SEO sounds complicated, but at its core it is simple: make it easy for Google to understand what your page is about, and give better answers than your competitors.
The 5 SEO basics everyone should know
1. Keywords: What are your customers searching for?
Before you create content, you need to know what your customers are searching for. Not what you think, but what they type into Google. Tools such as Google Search Console show you real search queries.
2. Title and meta description
The title tag is the most important element for Google. It should contain your main keyword and spark curiosity. The meta description appears below the title in the search results — it persuades the user to click.
3. Content that answers questions
Google rewards pages that fully answer users' questions. Don't write for search engines, write for people. If a visitor searches for "how much does a website cost", give them a clear answer — with figures, examples and context.
4. Technical basics
- Loading time: Under 3 seconds, ideally under 1.5
- Mobile: The site must work perfectly on a smartphone
- HTTPS: An SSL certificate is mandatory (and a ranking factor)
- Clean URLs: /leistungen/ instead of /page?id=42&cat=3
5. Local signals
For local businesses: set up a Google Business Profile, keep your address details consistent everywhere, collect reviews. Google trusts businesses with many positive reviews.
What you can do right away
- Set up Google Search Console (free of charge)
- Check whether your site looks good on a mobile phone
- Every page needs a unique title containing your keyword
- One blog article per month on a topic your customers care about