Image by SEOPlanter on Flickr
I’m often asked about SEO. What is it? Why do I need it? “I have a website, doesn’t that mean people will find me?” SEO (search engine optimization) is about implementing the necessary steps to get better results when people look for you online. SEO gives you higher rankings in Google and other search engines.
SEO is more than just having a website. SEO includes researching and tracking your audience online behaviors. And, using those findings to get you better rankings in search engine results. Without getting too technical and going into those kinds of details, let’s look at SEO from a business decision.
Your website is just one aspect of your marketing plan, not a stand alone entity. All aspects of your marketing plan should include driving traffic to your site. SEO is just one aspect of helping to drive traffic to your site. You need other ways, too – website address on all printed material, campaigns/specials on website, use of social media, etc.
There is no magic bullet when it comes to SEO. And, as with any marketing plan, it takes time and perseverance to build momentum, build traffic and see bottom-line results.
SEO gives you better search engine results. Google will find you, but where will your site be in the list. Page 1…or page 5. Page 1 is the goal. Studies have shown being in the top spot isn’t necessarily fare better than a spot further down. The important things being on that first page.
SEO is about helping your customers find you versus you finding your customers. Everybody is online. A high percentage of people first google a business before doing business with them. SEO helps them find you first online.
SEO isn’t a one time thing. SEO is ongoing. It’s researching, analyzing, making updates to your website – then rinse and repeat. SEO firms specialize in this kind of activity and process.
SEO is using Google analytics or something similar. Google Analytics is very popular and it’s free. Plus, google also offers a suite of other webmaster tools to keep you informed of your website traffic and visitor behavior. Again, SEO firms specialize in using and understanding these tools.
Do you need SEO? If you want to maximize your website investment, I’d say yes – especially if you are in a very competitive market.
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