When we first started this business, we had a steep learning curve. On everything! But with time and education, DIY SEO became second nature.
Mike had to learn about the CNC plasma machine we purchased from ArcLight Dynamics, steel, grinding techniques, patinas, and clear coat. Pat had to learn the software we would use to create our designs and teach Mike how to use the software, as well as learn all about WordPress, SEO and social media. We had to establish our pricing structure, “the books”, and identify our target audience (and where to find them!).
As we gradually climbed the curve, we realized that a website would allow us to build a catalog of products. At the time, we thought an online store was a likely end result. Although our online store has not gone “live”, we seem to be busier than we want to be. Custom work has become our bread and butter.
When creating the website, we did lots of research as well as receive advice from several sources. Much of the information seemed to point to the “care and feeding” of the Google machine. What we have found out about DIY SEO is pretty simple.
Our DIY SEO formula –
- Take reasonably good photos of products (which we do ourselves) and add them with the correct information. Always add a description and Alt-text in your media files.
- Write a blog post every week. Google is looking for websites that are active. Translation – post at least weekly.
- Add new content (products) several times during the week.
- Think (also research) about how people (or you) would google to find your product or service.
- Always be responsive to website contacts. We use Wufoo for contacts from our website. It works well and allows us to communicate quickly with people interested in our products.
- In addition, establish a local Google presence (which is a challenge in itself).
We’ve worked hard to get where we’re at. We keep learning every day which presents us with challenges sometimes we think we could live without…