Instead of building new churches, many are expanding through satellite locations. This helps them maximize their reach and allows those who are unable to visit faraway churches to still do so. Unfortunately, having multiple sites can prove a problem when it comes to marketing, specifically on the SEO side of things.
Today, we want to talk about these unique challenges and how you and your multi-site church can overcome them:
1. Duplicate Content
One of the most common challenges for multi-site churches is dealing with duplicate content. This can happen when multiple sites have similar or identical content or when a church has a main site and multiple satellite sites. Duplicate content can hurt your SEO by confusing search engines and diluting your link equity.
To solve this problem, you need to be intentional about which version of your content you want to rank in search results. This can be done by using canonical tags, setting up redirects, or using a content management system that allows you to control which version of your content is displayed on each site.
2. Inconsistent NAP Listings
Another common challenge for multi-site churches is maintaining consistent NAP listings (name, address, and phone number) across all of their sites. This is important for SEO because it helps search engines understand your church’s locations and makes it easier for customers to find your church.
To solve this problem, you need to make sure that your NAP listings are consistent across all of your church’s sites. This can be done by using the same NAP format on all of your sites and by keeping your NAP listings up-to-date in directories and on your website.
3. Different Domains for Each Site
Another common challenge for multi-site churches is having different domains for each site. This can make it difficult for search engines to understand your church’s locations and can also dilute your link equity.
To solve this problem, you need to be intentional about which domain you want to use for each site. You can use redirects to point all of your domains to your main site, or you can use a content management system that allows you to control which domain is used for each site.
4. Lack of Link Equity
A common challenge for multi-site churches is the lack of link equity. This can happen when your church has multiple sites with little or no links between them. Lack of link equity can hurt your SEO because it makes it difficult for search engines to understand your church’s structure and can also dilute your link equity.
To solve this problem, you need to be intentional about building links between your church’s sites. This can be done by adding links in your content, in your navigation, and in your footer. You can also use link bait and viral content to encourage other websites to link to your church’s sites.
Conclusion
If you’re running a multi-site church, then these issues can well be the challenges that you’re facing when trying to enhance your website’s SEO. Fortunately, despite how unique some of these problems are, there’s always a solution to them. Apply the solutions we’ve shared with you today, and if you still find trouble making the most out of your online presence, feel free to work with SEO professionals who know what to do to get your reach as far as possible!
ChurchCandy helps pastors effectively grow their church through Facebook Ads, offering strategy sessions to help pastors know whether they’re the right fit for this program. If you are looking for a Christian marketing company to market your church, reach out to us today!