Traditional search engine optimization services have been key to digital marketing success for over two decades. More recently, alternative approaches – ranging from AI Overviews to local search optimization – have received more attention in the SEO world. While businesses can benefit most from combining multiple strategies, this doesn’t mean abandoning tried-and-true methods. However, as user behavior and search engines will continue to evolve, what exactly defines traditional SEO today?
How Traditional SEO Works
When we discuss traditional SEO, we’re usually talking about the practice of optimizing a website to rank higher in organic search results. Unlike local search that targets specific locations, or e-commerce search aimed at shopping results, traditional SEO focuses on broad, general keywords.
Over many years, traditional SEO has proven to offer one of the best returns on investment for businesses of all types. Achieving organic search placement for target keywords attracts traffic at all stages of the buying journey, from those seeking information who can be funneled into an eventual purchase, to those that are primed for a specific product or service purchase. Businesses can also increase their brand reputation and credibility to secure a competitive edge.
Main Elements of Traditional SEO
While both strategies share similarities, there are some important differences between local and traditional SEO. Essentially, organic SEO has four broad components, with various elements falling within each of these categories.
On-Page SEO
Factors like title tags, meta descriptions, keyword usage and internal linking are the foundation of on-page SEO. Title tags and meta descriptions should be compelling and optimized with relevant keywords to boost click-through rates and improve rankings. Strategic keyword placement within headings, subheadings and body text ensures search engines and users can easily understand the page’s content. By auditing and updating these elements, businesses can maintain organic visibility over time.
Off-Page SEO
Off-page SEO is all about building credibility and authority based on factors external to your business website. This strategy primarily requires the acquisition of backlinks from reputable, niche-relevant sites across the web. Digital agencies can ensure you receive an ongoing stream of backlinks and brand mentions.
Technical SEO
Traditional SEO also covers the backend factors that ensure you provide users with a quality experience. Fast loading times, mobile responsiveness, secure HTTPS connections, simple URL structures, correct use of structured data and image optimization are some of the critical elements that Google expects from a website. Many businesses will spend time and resources on the visible aspects of a website, yet suffer poor results due to technical issues.
Content Marketing
High-quality articles, videos and infographics are at the heart of traditional SEO. When these content types are optimized for specific keywords, they can satisfy user intent and secure long-term search visibility. Today, content services for businesses must provide a steady stream of fresh articles – new posts and updates of old content are both required to maintain organic placement.
Comprehensive SEO Services for Businesses
Rocks Digital provides comprehensive SEO services for businesses across the country. We can help you secure and maintain search visibility in organic and local search. To learn more, call (214) 989-7549 or request a website evaluation today.
