Search engine optimization (SEO)is the practice of gaining free traffic to your website using search engines like Google and Bing. SEO is about getting your website to appear high up in the list of results returned by a web search engine. So basically how do you get more traffic? Here's what I recommend!
1. Get a Domain Name and Hosting
You need a domain name and hosting to have any kind of site online. These are things that allow you to put information out there for others to access. You could always use a simple word document or notepad file if you don't want to invest money in something. But remember, the cheaper, the less quality. That's why I would suggest going with Bluehost if you're just starting out.
2. Decide on Your Niche
Deciding on a niche means deciding on a particular interest area that you'd like to work in. A good way to find your niche is to think about something you feel passionate about or enjoy doing and then ask yourself whether people might be searching for a solution to their problems related to that interest.
3. Choose a Platform
Now you'll need to choose a platform. There are two types of platforms: CMS (Content Management System), and Web Design Software. When choosing a platform, make sure you go with a platform that suits your budget. If you're looking at paid options, try a trial version first before buying. Check if the software you chose includes a forum, membership option, and/or e-mail marketing campaigns. Also make sure you check the customer service department for updates and news.
4. Add Content
You now have a platform, so add content. Write blog posts and articles, create podcasts, record videos, set up forums, and build links. Don't forget to optimize your keywords throughout each post/article/podcast/video.
5. Share Content
Social sharing sites such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Tumblr, and Reddit are some great ways to share your content. Make sure you select the right audience for each social network, otherwise you won't get much engagement.
6. Monitor Analytics
Monitor your analytics carefully. Look at where people are coming from, what they are interested in, and what keywords they are typing into their search engines to get to your page. Use this data to tweak your SEO strategy, so you can keep attracting traffic.
7. Make sure you have set an appropriate budget
You should start off with budgeting. Set yourself some amount of funds you can spend on marketing. Do not fall into the trap of spending money without knowing what it's going towards. You may do well with cheap methods if you're just starting out, but once you've got a good reputation built up, then spending big bucks on SEM is worth while.
8. Start with high-quality keywords
It's always worthwhile to begin with quality keywords. If something doesn't rank high enough then it's unlikely to rank at all. As a general rule, focus on popular search terms that aren't already being targeted by your competitors.
9. Analyze where your traffic comes from
One way of identifying where your traffic is coming from is to analyze where people are typing into Google. Are they searching for products? Or perhaps looking for jobs? Knowing where your traffic is coming through can help you plan your campaign accordingly. Focus on targeting the right audience if possible.
10. Have a clear goal
Before launching a campaign, make sure you have a target audience in mind. What do you want your campaigns to achieve? Is it attracting new customers? Getting more clicks? Generating leads? Once you know what you want, you'll be able to formulate a strategy around achieving those goals.
11. Create content that attracts visitors
Content is king. And when it comes to getting people to click on your links, having content on your website can go further than anything else. So create lots of useful posts/content. Be unique, relevant and engaging!
12. Use social media to promote your campaigns
Social media can significantly increase your reach and influence. Get involved in communities related to your business and offer great advice. Give away freebies, and you might get mentioned on Twitter or Facebook. When someone sees your stuff online, sharing it increases its chance of being seen by more potential customers.
13. Monitor your results
Monitor the performance of your campaigns. Look at how many visits each page gets and whether they convert well. Ask yourself questions about your campaigns: did they work? Did they bring in any leads? Were they successful? The answers to these questions will provide a great insight into how to improve your campaigns for next time.
How to earn money by Search engine marketing (SEM)
1. Adsense & Other Google Ads Network
Adsense is a free advertising program offered by Google that lets people make money off of websites they own or control. You only need a website to signup for an account. Once signed up, you can choose what types of ads you want to display on your website. Earnings vary depending on how much traffic your site gets.
Google's other network includes AdWords, YouTube, Gmail, Blogger, and others. All of these require a credit card, so if you're not comfortable sharing your financial information online, this isn't for you.
2. Affiliate Marketing
Affiliate marketing is another great way of earning a passive income at home without work. Basically, affiliate marketers promote products on their sites using banners and links that direct customers to purchase those products. You'll get paid when someone purchases a product after clicking on your banner.
There are different ways to become an affiliate marketer. The first thing you have to do is decide whether you want to sell physical or digital products. Physical products could include items like clothing, jewelry, bags, and accessories. Digital products include books, courses, subscription services, and software programs. Next, you have to find affiliate programs to join. There should be plenty of options out there. Browse the internet to find popular programs like Amazon Associates and ClickBank. Many affiliate networks offer both standard and pay-per-sale models.
Once you sign up to an affiliate network, you can start promoting products on your site. Products might include everything from clothes to electronics. Before choosing which products to promote, consider your audience. Who is likely to click on an ad? If you're targeting women between the ages of 18 and 35 who live in New York City, you could choose fashion products. On the other hand, if you're targeting men aged 25 to 45 who live outside NYC, you could choose gadgets.
3. Freelance Writing
Freelancing provides flexibility and independence. As a freelancer, you set your own hours and choose which jobs you take. Your clients may be businesses, publications, or individuals. If you enjoy writing, freelancing could earn you extra cash since you do not have to follow a boss's schedule. However, freelance writers must charge competitive rates to land assignments.
To begin freelancing, you must create a portfolio. Post your best pieces to your website or blog to attract potential employers. Remember to include client names and contact details so that clients can reach you directly.
You should always ask permission before submitting anything to a publication or a client. Some publications will allow you to submit content for free, while others will expect payment. To increase your chances of landing gigs, apply to magazines that match your interests and skills. Here are some examples of publications that hire freelancers: Forbes, Inc., Entrepreneur, Writerly, and Business Insider.
If you’re thinking about starting a business, freelancing may be a good option. A lot of people are looking for remote workers right now and many companies are willing to pay for quality work done remotely. Start by building a portfolio and then start applying to relevant positions. Don’t limit yourself to just one type of business. Do something you love, build a reputation, and eventually you’ll be able to quit your job and focus on running your own company.