SEO in 2024: Why Should I Invest?
Should I invest in an SEO strategy in 2024? The quick and easy answer to this question is yes. If you own a business, investing in SEO is a wise move.
“Why?” you may wonder.
Well, SEO is one of the most powerful ways to market your business in the modern world. It allows you to connect with more future clients or customers than ever before.
It’s worth noting that the roots of SEO even preceded the creation of Google and other search engines. In the old days, search engines acted like directories, like the ones you find on the wall of large stores or shopping centres. Since some business owners noticed their companies weren't getting the visibility they expected in these "directories", the idea of SEO took off, and it’s still relevant today.
Why having an SEO strategy is important in 2024?
In 2024, having a strong SEO strategy positively impacts your business' online presence, whether you operate in e-commerce, online services or have a physical location. SEO help to improve your site’s visibility in search engines, which attracts more visitors and, if targeted properly, resulting in increased leads and sales. It’s important to note that since COVID-19, consumer online behaviour has changed, with many opting to research and buy products online instead of going to a physical store. This shift emphasises the importance to maintain a strong online presence for your business in 2024.
Generative AI and SEO
The rise of generative AI, like AI design solutions and chatbots, has also reshaped user online search behaviour, challenging traditional search algorithms like Google. While search engines rely on predefined rules and patterns, AI-driven algorithms adapt and evolve using extensive data sets, offering a more interactive and personalised search results.
The integration of generative AI with traditional search engines is not about replacement, but improvement. Search engines like Google are using generative AI to enhance user experience by providing more precise, natural, conversational and contextually relevant search results. With this in mind, the concept of SEO is more likely to evolve and businesses will need to adapt their SEO strategies to effectively use the capabilities of AI-driven search technologies.
The benefits of investing in SEO
An SEO strategy is basically the process of maximising the chances of your website appearing in search results, gaining organic traffic and other positive outcomes. Among the primary advantages of investing in SEO in 2024 are the following:
Improved online visibility
This is a no-brainer - if you’re not trying to help Google understand your website and connect it with your target customers, then it makes it harder for them to find you!
Google isn’t automatically going to understand, or even read, all the information on your website, and you shouldn’t assume it is. You need to proactively and intentionally making it easier for potential customers to find your products and services. After all, it’s very competitive and there’s no doubt your competitors are putting in the effort.
Enhanced user experience
User experience is all about how enjoyable and easy for people to use a website. Even though user experience and SEO are different topics, improving your site’s SEO can have a positive impact on user experience.
When you optimise your website with the right keywords that directly answer what users are looking for, you ensure that visitors have a satisfying time on your site because they can easily find what they need.
Increased website traffic
Having a website alone is unlikely to bring you traffic. But when you optimise it for search engines, you’ll soon start seeing more organic visitors. Imagine you offer local plumbing services.
A basic website with minimal details makes it difficult for potential customers to find you online. By adding specific services pages, improving your ‘Home’ and ‘About us’ sections and updating your blog regularly, you’ll gradually attract more visitors.
Optimising your content with relevant keywords tells Google what your site offers, increasing your chances of appearing higher in search results. When your content directly answers people’s queries, your site gains visibility and brings in more traffic.
Higher conversion rates
Optimising for relevant keywords not only brings more traffic but also improves the quality of that traffic. Visitors who find your website through organic search results are more likely to convert because they are already interested in what you offer.
By addressing their specific needs and guiding them towards actions like purchases or enquiries, you can increase your conversion rates and maximise the return on your SEO investment.
Long-term return on investment
SEO is a long-term strategy that delivers value over time. Unlike paid advertising, organic traffic generated through SEO efforts provides a sustainable flow of visitors.
By consistently optimising your site with valuable content and relevant keywords, you build authority and credibility in your industry, establishing a strong foundation for long-term growth.
In summary, investing in SEO in 2024 is essential for business aiming to succeed in today’s digital world. Considering the constant changes in online consumer behaviour and search technologies, having a strong SEO strategy is advisable and necessary for long-term success.
Convinced? Get in contact to chat with us about how we can work with you to improve your website’s traffic and reach your business goals with SEO.