Getting Started with SEO: Checklist for Beginners

If you’re new to SEO (Search Engine Optimization), this guide will help you understand what to focus on first. SEO can seem complicated, but starting with the basics makes a big difference.

Use this checklist to make sure your website is ready to rank better in search engines.

Beginner SEO Checklist

1️⃣ Set Up Your Website for SEO

  • ✅ Make sure your website is mobile-friendly
  • ✅ Ensure your site loads quickly (under 3 seconds is ideal)
  • ✅ Use HTTPS (SSL certificate) for secure browsing
  • ✅ Create clear navigation menus so users and Google can find pages easily

2️⃣ Keyword Basics

  • ✅ Brainstorm what people are searching for to find your services
  • ✅ Choose simple, specific keywords related to your business
  • ✅ Use your main keywords in:
    • Page titles
    • Headings
    • URLs
    • Meta descriptions
    • Body text (naturally—no keyword stuffing!)

3️⃣ Create Good Content

  • ✅ Write helpful, human-friendly content for your audience
  • ✅ Use blogs, FAQs, or guides to answer common customer questions
  • ✅ Update old content regularly to keep it relevant

4️⃣ Fix Technical SEO Basics

  • ✅ Use alt text for images (this helps Google understand them)
  • ✅ Create a sitemap (usually /sitemap.xml) and submit it to Google Search Console
  • ✅ Set up Google Analytics and Google Search Console to track results
  • ✅ Check for broken links and fix them

5️⃣ Get Local (If Applicable)

If your business serves a local area:

  • ✅ Set up or update your Google Business Profile
  • ✅ Add your location and contact info to your website
  • ✅ Ask happy customers for Google reviews

What If You Need Help?

If you don’t know where to start or need guidance on what’s next, I’m happy to help personally. Use this link to reach me directly: 👉 Reaching Out to a Human

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