Search engine optimization is one of the top marketing strategies for small businesses. In fact, it is not just a good idea to invest in the services of an SEO agency, but rather it is an essential step if you wish to see your company thrive and prosper.
Maybe you already know the ins and outs of SEO and have been practicing DIY SEO for your company’s website. Performing SEO strategies on your own is a great way to save money, but it is also extremely time consuming. If you’re concerned about dishing out some cash and hiring a service, just think about the high rate of ROI you’re likely to see when you hire a professional SEO service.
Before you choose an eCommerce SEO agency or individual to start optimizing your website to its fullest potential, you should know a bit about common SEO practices so that you can partner with an agency that will show results.
What is Search Engine Optimization?
First thing’s first, before you can hire a top agency you need to have a basic understanding of what SEO actually is. SEO is short for search engine optimization, and that pretty much says it all. This marketing strategy is centered on one sole purpose: to optimize your website for search engines. But what does this even mean, you ask.
When internet users visit Google or another search engine, 90% of the time they don’t have a specific website or URL in mind. These users are on the hunt for something, and they have a general idea of what that is. This general idea comes in the form of keywords, which are then typed into the search bar and Google spits out the top results.
In order for your site to show up as one of those top results, you need search engine optimization. Google uses a series of algorithms to rank web pages based on their value and relevance. There are many strategies involved in SEO to be seen as valuable and relevant in Google’s eyes, including things like keyword optimization, link authority, and valuable content throughout your website.
Why is SEO Important?
We’ve basically covered this, but let’s get into the specifics. Google as well as other search engines (but mainly Google) is the #1 resource for consumers. Consumers trust Google, maybe a bit too much, but what Google says often goes.
Studies show that if an internet user is searching for a specific product or service, that user will choose a company that shows within the first page of results 95% of the time. If you aren’t on the first page, you have very little chance of landing a new customer from organic internet searches.
The Time Frame for Seeing SEO Results
If you do end up hiring a professional to perform SEO for your website, try to be patient. Optimizing your site can not be done as a quick fix. It takes time, typically taking at least 3 months but it is more likely that you’ll see results after 6+ months of strong SEO practices.
If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below, or contact us at This Homemade Life!