
Understanding SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) doesn’t have to be complicated. This guide will provide you with simple, actionable tips that anyone can implement to improve their website's visibility on search engines like Google. Whether you're using Wix, Wix Studio, Squarespace, Webflow or WordPress, these strategies are easy to follow. Let’s get started!
1. What is SEO?
SEO is the practice of optimising your website to improve its visibility in search engine results.
What You Need to Know:
SEO helps people find your website when they search for relevant keywords. A well-optimised site appears higher in search results, attracting more visitors. Basic SEO includes optimising content, improving site structure, and using keywords effectively.
2. Understand the Importance of Keywords
Keywords are the phrases that users type into search engines when looking for information. Selecting the right keywords is crucial because they help search engines understand what your content is about and match it with user queries.
What You Need to Know:
Keyword Placement: Focus on using relevant keywords throughout your content, including your headings, body text, and meta descriptions. This will increase your chances of ranking higher in search results.
Keyword Research: To find the best keywords for your site, consider using keyword research tools or strategies.
For a more in-depth guide on how to pick effective SEO keywords, check out our blog post: How to Pick SEO Keywords: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide.
3. Use a Logical Heading Structure
A clear heading structure makes your content easier to read and improves SEO.
What You Need to Know:
Heading Levels: Use headings (H1, H2, H3) in a logical sequence without skipping levels. For example, H1 for the main title, H2 for main sections, and H3 for subsections.
Impact on Bounce Rates: A poor heading structure can confuse visitors, leading to higher bounce rates and lower engagement.
Heading Optimisation Checklist:
Ensure there is an H1 present for each page, and that there is only one H1 per page.
Include the primary keyword in your H1 title.
Use H2 and H3 tags correctly to structure content, including keywords where appropriate.
Include the primary keyword in at least one subheading (H2 or H3).
4. Craft Effective H1 and Meta Titles
Your H1 and meta titles should clearly convey the purpose of each page.
What You Need to Know:
H1 Title: This is the main title of your page and should be unique. Use your primary keyword here. For example, if your page is about "Basic SEO Tips," your H1 should be exactly that.
Meta Title: This appears in search results and in the browser tab. Keep it within 50-60 characters and include relevant keywords. The title should include the primary keyword near the beginning and be engaging to encourage clicks. For example, “Basic SEO Tips for Beginners” could be an effective meta title.
Title Tag: A short, descriptive title that appears at the top of your browser and in search engine results. It helps visitors understand what the page is about before they click.
Title Tag Best Practices:
Make sure the title tag is descriptive and engaging, encouraging clicks.
Ensure the title tag is unique for each page and not duplicated across the site.
Meta Description Guidelines:
Each page should have a unique meta description that clearly describes what users will find on that page.
Include a clear Call to Action (CTA) in the meta description to encourage clicks. For example, “Discover essential SEO tips that will boost your website’s visibility!”
Keep it under 160 characters, including the target keyword naturally without keyword stuffing.
5. Use SEO-Friendly URL Slugs
Create URL slugs that are short, descriptive, and contain relevant keywords.
What You Need to Know:
Structure: A good URL clearly represents the page content and includes keywords.
Example: Instead of www.example.com/page1, use www.example.com/seo-tips.
6. Optimise Text Headings
Properly structured headings make it easier for visitors and search engines to navigate your content.
What You Need to Know:
Hierarchy Matters: Use headings to create an intuitive structure. Google uses H1 and H2 tags to understand the content’s organisation.
Keyword Inclusion: Incorporate keywords naturally into your headings without forcing them.
7. Create People-First Content
Write content that is valuable to your audience, keeping SEO in mind. Google favours creating helpful, reliable, people-first content, and they say so themselves! Focus on your audience's needs and questions, providing thorough answers and solutions. This approach aligns with Google's EEAT (Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) principles, which can enhance your SEO efforts. For more on creating helpful content, check out Google's Helpful Content guidelines.
What You Need to Know:
Content Quality: Your content should demonstrate expertise and provide satisfaction to visitors.
Engagement: The longer visitors stay on your site, the better your SEO will be. Write engaging, relevant content that answers their questions.
Content Optimisation Tips:
Use the primary keyword in the first 100 words of the content.
Ensure the content flows naturally and provides valuable information, rather than focusing excessively on keyword frequency.
Organise content well, using headings and paragraphs.
Enhance content with images, videos, or infographics for better engagement.
Keep paragraphs short and use bullet points for easy reading.
8. Utilise Internal and External Links
Linking to reputable sources enhances credibility and helps with SEO.
What You Need to Know:
Internal Links: Link to other pages on your site to keep visitors engaged longer.
External Links: Linking to authoritative sites increases your content’s credibility, helping your SEO.
9. Backlinking Strategies
Backlinks from other sites improve your site's authority and search ranking.
What You Need to Know:
Creating Relationships: Build connections with other websites to gain backlinks. This involves strategic outreach and guest posting.
Quality Over Quantity: Focus on obtaining backlinks from reputable sites to enhance your SEO effectively.
10. Optimise Images with Filenames and Alt Text
Properly named files and alt text help search engines index your images.
What You Need to Know:
File Names: Use clear and descriptive filenames. Stick to letters, numbers, underscores, and hyphens.
Alt Text: Add alt text to all images. It should be brief, descriptive, and include relevant keywords without stuffing.

Conclusion
Improving your website's SEO doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following these straightforward tips, you can enhance your site's visibility, attract more visitors, and provide a better experience for your audience. Remember, SEO is an ongoing process—keep learning, adjusting, and optimising your content to stay ahead. Happy optimising!