Let's admit that SEO has a bit of a poor stigma attached lately. From black-hat SEO companies to counterfeit link farm sites- it seems that websites will do just about anything to gain a high rating.

However, at Blue Archer, we think authentic search engine optimization should be a more comprehensive and all-encompassing service.  It's shouldn't be just about gaining a number 1 ranking on Google for a specific keyword; at the end of the day all websites have (or at least should have) the same goal: to serve their site visitor.  That service could include providing information, resources, or products. Whichever it is, in order to serve your visitors, they have to be able to find the site.

Enter, Search Engine Optimization.

Image courtesy of RaceSEO

In-Depth Keyword Analysis

An authentic SEO process begins with a comprehensive initial keyword analysis.  With a full understanding of what the site provides its audience as well as who that target audience is, it is crucial to identify several appropriate keyword targets. The Google AdWords keyword planner is the most popular keyword tool out there. But, there are others keyword tools out there. Our suggestion is to utilize more than one tool, and combine your insight.

On-Page Optimization

Next, it is necessary to allocate the keyword targets to specific pages throughout the site by optimizing:

• Page Name
• Page Title
• Page Description
• Header1
• Header1
• Alt tags

Unfortunately, that is where some SEO services stop.

But Search Engine Optimization is MORE than that.

There is necessary maintenance, analysis, and revision that is essential for optimization success.  

Traffic Analysis

Successful digital marketing teams or business owners should examine and investigate the website traffic and examine how users are interacting with the site content.  Traffic analytics paint a picture of the typical business' customer or potential customer.  

By tracking what pages interest users and how long they are staying on specific pages, it can help businesses refine services and communication tactics or mold completely new ones.  Additionally, by using analytics data, marketing professionals or business owners can identify traffic funnels which lead to conversions such as visitors arriving at a "Get More Information" page, a "Contact Us" page or even a "Request a Quote" destination.

Get to Chatting on Social

What is happening on the specific website isn't the only factor in gaining an increased web presence. Social media platforms and blogs are essential for sites to help build a complete digital identity. They can build quality inbound links as well as increase the general brand awareness in specific niche industries.  Constructing a full web presence parallels the basic keyword SEO tactics; when combined into an integrated service, websites will see an increase in quality-rich, targeted traffic.

So what's the fuss over SEO? That depends on the conversation you've been listening in on.  

Ultimately, search engine optimization can be an extremely powerful tool for a business that can increase targeted traffic, help depict needs and wants of potential customers, refine the site-user experience,  and create general brand awareness. We think that's something to fuss over, don't you? Perhaps it's time to Rethink Your Website.