super simple seo and keyword tips to get your brand noticed
If SEO has you scratching your head, you’re not alone! Let’s break down the basics of using keywords in a way that’s totally manageable and actually gets people to find your stuff online. By the end of this post, you’ll have a clear roadmap to get started with keyword research, SEO basics, and ways to make your content work smarter, not harder. And if you want a little more guidance, stick around until the end — there’s a freebie with a list of keywords and tips waiting for you!
What Exactly is SEO and Why Do You Need It?
SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, is all about making sure your website pops up when people are looking for what you offer. It’s like putting up a neon sign that says, “Hey, I’ve got exactly what you need!” Here’s a quick breakdown of what it involves:
Keywords: These are the words or phrases that your ideal customers type into Google when they’re looking for something specific. Think of these as the language of your audience.
On-page Optimization: This is where we make sure those keywords show up in the right places on your site (like your title, headers, and descriptions) to make it easy for Google to know what you’re about.
Content Relevance: SEO rewards content that’s useful and relevant, so everything you put out should be something people actually want to read (no keyword stuffing here!).
Keyword Research 101: Finding the Phrases Your Audience Loves
Now, how do you actually figure out which keywords to use? Here are a few easy steps to get you started on finding the right keywords:
Use a Keyword Tool: Tools like Google Keyword Planner, AnswerThePublic, or even a quick search in Google can give you a list of popular terms people are using.
Think Like Your Audience: Get inside your ideal customer’s head. What would they type if they were searching for a solution your product or service provides? Imagine you’re looking for “organic skincare” — you’d probably search terms like “best organic moisturizer” or “gentle skincare for sensitive skin.”
Long-Tail Keywords Are Your Friend: Long-tail keywords are those longer, specific phrases that may get fewer searches, but often bring in people who know exactly what they want. If you’re selling handcrafted candles, try phrases like “lavender soy candle handmade” instead of just “candles.” These are likely to bring in people closer to making a purchase.
Turning Keywords into Content that Ranks
Once you’ve got a list of keywords, it’s time to put them to work. Here’s how to weave them naturally into content without sounding like a robot:
Create Topics Around Your Keywords: Each keyword or phrase should inspire a blog post, product description, or social media post. For example, if “how to use vegan soap” is on your list, write a blog post answering all the questions someone might have about using vegan soap — think ingredients, benefits, and why they should make the switch.
Strategic Placement: Keywords work best in places like:
Title: Keep it snappy and relevant.
Meta Description: This little blurb shows up under your link in search results and should encourage people to click.
Headings and Subheadings: Use keywords here to help search engines (and readers) see what each section is about.
Body Text: Make sure to write naturally. Toss in a keyword where it makes sense, but don’t overdo it.
Don’t Forget Image Alt Text: When adding images, include “alt text” to describe what’s in the image with a keyword. This not only helps with accessibility but also gives search engines more context about your page.
A Few Extra Tips to Help Your SEO Shine
Keep Your Content Fresh: Search engines love updated content. Give your pages a little TLC now and then with new info, fresh examples, or a quick tweak to keep things current.
Make Evergreen Content: Some topics will always be relevant (think “tips for reducing stress” or “how to set up a budget”). These pieces continue to bring in traffic over time and don’t require constant updating.
Internal and External Links: Link to other pages on your site to help visitors explore, and add a few links to reputable outside sources for extra credibility.
Write for Humans, Not Robots: With search engines getting better at understanding context, focus on natural language. If your keywords sound weird, tweak them until they feel like something you’d actually say.
Next Steps to Build Your Keyword Strategy
Want to keep things moving? Here’s a simple checklist:
Get Your Keywords Sorted: Pick a few that align with different goals — building awareness, educating your audience, and encouraging a purchase.
Focus on Your Audience’s Intent: Ask yourself, “What would my customer be trying to find with this keyword?” Then, create content that fully answers that question.
Bonus Tip: Grab my free SEO Starter Kit below! I’ve put together a handy toolkit full of keywords, action words, and other tips to help you get started with SEO the right way. Download it, and you’ll have a little treasure trove of ideas to kick off your SEO game like a pro.
SEO doesn’t have to be rocket science. With a little consistency and some keyword magic, you’re on your way to building a brand that’s not only visible but irresistible. Go ahead and grab that SEO Starter Kit below — it’s your shortcut to a smarter SEO strategy!