A Beginner’s Guide to Getting Found Online
If you’ve recently launched a website or are trying to grow your online presence, you’ve probably heard about SEO (Search Engine Optimization). But with so much information out there, knowing where to begin can feel overwhelming.
Don’t worry. This guide will walk you through the fundamentals of SEO and help you take your first actionable steps toward better search visibility.
What Is SEO, and Why Does It Matter?
SEO is the process of optimizing your website so it ranks higher on search engines like Google. Higher rankings mean more visibility, more traffic, and more potential customers.
Imagine this: your ideal customer is searching for a product or service you offer. If your website appears on the first page of results, your chances of getting their attention skyrocket.
Step 1: Understand Your Audience and Their Search Intent
Before you dive into keywords and technical tweaks, start with your audience. What are they searching for? What problems are they trying to solve?
Ask yourself:
What questions do my customers ask before buying?
What terms would they search on Google?
What kind of content are they looking for—blogs, videos, product pages?
Use tools like:
Google Search Suggestions (just start typing a phrase)
AnswerThePublic – for common questions
Reddit and forums – for real discussions
Step 2: Do Basic Keyword Research
Once you understand your audience, identify keywords they use.
Tools to try:
Google Keyword Planner (free with a Google Ads account)
Ubersuggest
Ahrefs Free Tools
Semrush (free trial)
Focus on:
Keywords with decent search volume but low to medium competition
Long-tail keywords (e.g., “how to fix a leaky faucet” vs. just “plumbing”)
Step 3: Optimize Your Website’s Structure
A search engine-friendly site is easy to navigate—for both users and search engines.
Checklist:
Mobile-friendly design
Fast loading speed (test with Google PageSpeed Insights)
Secure (HTTPS)
Clear site structure with internal links
Descriptive URL slugs (e.g.,
/blog/seo-where-to-start)
Step 4: Create High-Quality, Helpful Content
Content is the heart of SEO. Google rewards websites that provide value and relevance.
Best practices:
Focus each page or blog post on one main keyword
Use related terms naturally
Structure content with headings (H1, H2, H3)
Add images and videos when relevant
Update content regularly
Tip: Always write for humans first, then optimize for search engines.
Step 5: Start Building Backlinks
Backlinks (other sites linking to yours) signal trust to Google.
How to get them:
Guest post on relevant blogs
Share your content on social media
List your business on directories (like Google Business, Yelp)
Reach out to other sites in your niche
Even a few high-quality links can make a difference.
Step 6: Track Your Progress
You can’t improve what you don’t measure.
Use tools like:
Google Analytics – to track traffic
Google Search Console – to monitor indexing, errors, and keyword performance
Watch for:
Increases in organic traffic
Which keywords bring visitors
Which pages rank and which need work
Final Thoughts
SEO doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start small, focus on your audience, create great content, and be consistent. Over time, your efforts will pay off in the form of better rankings, more traffic, and ultimately, more business.
Remember: SEO is a marathon, not a sprint. But every step you take now brings long-term results.
