Learn how to do SEO testing, what SEO testing is, and how to level up your SEO game big time.

This episode of the SEO Podcast is the interview with Lee Witcher, the creator of the Tested SEO Training, one of the hosts of SEO Fight Club, and an experienced (16 yrs) marketing consultant online/offline using analytics and database to maximize marketing ROI. Lee is the person who teaches SEO magic. I’m not kidding!

I invite you to subscribe to the SEO Podcast by #SEOSLY to keep learning SEO with me and the SEO experts I interview.

How to do SEO testing (video)

How to do SEO testing (audio)

You can listen to this episode of the SEO Podcast by #SEOSLY below.

The transcript of the “How to do SEO testing” podcast episode is available on seosly.cloud.

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How to do SEO testing – notes & best practices

Here are the actionable notes on SEO testing with insights from Lee Witcher’s experience.

SEO testing is a strategic approach to optimizing websites for search engines. It entails making specific changes to a website and assessing their impact on search engine rankings and overall traffic. This process is vital in discovering effective SEO strategies.

Understanding SEO testing

SEO testing is more than just applying best practices; it’s about scientifically validating the effect of each change on your website’s search engine performance.

  • Defining SEO Testing: It involves systematically modifying aspects of a website to observe the resulting changes in search engine ranking and traffic.
  • Purpose of SEO Testing: The primary goal is to identify and implement the most effective strategies for enhancing a website’s visibility and organic reach in search engines.

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How to conduct SEO testing

To effectively conduct SEO testing, a structured approach is essential. It involves selecting specific elements for testing, hypothesizing the impact, implementing changes, and carefully analyzing the results.

  • Select a Focus Area: Start by identifying key elements of your website for testing, such as metadata, content, or site structure.
  • Formulate a Hypothesis: Develop predictions about how the changes will impact your site’s performance.
  • Implement Changes: Make adjustments to selected website elements in a controlled manner.
  • Monitor Results: Use analytic tools to observe the changes in website performance.
  • Evaluate and Iterate: Assess the data to validate your hypothesis, then refine and repeat the process for continuous improvement.

Lee Witcher’s approach to SEO testing

Lee Witcher, an experienced SEO professional, brings a unique and effective approach to SEO testing. His methods and insights provide valuable lessons for anyone looking to enhance their website’s search engine performance.

  • Lee’s Background: With years of experience, Lee has developed a deep understanding of SEO dynamics.
  • Testing Philosophy: Lee advocates for a practical, evidence-based approach to SEO, challenging conventional wisdom through rigorous testing.
  • Methodology: His methodology focuses on isolating variables, conducting controlled experiments, and making data-driven decisions.
  • Key Insights from Lee: Lee’s experiences reveal the importance of not taking SEO practices at face value and the value of contextual testing.

Best practices in SEO testing

Adopting best practices in SEO testing ensures that the efforts are efficient, effective, and lead to actionable insights. These practices are fundamental for anyone looking to achieve tangible improvements in website rankings.

  • Replicate Tests: Consistency in testing is crucial for reliable results.
  • Diversify Testing Elements: Explore a broad range of SEO factors to gain comprehensive insights.
  • Stay Informed: Keeping up-to-date with the latest trends and algorithm changes is vital for effective SEO testing.

Common pitfalls to avoid in SEO testing

Avoiding common pitfalls in SEO testing is as important as following best practices. Awareness of these pitfalls can save time, resources, and prevent misinterpretation of results.

  • Avoiding Multiple Changes: Focus on changing one element at a time to clearly understand its impact.
  • Accounting for External Factors: Be mindful of external influences like market trends or search engine updates that can affect your results.
  • Considering Long-Term Impacts: Some SEO strategies may take time to show results, so patience and a long-term view are essential.

Tools for SEO Testing

Utilizing the right tools is crucial for effective SEO testing. These tools provide the necessary data and insights to make informed decisions and measure the impact of your SEO strategies.

  • Rank Tracking Tools: Employ tools like SERP Robot for precise ranking measurements.
  • Analytical Tools: Google Analytics and Search Console are indispensable for tracking traffic and engagement.
  • SEO Platforms: Advanced tools like Ahrefs and Screaming Frog offer deeper insights into various SEO metrics.

Final thoughts on SEO testing

SEO testing, especially when informed by the expertise of professionals like Lee Witcher, is a vital component of a successful SEO strategy.

It involves a continuous cycle of testing, learning, and adapting, driven by data and real-world results.

This process helps in refining tactics to enhance a website’s search engine visibility, ensuring it stays competitive and relevant in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

Follow & Subscribe to Lee Witcher

Lee is an awesome follow. Make sure to follow him!

Also you may want to watch Olga’s interview with Ted Kubaitis who is the host of the SEO Fight Club.

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Want to become a guest or provide ideas for the show?

If you want to become a guest on the show or you want to share ideas, feel free to contact me. I will be happy to hear from you. Contact me at [email protected].

Check other interviews with SEOs

Olga Zarr is an SEO consultant with 10+ years of experience. She has been doing SEO for both the biggest brands in the world and small businesses. She has done 200+ SEO audits so far. Olga has completed SEO courses and degrees at universities, such as UC Davis, University of Michigan, and Johns Hopkins University. She also completed Moz Academy! And, of course, has Google certifications. She keeps learning SEO and loves it. Olga is also a Google Product Expert specializing in areas, such as Google Search and Google Webmasters.