What is SEO and why does my website need it?

Let’s set the scene. You’ve launched your new website. You put a lot of time and effort into the design, choosing what colors to use, on-brand imagery, and copy that speaks from the heart. You’re proud of it, as you should be! But after all that effort, you’re wondering… why isn’t anyone finding it?

Instead of getting clients, you get crickets.

If this feels familiar, I promise you’re not alone. One of the biggest reasons a gorgeous website isn’t pulling in leads is because it hasn’t been optimized for search engines. That’s where SEO comes in.

So, what exactly is SEO?

SEO stands for Search Engine Optimization. It’s the process of improving your website so that it shows up when people search for things like “Tacoma wedding photographer” or “best massage therapist near me.” Think of it as helping Google understand what your website is about so it can connect you with the people already looking for what you offer.

It’s a little like matchmaking. But instead of candlelit dinners and walks on the beach, it’s code, keywords, and content structure. All of the fun stuff.

What goes into good SEO?

The whole point of SEO is to not only give the people who visit your website a good user experience, but to have your website be best friends with Google. So here’s a list of things that I build into every website I create, that Google loves:

1. Relevant, High-Quality Content
Google wants to give users the best answers to their questions. That means your content should be helpful, well-written, and answer the questions your ideal clients are searching for.

2. Proper Use of Keywords
Use relevant keywords in your page titles, headings, body content, image alt text, and URLs, but do your best to keep it natural. Keyword stuffing is a major no-no, and Google doesn’t like that.

3. Fast Load Times
Speed matters. Slow websites drive users away, and Google takes note of that. Try compressing your images and minimize long, drawn out content to keep your website performing fast.

4. Mobile-Friendly Design
Google indexes mobile versions first so if your website doesn’t work well on phones, your rankings will suffer. Responsive design is a must. Plus, being mobile optimized helps your user experience.

5. Descriptive Page Titles & Meta Descriptions
These help both Google and users understand what your page is about. They should be unique, filled with keywords, and compelling enough to make people want to click it.

6. Secure Site (HTTPS)
Google favors secure websites. Having an SSL certificate (aka the little lock icon in your browser) is non-negotiable.

7. Image Optimization
Alt image descriptions makes your images readable for search engines and provide accessibility for users who may be using screen readers or other devices. Google loves accessibility! Also, compressed image sizes help with site speed.

8. Internal Linking
Linking between your own pages helps Google crawl your site more efficiently and keeps users engaged longer. Plus, the longer someone stays on your website, the better chances you have of gaining a new client.

9. Backlinks from Reputable Sites
When other trustworthy websites link to yours, Google sees it as a vote of confidence. It’s like internet street cred. Try networking with other businesses or write guest blog posts on other websites.

10. Clear Site Structure & Headings
Use proper heading tags (H1 for titles, H2/H3 for subheadings, etc) to organize your content. This makes it easier for Google to scan and understand your pages. The easier Google can crawl, the higher you will rank.

Why work with a web designer who gets SEO?

Great question. You could totally DIY your SEO (just like you could cut your own bangs). But having a pro in your corner means:

• You won’t have to guess which keywords to use or where to put them.
• You’ll know your website has the tech handled and is search engine-friendly.
• You’ll have peace of mind knowing your website is set up to grow with your business.

In short: I do the geeky stuff so you can focus on running your business.

But does SEO really matter?

In my opinion, ABSOLUTELY. Sure, you could just market your business on social media. But instead of relying on the algorithm and hoping it shows your posts to the right kind of people, SEO can get your website shown to the people already searching for your services. Which seems a lot easier.

And the good news? You don’t have to do it alone. If you’re sitting there thinking “Great, another thing to add to my never-ending to do list” that’s what I’m here for! I include SEO best practices into all the websites I create, making hiring a website professional worth the investment.

Take it from some of my previous clients:

“We just launched and I’ve already got 3 new clients from the website, I love it! It basically paid for itself. Thank you!” -Crawl Space Agent

“Before working with you we were struggling to get inquires. Since you redid our website, I come into work every morning with new messages. It’s so great!” -Northwest Pole Structures

“Thank you for making the process so effortless! I’ve gotten a lot of traffic and inquiries since the launch, which never gets old for me! Thank you!” -LMN Bulldogs

Want to see how your website is currently ranking?

Contact me and I can send you a personalized SEO audit report, with tips on how to improve! I am all for supporting other businesses and want to see your grow.