We’re living in the Digital Age. Like it or not, everyone’s online. Everyone’s got an email address, and social media is vital for the mental health of young people, so you need to get your business noticed on the web. But how? You can’t put up posters or billboards, so what can you do? Optimize your website for search engines – SEO the heck out of your online property.
What is SEO?
The acronym stands for Search Engine Optimization. It’s a term that encompasses everything from keyword research and content marketing to conversion rate optimization and 
analytics. There are hundreds of different strategies you can use but all of them are designed to get search engines to notice your business’s website. Why are search engines important? Because ‘Googling’ something has become a word we use everyday. When we try to find a store or restaurant or service provider, we look for it online. For that reason alone, if you own a small business, you need to maximize the potential of Google finding your business.
What kinds of SEO are available?
SEO is a multilayered and multifaceted discipline. There are numerous ways to approach SEO. Here are just a few:
- Local SEO
- Content Marketing
- Optimizing Code
- Building links and authority
- Conversion rate optimization and analytics
- Credibility
- Mobile optimization
- Keyword research
What kind of SEO is a good match for a small business?
It depends on how small your business and target market are. It’s best if you consult a SEO specialist to figure out your unique needs. In general, though, a small business owner might want to investigate:
- Web Design – Is your website well structured? Do the pages load quickly? Is it mobile-friendly? Ask yourself, is your website designed well?
- Content & Keywords – What information is available to the visitors of your website? Have you described your product/service well? Have you included keyword for your industry?
- Blog – Do you have a way of showcasing your knowledge and expertise? Regular blog posts will establish your authority in the industry and give you a chance to use new keywords.
- Credibility – Does your website help your credibility? Have you included case studies or testimonials? How about a portfolio? It’s great if you can also add links to businesses or organizations you’ve partnered with in your community.
- Local SEO – What are people in your area interested in? Is there a local reviews site that you can be a part of?
Can I afford SEO for my business?
SEO is critical for your business’s online health. And we would be inclined to say it’s something you shouldn’t pass up on lightly. But having said that, we know that finances can be tight for a small business. So, the answer to the question depends on the timing. Do you have the budget for a long-term project? Are there more pressing issues you need to attend to? SEO is a good strategy for most businesses, but the question you need to ask yourself is whether or not right now is a good time.
Can I do it on my own?
You can but you might not want to. Like we’ve said, SEO is a complex compilation of numerous strategies. You’ll need to, first, figure out what kind of SEO your business needs and then, second, figure out what kind of strategy will get you the results you want to see. You can check out this how-to guide by Search Engine Land if you want to familiarize yourself with the process.
We also recommend completing the following tasks:
- Register with Google Search Console.
- Create or claim your Google My Business listing.
- Conduct keyword research.
- Write new content or revise your existing content to include keywords.
- Request links from business partners or community affiliations.
- Integrate your social media accounts with your website.
- Write a blog and keep updating it regularly.
Our Final Piece of Advice
It’s okay to ask for help. Sometimes, that’s just the best way to get to where you want to go. If you’re considering boosting your SEO, sit down for a no-obligation coffee with one of our marketing experts. We love learning about new businesses and figuring out how SEO can help them get noticed in their community.
