Step Three: Search Engine Optimization

Search Engine Optimization is a big topic and so important. The problem businesses are facing is that even though they know it’s something that has to be done, they can’t find the people to do it!
Google AdWords and Analytics tracking is a job all on its own. The tools are free to use but time consuming to learn and requires constant updating.
I have been working with Google AdWords to optimize a software site and have found that the keywords are not getting any clicks. This tells me that the content is not written properly for its target audience. Once again it comes down to the content. The challenge here is to really know who your target audience is. What words are they using to type into Google to try and find the information they need? How do I get my information to that new prospect?
The other important aspect I’ve learned is the power of outside links to your site. Cross linking creates traffic; the more traffic, the higher the organic ranking.
Also, make sure you’re listed in the open directories. This is where search engines go to validate whether a business is credible or not. You’ll have to research them as there are many, but an important one is the ODP or the Open Directory Project.

Lesson#3: Search Engine Optimization

• Know your target audience – Who are they? What do they do? What blogs do they read? How do they correspond? What language do they use?
• Use this language, pick out keywords and put it in your content. You really have to put yourself into the mind set of your customer.
• Create blogs and newsletters; this will expand your content using friendly broader language. Remember it’s all about the content!
• Go after your business partners and link to each other. Cross linking creates traffic to your site and credibility to search engines.
• Also, make sure you’re listed in the open directories; it can take some time, but start the process.