Let’s Talk About SEO (Without the Jargon!)
You know that feeling when you’re trying to get your business noticed online, and it feels like you’re screaming into the wind? Yeah, I’ve been there. The good news? SEO doesn’t have to be this mysterious, complicated thing that only tech wizards understand. Let’s break it down together.
So What Exactly IS SEO?
Think of SEO (Search Engine Optimization) as your way of raising your hand when someone asks, “Hey, does anyone know where I can find…?” When people search for what you offer, you want to be the business that pops up first – not buried on page 47 of Google results.
Here’s the thing – it’s like having the best storefront in town. If it’s hidden down a back alley where nobody walks, you’re not going to get customers. But if you’re right there on Main Street where everyone can see you? That’s SEO working for you.
The best part? Unlike those expensive ads that eat up your budget, once you get your SEO right, people keep finding you without you having to pay for each click. Pretty sweet deal, right?
Let’s Break Down the Two Main Types
On-Page SEO is everything you can control on your own website. Think of it as organizing your store so customers can easily find what they need. You’re creating helpful content, using the right keywords naturally (not stuffing them in everywhere – that’s just annoying), and making sure your website is easy to navigate. It’s also about those behind-the-scenes details like page titles and descriptions that tell search engines what your page is about.
Off-Page SEO is about building your reputation in the neighborhood. When other websites link to yours, it’s like getting a recommendation from a trusted friend. The more quality websites that vouch for you, the more search engines think, “Hey, this business must be legit!” Social media engagement, online reviews, and local business listings all play into this too.
The Technical Stuff (Don’t Worry, We’ll Keep It Simple!)
I know “technical SEO” sounds scary, but think of it as basic maintenance for your digital storefront. You want your website to load quickly (nobody likes waiting around), work on mobile phones (because let’s be honest, that’s how most people browse), and be secure (that little padlock in the browser bar).
You also want to make it easy for search engines to understand what your business is about. It’s like putting up clear signs in your store – “Shoes This Way,” “Electronics Over Here.” The clearer you make it, the better search engines can direct the right customers to you.
Another important aspect of SEO is ensuring that everything works properly. Links to external websites can change over time, and broken links are like a road to nowhere – they don’t work, and Google doesn’t like it. Ditto to images no longer rendering properly, videos that don’t load, and so on.
A tool to monitor problems with SEO, such as SEMRush, is invaluable. It provides reports to help you quickly figure out what’s broken, not working, or needs to be fixed.
How Does SEO Stack Up Against Other Marketing Tactics?
Paid ads are like renting a billboard – great visibility while you’re paying, but the moment you stop, you’re invisible again. SEO is like owning prime real estate. It takes time to build, but once you’re there, you’re there.
Social media is fantastic for building relationships and brand awareness, but it’s more like hosting a party – you need to keep the energy up constantly. Email marketing is like having a direct line to your best customers, but you need their permission first.
The beauty of SEO? People are already looking for what you offer. You’re not interrupting their day with an ad – you’re being helpful by showing up exactly when they need you. And here’s the kicker – people trust organic search results more than ads. It’s like the difference between a friend’s recommendation and a sales pitch.
Combining Strategies: What Works
Here’s what I’ve learned working with small businesses: SEO works best when it’s part of a bigger picture. Maybe you use some paid ads to get quick wins while your SEO is building up steam. Or you share your great content on social media to get more eyes on it. Your email newsletter can drive people back to your website, boosting those SEO signals.
It’s not about choosing one thing – it’s about making them all work together. Like a good recipe, the right combination of ingredients makes something way better than any single component alone.
I would say that SEO is the cornerstone of any business marketing program. That’s because your website is the central location or hub for your business online. In order for people to visit, they must find it, and SEO makes it easier to find.
The Bottom Line
SEO isn’t just for the big guys with huge budgets and big marketing teams. It’s for every business owner who wants to be found by the people who need what they offer. Sure, it takes some time and effort, but so does everything worthwhile in business.
Your customers are out there right now, typing questions into Google. Wouldn’t it be nice if they found you first?
Want to chat about how to make this work for your specific business? I’m here to help you figure out a strategy that actually makes sense for where you’re at right now.
Jeanne Grunert is the heart and soul behind Seven Oaks Consulting and a passionate storyteller with over 30 years of experience in writing, marketing, and business. As an award-winning writer and content marketing pro, Jeanne loves helping others shine through smart, authentic communication. She’s a frequent speaker, teacher, and writer on topics like content strategy and personal branding—and she does it all with a deep love for words and people. Jeanne also serves as the Branding and Marketing Expert for the National Association of Independent Writers and Editors (NAIWE). She holds an M.A. in Writing and an M.S. in Direct and Digital Marketing (awarded with distinction) from NYU. Jeanne’s also the author of eight books, including the beloved Majek Family Mysteries and the practical favorite Pricing Your Services: 21 Tips for More Profit.