SEO, or search engine optimization, is a popular marketing strategy. In tandem with social media and other forms of marketing, SEO is often a key component of promotion—if crafted correctly, SEO can level up business. But, given that this marketing strategy often goes hand-in-hand with sales and for-profit work, it can be hard to determine if nonprofits need SEO.
What is SEO?
SEO allows your organization to be found organically online. When SEO content is effective, your potential supporters or new audience members can easily find you on the first page of a “Google” search. Using specific keywords, voice, style, formatting, and more, your organization will pop up as one of the first links.
Because more and more people are online—from shopping to researching—companies often rely on SEO to help drive traffic. Increased traffic increases the chance of conversion. For nonprofits, this means more donations, supporters, and partners.
Why nonprofits need SEO content
SEO is affordable
For nonprofits that are often on tight or limited budgets, it’s important to invest in marketing efforts strategically. Part of that strategy includes being cost-effective. While many organizations often wish they had unlimited marketing budgets, that’s not always the reality. Cultivating practices that yield positive outcomes and don’t break the bank are essential.
While other forms of paid marketing and advertising can often be costly, SEO-oriented website copy is usually pretty affordable. By optimizing landing pages, blog content, and more, nonprofits can attract new visitors without paying a hefty price.
SEO is effective
Unlike other forms of marketing and advertising, well-crafted SEO messaging can help solve a myriad of problems. From answering supporters’ questions to increasing visibility, SEO content fills in some of the most necessary gaps in your marketing practices.
One of the benefits of SEO content is to enhance visibility. If done well, your nonprofit can reap real rewards. From brand awareness to heightened website traffic, SEO is the way to go.
SEO is a great tool for networking and partnerships
Great SEO content doesn’t exist in a vacuum—it involves some collaboration. By linking your organization’s content to other reputable organizations within the industry, your nonprofit benefits. Not only does this linking help with SEO, it’s an opportunity for partnerships and networking. SEO brings more traffic to your site, and lends a hand to fellow organization.
SEO enhances credibility
One of the lesser-known benefits of SEO marketing is the ability to enhance credibility and bolster your reputation. By investing in engaging, authoritative content, supporters will trust your organization. This trust breeds connection and care. The more your nonprofit shows stakeholders that you’re well-informed about the issues you’re addressing, the better.
While SEO content feels like a big undertaking, there are plenty of free resources and tutorials online to help you get started.