Search Engine Optimization (SEO) - A 6 Step Process for Website Optimization

During the time I have been in the field of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) I’ve developed a 6 step process to help businesses obtain top rankings in the major search engines like Google, Yahoo! and Bing with my website marketing services.

The following is an outline of my 6 steps to website optimization:

Keyword Research

First of all, you’ll have to fashion a rich keyword portfolio of industry relevant keywords and keyword phrases that are searched on by potential customers. I usually begin this process with the client’s input on what their most important keywords are as well as the aspects of their business they want to put the most emphasis on, then I expand on that list by cross-checking those keywords against the search engines’ databases of actual keyword searches.

This allows me to target the keywords that will actually deliver targeted traffic and customers to your website.

Competitive Analysis

Next, I determine what my client’s top competitors are doing in regards to search engine optimization. I look at how many links they have, where their links are coming from and the keywords and key phrases they are optimizing their websites for. This gives me an in depth look in to what is working to achieve top results for my client’s keywords so I can improve on those strategies and move the site I’m optimizing above the client’s competitors in the search engines rankings.

Search Strategy Development

After carefully analyzing my client’s competition, I will then devise a strategy for improving their overall visibility in the major search engines. Then I present them with a step-by-step plan detailing what needs to be done in order for their site to achieve optimal results for their selected keywords.

Optimize Website Content

Based on the keyword research, I then make any adjustments necessary to their website to include central keyword and phrases in the correct places. This will allow their website to move up in the search engine rankings for the keywords they’ve selected. I also make any necessary recommendations for additional content or keyword-related topics I believe should be included on the website to increase its ability to attract additional keyword search traffic.

Link Building Campaign

Inbound links are a vital piece of the puzzle when you are trying to get your site to rank well in the search engines. I will recruit links to the client’s website from a variety of relevant sources. I also submit the website to the most appropriate categories in all the major web directories. Then I begin seeking out and identifying additional niche directories that are appropriate for the client’s website including local and industry-specific sites. Additional links can be obtained by submitting online press releases, writing articles and other sources.

It must be understood that link building is a fluid process that must be done continually to stay ahead of your competitors.

Monitoring and Adjusting

Each month I provide ranking reports to track the status of my client’s website in the search engines. I monitor their website traffic through analytics and pay close attention to where their traffic is coming from and which keywords people are using to find their site. With this information I am able to analyze exactly which keywords are the most effective in generating leads or sales and adjust my search engine optimization tactics to focus on the keywords that are the most productive.