a strong, strategic name gives you a head start. It’s your digital storefront — and the right name creates instant trust, improves user experience, and complements your broader SEO strategy.

So yes, domain names still matter. Just not in the spammy, keyword-heavy ways of the past.

Focus on clarity, context, and brand alignment. Sprinkle in those LSI keywords throughout your site content. And remember: in 2025, Google ranks for meaning — not just words.

Looking to choose an SEO-smart domain name?

Let’s brainstorm together. Email me and lets get something on the books.

For those of you who’d like to learn more, here are some of my favorite sources for staying on top of SEO updates:

Search Engine Land – Google’s EMD Update

Moz – What is Domain Authority?

Ahrefs – Domain Rating vs Domain Authority

What are Inbound Links, Backlinks, and Internal Links?

by Connie Cermak | Mar 1, 2025 | Backlinks, Inbound Links, Internal Links, Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Inbound Links, Backlinks, and Internal Links: The Web of Connections That Boost Your Content

Ever heard the phrase “It’s not what you know, but who you know”? Well, in the world of digital marketing, it’s a little bit of both. You can write the best content on the internet, but if no one is linking to it, it’s like throwing a fantastic party and forgetting to send out invitations. That’s where inbound links, backlinks, and internal links come into play.

Backlinks: The Internet’s Version of a Personal Recommendation

A backlink (also called an inbound link) is a link from another website to yours. Think of it as a vote of confidence—when another site links to your content, it signals to search engines that your page is valuable. The more quality backlinks you have, the more credibility and authority your website gains.

For example, if a high-profile publication links to your blog about evergreen content, that’s like a respected expert saying, “Hey, this person knows their stuff!” Google pays attention to that, which can help boost your rankings.

Internal Links: The Secret Pathways to a Better User Experience

An internal link is a link from one page of your website to another page of your website. These are the signposts that help both visitors and search engines navigate your site. They keep readers engaged by guiding them to related content, and they help distribute SEO power across your pages.

For instance, right now, I could link this blog post to my article about evergreen content (boom, that right there, “evergreen content,” is an internal link!). That tells both my readers and search engines that these topics are connected and worth exploring together. It also keeps users on your website longer, making it easier for them to navigate similar topics, and improving their overall user experience, which Google appreciates.

Inbound Links: The Friendly Neighbors Sending Traffic Your Way

The term inbound links is often used interchangeably with backlinks, but it can also refer more broadly to any link that brings visitors to your site—whether from an external source such as a newsletter, an Instagram story, or even another page within your domain – which, again, we more often refer to as an internal link.

Why These Links Matter for Your Content Strategy

SEO Boost – Search engines see links as endorsements, helping your site rank higher in search engines.

User Engagement – Internal links keep visitors on your site longer, exploring more content.

Traffic Growth – Backlinks from reputable sites can drive new audiences to your content.

So, if you’re creating evergreen content (content that stays relevant over time), make sure it’s well-connected with internal links and encourage backlinks by sharing and promoting your work. After all, the best parties—the best content—deserve a crowd!

Want to see an internal link in action? Check out my post on evergreen content here, and see how it all comes together!

Lastly, Learn the Pro’s and Con’s of Buying Backlinks!

Spoiler Alert! There are very few pro’s! Read on right here, and decide for yourself how to get those pesky backlinks to point to your website.

SEO in 2025

by Connie Cermak | Jan 2, 2025 | Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

SEO in 2025: Still Crucial, Yet Evolving

In the ever-changing world of digital marketing, Search Engine Optimization (SEO) remains a foundational strategy. Even in 2025, when social media and paid ads dominate headlines, SEO continues to drive organic traffic and long-term visibility. Some folks may claim it’s outdated. I say: not even close.

Why SEO Still Deserves a Seat at the Table in 2025

Organic Search Is Still a Heavy Hitter

Yes, social media is noisy. Yes, paid ads have their place. But organic search is still one of the top traffic drivers to websites across industries. Over 50% of web traffic still starts with a search. So if your SEO isn’t pulling its weight, you’re likely missing a big slice of the pie.

Trust Starts at the Top (of Google)

Ranking well in search results isn’t just about clicks—it builds trust. Users are more likely to engage with and buy from brands they find at the top of search pages. SEO helps you show up consistently and credibly, which is half the battle in today’s attention economy.

It’s Cost-Effective (in the Long Run)

Unlike ads that stop working the moment your budget runs dry, good SEO keeps working long after you hit publish. Once you’re ranking, maintaining that spot is far more budget-friendly than a never-ending ad campaign.

User Experience = SEO Gold

Search engines have gotten smart. They reward sites that are clear, fast, easy to navigate, and actually helpful. Great SEO and great UX now go hand-in-hand. If your site delivers a smooth, engaging experience, your bounce rate goes down—and your rankings go up.

What’s Changed in SEO in 2025? A Lot.

AI Is Running the SEO Show (Sort Of)

With AI and machine learning more deeply integrated into algorithms, Google can now better understand user intent. That means content needs to be relevant, useful, and written like a human (not a keyword-stuffing robot). This is a good thing. It pushes us to write better, think smarter, and focus on actual value.

Core Web Vitals Are Non-Negotiable

Google’s Core Web Vitals—LCP, FID, and CLS—measure how fast your page loads, how quickly it responds to clicks, and how stable it is visually. Basically: if your site feels clunky, your rankings will suffer. Technical SEO isn’t optional anymore—it’s foundational.

E-A-T Is the New Standard

Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness (E-A-T) are critical, especially if you’re sharing information that affects someone’s health, finances, or well-being. This isn’t fluff. It’s Google’s way of rewarding credibility. If you’re the real deal, show it. Credentials, bios, clear sourcing—these details matter.

Voice Search is Growing Up

With the rise of smart speakers and digital assistants, more people are searching with their voices. That means your SEO strategy should include natural, conversational language and long-tail keywords. Think less “best skincare serum” and more “what’s the best anti-aging serum for sensitive skin?”

Local SEO Is Having a Moment

Local search has exploded—especially for small and service-based businesses. Features like Google Business Profile, customer reviews, and accurate local listings have major influence. Want to show up in “near me” searches? Local SEO needs your attention.

Content Still Reigns, But the Bar Is Higher

Thin, generic content doesn’t cut it anymore. Google wants content that’s thorough, engaging, and actually answers the user’s question. It’s not about publishing more—it’s about publishing better. So yes, content is still king, but now it needs a crown and a strategy.

Mobile-First SEO Is the Default in 2025

Mobile-first indexing is officially the norm. If your mobile experience isn’t dialed in—think fast load times, easy navigation, and clear calls to action—Google will notice. So will your visitors.

So, Is SEO Still Worth It in 2025?

Absolutely. But only if you’re doing it right.

SEO is evolving, but it’s not going anywhere. It’s still the best way to build long-term visibility, authority, and trust—without throwing your entire budget into ads. Staying ahead of SEO trends (and staying human while doing it) is what separates forgettable content from high-performing strategy.

Great Resources for More SEO Info for 2025

Google Search Central – Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Starter Guide
This is Google’s own guide, and linking to it shows you’re offering value backed by the source itself. Great for readers who want to go deeper into technical best practices. Read it here.

Moz – What is SEO?
Moz remains a trusted authority in the SEO space. Their beginner-friendly content breaks down complex topics in a way that’s accessible and reputable. This would be a perfect complement to your post’s friendly tone and smart strategy. Read it here.

If you’re not sure how your website measures up, let’s talk. I’ll help you uncover opportunities, clarify your content, and create an SEO plan that actually converts. Click here to email me. I’d love to hear from you.

Want to go deeper? Explore these next:

🐝 What’s AEO and how does it fit with SEO?

🐝 Evergreen Content & Featured Snippets: Long-Term Wins

🐝 Quick-Start Guide: Master Your SEO

🐝 Understanding Keywords (Without the Overwhelm)

AEO and How it Differs From SEO

by Connie Cermak | Dec 14, 2024 | Answer Engine Optimization, Most Read, Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Is AEO, Answer Engine Optimization, the Future of Search?

The digital marketing world is constantly evolving, and just as we’ve mastered SEO (Search Engine Optimization), a new contender enters the arena: AEO (Answer Engine Optimization). But what is AEO, and how does it differ from SEO? Does it replace SEO, complement it, or carve its niche in search engine strategies? Let’s dive into what AEO is, how it works, and how you can incorporate it into your website to stay ahead in the optimization game.

Answer Engine Optimization in a Nutshell

AEO, or Answer Engine Optimization, focuses on optimizing your content to provide direct and concise answers to user queries. While SEO aims to drive traffic to your website by improving visibility on search engine results pages (SERPs), AEO takes it a step further, positioning your content as the direct answer to questions users type—or speak—into search engines.

Think about the “Featured Snippets” or voice search results you see and hear when asking Google or Alexa a question. AEO is about capturing these top spots, ensuring your content is the answer.

Don’t know what featured snippets are? This sentence links to a quick-to-read article I wrote about snippets and evergreen content.

How Does AEO Differ from SEO?

While SEO and AEO share similar goals of improving visibility, their approaches and end objectives differ:

SEO vs AEO

SEO/Search Engine Optimization

Focuses on ranking high in SERPs.\
Optimized for user behavior and keywords.
Optimized for question-based queries and structured data.
Targets organic traffic.
Broader scope of optimization.

🐝 Tip: If you’d like to learn about SEO, read the article I wrote, “Mastering Website Optimization, your Ultimate Guide to SEO,” by clicking here.

AEO/Answer Engine Optimization

Focuses on providing direct answers.
Optimized for question-based queries and structured data.
Targets voice search and answer boxes.
Specific focus on micro-moments and concise answers.

Does AEO Replace SEO or Complement It?

AEO does not replace SEO; instead, it complements it. SEO ensures your content is discoverable, while AEO ensures your content is actionable as a direct answer. As the use of voice search and AI-driven assistants grows, AEO’s importance will continue to rise, but both strategies work hand-in-hand.

How Does AEO Work?

AEO works by targeting the intent behind user searches, particularly queries beginning with “who,” “what,” “when,” “where,” “why,” or “how.” It leverages:

Structured Data (Schema Markup): Helps search engines understand your content’s context and structure.

Concise, Clear Content: Answers questions directly in the first 40-60 words of a paragraph.

Optimized Headlines: Uses headlines that mirror the exact question users ask.

Authority Signals: Ensures your site is credible and authoritative on the topic.

How Does Content Matter in AEO?

Content remains king, but for AEO, the crown rests on clarity and precision. Here’s how to tailor content for AEO:

Answer First: Address the question immediately at the start of the content.

Use Clear Headlines: Formulate headlines as questions (e.g., “What is AEO?”) or answers.

Support Answers with Depth: While the initial response should be concise, provide additional context, examples, or insights below.

Leverage Lists and Tables: These formats are easy for search engines to parse and often appear in featured snippets.

Are You Optimizing for Search Engines or Direct Answers?

With AEO, you’re optimizing for both. While traditional SEO helps your content get indexed and ranked, AEO ensures your content is structured to meet user intent instantly. For example, an AEO-optimized article might rank in the “People Also Ask” section or as a Featured Snippet.

How Structured Data Plays a Role in AEO

Structured data is essential for AEO. By using schema markup, you tell search engines how your content is organized. This makes it easier for them to extract the specific answer to a user query. Here are some common schema types for AEO:

FAQ Schema: Helps your answers appear in “Frequently Asked Questions” sections.
How-To Schema: Guides users through processes step by step.
Article Schema: Highlights your content as a reliable source.

With AEO Clear Headlines Are Key

Clear headlines are a cornerstone of AEO. Why? Because headlines often match the exact phrasing of user queries. By mirroring how users ask questions, your content is more likely to be selected as a direct answer.

Step-by-Step Actions to Incorporate AEO Into Your Website

Identify User Questions: Use tools like Google’s “People Also Ask,” AnswerThePublic, or SEMrush to find common queries related to your niche.

Structure Content for Answers: Start with a concise answer (40-60 words) then follow with detailed explanations, examples, or visuals.

Optimize Headlines: Use question-based or specific answer-oriented headlines and include keywords directly in the headline.

Implement Structured Data: Add schema markup to your site using Google’s Structured Data Markup Helper or a plugin like Yoast SEO Premium, which is what I use and highly recommend.

Focus on Voice Search: Optimize for conversational language, as voice search queries tend to be more natural and long-form.

Prioritize Mobile Usability: Ensure your site is mobile-friendly, as many voice searches happen on mobile devices.

Build Domain Authority: Publish high-quality, authoritative content regularly and earn backlinks from credible sources.

Monitor Results: Use Google Search Console to track performance in featured snippets and answer boxes, then start refining your content based on data.

🐝 Tip: to learn about the importance of data, read my article called “The Power of Analytics and How Data Shapes Your Marketing Strategy,” by clicking here.

AEO is not just a buzzword

AEO is the next evolution of optimization in a world dominated by voice search and AI-driven interactions. By integrating AEO into your website strategy, you enhance your chances of capturing direct answers, voice search results, and coveted featured snippets.

While SEO sets the foundation, AEO sharpens the focus, ensuring your content speaks directly to user needs. Ready to make your website the go-to answer engine? Start optimizing with AEO today! Your team at Social Nectar is ready to help! Contact us and let’s get started.

More Resources to Help You Optimize Your Brand

Learn about Alt-Tags and how to use them to optimize your brand and your website here.

Learn about the power of keywords to optimize your web copy and website here.

Read how blogging helps build your brand here.

Unlocking the Power of Keywords on Your Website

by Connie Cermak | Dec 12, 2024 | Answer Engine Optimization, Keywords, Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

Unlocking the Power of Keywords: How Google Connects Your Website to the World

Let’s talk about keywords — those small but mighty words or phrases that have the power to connect your website to the right audience. If you’ve read my guide to mastering SEO (Mastering Website Optimization: Your Ultimate Guide to SEO), you’re already familiar with how crucial optimization is for driving organic traffic. Now, let’s dig deeper into the role of keywords and how Google’s bots use them to index your site and match it with searchers.

What Are Keywords?

Keywords are the terms people type (or speak) into search engines like Google when looking for information, products, or services. For instance, if someone is searching for scenic flights in Montana, they might use keywords like “Glacier National Park aerial tours” or “Montana flying adventures.” Including these phrases strategically in your web copy signals to Google that your site is relevant to those queries.

But it’s not just about sprinkling keywords everywhere. It’s about understanding what your audience is searching for and weaving those terms naturally into your content.

How Google Bots Work

Think of Google’s bots (also known as crawlers) as digital librarians. They comb through billions of web pages, scanning for content and cataloging it in Google’s massive index. Keywords play a starring role in this process. Here’s how it works:

Crawling: Bots scan your website’s pages, reading your text, images, and even code to understand what your site is about.

Indexing: Based on the keywords and overall content, Google adds your pages to its index, essentially filing them under relevant topics.

Matching: When someone searches for a term, Google’s algorithm digs into its index and matches the query with the most relevant, high-quality pages — ideally, yours!

Why Keywords Matter for Website Visibility

Without the right keywords, your site could be overlooked, no matter how beautiful or informative it is. Keywords help Google understand:

What your business offers
Which audience your content serves
Where you fit in the competitive landscape

If your site’s keywords align with what potential clients are searching for, your chances of showing up on that coveted first page increase dramatically. And we would love to help get you there!

Best Practices for Keyword Usage

Do Your Research: Tools like Google Keyword Planner or SEMrush can help you identify high-volume, low-competition keywords. These are the golden tickets for visibility.

Use Keywords Strategically: Include them in key areas like:

Page titles
Headings (H1, H2, etc.)
Meta descriptions
The first 100 words of your content
Alt text for images – you can learn how easy they are to create in my article here.

Note: Write for Humans, Not Just Bots: Keywords should flow naturally in your copy. Forced or repetitive use (known as keyword stuffing) can hurt your rankings and turn off readers.

Diversify Your Keywords: Include a mix of short-tail keywords (e.g., “flying tours”) and long-tail keywords (e.g., “exclusive flying tours of Glacier National Park”) to cover a broader range of search queries.

Stay Current: Trends change. Regularly review and update your keyword strategy to reflect what’s relevant in your industry.

The Big Picture: Keywords Are Just the Beginning

While keywords are essential, they’re just one piece of the SEO puzzle. High-quality content, fast page speeds, mobile-friendly design, and backlinks all play a role in boosting your site’s visibility. But it all starts with those crucial words that signal to Google, “Hey, I’ve got what people are looking for!”

So, take the time to craft keyword-rich, client-focused content that speaks to your audience and tells Google exactly why your site deserves to shine.

If you’re ready to learn more about SEO read my SEO article here.

Learn the difference between SEO and AEO here.

Take your SEO to the next level by learning the significance of featured snippets and evergreen content here.

Ready to optimize your site and reach your ideal clients? Let’s chat about how Social Nectar can help! Together, we’ll create a web presence that truly soars. I’d love to hear from you! Email me here.

What Are Alt-Tags and How To Create Them to Optimize Your Website

by Connie Cermak | Dec 7, 2024 | Images, Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Web Design and User Experience (UX)

Alt-Tags: The History, Importance, and How-To for Optimized Website Images

Welcome to the vibrant world of digital storytelling! If you’re managing a website or thinking about one, you’ve probably heard the term “alt-tags” tossed around. They might sound like a techy afterthought, but these little snippets of text pack a powerful punch for accessibility, SEO, and user experience. So, let’s dive into the story of alt-tags—where they came from, why they’re important, and how to use them to make your website shine.

What Are Alt-Tags?

Alt-tags (or alternative text) are descriptive text snippets that tell the story of an image on a webpage. When your browser doesn’t display an image—whether due to slow internet, a broken link, or accessibility needs—alt-tags step in to describe what should be there. They’re like the narrator of a digital novel, helping visually impaired users and search engines understand your content.

A Brief History These Powerful Little Tags

Alt-tags were born in the early days of the internet when websites began to recognize the importance of accessibility. In 1995, the HTML 2.0 specification introduced the <img> tag, allowing web designers to include images in their pages. Alt attributes came along as a companion to these images, ensuring that users with screen readers or text-only browsers could still experience the essence of the image.

Fast-forward to today, and alt-tags have become an essential part of the web. From improving accessibility to boosting your site’s SEO, these tiny text tags are digital superheroes!

Why Alt-Tagging Matters

Accessibility: Alt-tags make your website inclusive for visually impaired users relying on screen readers. They transform visuals into words, leveling the playing field for everyone.
SEO Boost: Search engines love alt-tags. By including relevant keywords, you give search engines more context to index your images, improving your site’s ranking.
Backup Plan: If an image fails to load, the alt-tag ensures your message isn’t lost. It keeps your website functional and professional, even under technical hiccups.

Naming Your Images: Start Smart

Before we even get to alt-tags, let’s talk about naming your image files. Forget the lazy “IMG1234.jpg.” Instead, opt for descriptive, keyword-rich file names that clearly represent the image.

For example:

Instead of: IMG5678.jpg
Use: organic-honey-jars-on-wooden-table.jpg

This small change makes a big difference for both users and search engines. It’s like putting a label on a drawer—you’ll always know what’s inside!

How to Alt-Tag Your Images

Adding alt-tags is simple, but there are a few best practices to keep in mind. Let’s break it down:

Be Descriptive and Specific

Your alt-tag should explain what’s in the image as clearly as possible.

Example: For an image of a golden retriever playing fetch in a park, use:
“Golden retriever chasing a red ball on green grass in a sunny park.”

Keep It Short and Sweet

While it’s important to be descriptive, you don’t need a novel. Aim for 8–10 words.

Include Keywords Naturally

If it makes sense, incorporate relevant keywords. But don’t overdo it—nobody likes keyword stuffing (especially search engines).

Skip “Image of” or “Picture of”

Screen readers already announce it’s an image, so jump straight to the description.

Avoid Redundancy

If the image is purely decorative, you can leave the alt-tag blank (alt=""). This tells screen readers to skip it, keeping the focus on meaningful content.

Bringing It All Together

Alt-tags may seem small, but they’re mighty when it comes to optimizing your website. From their historical roots in accessibility to their modern-day role in SEO, they help bridge the gap between visuals and words, making the web a better place for everyone.

So, as you’re preparing to upload your next batch of images, remember:

Name your files descriptively.
Write clear, concise alt-tags.
Think of your audience—both people and search engines.

Need help tackling your website images? At Social Nectar, we’re buzzing with creative solutions to make your site both beautiful and functional. Whether you’re ready to DIY or want our team to handle the details, we’ve got you covered. Let’s make your digital space as sweet as honey! 🐝

Alt-tags aren’t just for the pros—they’re for anyone who wants their website to stand out. So, go ahead, give your images a voice, and let them speak volumes!

🐝 Up Next: Need to learn about resizing your images for desktop and mobile website design? Read all about that right here.

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