SEO is short for Search Engine Optimization; a method of analyzing, tagging and creating online content so that it can be found organically via search engines like Google, Yahoo and Bing. This is highly important because, even though you might have an attractive website with relevant and unique content, if no one knows about it, or it doesn’t pop up on the first page in the organic listings, then no one will be able to find your site unless the read about it or hear about it from another source. 90% of web traffic comes from search engines so this should be a very important part of your overall strategy.

How do you know if your SEO is low or not working?

• Traffic to your site is at a minimum.
• Little to no communication from viewers.
• No one says they found you on Google, Bing or Yahoo. (You should be asking every prospect how they’ve found you!)

How do you practice excellent SEO for your website?

• Get the word out about your website using social networks such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and YouTube.
• Make sure all content is fresh, up-to-date and visually appealing.
• Tag, tag, tag and tag again!
• Ensure your titles have good keywords.
• Find higher ranking sites in your industry to link from. The sites MUST be relevant to what you do or those links won’t do a bit of good.
• Hire a specialist who knows exactly how to research what keywords people are actually using to find your type of site.
• Check your index and ranking in search engines using Google Analytics or search for your website by using site:yourwebsite.com. How many pages are returned? If it’s a low number, you have a problem.

If you are not utilizing proper SEO techniques, chances are that your website is not being notice by new clients. Word of mouth is a great tool, but it can only go so far. By knowing how to execute strong SEO skills, your website can reach a whole new audience and expand your client base with very little work or expense. More on SEO here.

Written by Sarah Bailey, Bella Web Design copy writer.