Beginner’s Guide to SEO (‘WHAT IS SEO’)

In truth, SEO (search engine optimisation) is actually very easy to understand; it’s the process of improving search engine rankings. When searching specific terms on the likes of Google, you’ll be shown a handful of links they think is relevant to your search. For your own business to reach this shortlist of links, Google will consider relevance (your keywords and content) and authority (the number of links you have from other web pages).

Google’s Aim

When thinking about how to rank highly on search engines, we often forget about the perspective of Google themselves; they need to show the most relevant and authoritative links for all searched terms. If the user clicks on the first link and finds what they need, they’re more likely to return and Google has itself a regular user.

In recent years, ‘authority’ has been a big talking point for businesses and it starts with writing brilliant content. Over time, it’s hoped that others will link back to your content, share it on social media, and so on. As Google notices this, the content climbs the rankings because it’s providing value to users (it’s answering questions).

Our Simple Formula

To keep things simple, we recommend the following three steps;

1.      Write genuinely useful and engaging content that features the phrases and terms people use when looking for a service of your kind.

2.      Share the content (and make it easy for others to do the same!).

3.      Even if you think nothing’s happening, keep going.

If you were to speak with an SEO expert today about how SEO works, they would tail off into all sorts of science and confusing jargon. In reality, it’s all about making your website visible and allowing search engines to come across keywords and phrases.

Obtaining Links

While you’re in full control of the content, you aren't in control of who shares and links to your content and this is what worries many. However, natural links will come as you keep producing relevant and informative guides, articles, and blog posts. As time goes by, you can see which types of content get shared more than others and concentrate on these as you move forward.

Conclusion

Before getting started, do a little research and find what your target audience need and want. From here, you can optimise your website, create great content, and allow all readers to share with ease. As you become consistent and your brand becomes a reliable source of information, you WILL see results with your search engine ranking!