On-site search engine optimization (SEO) can only do so much, especially if you’re in a highly competitive industry. If you’ve already tried every white hat SEO tactic and you find your website is still on the second or third page of Google’s search results, use social media to boost your ranking.

Google+
Search engines want to return the most relevant links, and if a business is popular on social media, then search engines assume that it is relevant as well. Google naturally favors businesses that have an active Google+ account. Write engaging Google+ posts which encourage readers to comment, and your popularity will result in better rankings on Google.

Facebook and Twitter
Creating share-worthy content is the key to using social media as an SEO tool. People love sharing infographics and original photos. Try holding a contest or promotion that encourages customers to send in photos of themselves using your product; people love to share photos of themselves with their followers. If your company’s Facebook and Twitter content is frequently shared, you will earn points with search engines.

Court Social Media Influencers
Shares and retweets from social media influencers have the greatest impact, so court these people by following their social media accounts and by composing unique and insightful content that will grab their attention.

Using social media to boost your SEO isn’t a one-shot deal. You have to post several times a week and interact with people who leave comments. While keeping several social media accounts active is time consuming, it is free and it will provide a noticeable boost in your search engine ranking.