Why Do I Need SEO?

We use Google to find answers daily on our phones.

• What time’s my next appointment?
• Where’s the nearest gas?
• What’s playing at the theater?
• What do I need to know about waxing?

Behind the scenes, Search Engines like Google look for answers. They find answers in Search Engine Optimized pages, (SEO), and provide results on the search page.

So the very short answer is right there. If you are in business and you want people to find and use your business, you need SEO implemented on your website and social media.

The hard part is SEO guidelines are constantly changing at the same time as page content is getting dated.

It’s rather like business taxes—you need to have either a lot of time to deal with it or invest in professional help.

When visitors can’t find answers

Imagine you’re brand new to your town. You’re looking for a place that offers quality waxing services. What will they put in the search? Will they hunt for a brand of wax? Or “waxing that doesn’t hurt.” Or maybe they are used to a specific type of wax - strip or non-strip.

Your web pages and social posts need to include these answers and the myriad of others that you hear regularly. You want them to know what makes you different, unique, or special.

If your web and social media aren’t optimized for SEO and can't answer the questions, you may lose the chance for new business. You need them maximized to get the prospect to schedule an appointment.

Missing information is common

In my experience as a consumer, skincare clinic and school owner, and content consultant, I frequently see places where information is missing.

Have you ever noticed how many businesses don’t have their location above the fold? Ever had to hunt for a way to ask questions or schedule appointments?

We need to make sure our websites answer all the questions prospective visitors may ask. If we don’t, our marketing efforts are handicapped.

We need to make sure our content is current, useful, and relevant to get the best from Google and other search bots.

3 techniques to enhance content with SEO

Start by identifying your goals. Follow this by understanding the why, the intent your visitor has. And overall, be mobile-friendly.

Identify your goals

It may sound obvious, but it’s essential to know what your objectives are. Some businesses are focused on Google rankings. Others prioritize increasing web traffic. A third group is looking for more leads and sales.

If you don’t have clear objectives, it’s much harder to achieve them. Take time to clarify and prioritize what you want to accomplish with your marketing. If you’re not sure, find a professional that will consult with you as well as help you get optimized.

Identify searchers intent

It’s important to know what the person you’re trying to reach is thinking.

• Who or what are they looking for?
• What are their goals?
• Where do they want to go or what do they want to do?

We know they are searching. We need to discover the intent, the what, or why behind the search. Then we can make sure to include that answer in our content so the search engine acts on it.

Be mobile-friendly

Smartphones have changed the way we get information. Now we want answers no matter where we are or what type of device we happen to be using. That makes it essential for every business to make sure their website is easily accessible by smartphones.

Good web hosts can make sure your pages load quickly and are friendly to phones, tablets, laptops, and desktops.

Blending these techniques with top-quality content that is fresh, relevant and SEO optimized can maximize both long-term organic growth and enhanced paid advertising.