If you're starting out online—maybe with a blog, your own store, or a new bizop—you’ve probably heard the term SEO thrown around a lot. It stands for Search Engine Optimization. But don’t worry, it’s not as scary as it sounds.

In simple terms, SEO is about helping people find your website on Google. Think about your own online searches. Whether you're looking for “cheap running shoes” or “how to bake a chocolate cake,” you likely click one of the results on the first page. SEO helps your site get closer to that first page.

Here’s a quick breakdown of how you can start using SEO to grow your project:

1. Use the Right Words (Keywords)
Keywords are the words people type into search engines. If you sell handmade candles, people might search for “eco-friendly candles” or “soy wax tealights.” Try to include phrases like these in your product descriptions or blog posts. It helps Google see what your page is about.

2. Write for People First
It might be tempting to just throw a bunch of keywords into your content, but that can annoy readers and push your site down in search rankings. Keep it human. Write as if you're explaining things to a friend. Make your content helpful and easy to read.

3. Don’t Ignore Page Speed
A slow website can drive visitors away. Plus, Google doesn’t like slow websites either. Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights to check how fast your site is and get tips to improve it.

4. Get Linked
When other websites link to yours, it’s like a vote of confidence in Google’s eyes. Over time, these links can help boost your rankings. You don’t need to chase big websites—start by writing helpful content that others naturally want to share.

5. Be Patient
SEO isn’t a magic fix. It’s more like planting a garden. The more care you put in, the more it grows over time. Keep showing up, keep learning, and you’ll see results.

Getting a hang of SEO takes time, but it doesn’t have to be hard. Focus on being helpful, keep things clear, and pay attention to what your audience is looking for. Before you know it, you’ll be getting more visitors and building a stronger digital business.