Skip to main content

Search Engine Optimization Checklist

Establish a comprehensive SEO system that improves organic search visibility, drives qualified traffic, and supports long-term marketing growth. Complete tasks in order to build a sustainable SEO foundation before moving to advanced optimization strategies.

Phase 1: Foundation & Monitoring Setup​

  • Set Up Google Search Console - Claim and verify the business website in Google Search Console for performance monitoring, indexing status, and search query insights. Essential for tracking organic search performance.

  • Set Up Bing Webmaster Tools - Configure Bing Webmaster Tools for search visibility on Microsoft's search engine. Submit sitemap and monitor Bing-specific performance metrics.

  • Verify URL Structure - Ensure the website's URL hierarchy and structural organization are SEO-friendly. URLs should be clean, descriptive, and follow logical site architecture.

Phase 2: Content Strategy & Research​

  • Conduct Keyword Research - Perform comprehensive keyword research to identify target terms, search volume, competition, and content opportunities. Document primary and secondary keywords for each service and location page.

  • Optimize Meta Titles and Descriptions - Ensure all pages have unique, optimized meta titles (50-60 characters) and descriptions (150-160 characters) that include target keywords and compelling copy for search visibility.

Phase 3: Content Quality & Structure​

  • Content Readability Check - Ensure all content matches a 5th-grade reading level for maximum accessibility and user engagement. Use tools like Hemingway Editor or Yoast readability analysis.

  • Implement Internal Linking Strategy - Create effective internal linking structure, especially linking to key service and location pages from blog content and other pages. Use descriptive anchor text and maintain logical site hierarchy.

  • Add Outbound Links - Ensure blog posts and content link to authoritative external sites to support content credibility and provide value to readers. Link to industry resources, statistics, and trusted sources.

Phase 4: Technical SEO Audit​

  • Duplicate Content Check - Identify and resolve minimal, duplicate, or thin content issues across the site. Consolidate duplicate pages, expand thin content, or use canonical tags where appropriate.

  • Keyword Stuffing Check - Monitor for and remove any signs of keyword stuffing or black hat search manipulation. Ensure natural keyword usage that serves readers first.

Phase 5: Link Building & Authority​

  • Establish Backlink Strategy - Develop and implement a long-term backlink strategy for improved domain authority. Focus on local directories, industry associations, partner relationships, and high-quality content that earns natural links.

Ongoing Maintenance​

  • Monitor Search Console Performance - Regularly review Google Search Console for indexing issues, search query performance, and technical errors.

  • Track Keyword Rankings - Monitor target keyword rankings and adjust strategy based on performance trends.

  • Update Content Based on Search Insights - Use search query data to identify content gaps and optimization opportunities.

  • Maintain Link Profile - Continuously build quality backlinks and monitor for toxic or spammy links that could harm domain authority.