TL;DR: Rank tracking allows you to monitor your site's keyword positions in search engines over time. Analyzing ranking data helps you prioritize keywords, benchmark progress, and optimize pages based on ranking changes.
Choosing a Rank Tracking Tool
Many SEO tools provide rank tracking capabilities. Here are some popular options:
- Ahrefs - Offers accurate, up-to-date rankings data. Tracks top 100 results across 220+ locations. Alerts for ranking changes.
- SEMrush - Tracks rankings for all major search engines. Customizable ranking reports. Historic trend graphs.
- Moz - Tracks top 50 results. Ranking change alerts. Useful keyword ranking analysis tool.
- Serpstat - Affordable for small businesses. Accurate rankings across search engines. Customizable reports.
Look for a tool that tracks rankings accurately across Google and Bing. The ability to track local pack rankings is also useful. Make sure it provides ranking history graphs and customizable alerts when rankings fluctuate.
Setting Up Your Rank Tracker
Once you've chosen a tool, follow these steps to start tracking:
- Add keywords you want to monitor. Include head terms, long-tail variations, and keywords for important pages.
- Select target search engines and locations to track. Most tools track Google rankings by default. Add Bing and country/city targets as needed.
- Set up ranking change alerts. Get notified if a keyword jumps up or down by a certain number of spots.
- For local SEO, track the local pack. Look at local pack keywords separately from organic rankings.
- Schedule regular report emails. Weekly or monthly ranking reports help spot trends.
Analyzing and Applying Ranking Data
Rank tracking provides valuable data to inform your SEO. Here are some tips for making the most of it:
- Review ranking reports regularly. Look for patterns and outliers in keyword fluctuations.
- Identify pages gaining/losing rankings. Diagnose potential issues and opportunities.
- Compare rankings vs. other KPIs. How do rankings align with traffic and conversions data?
- Prioritize keywords and pages. Focus optimization efforts on pages and terms with the biggest opportunities.
- Monitor impact of updates. See how Google algorithm updates impact your rankings.
- Share reports with stakeholders. Use ranking data to showcase SEO value and progress.
With accurate rank tracking, you can monitor keyword positions over time to optimize pages, demonstrate SEO value, and boost organic visibility. Consistent tracking and analysis will take your SEO strategy to the next level.
Supporting sources: SERanking, Local Falcon, Backlinko, Nobs Marketplace, Link-Assistant, Authority Hacker, Sitechecker, Phillips Temann, SEOClarity, Keyword.com
