As of late, SEOs have pointed out the benefits of working with public relations (PR) professionals. More specifically, Ken McGaffin of Search Engine Watch pointed out ten reasons why PR should be on your radar in 2013. As Ken mentions, the latest Google Panda and Penguin updates have put an emphasis on high quality websites that include unique content and powerful backlinks, as well as how partnering with PR is a great business tactic.
I can empathize with the groans of frustration from SEOs around the world. Why would Google do this to us?? The answer is simple: Search engines want to provide the best user experience possible, period. Therefore, sites that offer little value to users or include duplicate content from other websites are going to drop significantly in rankings (as we’ve already seen). Contrarily, high-quality websites that offer original content and useful information to users will see a spike in search engine rankings.
The Power Couple
While many SEOs rack their brains as to how they can overcome Google’s latest changes, the easiest and most beneficial option for everyone would be to develop content that is both human and search engine friendly…hence the collaboration with PR. Many of you are probably thinking how can SEO benefit from PR? Or, you may have a negative perception of PR altogether. For instance, PR practitioners are all liars and spin-doctors (thanks a lot Edward Bernays). However, with a background in PR, I am here to put your fears to rest and tell you that is not the case. PR practitioners are actually skilled storytellers and content generators. And their primary function is to build mutually beneficial relationships.
SEOs on the other hand, have a strong background in coding, keyword research and link building. For the most part, their efforts are done behind the scenes, which can make them, how do I put this nicely? Not the most engaging copywriters. Hey, I’ve been on both ends of the spectrum! But together, PR and SEO make quite the power couple.
Call to Action
The Panda/Penguin updates call for unique content that is linked to by quality sites. Therefore, there is a strong need for quality content that can interest new viewers. There is also a need for authentic and engaging social media posts. In addition, press releases can attract the attention of authoritative websites through blogger outreach and media relations. SEOs must also learn how to build relationships rather than links. By combining the skills of PR and SEO, we can produce engaging, keyword friendly web content and powerful backlinks, ultimately creating high-quality websites.
That is such a good point! I do some PR work in CA where I live and I can vouch for what you are saying. Usually, I tell people to do things that are SO AMAZING with their company that journalist will write about them, bloggers will link to them and customers will share about them on social media.