Ever wondered how websites show up on the first page of Google? Why does one bakery appear on top while another is lost on page 5?
That’s the magic of SEO, or Search Engine Optimization.
Let’s break it down in plain English — no techy jargon, promise!
✅ What is SEO?
SEO is a set of techniques to help your website rank higher on Google (and other search engines). The higher you rank, the more people visit your website. More visitors = more potential customers!
For example: If you Google “best cafes in Mumbai”, SEO helps a cafe’s website appear in the top results.
🔗 Want a quick video explanation? Check out this beginner SEO video from Ahrefs
🛠️ Basic SEO Techniques (That Actually Work)
Here are some simple techniques anyone can understand and even start using:
1. Use the Right Keywords
Keywords are the words people type into Google.
Example: If you run a cake shop, people might search “best chocolate cake near me” — that’s a keyword!
You need to include these keywords on your website, like in your page titles, blog posts, and product descriptions.
🔗 Free tool to find keywords: Ubersuggest
2. Write Quality Content
Google loves helpful, relevant content.
Write blogs, how-to guides, FAQs, or product tips that answer people’s questions. Example: A clothing brand can write “How to style black jeans for every occasion.”
The more useful your content, the higher your chance of ranking.
🔗 Learn how to write SEO-friendly blogs: HubSpot’s SEO Content Guide
3. Optimize Your Website Speed
Nobody likes slow websites — not people, not Google.
Make sure your website loads fast on both desktop and mobile. A faster website = better user experience = better ranking.
You can test your website speed for free here:
🔗 PageSpeed Insights by Google
4. Use Title Tags and Meta Descriptions
Every page on your website has a title and a short description that shows up in Google search.
Example:
Title: Best Cakes in Delhi – Sweet Treats
Meta Description: Order delicious custom cakes in Delhi. Free delivery. Call now!
These help Google understand your page and also attract users to click.
🔗 More on how to write these: Moz Beginner’s Guide to SEO
5. Mobile-Friendly Website
Most people search on their phones now. If your website doesn’t work well on mobile, you’ll lose visitors — and Google won’t like it either.
🔗 Test your site for mobile-friendliness here: Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test
6. Get Backlinks
When other websites link to yours, Google sees that as a sign of trust.
Example: A food blogger mentions and links to your restaurant — that’s a backlink.
You can get backlinks by:
- Writing guest blogs
- Getting listed on directories
- Partnering with influencers
🔗 Learn more about backlinks: Ahrefs Guide
7. Update Your Website Regularly
Fresh content tells Google your site is active. Add new blog posts, update old ones, and refresh your homepage content once in a while.
🔚 Final Thoughts
SEO isn’t rocket science. It’s about helping people find your business when they search online.
Start small:
- Use the right words (keywords)
- Write helpful content
- Keep your website fast and mobile-friendly
Over time, your site will climb the rankings, bring in more traffic, and grow your business online.
🔗 Want to learn SEO step-by-step? Try this free course from Coursera.