By Jules White | Released: August 19th 2024 | reading time: 5 minutes
🎙️Listen to the podcast version of this article🎙️
There's something I've been pondering a lot lately – is SEO really worth it for small businesses in 2024?
It's a question I see popping up everywhere, and with the constant pressure to be on social media and all the other marketing options out there, it's easy to feel a bit lost.
SEO can seem overwhelming, especially with the endless stream of information and advice. And if you're pouring all your energy into social media, it's tempting to think, "Do I really need SEO on top of all that?"
But here's the thing: I truly believe SEO is still incredibly valuable, and today I want to break it down for you and show you why.
Table of Contents:
First things first, let's get back to basics. SEO stands for search engine optimization.
In simple terms, it means setting up your website (or podcast) in a way that helps it show up in search engines like Google, Bing, or even Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Now, I know there's this misconception that SEO is irrelevant because of the focus on social media. But while social media is great for engagement, SEO builds long-term, sustainable results.
You're not just feeding the algorithm; you're creating content that you own and that can attract visitors to your website for years to come.
Think about it this way: social media is like renting space, while SEO is like owning property. You're constantly creating content for social media platforms, but you're not building authority on your own website.
With SEO, you're focusing on your own content first and foremost. You can repurpose it for social media if you want, but the primary goal is to drive people to your website, where you have more control and can build a lasting presence.
Still not convinced? Let's look at some stats. Over 90% of website traffic starts with a search, and there are a whopping 6 million searches every minute on Google alone. People are still using search engines, and if you're not showing up in those results, you're missing out on a huge opportunity.
Let's tackle some common misconceptions about SEO:
💰 "SEO is expensive" It doesn't have to be! If you're already creating content, you're halfway there. SEO is about optimizing that content, not necessarily creating more.
🐌 "Results take too long" While SEO is a long-term strategy, you can see results sooner than you might think, especially if you target the right keywords.
🤖 "AI is making SEO obsolete" Nope! Even AI needs to get its information from somewhere, and that's where your well-structured website comes in.
If you're ready to dip your toes into the SEO waters, here are some simple tips:
Catalog your content. Keep track of what you've created so you can easily link related pieces together and avoid repeating yourself too soon.
Focus on bringing people back to your website. Make sure your social media posts, podcasts, etc., all lead back to your domain.
Set up Google Search Console. This free tool provides valuable insights into how Google sees your website.
Quality Over Quantity
Remember, Google is cracking down on unhelpful and duplicate content. So instead of churning out content for the sake of it, focus on creating high-quality, informative pieces that showcase your expertise and build trust.
Final Thoughts
I truly believe that SEO is a powerful tool for small businesses. It's a long-term investment that can help you escape the social media treadmill and build a sustainable online presence.
If you want to learn more, get my free Beginners SEO Quickstart Guide checklist here.
And if you'd like some personalized help, book a Power Hour with me – I'd love to chat and help you get started!
Or alternatively Get your free Website SEO report here to find out how your website is doing right now and understand key areas for improvement!
CONNECT
© Copyright 2024 Built with FEA Create * | designed and developed by thewebsitesuccesshub.com
Based in Marston Moretaine, Bedfordshire - helping Women in Business worldwide
SEO for Websites
SEO for Podcasts
Conversion Rate Optimisation
DIY-SEO