You've developed your website, published some content, and you're probably thinking, "Why don't I have any visitors?" Believe me - you're not alone. SEO seems like a secret handshake written by tech geniuses, but it's not rocket science!
Aah, poor guy! SEO is really just a silly game of figuring out what people are looking for and how to present it to Google. Let's talk about the Top 5 challenges with SEO for beginners - and some simple, quick fixes so that you don't have to pull your hair out..
1. Where do I even begin with SEO?
SEO is basically like a super messy kitchen when you first walk in - too many ingredients and no recipe! Beginners are easily confused because there is soooo much to learn when it comes to SEO. It's everything from keywords to site speed and backlinks. Yes, backlinks.
Quick fix -
Try starting with some step-by-step tools, such as, Google Search Console and Google Analytics. These are free tools with guidance to keep you organized, and they tell you how well your website is doing, and where your visitors are coming from. You're probably panicking! Don't - there are tons of beginner videos to help you set these up quickly.
Pro tip: Use AI-powered SEO assistants that optimise your content while you write, such as NeuralText or SurferSEO. They make keyword recommendations and increase the likelihood that your content will rank highly.
2. Keywords? Are You Unsure Which to Choose?
"Keyword confusion" would be the antagonist of SEO. It can be tempting to simply choose well-known keywords, but your website won't receive any traffic if those terms don't correspond with what your visitors are searching for.
How to win: Make use of free keyword research resources such as Google Keyword Planner, Ubersuggest, and AnswerThePublic. They display the actual search engine queries that people enter. Instead of using broad keywords like "marketing," concentrate on long-tail ones like "affordable digital marketing agency in Mumbai." A long tail increases visibility and reduces competition.
Bonus: ChatGPT and other AI tools can assist with keyword brainstorming and blog topic suggestions based on potential search terms used by your audience. Ask away!
3. No one is reading the content I wrote!
This one is really powerful. Your website appears to be a ghost town despite the hours you spend writing it. Why? Perhaps your content lacks the proper keywords or is not easy to use.
How to correct: Write as though you were conversing with a friend. Use straightforward language, add personality, and keep sentences brief. Sprinkle keywords naturally rather than stuffing them in like a robot.
To make your content easier to read, organise it using bullet points, images, and headings (H1, H2).
For a quick check, use tools that analyse your content and provide real-time suggestions for improvement, such as Yoast SEO or RankMath (if you use WordPress).
Quick check: Use tools like Yoast SEO or RankMath (if you use WordPress) that analyze your content and give real-time tips for improvement.
4. Slow Website and Mobile Disaster
Did you know 70%+ of people browse on their phones? If your website loads slowly or looks weird on mobile, visitors will bounce instantly.
What to do: Check your website speed with Google PageSpeed Insights or GTmetrix. These tools highlight what’s slowing your site down — like huge images or too many scripts.
For mobile friendliness, Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test is your best friend. Make sure your design is responsive and buttons are easy to tap.
Quick check: If you’re using platforms like Odoo or WordPress, many themes are mobile-ready by default — just pick the right one!
5. Getting Backlinks Feels Like Finding Unicorns
Backlinks are just other sites saying, "Look, this site is pretty cool!" The more you get, the more Google likes you. But a reality check: Building backlinks takes time and effort.
Some easy hacks:
- Write guest posts on related blogs.
- Buddy up with influencers or local businesses.
- Create content that people want to share (like useful guides, funny infographics, industry secrets).
- Never purchase backlinks or take any shady shortcuts - Google will figure it out.
Are You Looking for a Step-by-Step Guide to SEO Mastery?
I've got you covered if you're prepared to delve deeper than what this blog can offer. See our comprehensive guide, "The Ultimate SEO Guide for Beginners: Step-by-Step to Rank Your Website"
Keyword research, on-page SEO, technical SEO, content marketing, and link building are all covered, along with doable actions you can take right now.
Final Word
SEO might look like rocket science at first, but it really just involves assisting users in finding what they are already searching for. Start out small. Don't change. Employ the appropriate equipment. And remember to enjoy yourself while doing it!
OnePledged is available to help make the process easier (and undoubtedly more enjoyable), whether you're working alone or need a little inspiration.
Leave a comment or share your "SEO struggle moment" if this blog was helpful to you; we're not passing judgment 😄.
And keep an eye out for our easy-to-follow keyword research guide that won't strain your brain. pinky swear.
FAQs: Haan, Haan Padh Lo... SEO ke sawaal aur jawaab yahaan milenge!
Q: How soon will I begin to see results from SEO?
A: While you will be able to methodically develop the results, it is an incredibly slow burn. Generally, with constant efforts, you can begin to reap reasonable results in SEO after 3 to 6 months.
Q: Should I look for a consultant?
A: Of course, yes… That is why I exist! 😎
It is completely okay to feel bewildered or that it takes up too much of your time. With the number of free-to-use resources online, many beginners do manage, but sometimes, you just need a person, and that’s OnePledged.
We are not just any other agency; we are your creative marketing partner. Whatever ideas you have, we put our best efforts to untangle the complex domains of SEO, reclaiming google's attention for you. From strategy to execution, we keep you covered.
Q: Can AI tools substitute for an SEO specialist?
A: You can get ideas on content, optimization, and keywords from AI. However, having a basic understanding of SEO is important.
Q: Which is better: short-tail words or long-tail keywords?
A: You cannot ignore the usefulness of both. Short-tail brings volume, long tail keywords bring targeted visitors, and during low competition ideal for beginners they sorely reap their benefits.