SEO is probably a term you heard before. It often goes hand in hand with terms like link building, social media, content optimization and article marketing However, in my book it isn’t just that. No! Those are just tools to speed up the process.So what is Search Engine Optimization?
Well, let’s see Google‘s mission from their website:
For their search engine this means relevant, up-to-date , accessible information. For example, if a want a doctor in Washington D.C, I don’t want to see results from doctors from Amsterdam
Basically to rank higher, you must down the path of high value for the end user. This means that you shouldn’t try to change the perception by Google of your website or business. You should change the value you provide to users.
Sure, it is necessary to get the word out and make sure that your website can be easily parsed an put into context by Google. However, do this in a constructive way. Keyword Research probable the most important skill you should learn.I’ll explain why in a bit.
When you are starting out, you still have to prove you’re worthy for Google and their visitors. You obviously won’t be able to compete with wikipedia, facebook, youtube results,etc. If you are just writing random articles about a topic, chances are great such information is already present. Thus, you are not adding value.
Keyword research helps you to find topics, ideas and insights which are of value to your website, your visitors and google. If you provide new insights. New or better solutions to under-documented problems/needs, you WILL get visitors.Keyword research will also save time (and thus money) because you aren’t throwing darts on a board. You are betting on sure things.