Unconventional but Highly Effective Free Resources to Boost Website Traffic

In the vast digital marketing landscape, some less popular tools and methods can still be incredibly beneficial for driving traffic to your website. This article will explore these under-the-radar resources that can help you increase your online visibility and attract more visitors.

1. HARO (Help A Reporter Out)

What It Is: HARO connects journalists with sources for their stories. As a website owner or marketer, you can use HARO to get featured in articles, gaining valuable backlinks and exposure.

How to Use It:

• Sign Up: Register as a source on the HARO website.

• Monitor Queries: Check the daily emails for relevant queries from journalists.

• Respond Promptly: Provide concise, informative answers to the queries. Include your credentials and a link to your website.

Benefits:

• High-Quality Backlinks: Gain backlinks from reputable news sites.

• Increased Visibility: Get your name and website featured in high-traffic publications.

• Networking: Build relationships with journalists and influencers.

2. Medium Publications

What It Is: Medium is a popular blogging platform, but many don't realize the power of Medium publications—collections of articles around specific themes or topics.

How to Use It:

• Find Relevant Publications: Search for publications related to your niche.

• Submit Articles: Follow the submission guidelines and contribute high-quality articles.

• Engage: Interact with readers through comments to increase engagement.

Benefits:

• Broader Reach: Get your content in front of a larger, more targeted audience.

• Authority: Being published in well-known Medium publications can boost your credibility.

• Traffic: Drive traffic to your website through links in your articles.

3. Answer the Public

What It Is: Answer the Public is a keyword research tool that visualizes search questions and phrases people use. It’s an excellent way to discover what your audience is curious about.

How to Use It:

• Enter Keywords: Input keywords related to your niche.

• Analyze Results: Look at the questions and phrases that come up.

• Create Content: Develop content that answers these questions, optimizing for long-tail keywords.

Benefits:

• Content Ideas: Generate a wealth of content ideas based on actual search queries.

• SEO: Optimize for long-tail keywords that have less competition but significant search volume.

• Engagement: Provide value by answering specific questions your audience has.

4. SlideShare

What It Is: SlideShare is a platform for sharing presentations, infographics, documents, and more. It’s an underrated tool for driving traffic and establishing authority.

How to Use It:

• Create Content: Develop informative and visually appealing presentations or infographics.

• Optimize: Use keywords in your titles and descriptions.

• Share: Upload your content and share it on your social media channels and website.

Benefits:

• Visibility: Reach a broader audience, especially business professionals and educators.

• SEO: SlideShare presentations can rank in search engine results.

• Traffic: Include links in your presentations to drive traffic to your website.

5. Podcast Guest Appearances

What It Is: Instead of starting your own podcast, appearing as a guest on others’ podcasts can be a powerful way to reach new audiences.

How to Use It:

• Identify Podcasts: Find podcasts related to your niche.

• Pitch Yourself: Reach out to podcast hosts with a compelling pitch about why you’d be a great guest.

• Provide Value: Share your expertise and insights during the podcast, and mention your website.

Benefits:

• New Audience: Tap into the podcast’s existing audience.

• Authority: Establish yourself as an expert in your field.

• Traffic: Mention your website and direct listeners to visit for more information.

Read More About: How to create engaging content that drives website traffic

6. Google My Business

What It Is: Google My Business (GMB) is a free tool that allows you to manage your online presence across Google, including Search and Maps.

How to Use It:

• Set Up Your Profile: Create or claim your GMB listing.

• Optimize: Fill out all relevant information, including business hours, address, and contact details. Use keywords in your description.

• Engage: Post updates, respond to reviews, and add photos regularly.

Benefits:

• Local SEO: Improve your visibility in local search results.

• Trust: Build trust with potential customers through reviews and accurate business information.

• Traffic: Direct traffic from searchers looking for local businesses like yours.