Many want to know what the hype on Search engine optimisation is all about but if you own a website that is struggling to get exposure, then you will understand. SEO is a marketing tool that makes use of keywords and other tools to increase the ranking of a website on search engine results pages.

Why is ranking so important?

Ranking is very important in online marketing. All websites want to be on top and this is mainly due to the fact that traffic is more likely to visit a sight that is ranked highest on a search engine results page first than those that fall at the bottom.

How exactly does one benefit from SEO?

The most obvious advantage that search engine optimisation can bring to a website is the increase of traffic. When a website is optimised it means that its content has been adapted in such a way that it becomes visible by search engines. The content has to thus incorporate relevant keywords. A keyword becomes relevant when it is in some way connected to your business and to what searches are looking for.

This means that you have to determine what are the keywords and phrases that searches will type into the slot provided by search engines when they require information. For example, if your business sells hair products online and John is looking for a particular hair gel, he is more likely to type in words such as hair gel, hair products or gel in the search engine.

This means that for your site to be optimised it needs to contain the words hair gel, hair product and gel so that it appears tops on the search engine results page. Not just this, you will also have to include all other possible keywords and different spelling of the keywords to fully benefit from it.

Another benefit is that with SEO you also gain credibility. Being featured on top search engines regularly and being ranked highest will surely earn you a great reputation. The fact that you are on top means that people trust the information you provide. Remember that online advertising reaches millions all over the world and so, your reputation will not only improve your reputation in your area but also globally.

SEO and traditional advertising

Traditional advertising is often seen as an expensive form of marketing and therefore the biggest advantage of the use of SEO on a website is that it is more affordable. Internet marketing in general is cheaper than offline marketing and it reaches a broader audience. SEO is also a more long term approach than normal marketing. However, SEO is not always the best marketing approach for all businesses. Traditional advertising could be a more beneficial way especially for small business only relevant to people living in a particular area and where a broader audience is not necessary. SEO is also not that necessary for businesses who are unique and really one of a kind. Regardless of optimisation, the business is still likely to have top ranking.

Get Involved