Where To Put Keywords On Your Website?

Where To Put Keywords On Your Website?

by | Dec 29, 2024 | SEO Basics

If you’re starting an online business, you’ve probably heard a lot about “keywords.”

Think of keywords as the words or phrases people type into search engines to find websites like yours.

Using the right keywords in the right places on your site can help bring in visitors who are already searching for what you offer. Let’s break down the steps you need to put keywords on your website. 

What Are Keywords, and Why Do They Matter?

Keywords are like signposts that guide people to your website. For example, if you sell candles, a keyword might be something simple like “buy candles online.” There are two main types of keywords:

  1. Short keywords (also called short-tail keywords): These are short and broad, like “candles.” They attract a lot of people but can be too general to be helpful.
  2. Long keywords (long-tail keywords): These are more specific, like “handmade soy candles for gifts.” These bring fewer visitors but are more likely to attract people ready to buy.

 

Soy candle keywords

The goal is to match the words on your site with the words your ideal customer is searching for. This way, your website becomes easier to find.

The Best Places to Use Keywords

You don’t want to scatter keywords randomly on your website. Instead, focus on these key areas:

1. Page Titles and Headers

This is where you make your first impression. Think of your page title as the headline of a newspaper. It should grab attention and clearly show what the page is about. For example:

  • Instead of “Welcome to My Website,” try “Shop Handmade Soy Candles Online.”

Headers (like the bold section titles on a page) should also include keywords naturally. They help both readers and search engines understand what’s on the page.

2. The Body of Your Content

Keywords should flow naturally in your main content. Don’t force them; just write as if you’re having a conversation. For example:

  • Instead of writing “candles candles candles,” say, “Our handmade soy candles are perfect for relaxing evenings.”

3. Meta Descriptions

The meta description is the little summary that appears under your page title in search results. Include your main keyword here to help people (and search engines) know what your page is about. This is an important spot to put keywords on your website.

For example:

  • “Discover handmade soy candles perfect for gifts or relaxation. Shop now!”

4. Image Alt Text

This is a hidden description for images on your site. It helps search engines understand your pictures. For example, instead of naming an image “IMG1234.jpg,” use “handmade-soy-candles.jpg.”

5. URLs (Web Addresses)

A clear, keyword-friendly URL makes your site look professional and helps search engines. For example:

  • Instead of “mywebsite.com/p12345,” use “mywebsite.com/handmade-candles.”

6. Internal Links

When linking to other pages on your site, use keywords as the clickable text (anchor text). For example:

  • Instead of “Click here,” say “Check out our handmade candle collection.”

Things To Remember

put keywords on your website

1. Don’t Overdo It

Using a keyword too many times (called “keyword stuffing”) can hurt your site’s ranking and make your content hard to read. Aim to keep your keywords natural and relevant. Think quality, not quantity.

2. Use Related Words

Search engines are smart. They can understand related terms, so you don’t need to repeat the same keyword over and over. For example, instead of saying “handmade candles” five times, you can also say “artisan candles” or “natural soy candles.”

 

3. Update and Check Keywords Regularly

Keywords that worked last year might not be as effective now. Use free tools like Google Keyword Planner to see what people are searching for. Update your content to match.

4. Focus on People First

Write for real people, not just search engines. If your content sounds robotic, visitors will leave. Make it helpful, engaging, and easy to read. Happy visitors mean better rankings.

5. Keep Learning

SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is always changing. Keep learning to stay ahead, but don’t stress. Starting small and being consistent works wonders.

Your Next Steps

  1. Start by making a list of keywords your ideal customers might search for.
  2. Add these keywords naturally to the key areas of your site: titles, headers, content, meta descriptions, image alt text, URLs, and internal links.
  3. Review your site regularly to update old content and improve your keyword strategy.

Remember, keywords are just one part of making your website successful. The most important thing is creating a site that’s helpful and enjoyable for your visitors. When you do that, everything else falls into place.

Add these keywords naturally to the key areas of your site—because when someone asks where should you put keywords on your website, these are the answers that make the biggest difference.

Try finding a keyword by using Jaaxy in the box below.

And Finally...

SEO might sound like a big technical topic, but it all starts with simple steps like choosing the right keywords and knowing where to place them. Don’t worry about getting everything perfect—just focus on being helpful and building a site that feels you.

Still wondering where you should put keywords on your website? Or maybe you’ve found a trick that works well? I’d love to hear your thoughts or questions—pop them in the comments below!

If you’d like step-by-step training on SEO, content writing, and building your website, I’ve personally found Wealthy Affiliate a great place to learn and grow.

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.

On-Page SEO for Beginners

On-Page SEO for Beginners

by | Dec 18, 2024 | SEO Basics

7 Easy Steps to Optimize Your Website for on-page SEO

Getting your website noticed starts with learning the basics of on page SEO. It’s one of the most beginner-friendly ways to improve your rankings and attract the right visitors.

On-page SEO is one of the most critical factors in ensuring your website performs well in search engine rankings. It involves optimizing various elements on your website pages to make them more search engine friendly.

For beginners, mastering on-page SEO can seem daunting, but by following these simple steps, you can start to improve your site’s visibility and attract more traffic.

This guide breaks down on-page SEO into manageable tasks that anyone can implement.

on-page seo

Step 1: Optimize Your Title Tags

The title tag of a page is one of the most important on-page SEO elements. It’s the text that appears in the search engine results pages (SERPs) as the clickable headline for a given result and is crucial for usability, SEO, and social sharing.

  • Best Practices: Keep your titles under 60 characters to ensure they display properly on SERPs. Include your target keywords towards the beginning of the title and ensure it accurately reflects the content of the page.

Step 2: Master Meta Descriptions

Including your main keyword in the title tag and meta description is a classic on page SEO technique—it helps search engines know what your page is about and encourages users to click.

  • Best Practices: Keep meta descriptions between 150-160 characters. They should provide a concise summary of the content and include relevant keywords that match the search intent.

Step 3: Utilize Header Tags Properly

Headers help organize your content not just for readers but for search engines too. Using headers (H1, H2, H3) correctly can help boost your SEO.

  • Best Practices: Use the H1 tag for your main title and use H2s and H3s for subsections. Include keywords in your headers, but keep them natural and useful for the reader.

Step 4: Optimize Your Images

Links in image

Images can attract a significant amount of traffic from image search engines. However, search engines cannot view images directly but rely on accompanying text data.

  • Best Practices: Use descriptive, keyword-rich file names for your images. Always fill out the alt attribute (alt text) to provide a clear description of what the image is about for search engines and for accessibility purposes.

Step 5: Improve URL Structure

The structure of your URLs can affect both your page’s ranking and user experience. A URL should be easy to understand and manage for both users and search engines.

  • Best Practices: Keep URLs short and relevant to the page content and include keywords. Use hyphens to separate words, making them easier to read.

Step 6: Increase Site Speed

Page speed is a ranking factor, and faster pages provide a better user experience. Slow websites tend to have higher bounce rates and lower conversion rates.

  • Best Practices: Optimize image sizes, leverage browser caching, and minimize the use of large files and plugins that can slow down page load times. Tools like Google’s PageSpeed Insights can provide recommendations to improve your site’s speed.

Step 7: Internal Linking

Internal linking helps search engines understand the structure of your website and the relevance of pages. It also helps with website navigation and can potentially increase the overall SEO of your site.

  • Best Practices: Use descriptive anchor text that gives an indication of the linked page’s content. Link to important pages often to show search engines and users the hierarchy and value of these pages.

It might feel like there’s a lot to remember, but these on page SEO tweaks quickly become second nature with practice.

And Finally...

On-page SEO is fundamental to improving your website’s search engine visibility and user experience. By systematically addressing each component—from titles and headers to links and page speed—you can build a stronger, more competitive presence in search engines.

Remember, on-page SEO is not a one-time task but an ongoing part of maintaining your website. Regular reviews and adjustments to your on-page strategies based on performance metrics can lead to sustained improvements over time.

With these beginner steps, you can start to optimize your site effectively and lay a solid foundation for more advanced SEO tactics in the future.

I hope this helped clear up what on page SEO involves and how it can improve your site’s visibility. Are you starting to use any of these tips on your own site yet? Maybe you’ve got questions about what to focus on first? I’d genuinely love to hear about your progress, challenges, or tips in the comments below. Let’s learn together—step by step.

If you’re looking for an easy-to-follow training platform that covers SEO and more, I highly recommend Wealthy Affiliate—it’s where I learned the ropes myself, and their step-by-step approach suits beginners brilliantly.

If you’d like to read more about on-page SEO, have a look at these resources.

Google’s SEO Starter Guide

Ahrefs: On-Page SEO Guide

Moz Beginner’s Guide to SEO

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.”

SEO Basics For Beginners

SEO Basics For Beginners

by | Dec 16, 2024 | SEO Basics

If you’ve ever wondered how websites appear at the top of Google, the answer is usually SEO—Search Engine Optimization. For beginners, understanding the basics can seem a little overwhelming, but don’t worry—I’ll break it down in plain English.

Whether you’re starting a blog, launching an online business, or just curious about how it all works, learning the SEO basics for beginners is a brilliant place to start. Not only will it help your content get found, but it’ll give you a clearer picture of how search engines like Google actually work.

SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, might all sound like mumbo-jumbo, but it’s really not as complicated as it seems. Think of SEO as your website’s way of standing out in the vast crowd of the internet. It’s like dressing your website up for a big event so it can shine and attract the attention it deserves.

So, why does SEO matter?

Imagine looking for a new coffee shop online.

Chances are, you’ll go to the one that pops up at the top of the search results, right? That’s SEO in action—it’s what helps people find your website when they’re searching for something you offer. Without it, your website might be out there, but it’ll be like a hidden treasure no one can find.

Coffee shop

What is SEO, Exactly?

SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, is all about making your website easier for search engines to find, understand, and recommend to users. It’s how you improve your visibility when someone searches for something related to your content.

At its core, SEO helps your website stand out from the crowd, bringing more visitors and potential customers your way. That’s why getting to grips with SEO basics for beginners can give your online presence a much-needed boost.

SEO Myths: What It Isn’t

Before we dive in, let’s clear up a common myth: 

SEO isn’t some magical trick that will instantly put your website at the top of the  Google search page.

Think of it more like planting a garden. You sow the seeds (set up your SEO basics), water them regularly (make ongoing improvements), and with time, your hard work will pay off.

And another thing: it’s not all about being number one. Sure, it’s great to rank high, but what matters most is being useful and relevant to the people searching for what you offer.

The Building Blocks of SEO: Keywords Made Simple

Let’s talk about keywords—these are the words or phrases people type into Google when they’re searching. For example, if someone’s looking for “homemade candles,” they might type that exact phrase. So your job is to make sure those words lead them to your website.

Finding the right keywords doesn’t have to be hard. Think of it like choosing the perfect ingredients for a recipe. There are tools like Google Keyword Planner that help you discover what people are searching for, so you know which “ingredients” to focus on.

And here’s anothere tip: don’t always go for the most popular keywords.

Sometimes, smaller, more specific phrases (called long-tail keywords) work better. For example, instead of “candles,” try “eco-friendly soy candles.” It might attract fewer people, but they’ll be more likely to love what you’re offering.

Oh, and about using keywords—don’t overdo it! You don’t need to stuff them into every sentence. Write naturally, like you’re chatting with a friend, and sprinkle keywords in where they fit.

On-Page SEO: Making Your Website Work for You

Book with meta

Your website is like a book, and SEO helps make it reader-friendly. For example:

  • Title Tags: Think of these as the book’s title—it tells people (and search engines) what your page is about.
  • Meta Descriptions: This is like the summary on the back cover. It should be short, interesting, and make people want to click.
  • Headings: These are like chapter titles. They guide readers (and search engines) through your content

Don’t forget about images! Adding short descriptions (called alt text) to your pictures helps search engines understand what they’re about. It’s also a great spot to add those keywords we talked about earlier.

Finally, think about how everything flows. Link to other pages on your site to make it easy for visitors to explore. )For example, if you click this highlighted text, it will take you to a post called ‘The Top 10 SEO Mistakes Beginners Make“)  This is a link and also helps search engines understand your site’s structure.

Beyond Your Website: Off-Page SEO

SEO isn’t just about your website—it’s also about how the rest of the internet sees you. Backlinks, for example, are like recommendations from other websites. If a trusted site links to yours, it’s like getting a thumbs-up from a friend, and search engines take notice.

Social media is another great tool. Sharing your content on platforms like Facebook or Instagram gets more eyes on your site and can lead to more visits, shares, and backlinks.

Building your website’s “street cred” (called domain authority) takes time. It’s influenced by how long your site has been around, how much people trust it, and how useful your content is. Keep creating great content and connecting with others online, and your credibility will grow.

Keep Track of Your Progress

How do you know if all your hard work is paying off?

Tools like Google Analytics can show you how many people are visiting your site, how they’re finding it, and what they’re doing once they’re there. Use this information to tweak your strategy and keep improving.

And Finally...

I hope this SEO basics for beginners guide has given you a solid starting point. The good news? You don’t need to be a tech wizard or marketing guru to get going—just a bit of curiosity and a willingness to learn. Start small, take it step by step, and remember—it’s a marathon, not a sprint. With patience and consistency, your efforts will pay off, and your website will become a go-to destination online.

Are you feeling more confident about tackling SEO now? Or maybe you’ve already started making small changes to your site? I’d love to hear what’s working for you—or what’s got you scratching your head.

Pop your questions, wins, or tips in the comments—I’ll do my best to help! And if you’re after a step-by-step platform where you can practise what you’ve learned, check out Wealthy Affiliate—it’s where I got started, and I still find it super helpful.

 

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.”

Backlinking For Beginners

Backlinking For Beginners

by | Dec 13, 2024 | SEO Basics

Backlinks: What They Are and Why They Matter for Websites

Navigating the world of SEO can be daunting. One fundamental aspect to grasp is backlinking for beginners, which plays a pivotal role in enhancing your website’s visibility

 They might sound complicated, but don’t worry—they’re pretty simple once you understand them. Let’s break it down

What Are Backlinks?

Imagine you’re making a website about your favorite hobby—say, cycling. A backlink happens when another website adds a link to your website on their page. It’s like someone saying, “Check out this awesome cycling site!”

In the world of the internet, backlinks are super important because they help people find your website, and they tell search engines like Google that your site is worth checking out.

cycling

Why Are Backlinks Important

Think of backlinks as online shoutouts. The more websites that link to your site, the more popular and trustworthy your website looks. This means:

Better Search Rankings:

Websites with lots of good backlinks often show up higher on Google and other search engines. Higher ranking means more people will see and visit your site.

More Traffic:

If someone clicks on a backlink to your site, they’re visiting your page. That’s like having a sign pointing people to your cycle park.

Trust & Credibility:

When trusted websites link to you, it’s like a seal of approval, saying your site is reliable and interesting.

Good Backlinks vs. Bad Backlinks

Backlinks

Not all backlinks are created equal. Some are helpful, while others can actually hurt your site. 

Good Backlinks:

These come from popular, trusted websites. For example, if a big cycling blog links to your site, that’s great news! It shows your site has valuable info.

Bad Backlinks:

These come from sketchy or low-quality websites. It’s like a random person you don’t trust giving you a shoutout. It might actually make people doubt you!

How Can You Get Backlinks?

Here are a few ways to build backlinks to your website:

Create Great Content:

If your website has  unique, or helpful content, people will naturally want to share it and link to it. For example, write about cycling tricks or post tutorials.

Collaborate:

Reach out to other websites in your niche. For instance, you could ask another cycling blog to link to your site if you have an article that adds value to their readers.

Guest Posts:

Write a blog post for another website. In return, they might let you add a link to your site in the post.

Share Your Website:

Post your content on social media or forums. The more people who see it, the more likely they’ll link to it.

Why Should You Care About Backlinks?

Building backlinks is like making friends for your website. The more quality backlinks you have, the stronger your website becomes in the eyes of search engines and visitors. If you’re serious about making your site awesome, backlinks are one of the best ways to grow.

And Finally...

So, go ahead—create great content, connect with other websites, and let the backlinks start rolling in. Soon, your website could be the go-to spot for your favorite topic!

If you’d like to read more about linking try reading this article at moz.com

Embarking on the journey of backlinking for beginners can be both exciting and challenging. Have you tried any of these strategies? Share your experiences or questions below to help foster a community of learners

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.”

What is a keyword tool about?

What is a keyword tool about?

by | Dec 11, 2024 | SEO Basics

What is a keyword tool? If you’re new to creating content or trying to get your website noticed, you’ve probably heard people talk about keyword research. But what does that actually mean? And more importantly, what is a keyword tool and why do so many website owners rely on them?

This beginner-friendly guide will introduce you to keyword tools, explain their importance, and discuss some popular examples, including Jaaxy, which is my favourite.. Let’s dive in!

Understanding Keyword Tools

A keyword tool is a software or online platform that helps you find words or phrases that people use in search engines when looking for information, products, or services.

These tools provide valuable insights such as how often a keyword is searched, how much competition there is for that keyword, and sometimes even how difficult it might be to rank for that keyword.

girl at computer

Why Use a Keyword Tool?

The main reason to use a keyword tool is to optimize your online content so that it reaches the right audience. In short, this means whatever you write needs to be found by the right people.  Here are a few benefits of using keyword tools:

Better Targeting:

By understanding what terms your potential audience is searching for, you can tailor your content to meet their needs more effectively.

Increased Traffic:

Proper keyword research and implementation can significantly improve your site’s visibility and bring more visitors.

Competitive Edge:

Keyword tools can show you the terms your competitors are targeting, giving you the insight needed to differentiate your content and capture more market share.

Popular Keyword Tools

group learning seo
  1. Google Keyword Planner: This free tool is integrated with Google Ads and is great for beginners to start understanding keyword volumes and competition. It provides basic insights and is an excellent first step into keyword research.
  2. Jaaxy: This is one I use. Jaaxy offers comprehensive keyword data, including search volume, competition, potential profitability, and more. It’s particularly popular among affiliate marketers because it helps find niche keywords that could be easily ranked for.
  3. Ubersuggest: Created by Neil Patel, this tool provides keyword suggestions, difficulty scores, and even content ideas. It’s user-friendly and includes both free and paid versions.
  4. Ahrefs Keywords Explorer: Ahrefs offers one of the most detailed keyword reports on the market, giving information on keyword difficulty, search volume, and the estimated number of clicks. It’s ideal for those who are ready to dive deeper into SEO.
  5. Moz Keyword Explorer: Moz provides keyword suggestions, SERP analysis, and more. It’s known for its easy-to-understand metrics and helpful insights into how you can improve your SEO strategy.

There are many free and paid options out there, and choosing the right one depends on your needs. If you’ve ever wondered what is a keyword tool supposed to do beyond spitting out search terms, the answer is simple: it helps you understand what your audience is looking for.

How to Use a Keyword Tool

Using a keyword tool is straightforward. Here’s a simple step-by-step process:

  1. Enter a Basic Term: Start with a broad term related to your content or industry.
  2. Review the Suggestions: The tool will provide a list of related keywords, along with important metrics such as monthly search volumes and competition levels.
  3. Select Your Keywords: Choose keywords that best fit your content goals based on their relevance and the data provided.
  4. Implement Keywords: Use these keywords strategically in your website’s content, meta descriptions, and even in your marketing materials.

Tips for Effective Use

girl with laptop
  • Look for Long-Tail Keywords: These are longer and more specific keyword phrases that usually have less competition and can drive more targeted traffic.
  • Consider Search Intent: Understanding why someone might be searching for a keyword (to buy, to learn, etc.) can help you create more relevant content.

Keep Learning: Keyword trends can change, so it’s important to continually use keyword tools to stay updated.

Conclusion

Keyword tools are invaluable for anyone looking to improve their online visibility and connect more effectively with their audience.

Whether you’re a blogger, an online shop owner, or a content creator, these tools can help guide your content strategy in the right direction. Remember, the goal of using keyword tools isn’t just to increase traffic—it’s to attract the right kind of traffic that will engage with your content and return for more.

Whether you’re writing a blog post, building a sales page, or planning your content strategy, understanding what a keyword tool is and how to use it can give your site a better chance of being found online.

Start exploring these tools and watch how they can transform your online presence!

Have you used a keyword tool before, or are you just starting to explore how they work? I’d love to hear how you’re getting on! Maybe you’ve found one that’s really helpful, or you’ve got a question about how to get started. Pop a comment below and share your experience—it might just help someone else who’s figuring it all out too.

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.”

Top 10 SEO Mistakes to Avoid as a Beginner

Top 10 SEO Mistakes to Avoid as a Beginner

by | Dec 9, 2024 | SEO Basics

A Beginner’s Guide to Better SEO

Learning how to get seen online can feel like a bit of a minefield, can’t it? One of the best ways to start is by understanding the top 10 SEO mistakes to avoid as a beginner. It’s easy to miss a trick or two when you’re just getting started—but avoiding these pitfalls can give your website a real head start.

Whether you’re building a blog, an online shop, or a business site, search engines play a big role in helping people find you. This guide will walk you through the most common beginner SEO errors, so you can sidestep them and make your site shine.

1. Ignoring Keyword Research

Mistake: Many beginners underestimate the importance of keyword research and either use overly generic keywords or keywords that are too competitive.

Solution: Spend time using tools like Jaaxy, Google Keyword Planner or Moz Keyword Explorer to find relevant keywords that have a good balance of search volume and competition. Focus on long-tail keywords as they are less competitive and more targeted.

Don’t forget to look at the “People Also Ask” and “Related Searches” sections in Google for extra ideas. These can be gold for finding useful long-tail keywords.

ignoring keyword

2. Overlooking Title Tags and Meta Descriptions

Mistake: Neglecting to customize title tags and meta descriptions can lead to poor click-through rates because these elements directly impact how your pages are viewed in search results.

Solution:Title tags and meta descriptions are the snippets that show up in search results. A good meta description and title tag with your keyword can make all the difference in click-through rates.  Also, try to make these sound appealing and informative—like mini advertisements for your content.

 Keep title tags under 60 characters and meta descriptions about 155 characters.

3. Creating Low-Quality Content

Mistake: Publishing content that is not useful or relevant to your audience can hurt your SEO, as quality content is a major ranking factor for search engines.

Solution: Focus on creating content that provides value to your readers. Ensure it is informative, well-written, and relevant to their interests. Always aim for originality and depth in your content to engage users and encourage them to spend more time on your site.

4. Neglecting Mobile Optimization

Mistake: With the increasing use of mobile devices to access the internet, ignoring mobile optimization can result in a significant loss of traffic.

Solution: Ensure your website is responsive, meaning it adjusts smoothly to different screen sizes. Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test can help you identify areas of your site that need improvement for mobile usage.

5. Forgetting About Local SEO

Mistake: Beginners often focus on global SEO and forget about the potential of local search, which can be a significant traffic driver especially for small businesses.

Solution: Optimize your website for local SEO by including local keywords, registering with Google My Business, and adding your business to local directories.

6. Using ‘Black Hat’ SEO Techniques

Mistake: Resorting to unethical SEO practices like keyword stuffing, cloaking, or using private link networks can lead to penalties from search engines.

Solution: Stick to ‘white hat’ SEO techniques. Focus on your human audience and follow search engine guidelines to build your SEO strategy.

black hat

7. Ignoring Analytics

Mistake: Not setting up or reviewing analytics to track website traffic and behavior patterns leads to missed opportunities for optimization.

Solution: Use tools like Google Analytics to monitor your website’s performance. Analyze visitor behavior, and use these insights to optimize your site.

8. Poor URL Structure

Mistake: Using URLs that are long, have no relevance to the content, or are filled with unnecessary parameters can confuse search engines and users.

Solution: Create simple, readable URLs that include keywords and convey content information at a glance.

9. Inadequate Link Building

Mistake: Ignoring the importance of building internal and external links, or building links too aggressively, can impact your SEO.

Solution: Develop a strategy to gain quality backlinks naturally through great content, guest blogging, and partnerships. Also, use internal linking wisely to help search engines and users navigate your site.

10. Not Updating Content

Mistake: Failing to update or refresh old content can lead to a drop in rankings as search engines prefer fresh, relevant content.

Solution: Regularly review and update your existing content to keep it current and relevant. This can involve updating statistics, adding recent information, or revising outdated details.

old fashioned

And Finally...

If you’re just beginning your SEO journey, I hope this list of the top 10 common SEO mistakes to avoid as a beginner gives you some clarity and confidence. We’ve all made a few of these—I know I did when I started!

One final tip—SEO is always evolving. Keep learning and stay flexible as Google updates its algorithms. Don’t aim for perfection, just keep improving.

Are there any mistakes you’ve noticed yourself making? Or maybe you’ve found a clever fix that others would find helpful? Pop a comment below—I’d love to hear about your experience. Your insight might just give someone else the boost they need.

And if you’re after a step-by-step place to learn SEO (without feeling overwhelmed), I personally recommend Wealthy Affiliate—it’s where I started, and it’s still a fantastic place to grow. Click the image below to sign up for your free account.

wealthy affiliate going up

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.”

How to Do Keyword Research

How to Do Keyword Research

by | Dec 8, 2024 | SEO Basics

A Beginner’s Guide to Finding the Right Keywords

How to do keyword research is something every beginner should learn when starting out with SEO. It’s not just about traffic—it’s about attracting the right kind of visitors to your website.

Keyword research is a fundamental part of Search Engine Optimization (SEO). It involves identifying the terms and phrases that potential customers are searching for and optimizing your content accordingly to meet those needs.

For beginners, mastering how to do keyword research is essential not only to drive traffic but to attract people who are genuinely interested in what you offer. This guide will walk you through the process, from understanding keyword basics to implementing them in your SEO strategy.

keyword research

Understanding Keywords

Before diving into research, it’s crucial to understand what keywords are and why they matter:

  • Keywords: These are words or phrases that users enter into search engines to find information. They can be as short as one word or as long as a sentence, known as “long-tail keywords.”
  • Importance of Keywords: Keywords help determine where your content appears in search engine results pages (SERPs) or the long list of different pages for you to choose from when you do a search in Google! The better your content aligns with what users are searching for, the higher your potential to rank well.

Step 1: Brainstorming Potential Keywords

Start by listing topics relevant to your business or website. Consider what products or services you offer, and think about the questions or problems your potential customers might have that relate to your offerings.

  • Think Like a Customer: Put yourself in your customers’ shoes—what would you type into a search engine?
  • Use Topic Buckets: Group similar ideas together to create categories. For example, a pet care shop might have categories like “pet grooming,” “pet nutrition,” and “pet training.”

Step 2: Use Keyword Research Tools

There are several tools available that can help refine your keyword list and show you data on search volume and competition:

  • Google Keyword Planner: Great for beginners and integrated with Google Ads. It provides data on search volume and competition for potential keywords.
  • Ubersuggest: A tool by Neil Patel that offers keyword suggestions, search volume data, and insights into the competition. 
  • Jaaxy: This is the one I use and and very happy using.
  • SEMrush and Ahrefs: More advanced tools that provide in-depth keyword data and competitive analysis.

Step 3: Analyzing Keyword Metrics

Understanding the data you retrieve from keyword research tools is crucial:

  • Search Volume: Indicates how many times a keyword is searched per month. High search volumes indicate high interest but can also mean high competition.
  • Keyword Difficulty/Competition: Measures how hard it would be to rank for a keyword. Lower scores mean less competition.
  • Keyword Relevance: Ensure the keywords are relevant to your content. Irrelevant keywords can attract the wrong type of traffic.

Step 4: Search Intent

SEO and keyword

Search intent refers to the reason behind a search query. Understanding intent helps you tailor your content to meet the needs of searchers:

  • Informational: The searcher is looking for information, e.g., “how to train a puppy.”
  • Navigational: The searcher is trying to locate a specific website or page.
  • Transactional: The searcher is ready to buy or engage in a transaction, e.g., “buy puppy food online.”
  • Commercial Investigation: The searcher is considering a purchase and comparing options, e.g., “best dog food for sensitive stomachs.”

Step 5: Implementing Keywords into Your Content

Once you’ve selected your keywords, the next step is to implement them naturally into your content:

  • Page Titles and Meta Descriptions: Incorporate main keywords to improve click-through rates from search engines.
  • Headings and Subheadings: Use relevant keywords to organize content and help readers and search engines understand the main topics.
  • Body Text: Use keywords naturally within the content. Avoid keyword stuffing as it can lead to penalties from search engines.

Step 6: Evaluating and Adjusting

Keyword effectiveness isn’t static; it can change with trends, seasonality, and competitor actions. Regularly review the performance of your keywords and make adjustments as necessary:

  • Monitor Rankings: Use tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console to track how your pages are performing in SERPs.
  • Refine and Expand: Based on performance, you may need to refine your keywords or expand them to include new relevant terms.

And Finally...

Learning how to do keyword research takes a bit of time, but it’s absolutely worth the effort. Understanding how people search helps you meet their needs and grow your online presence more effectively.

If you’re just starting out, focus on clarity and consistency. Take small steps, experiment with tools, and don’t worry about getting everything right first time.

Have you tried doing keyword research yet? What tools do you prefer? Or maybe you’ve got a question about where to begin? Pop your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear where you’re at and help if I can!

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.”

What Is Search Engine Optimization about?

What Is Search Engine Optimization about?

by | Dec 7, 2024 | SEO Basics

And Why Is It Important for Beginners?

What is search engine optimization, and why should you care? It’s a term that often sounds intimidating to those just stepping into the world of digital marketing or setting up their own websites.

However, understanding the basics of SEO is not just beneficial but crucial if you want to increase the visibility of your website and attract more visitors. In this guide, we will break down what search engine optimization is, why it matters, and how it can help you achieve your online goals.

 

intimidating seo

What Is Search Engine Optimization? (SEO)

Search engine optimization (SEO) involves optimising your website so that it ranks higher in search engine results pages (SERPs) like Google or Bing. This optimisation is crucial because the higher your website ranks for relevant keywords and phrases, the more likely you are to attract attention and new visitors from your target audience.

Core Components of SEO: Or, The Main Parts!

SEO can be broken down into three main components:

On-Page SEO:

This refers to all the measures you can take directly within your website to improve its position in the search rankings.

This includes optimizing your content, improving your meta descriptions and title tags, and using HTML tags to emphasize certain content.

Off-Page SEO:

This involves all the actions taken outside of your own website to impact your rankings within search engine results pages.

Primarily, this involves links pointing to your site from elsewhere on the internet. The number of backlinks and their quality help to build your site’s reputation and authority.

Technical SEO:

This area focuses on improving the technical aspects of your website to increase the ranking of its pages in the search engines.

It includes improving site speed, ensuring your site is easy to crawl (for search engines), making sure that your site is secure, and creating a strong site architecture.

Why SEO Matters

The internet is a vast place, and without SEO, your site might as well be invisible. Here are a few reasons why SEO is crucial:

  • Visibility and Rankings: One of the most important functions of SEO is increasing visibility, which means making it easier for prospects to find you when they search for something you have to offer. Visibility directly correlates to your ranking.
  • Web Traffic: SEO also helps to increase web traffic. By optimizing your site, you improve your chances of appearing in top search results, which makes it more likely that potential customers will click through to your site.
  • Credibility and Trust: Websites that appear higher in the search results are viewed as more credible and trustworthy. Over time, by improving your SEO, you can work on building trust, which is crucial for attracting and retaining customers.
  • User Experience: Good SEO involves providing a positive user experience that is key to improving engagement and ultimately conversions on your website.

Common Misconceptions About SEO

As a beginner, you might encounter several misconceptions regarding SEO. It’s important to clear these up:

  • SEO is a one-time task: SEO is an ongoing process. The search engine algorithms are constantly changing, and your competitors are also optimizing their sites. Staying on top of SEO means continuously monitoring and adjusting your efforts.
  • SEO is all about ranking: While rankings are important, they’re not the sole purpose of SEO. Effective SEO focuses on enhancing both the quantity and quality of incoming traffic.
  • Keywords are the only SEO technique that matters: Keywords are fundamental to SEO, but they are not the only thing that matters. A holistic SEO strategy includes technical SEO, content marketing, link building, and user experience optimizations.

And Finally...

What is search engine optimization really about? It’s not just about being found, but about being found by the right people. SEO is a complex field, but it’s also one that’s rewarding to master. By starting with the basics and progressively deepening your understanding, you can significantly improve your website’s performance in search results.

Whether you’re running a personal blog, a small business site, or a large ecommerce platform, the principles of SEO apply to you. Start implementing what you’ve learned today, and watch as your website begins to climb the search rankings, attract more traffic, and generate more business.

Friendly seo monster

SEO doesn’t have to be scary. It’s the help you need to be seen on the search engines.

If you’re curious to learn more, Google’s SEO Starter Guide is a great place to start

Have you started using SEO techniques on your site yet? Or maybe you’ve heard of it but not sure where to begin? I’d love to hear what stage you’re at in your online journey. Pop your thoughts or questions in the comments—let’s get learning together!

 

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.”

10 Reasons to Understand the Importance of SEO for Business

10 Reasons to Understand the Importance of SEO for Business

by | Dec 7, 2024 | SEO Basics

If you’re running a website or thinking about starting an online business, understanding the importance of SEO for business is essential. It’s not just about getting found on Google—it’s about building trust, attracting the right visitors, and creating long-term growth online.

SEO might sound technical, but there are plenty of beginner-friendly tools and resources to help you get started. Hiring an SEO expert or using platforms like Google Search Console(a much cheaper option as it’s free!) can set you on the right path.

By investing in SEO, you’re investing in the long-term success of your business. Start optimizing today, and you’ll soon see the difference it makes!

So, what’s this SEO thing everyone keeps saying is so important?

At its core, SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, is all about tweaking your online presence so you’re more visible when people go searching for stuff on the web. The internet’s a massive place, but with the right SEO moves, your business can become the go-to spot.

Whether you’re running a corner bakery or steering a big company ship, SEO’s on your side. It helps you pop up in those search results when people are looking for what you offer. Think of it like this: SEO is a tool that gets your business noticed by the right people at just the right time.

2025’s rolling in with technology taking giant leaps, and SEO’s at the forefront. It keeps evolving, and staying clued in can give your business a real boost. Imagine your online brand standing out, catching the eye of potential customers who are browsing for exactly what you have to offer.

10 Reasons to Understand the Importance of SEO for Business

The benefits are pretty sweet, too. With a bit of SEO magic, you’re not just another blip on the radar; you’re a trusted source, a credible solution that people want to engage with. I know it all sounds a bit complex, but don’t stress; with a little guidance, anyone can master the basics of SEO and watch their business flourish.

The 10 Reasons To Understand The Importance Of SEO For Business

1. Boosts Your Online Visibility

Think of SEO as the digital equivalent of putting your shop on the high street. It helps your website appear in search engine results when someone’s looking for what you offer.

2. Brings in Organic (Free!) Traffic

Good SEO means people can find your website without you having to pay for every visitor. Once set up properly, the traffic keeps coming without extra cost.

3. Builds Trust and Credibility

Websites that appear near the top of Google results are often seen as more reliable. SEO helps you build that trust naturally through visibility and high-quality content.

4. Gives You a Competitive Edge

Even as a small business, you can compete with bigger names by targeting niche keywords your audience is searching for. Smart SEO levels the playing field.

5. Improves User Experience

SEO goes hand-in-hand with a tidy, easy-to-navigate site. When your site loads quickly, works well on mobile, and helps users find what they need—search engines take note.

6. Helps You Understand Your Audience

Using tools like Google Search Console, you can discover what people are typing into search engines. This insight can help shape your content, services, or products.

7. Encourages Higher Conversions

When people find your website through relevant search terms, they’re more likely to engage or buy. SEO helps attract the right people who are already interested in what you do.

8. Supports Your Long-Term Marketing Strategy

SEO is a long game, but that’s a good thing. It keeps working in the background, helping you grow steadily over time—unlike paid ads, which stop when the budget runs out.

9. Enhances Local Discoverability

If you run a local business, local SEO helps you pop up when someone searches for things “near me.” This can lead to more foot traffic or local enquiries.

10. Keeps You Informed and Adaptable

The tools and data from SEO help you spot trends, track what’s working, and tweak your strategy. Staying informed keeps your business ahead of the curve.

And Finally...

The importance of SEO for business really comes down to visibility, connection, and growth. It’s not about gaming the system—it’s about making your content useful, your site easy to explore, and your message crystal clear to both people and search engines.

If you’d like another article about SEO you could visit Google’s Starter Guide here.

Have you started adding a bit of SEO magic to your website yet? Or maybe you’ve tried a few things but aren’t sure what’s working? Pop your thoughts or questions in the comments—I’d genuinely love to hear what’s working (or not!) for you.

Here’s a little transparency: My website contains affiliate links. This means if you click and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. Don’t worry, there’s no extra cost to you. It’s a simple way you can support my mission to bring you quality content.”