SEO Made Simple
Search engine optimization (SEO) is fundamental to marketing strategy in today's digital-first world. People go online to find information, conduct business, and purchase products. If you want people to find your business, you must ensure your website and content are optimized for search engines.
Here are tips to help entrepreneurs understand SEO, and develop a simple and effective strategy to boost their search ratings and get the right traffic to their website.
Watch the live webinar recording, presented by Laura Dunkley, Fractional CMO & Marketing Consultant at Acorn Studio Marketing. Get the slide presentation here and download the free simple SEO website audit checklist (Google Doc)
What is SEO and Why Does It Matter?
SEO stands for Search Engine Optimization. It's improving your online presence so your website ranks higher in search results when people look for products or services like yours. SEO is primarily focused on organic search but works hand-in-hand with paid advertising.
Why Invest in SEO?
Builds Long-Term Value: Unlike paid ads, which provide short-term traffic, SEO creates lasting results by increasing your website's authority over time.
People Are Searching Online: 68% of online experiences begin with a search engine.
Higher Visibility = More Credibility: Ranking on the first page of Google builds trust and authority.
Better Conversion Rates: Organic traffic often converts better because it attracts users actively searching for solutions.
Cost-Effective Marketing: A strong SEO strategy reduces reliance on paid advertising.
Supports Other Marketing Efforts: SEO boosts content marketing, social media, and local search efforts.
Competitive Advantage: If you're not optimizing for search, your competitors are!
Understanding Search Engines and SEO Basics
Search engines prioritize content based on relevance and authority. You aim to align your website and content with what search engines consider valuable.
The Role of EEAT in SEO
Google evaluates content using the EEAT framework:
Experience: Show firsthand knowledge about your subject.
Expertise: Demonstrate that you are a credible source in your field.
Authority: Earn credibility through backlinks and engagement.
Trust: Provide accurate and reliable content.
Key Elements of an SEO Strategy
Keyword Strategy
Identify words and phrases your audience is searching for.
Use keywords naturally—don't "stuff" them.
Prioritize user intent over just ranking.
Content Strategy
Create relevant, high-quality content that aligns with user intent.
Regularly update content to keep it fresh and valuable.
Use FAQs and informative blog posts to build authority.
Backlinks
External Backlinks - Links from other authoritative websites improve your credibility.
Internal Backlinks - Linking within your content helps users navigate your site and improves SEO.
Website Optimization
Use clear headings and structured content.
Ensure fast page speed and mobile-friendliness.
Optimize images with alt text and proper compression.
Technical SEO
Submit your sitemap to Google via Google Search Console.
Fix broken links and redirect errors.
Ensure proper meta descriptions and page titles.
Online Reviews and Local SEO
Encourage Google Reviews and testimonials.
Set up and optimize your Google Business Profile.
Get listed in industry directories and local business groups.
Advanced SEO Considerations
Voice Search Optimization
Use natural language and long-tail keywords.
Answer common customer questions.
Adapt to regional language preferences and idioms.
Research and Tracking
Use Google Search Console to monitor search traffic and issues.
Leverage SEO tools like Ubersuggest, Moz, or SEMRush for deeper insights.
Analyze what's working (e.g., high-traffic pages) and adjust accordingly.
Key Takeaways
Make SEO part of your overall marketing strategy.
Create valuable content and update it regularly.
Build quality backlinks both internally and externally.
Optimize your Google Business Profile and get online reviews.
Regularly monitor and adjust your SEO strategy using free tools like Google Search Console.
By consistently applying these best practices, you'll improve your search rankings, attract the right audience, and grow your business organically.
