SEO Basics Every Business Owner Should Know

Getting your website seen by potential customers often starts with a search engine like Google. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the practice of optimizing your website to rank higher in search results for relevant keywords.

Core Pillars of SEO:

1. On-Page SEO: Optimizing elements directly on your website. This includes:
   • Keyword Research: Identifying terms your audience searches for.
   • Content Quality: Creating valuable, relevant, and engaging content.
   • Title Tags & Meta Descriptions: Crafting compelling snippets for search results.
   • Header Tags (H1, H2, etc.): Structuring content logically.
   • Image Optimization: Using descriptive alt text and appropriate file sizes.
   • Internal Linking: Connecting related pages within your site.
2. Off-Page SEO: Actions taken outside your website to improve its authority and reputation. Primarily involves:
   • Link Building: Earning high-quality backlinks from other reputable websites.
   • Social Signals: Engagement on social media platforms.
   • Brand Mentions: Mentions of your brand online.
3. Technical SEO: Ensuring search engines can crawl and index your site effectively. This includes:
   • Website Speed & Performance: Fast loading times are crucial.
   • Mobile-Friendliness: Essential, as discussed in responsive design.
   • Site Structure & Navigation: Making it easy for users and crawlers to find content.
   • XML Sitemaps: Helping search engines discover your pages.
   • HTTPS Security: Ensuring your site is secure.

SEO is an ongoing process, not a one-time task. Consistently applying these basics can significantly improve your website's visibility and attract valuable organic traffic.