Schema Data vs. Meta Data
Why You Need Both to for SERP and Local SEO

18-Jan-2023
Chuck Leblo
About Schema Data
Data schema, also known as structured data, is a type of code that helps search engines better understand your content. It consists of small snippets of code that are inserted within the HTML code of webpages. These snippets help search engine crawlers to better comprehend the content that is present on the page in order to decide which pages are most relevant for specific searches.
How to Approach Schema Data
When attempting to rank on Google using data schema, it's especially helpful if your existing website already ranks well on search engines. This is because schema data can only supplement your SEO efforts – it cannot replace them.
Therefore, an effective way to approach utilizing data schema for SEO purposes is by combining it with other SEO techniques, such as keyword optimization, or creating high-quality backlinks to further enhance organic visibility on SERPs.
Understand What Metadata Is for Local SEO
Metadata can appear in the form of HTML tags and page titles, keywords, descriptions, and other descriptors used to give context to content. While it's true that metadata is useful for search engine crawlers in helping them better understand what a webpage is about, it's actually more designed to benefit human readers.
Metadata makes it easier for readers to quickly discern whether or not a particular page contains helpful information without having to read the full content. Here are some of the common metadata attributes in SEO:
Title Tags
Title tags are HTML tags that describe the title of a given page or document. They appear as clickable headlines on search engine results pages. Give each page on your website a unique, descriptive title so that search engine crawlers can properly index it for relevant keyword searches.
Meta Descriptions
Meta descriptions are HTML snippets that appear just below the headline in search engine result pages; they summarize what visitors can expect from visiting your page or reading your article. While meta descriptions don't directly affect rankings, they are essential because they help boost click-through rates.
Heading Tags
Heading tags describe headings and subheadings within a webpage or document so that users can quickly navigate to sections they're interested in without having to scroll through all the content themselves. Heading tags also add structure to the architecture of the content, which makes it easier for both users and search engine crawlers to digest everything on a page.
Image Alt Attributes
Thanks to image alt attributes, crawlers can effectively identify the content of images even though they cannot physically 'see' them. As such, these attributes are critical for any website attempting to achieve good on-page optimization and become more visible in search engine rankings – especially when it comes to crawling and ranking in Google Images.
Small Business SEO: Combining Schema Data and Meta Data To Rank on Google
For small businesses, optimizing their local SEO is essential for success. Combining both Schema data and Meta data can significantly increase organic traffic to a business's website. With this approach, businesses should target keywords not only directly related to their services or products but also local attractions in their area.
For example, if you are a small cafe, you can target additional keywords such as nearby museums, parks, or theaters that customers visiting your area may also be interested in. Once visitors click on your site due to these specific keywords, they will be able to see what kind of local business you are and may decide to book your services/products.
Are you a small business owner struggling to generate revenue? At Interact One, we can help! We have experience with marketing tactics, online advertising, and website optimization that can help push your business forward. Contact Interact One today for a free consultation and get the expert guidance you need to see positive results quickly!