SEO, which stands for search engine optimization, has become one of the most useful techniques and tools for succeeding online. However, putting SEO strategies into practice takes time and money.

If you want to take advantage of all its benefits and save a few dollars, it is entirely possible. But what you save in dollars may be eaten up in the time devoted to this strategy by you or your staff. Of course, it is easy for me to say, but you only have to follow these tips.

First, research the master keyword. A strong and successful SEO program starts with keyword research. In this way, you will know the words and phrases of the real searchers, understand which ones to target, and calculate the demand for your products. Never assume that you know what consumers want and how they search. Use keyword tools to investigate it. Some of them offer a demand score for each topic, making them the perfect ally to know what to do to attract traffic.

Next, understand your competition. Another step you must take to make your SEO strategy work is to identify organic search competitors. It not only refers to sites that sell exact products, ingredients, and services but also to informational sites or any other site that competes for the same phrases. This will help you discover what they are doing well in organic search to get good results or what content topics they include that you are not. You can also analyze their sites to understand their structure and how they target valuable keywords or attract buyers.

A competitive review also helps to identify competitor strengths and weaknesses, an initiative I often include in client brand marketing proposals.

Producing regular content is a time factor that also must be included in the overall equation. Regular content adapted to your audience will be another of your best allies to achieve success. You do not need to post a new blog every day. This is unrealistic.

You should only post unique content at least once a month or a week and be consistent. Consistency is the key.

It is also important to remember that the content does not only refer to the text. You can also use photos, videos, illustrations (infographics), or any other content that helps internet users find something valuable.

The action of keyword mapping is next. After knowing what your potential customers or readers want and the phrases they usually use in their searches, you should assign keywords to each page of your site. You can start by creating a spreadsheet of all the crucial pages in your site’s navigation and assign unique primary and secondary keywords to each. And, of course, create new pages for unassigned high-value keywords. It is also essential to use long-tail keywords. They generate fewer searches, but they can significantly benefit your site.

Finally, optimize your site. Your keywords map will help optimize your site, which is also essential for SEO. Update the existing content on your site to include the keywords and create new pages for the unassigned keywords, including graphics, videos, and text on them. You can also create a keyword-rich content section like an educational portal, a forum (if you know how to use keywords in them), or a blog.

Putting SEO techniques and strategies into practice takes time and knowledge especially if you are just starting in the online business world. However,  you can do it yourself by following these tips.

Sheldon Baker

Sheldon Baker is a senior member of Baker Dillon Group LLC and has created numerous nutraceutical brand marketing communications and public relations campaigns for well-known supplement and food industry companies. For brand marketing consulting, contact him at [email protected].

www.BakerDillon.com