SEO Basics: How to Get Found on Google

Getting your website to rank on Google doesn't require a marketing degree. Understanding and implementing basic SEO principles can dramatically improve your visibility and bring more customers to your business.

What is SEO?

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the practice of optimizing your website to rank higher in search engine results. When someone searches for services you offer, you want your website to appear on the first page.

Why SEO Matters

75% of users never scroll past the first page of search results
Organic search drives 53% of website traffic
SEO leads have a 14.6% close rate (vs. 1.7% for outbound leads)
It's cost-effective long-term marketing

On-Page SEO Fundamentals

1. Keyword Research

Find what your customers are searching for:

Use tools like Google Keyword Planner
Focus on intent, not just volume
Target long-tail keywords (more specific phrases)
Consider local keywords if you serve a specific area

2. Title Tags and Meta Descriptions

These appear in search results:

Include your main keyword naturally
Keep titles under 60 characters
Make descriptions compelling (155 characters)
Unique for every page

3. Quality Content

Content is still king:

Answer user questions thoroughly
Use natural language, not keyword stuffing
Include relevant keywords naturally
Update content regularly

4. Header Structure

Use H1, H2, H3 tags properly:

One H1 per page (your main heading)
H2s for main sections
H3s for subsections
Include keywords naturally

5. Internal Linking

Link between your pages:

Helps users navigate
Distributes page authority
Shows site structure to Google

Technical SEO Basics

Site Speed

Fast sites rank better:

Optimize images
Use modern formats (WebP)
Enable compression
Minimize code

Mobile-Friendliness

Google uses mobile-first indexing:

Responsive design is essential
Test on real devices
Ensure touch-friendly interfaces

SSL Certificate

HTTPS is a ranking factor:

Install SSL certificate
Redirects HTTP to HTTPS
Shows "secure" in browser

XML Sitemap

Help Google find your pages:

Generate sitemap.xml
Submit to Google Search Console
Update when adding new pages

Local SEO (for local businesses)

Google Business Profile

Essential for local visibility:

Complete all information
Add photos
Encourage reviews
Respond to reviews

NAP Consistency

Name, Address, Phone number:

Same everywhere online
Local business directories
Your website footer

Local Keywords

Include location in content:

"Web design services in Dhaka"
City/area names in titles
Local landmarks and references

Off-Page SEO

Backlinks

Links from other sites:

Quality over quantity
Relevant, authoritative sites
Natural link building
Avoid spammy tactics

Social Signals

Social media presence:

Share your content
Engage with followers
Brand mentions matter

Measuring Success

Track your progress:

Google Search Console
Google Analytics
Monitor rankings
Track organic traffic
Measure conversions

Common SEO Mistakes to Avoid

1. Keyword stuffing 2. Duplicate content 3. Ignoring mobile users 4. Slow page speed 5. No SSL certificate 6. Broken links 7. Thin content 8. Buying links

Conclusion

SEO is a long-term strategy that pays dividends. While it takes time to see results, the organic traffic you build is sustainable and cost-effective.

Ready to improve your website's SEO? [Contact us](/contact) for a consultation.