Understanding Search Engine Optimization

What Is Search Engine Optimization?

By: Gerald Johnson

SEO, short for search engine optimization is a marketing discipline that focuses on growing visibility in search engine results. This activity incorporates both the technical and creative elements required to improve rankings, drive traffic, and increase awareness in search engines (Fishkin). For example, SEO can be a librarian for every book in the world or web pages. When someone is looking for a specific book, the SEO knows what is in every book and sends back the best results. Meaning, a user may use Google, Yahoo!, or Bing search engine to find the nearest auto mechanic. After clicking, the search function algorithms sift through data and the results shown are SEO at work. Many businesses strive to be at the top of the search results and make try to create pages that are SEO friendly. Meaning, they understand that words matter, titles, content, links, words in links, and reputation as well. Other than being a top search result there are many aspects to SEO that can generate traffic to a web page (Common Craft).

Today, learning search engine optimization is more accessible than in the past and tutorials can be beneficial for many businesses. Typically, many businesses off the beaten path would miss customers due to poor location, lack of brand awareness, and weak customer base. Search Engine Optimization has changed that today. For example, the image of the Google Search was looking for an auto mechanic in Denver, Co. Usually consumers would look for big name companies such as Jiffy Lube or locations near malls for a mechanic shop. Although, after the Google Search it shows us URBAN AUTOCARE, which is off major highways and yet has an excellent 4.8 star reviews. This allows businesses such as URBAN AUTOCARE to excel and be a top priority with their SEO skills and web content. 

References:

Fishkin, R. (2015). “The Beginners Guide to SEO”. Retrieved April 4, 2018 from the World Wide Web: https://moz.com/beginners-guide-to-seo

Common Craft. (2011). “Search Engine Optimization (SEO)”. Video. Retrieved April 4, 2018 from the World Wide Web: https://searchengineland.com/guide/what-is-seo