Should Texas small business owners learn SEO?
First and foremost, what on earth is SEO? SEO stands for Search Engine Optimization, the strategy of designing a website and creating content that will rank high in the major search engines such as Google, Yahoo, and Bing. The popularity of optimization techniques started around early 2000s. However, even until now, a lot of Texas small business owners still don't have any idea what it is and how it will improve their business.
Components of SEO
Search Engine Optimization is a step by step process that has evolved technically over time. It involves an understanding of the following major concepts:
- How search engines work
- What keywords to choose and use for your website
- Optimization of graphics and design
- Website and content submission
- Link Marketing
- Auditing and Monitoring your progress
Notice that I didn't mention Twitter, Facebook, YouTube or blogging? That's because they are part of Search Engine Marketing. SEO, on the other hand, focuses on how to strategically position your website and your brand so does online searchers will easily find you on Google, Yahoo, or Bing.
At first, it looks like a heck of a lot of hard work, but if you study diligently or discuss with an experienced SEO professional, all the pieces will fall together. And yes, plenty of “nobodys” became “somebodys” on the Internet because of successful SEO techniques.
Understanding how search engines work will make you realize that a brand new website or domain won't make it to the top of Google until after several months. If you know what keywords to choose for your website, you will stand out among your competitors in similar niche. When you hire a web designer, make sure that they are aware of optimizing graphics so they will be search engine friendly. Same goes with the text of your website. It is also possible to rank high in the search engines if you network online and monitor which marketing techniques work for you.
Even Texas small business owners who have no clue what SEO is can learn how to optimize their website. You don't have to earn a degree to understand that you shouldn't post irrelevant material in your online store or spam your subscribers. Remember that even though you're trying to make it high on the search engine rankings, you still need to look after the reason why you're in business: your customers.
To learn more, read our blog for more SEO techniques specifically targeted for your Texas small business!
