SEO Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)

1. Keyword Research and Intent Analysis

• Use tools like Google Keyword Planner, SEMrush, or Ahrefs for keyword research
• Analyze search intent behind keywords (informational, navigational, transactional, commercial)
• Consider long-tail keywords and natural language queries (voice search optimization)
• Evaluate keyword difficulty and search volume
• Create a priority list of target keywords

2. Content Strategy and Creation

• Develop a content calendar based on keyword research
• Create high-quality, original content that addresses user intent
• Implement E-A-T principles (Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness)
• Optimize for featured snippets and rich results
• Use AI tools responsibly for content ideation and optimization
• Ensure content is comprehensive, well-structured, and easy to read

3. On-Page Optimization

• Optimize title tags, meta descriptions, and header tags (H1, H2, etc.)
• Use target keywords naturally in content (avoid keyword stuffing)
• Implement schema markup for rich snippets
• Optimize images (alt text, file names, compression)
• Ensure mobile responsiveness and fast page load times
• Implement internal linking structure

4. Technical SEO

• Conduct regular technical SEO audits
• Ensure proper site architecture and crawlability
• Implement XML sitemaps and robots.txt file
• Fix broken links and redirect issues
• Optimize for Core Web Vitals (LCP, FID, CLS)
• Implement HTTPS security

5. User Experience (UX) Optimization

• Improve site navigation and structure
• Enhance page load speeds
• Ensure mobile-friendliness
• Implement clear calls-to-action (CTAs)
• Optimize for dwell time and reduce bounce rates
• Consider user feedback and behavior analytics

6. Link Building and Digital PR

• Develop a strategy for earning high-quality backlinks
• Create linkable assets (infographics, studies, tools)
• Engage in guest posting on relevant, authoritative sites
• Leverage social media for content promotion and link earning
• Monitor and disavow toxic backlinks

7. Local SEO (if applicable)

• Optimize Google My Business listing
• Ensure NAP (Name, Address, Phone) consistency across the web
• Encourage and respond to customer reviews
• Implement local schema markup
• Create location-specific content

8. AI and Machine Learning Considerations

• Optimize for RankBrain and BERT algorithms
• Use natural language in content creation
• Consider entity-based SEO strategies
• Leverage AI tools for content optimization and keyword research
• Stay informed about AI advancements in search

9. Monitoring and Reporting

• Set up and monitor Google Search Console and Google Analytics
• Track key metrics: organic traffic, rankings, conversions, etc.
• Conduct regular competitor analysis
• Create monthly/quarterly SEO performance reports
• Use insights to refine strategy continuously

10. Staying Updated

• Follow reputable SEO news sources (Search Engine Journal, Moz, etc.)
• Attend webinars and conferences
• Experiment with new SEO techniques and tools
• Adapt strategies based on algorithm updates and industry changes

11. Collaboration and Communication

• Conduct regular team meetings to discuss SEO progress and strategies
• Ensure clear communication between content, development, and marketing teams
• Document all SEO changes and their impacts
• Share SEO best practices with the wider team

12. Compliance and Ethics

• Adhere to search engine guidelines and best practices
• Avoid black hat SEO techniques
• Ensure content meets E-A-T guidelines
• Respect user privacy and data protection regulations