SEO: Learning from the Competition

SEO is a complex concept of many layers. While the basics can be easy enough to grasp, it can be made easier by taking a look at the competition, who may actually have a thing or two to teach about SEO strategies. Learning where they succeed and fail can educate you on what to pursue and what to avoid.

The first step is to identify your competitors, which should be easy enough to do. In some cases, however, competitors won’t just be the obvious ones—that is, the ones in your own industry—but also those who rank well in the same keywords, sites in your niche, and competitors for long tail keywords. They too can be considered competitors and must be analyzed as well.

Studying the competitors can give insights into various ideas such as link acquisition, potential advertising opportunities, what’s driving engagement, and so forth. A company could take a look at where they are failing and see if their competitors are faring any better. If they are, then they can compare and see what they’re doing differently and use that for their own strategy.

Much like sports, knowing the competition is the key to rising above them. Companies can analyze and make adjustments to their strategy by working on their weaknesses and seeing what’s working well for others in that area. Eventually, their business will flourish.