Search Engine Optimization – Never a “Set It and Forget It” Strategy

“Of course I know what search engine optimization is – it’s when you fill your website with a bunch of keywords and it ranks high on Google – anyone can do it” – this is one of the most common misinterpretations among businesses about what search engine optimization (SEO) actually is.

Secondly, not EVERYONE understands and can implement SEO properly.

Search Engine Optimization defined is the process of maximizing the number of visitors to your website by ensuring that the site appears high on the list of results returned by a search engine. This is accomplished through various techniques and research into a website’s individual structure, content and main purpose. This process is unpaid (from a search engine) and relies on natural (organic) results.

The process of SEO today includes a multitude of different strategies, tactics and research that all works together to prove to Google that your website is a force to be reckoned with and that you provide good, quality information and deserve a high ranking because of your genuine effort.  Some of the online marketing strategies used within SEO are conducting keyword research, on-page optimization, link earning, link building and building a genuine social media presence. This is only a small sample of the work involved with search engine optimization. That being said, search engine optimization is certainly not a “set it and forget it” type strategy and you should steer clear of any company that guarantees #1 rankings instantly through their SEO services. The truth is that SEO, for any sized business, is long term. Results don’t come overnight. It’s an on-going process that requires weekly (if not daily) maintenance.

If you feel search engine optimization would benefit your business, ensure that you research your SEO company and avoid any quick turnaround SEO projects as these will only take money out of your pocket rather than position your website in a positive way and start to bring money into your business.