The term "conversational SEO" is nothing more than thinking strategically about the way marketers have online conversations with their customers. By employing the basic fundamentals of SEO (on-page optimization), using targeted keywords within the conversations and employing internal linking strategies, the end result will be an increase in rank and a more positive customer experience. The challenge is to do it naturally. Here is an example of a "not so natural" response to a customer inquiry on a corporate/product blog or other public forum:

"Thank you for commenting on our website that sells computers. While we understand your frustration about our computer shipping policy, there is nothing we can do to assist you. We do hope that you will be patient for your computer, and you may want contact the shipping company. They may have your computer in their warehouse."

It's quite obvious that the term computer is way overused and it reads much like a robot. Not to mention, the response doesn't solve a problem or at least point the customer in the right direction. Here is a more appropriate response:

"Thank you for your response. We understand that you have not yet received your computer. Please feel free to visit our computer forum to see what others have done in similar situations, or call our toll free customer line at 800-888-8888."

Notice the anchor text, and keep in mind that whatever links are used, they should provide some value to the web visitor and be extremely relevant. Very simple strategies like this can mean the difference between first page and second page rankings in search results. And everyone knows that most users do not search beyond the first page.

Remember, the first priority in conversational SEO is to be real and authentic. Don't overdo it like in the first example above. By having sincere conversations with your customers, you will have the potential to build the brand's credibility and empower your brand ambassadors. The second priority is to naturally sprinkle the targeted keywords throughout these interactions and utilize internal linking whenever appropriate. Thus, you will reap the benefits of customer love, higher search engine rankings, additional customers, more revenue and higher market share.