Using Wikipedia for your SEO Strategy
Wikipedia is probably the most popular source of online information today. With millions of visitors each day, it’s definitely a rich source of online traffic. Businesses in any industry should consider including Wikipedia in their SEO strategy.
As one of the leading resources for online information, a single Wikipedia entry for your company or organization can increase brand credibility and enhance the authority of your website. It can also help your brand or business to rank highly on SERPs, even with multitudes of keyword competitors.
Challenges and Considerations
Keep in mind, though, that Wikipedia prefers articles written in a “neutral” point of view, so contributing/editing articles about your organization is usually not accepted.
Secondly, all Wikipedia links are nofollow, so you have to be careful in adding links associated with your business.
Third, be warned that you cannot keep adding links to Wikipedia articles, or else they will put you on a spam list.
Assuming that you already have a Wikipedia account, we list down in detail all the basic things you need to know to use Wikipedia for your SEO strategy.
Tips for Wikipedia SEO
Build profile credibility.
The age and history of your account are important, so be sure to create a user page and look after your contribution page in detail. Engage and talk with community members through the Talk page, so that the community knows you’re active. Other users and moderators want to know you’re not just a robot or some promoter.
Add content instead of links.
Ensure that your articles contain unbiased and accurate information — think of creating great content first instead of links. You can add a link or two but make sure that they come from credible sources — not just your website. Try linking to reputable publications (like Forbes or a similar news publisher). It’s also best to keep links in the references section to avoid being edited out.
Pass the Notability Test.
Wikipedia conducts this test which means that in order for your article to be considered notable, it must have sufficient mainstream media coverage on the subject. Published books, papers, or press coverage can come in handy The references mentioned at the end of the article must sufficiently back up the statements made in the article itself. References are preferred because external links are mostly removed or reverted. Wikipedia’s External Linking policy further explains in detail what you need to know with regards to adding external links.
Watch important entries.
Wikipedia has a “watch” function so that you can keep an eye on important pages. When logged in you be alerted to the changes made to the pages that you watch. Use this tool to find potential pages that may need additional sources or references.
Build your way up.
Don’t start with high-profile pages, your edits will only be reverted and you may even be reported for spam. Start on lesser-known pages, gradually contributing until you make your way up. Try to build momentum before working on the bigger pages.
Work with Wikipedia professionals and experts.
Creating and working on a Wikipedia page takes time and effort that frankly many businesses and leaders just don’t have the time for. Check online for Wikipedia enthusiasts and experts who already have years of experience under your belt. You’ll save yourself the time and hassle.
Using Wikipedia for your SEO strategy may take a bit more time due to building up credibility and making sure your articles are fair and impartial, but it will be worth it because it adds legitimacy and gives you access to millions of visitors who are searching for online information.
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