Creating Topic Authority

bylastharvest

29 followers

Updated 2 years ago

Hello all!

Following on from my previous post, where I am learning new methods of ranking my new website, today, I want to talk about a concept that might seem radical to some and might make perfect sense to others: transforming your homepage from a simple list of recent posts into a static, content-rich gateway.

But first, let's get on the same page.

Our Wealthy Affiliate training, or at least up until my current stage within the training, has suggested setting up our homepage to display recent posts. It’s a tried-and-true method that works, keeping our content fresh and visible to visitors.

However, I recently stumbled upon an alternative approach that, when applied correctly, could greatly enhance our website's user experience and help create topic authority.

Here's how it works:

A visitor lands on your homepage. Instead of seeing a list of your latest posts, they're greeted by a clear, organized structure that guides them through your website's content like a well-planned journey. They find your core topic right at the start, followed by subtopics neatly arranged in chapters. Each chapter is complete with a brief overview, enticing descriptions, and a collection of links to related articles.

Sounds engaging, right?

Let's take an example from my niche: companion planting tomatoes.

Instead of my recent posts about basil benefits, marigold pest control, and so on, my homepage now serves as a comprehensive guide to tomato companion planting.

It’s broken down into chapters like "The Basics of Companion Planting," "Best Companion Plants for Tomatoes," and "Companion Planting for Pest Control," to name a few.

Each chapter then links to a selection of relevant articles, encouraging visitors to dig deeper into the topics that catch their interest. This way, I ensure my readers get a complete and thorough understanding of tomato companion planting, helping me establish authority in my niche.

Now, I know what you might be thinking. Is this approach better than our traditional recent posts homepage?

To be honest, I think both have their merits.

However, the chapter-style layout provides a more streamlined, intuitive, and user-friendly experience, making it easier for visitors (and search engines) to understand the breadth and depth of the content we offer.

But, as always, context matters.

This approach might not suit every niche or every website.

For instance, a news-type website would benefit more from a recent post homepage.

it's important to understand your audience, their needs, and their online behavior.

So, I throw the question out to you, especially those experienced members among us. Have you tried restructuring your homepage in this way? How has it worked out for you? Any advice for those considering a switch?

I look forward to your thoughts and opinions. Let's continue learning from each other and growing together in this amazing community!

Andy

** Edit **

One 'key' thing I forgot to add to this strategy is internal linking.

I have an article, a comprehensive guide for my niche, which covers the core topic - the "niche" and within this article, I link to other relevant articles (my sub-topics).

Likewise, with every other article I write in my sub-topics, they all link back to my core article.