A Quick Guide to Search Engine Optimization

May 5, 2021

One of the roadblocks that get in the way of true digital inclusivity is the density of industry jargon. Terms like Search Engine Optimization are bandied about by marketing firms and web designers – often with very little clear explanation as to what they mean. Jargonistic language makes concepts seem complex, but there are often quite understandable core ideas at the center of this labyrinth of terminology.

seo quick guide

So, what is Search Engine Optimization in real terms? This quick guide cuts out the jargon and gets to the point. These are just the basics. If this interests you, there is a near infinite amount of research to pursue.

 

Overview

Search Engine Optimization – or SEO for short – is the practice of improving a website’s traffic by ensuring that it appears near the top of the page when people search for relevant terms on sites like Google and Bing. These rankings are incredibly important. The huge majority of online inquiries are made through search engines, so appearing near the top of the rankings is a key way of enticing visitors. In modern business, it is a well-established fact that an SEO agency can help you get better Google rankings. We’ll get into just how they do it later in this article.

 

Origins

Although some people believe that Search Engine Optimization practices started in 1991 with publishing the first website, most people agree that SEO was born in around 1997. One story tells of how the manager of the band Jefferson Starship, appalled that the band only appeared on page 4 of a Google search for ‘Jefferson Starship’, set out to alter their online presence to optimize it for early directory-based search engine algorithms. Regardless of the truth behind this piece of internet lore, it was around this time that digital marketing agencies started to specialize in Search Engine Optimization.

 

Modern Techniques

Search Engine Optimization is a constantly evolving field. Early search engines were directory-based, using an algorithm to choose the most ‘relevant’ results from an approved list. This is no longer the case. Google – by far the most important search engine – has been constantly updating its search algorithms to get faster, smarter results and cut down on manipulation. Modern SEO agencies typically use a multi-pronged approach to improve their clients’ internet traffic. Here are some of the most widely used modern techniques.

Link Building – Link building is the bread and butter of SEO. Google search algorithms have always treated links as a sort of online reputational currency. The more a site is linked to by other quality sites, the better the site will be ranked by the search algorithm. SEO agencies drive up a client site’s reputation by spreading links to it across relevant parts of the internet.

Keyword Research and Optimization – Research is needed to find out what people are actually searching – the words they actually type in during a query. These are known as keywords and must be utilized carefully when producing content to match what potential visitors might search.

On Site Optimization – The client website itself must be optimized to be search engine friendly. This can involve the use of keywords, the writing of quality content and the tailoring of content to the needs of potential visitors.

0 Comments

Is Your Business Being Found Online?

Laptop Metrics Colorado

Free Digital Marketing Report ($150 Value)

marketing module lineWant to know how your business stacks up against the competition?

Read more articles about SEO.

Elevating Irish Business: The Power of Integrated Digital Marketing Services

Digital Excellence Across the Irish Business Landscape The competitive edge for businesses across the island of Ireland increasingly depends on their digital capabilities. From the busy streets of Dublin to the innovative hubs of Belfast, from the coastal communities...

3 Tools to Streamline Classroom Organization and Efficiency

Modern technologies are changing organizations and efficiency with a seamless mix of technology and strategy in classrooms humming with creative energy and vivid learning. Smart systems streamline grade administration, communication, and scheduling, thereby turning...

What Social Media Agencies Add to Your In-House Efforts

Your in-house marketing team knows your brand. They’ve built the tone, crafted the visuals, and probably memorised your product catalogue. But when growth goals start rising faster than your internal bandwidth, even the best teams need backup. That’s where social...

How To Implement Digital Health and Infrastructure in Healthcare Facilities

  Technology has always been the heart of any development in healthcare. With physician Tom Ferguson’s consumerist movement in 2007, the term ‘e-patient’ was coined. It was when everyone was encouraged to use the internet to be informed and take public health...

Understanding Financial Statements: A Guide for Small Businesses

Are you curious about the true factors affecting your business performance? Financial statements provide essential insights into your business's health, yet small business owners often find their complexity overwhelming. Predictions show that business closures will...

The Benefits of Partnering with a Specialized Google Ads Agency in Dubai

In Dubai's fast-changing market, having a strong online presence is key. A specialized Google Ads agency helps businesses thrive in digital marketing. They boost website traffic, conversions, and revenue. These agencies offer deep knowledge in digital marketing. They...

8 Effective Ways to Market Your App in 2025

The app market continues to grow with spectacular figures, and more than ever, you must have an effective marketing plan. While millions of apps are listed in app stores, you must be visible. Knowing your target audience and their pain point can help you create a...

Three Ways in Which Video Content Can Be Used To Engage With Diverse Customer Groups

When it comes to operating any type of business in Thailand, you will want to engage with your target groups of customers in order to drive conversions into actual sales. Indeed, taking the time to engage with diverse customer groups through the use of video content...

Read more articles about business.

Boosting Brand Visibility with Custom Screenprinted Merchandise

Boosting Brand Visibility with Custom Screenprinted Merchandise

Is your brand struggling to distinguish itself from competitors? Brands face unprecedented challenges to gain attention in today's saturated marketplace. Successful businesses are increasing their visibility through a proven strategy that companies have found...

Innovative Video Production Techniques for Los Angeles Businesses

Innovative Video Production Techniques for Los Angeles Businesses

Are you ready to produce remarkable video content that will differentiate your Los Angeles business from others? Businesses must use video production today to connect with their audience and differentiate themselves from competitors. The Movie & Video Production...

How to Generate Land Clearing Leads and Grow Your Business

How to Generate Land Clearing Leads and Grow Your Business

With a contracting business, there are a lot of things to balance. That’s especially true when it comes to land clearing. Generating leads can be a difficult process. Today, we’re going to explore some methods of doing so. Essentially, it’s going to come down to...

Optimizing Utility Costs: A Guide for Small Businesses

Optimizing Utility Costs: A Guide for Small Businesses

For small businesses, every penny saved can make a significant difference in overall profitability. With the rising cost of utilities, finding effective ways to manage and reduce energy expenses has become a crucial part of maintaining a healthy bottom line.  ...