The buzz-word SEO is everywhere, so what does it mean? Super electronic observation? Strange ethos occurrence?
In fact, SEO stands for “search engine optimization” and is defined by Wikipedia as “…the process of improving the visibility of a website or a web page in search engines via “natural” or unpaid search results. In general, the earlier and more frequently a site appears in the search-results list, the more visitors it will receive from the search engine’s users.”
Let’s break this down
The goal of having a website is to gain awareness for your brand. If a person already knows your URL, they go straight to your site. If they do not and are searching Google, there is a chance the search engine will not find your website. To help the search-engine crawlers find your site, it is important to abide by SEO guidelines.
For example, if we search for a window replacement company, key words to type are “window replacement, San Diego.” A ton of URLs come back in the search results. The companies that come up first load their site with SEO tactics. Key words, unbroken code, meta tags, cross-links and rich content all are taken into consideration to include for searchable content. The more ways for search-engine crawlers to find you, the higher ranking you receive.
The top seven benefits of SEO include:
1. Cost-effective – no payment required and the cost per click declines through time after initial costs and lower ongoing costs
2. Credibility / Perception – expectations are set for businesses to be listed high in their search results
3. Healthier Website – valid code is necessary for search-engine crawlers
4. Brand Visibility – better search results equals larger audience
5. Targeted Prospects – searches are demand-driven, increasing the chance of good leads
6. Repeat Business – high results listings bring back customers
7. Unique Content – customers love it, Google loves it
“SEO is like acupuncture and homeopathy: It works even if you don’t know how or why,” posts Tad Chef with SEO 2.0 – SEO blog. In this time when the Internet is the source for most to find a product or service they need, there is no greater investment than SEO for your business.
Putting SEO to work using search-engine marketing (SEM) helps site owners meet online objectives such as generating leads, sales or building awareness.
Get started: Comet Creative clients start with a proprietary survey to ensure a successful SEM plan. For information, e-mail Nanette Newbry at Comet Creative Content Marketing.
