We all rely on search engines without giving it much thought. Engines like Google, Bing, and Yahoo! are how most people find information online. But have you ever wondered how they decide which results to show? Search engines rank websites based on a combination of popularity and relevance. To improve traffic to your pages, you can use search engine optimisation (SEO).
SEO is the process of improving the quality and quantity of that traffic, and it can be divided into two main categories: Local and Organic SEO. Here's how they work.
Local SEO Explained
Local SEO is the optimisation process for local businesses to rank higher in geographically related searches, ensuring your business appears in results when potential customers are looking for products or services in their area.
The core of local SEO revolves around listing your business on internet directories like Google My Business, Bing Places, and Apple Maps. Use the CRM's integrated features, such as Yext, to synchronise your business information across multiple directories.
Organic SEO Demystified
Organic SEO targets a broader audience through non-paid search engine results. It's crucial for businesses aiming to reach a national or global audience. It's about improving your website rankings in the general search results for specific keywords. Successful organic SEO strategies include keyword research, on-page optimisation (like meta tags and content quality), and off-page optimisation (such as backlinks).
If you'd like to improve your organic SEO, consider partnering with professionals for comprehensive campaigns. The CRM can support these efforts through its website and funnel builders, which include SEO-friendly features.
A Small Practical Example
To illustrate, consider a local bakery in Boise, Idaho. For local SEO, ensure the bakery's Google My Business profile is optimised and its information is consistent across all directories. For organic SEO, fill the bakery's website with relevant keywords like "best bakery in Boise" and build quality backlinks.
Now you have the basics, it's worth exploring your site's SEO. Whether you're adding geotags, adding relevant text to images, or updating your Yelp profile, we hope this article has given you some insight into how to climb the rankings and get your business onto the first page of search results.
Troubleshooting Tips and FAQs
Q: My business isn't appearing in local search results. What can I do?
A: Ensure all business information is accurate and consistent across directories. Also, check if the business is verified on Google My Business.
Q: How long does it take to see results from organic SEO?
A: Organic SEO is a long-term strategy. It can take months to see significant improvements in search rankings.