What is the TEI Method
The TEI Method is a structured framework for e-commerce SEO that focuses on creating pages that match the intent behind a search.
Rather than optimising only individual product pages, the TEI Method prioritises building collection pages that group multiple products together. These pages are supported by a network of related blogs and authoritative backlinks.
By aligning with user intent, Google recognises the page as a comprehensive answer to a query. The method is designed to improve search visibility, drive targeted traffic, and increase conversions for e-commerce sites that have multiple products in the same category or niche.
Why Google Loves the TEI Method
Google’s algorithms reward pages that match the searcher’s intent accurately, provide comprehensive information, and demonstrate authority in a topic area.
A TEI collection page meets these criteria because it consolidates multiple relevant products under one keyword-focused page, making it easier for Google to understand the content and rank it for a range of related searches. Internal linking from supporting blog content signals topical relevance while strategic backlinks increase authority.
The combination of structured content, multiple supporting pages, and high-quality links signals to Google that the page is both useful for users and authoritative within its niche.
Who is the TEI Method For
The TEI Method is ideal for e-commerce business owners, SEO managers, and marketers who are looking to scale their stores efficiently. It works best for sites that have more than one product per category, want to improve their rankings for broad keywords, and aim to increase conversions by helping users explore multiple options.
This method is particularly valuable for stores looking to establish authority in their niche, maximise their SEO investment, and implement a repeatable framework that produces measurable results over time.
Step 1: Finding High-Intent Keywords
Keywords are the foundation of the TEI Method. Not all tools are equal, and relying solely on estimated volumes from third-party platforms can be misleading. Start by using Semrush or Ahrefs to generate keyword ideas, then cross-check with your Google Search Console data.
Search Console provides actual impressions and shows what Google is already considering your site for. Look for broad keywords that would benefit from a collection page. For example, “red shoes” is too broad, while “red leather shoes” can support multiple products and provide a strong foundation for a collection page.
It is essential to ensure you have at least two products that fit the keyword intent, otherwise the framework will not function effectively.
Step 2: Thinking as a Customer
Understanding your customer is a critical part of the TEI Method. Users are searching for solutions, comparisons, and choices. Put yourself in the customer’s shoes.
Consider the questions they might ask, the attributes they care about such as colour, size, material, and style, and the type of experience they expect from your site.
Designing your collection pages and supporting content with the customer in mind not only improves engagement but also signals to Google that your site satisfies search intent. Every decision, from product placement to headings and calls to action, should reflect a deep understanding of your target audience.
Step 3: Building the Collection Page
The collection page is the core of the TEI Method. At minimum, it should contain two products relevant to the keyword, but more is better for variety and user choice. The page should include a clear H1 with the main keyword, structured subheadings, internal links to related categories, filters for attributes such as size or colour, high-quality images, and compelling product descriptions.
This page acts as a mini storefront designed to meet the needs of searchers and convert them into buyers. The content must be optimised for both search engines and users, balancing keyword targeting with helpful information.
Step 4: Supporting Blogs
To strengthen the authority of your collection page, create at least five related blogs. Each blog should target a subtopic or long-tail variation of your main keyword. Blogs might include guides, comparisons, or styling tips.
Internal links from each blog to the collection page should use descriptive anchor text naturally. These blogs build topical relevance, provide additional entry points for search traffic, and enhance the user experience by answering questions that may arise during the shopping process.
Step 5: Building Strategic Backlinks
Backlinks remain one of the strongest signals for search engine ranking. For the TEI Method, each supporting blog should ideally receive one high-quality backlink. Alternatively, a strong backlink can point directly to the collection page.
Quality matters more than quantity. Focus on authoritative industry blogs, resource pages, or niche directories. Strategic backlinks combined with internal linking create a web of authority around your collection page, signalling to Google that your content is valuable and trustworthy.
Step 6: Monitoring, Promotion, and Optimisation
Once your collection page, supporting blogs, and backlinks are live, the next step is to monitor performance. Track rankings, traffic, engagement, and conversion metrics using tools such as Google Search Console and analytics platforms.
Promote the content through social media, newsletters, and targeted campaigns to accelerate visibility. Continuously optimise by analysing user behaviour, testing calls to action, adjusting product placement, and updating content to improve performance over time. The TEI Method is not a one-time effort but a continuous system for growth.
Conversion Optimisation in the TEI Method
The TEI Method is designed to help users navigate choices effectively and increase the likelihood of purchase. Offer multiple options but avoid overwhelming the visitor. Include filters for attributes, display trust signals such as reviews and ratings, and make calls to action clear and easy to find.
The framework uses principles of user psychology to guide visitors subtly toward conversion while providing helpful choices. This is ethical persuasion that improves both user satisfaction and business outcomes.
Why the TEI Method Works
The TEI Method works because it aligns with the way users search and interact with e-commerce sites.
It provides user-focused content that satisfies intent and improves engagement, Google-friendly structure with collection pages, internal linking, supporting blogs, and backlinks, a scalable system applicable across multiple categories and products, and an approach that drives measurable ROI through increased traffic and conversions.
By combining keyword research, user psychology, structured content, and strategic promotion, the TEI Method creates a system that consistently improves visibility and performance for e-commerce websites.
Real-Life Example
Suppose you operate a shoe store online. A broad keyword such as “red leather shoes” can be transformed into a high-performing collection page.
Start by identifying multiple products that match this keyword. Build a collection page with a clear H1, structured subheadings, and filters for size, style, and colour.
Create five blogs targeting related subtopics such as “Red Shoes for Work” or “How to Choose Red Leather Shoes” with internal links to the collection page. Secure high-quality backlinks for the blogs or directly for the collection page.
Promote through social channels and monitor user engagement. Over time, Google recognises the page as comprehensive and authoritative, resulting in higher rankings, more clicks, and better conversions.
Summary of the TEI Method
Step one involves identifying high-intent keywords and ensuring multiple products can support them.
Step two requires thinking from the perspective of your customer to guide design and content.
Step three is building the collection page with optimised structure, visuals, and product details.
Step four involves creating at least five supporting blogs that link to the collection page.
Step five is obtaining high-quality backlinks to reinforce authority.
Step six is monitoring, promoting, and optimising continuously. Each step builds on the previous one to create a comprehensive, scalable SEO system.
Final Thoughts
The TEI Method is a framework I developed and use personally for scaling e-commerce sites. It addresses the most common challenge in online retail: turning broad keywords into actionable pages that satisfy users and rank in Google.
By combining keyword intent, collection pages, supporting blogs, backlinks, and conversion optimisation, the TEI Method creates a system that is repeatable, measurable, and effective.
Business owners and SEO managers who apply this method correctly can expect higher rankings, better engagement, and increased conversions.
The TEI Method is not just a theory. It is a tested system designed to help e-commerce sites grow strategically and sustainably.
By focusing on user intent and structured SEO, you can make your collection pages work harder, attract the right visitors, and convert them effectively into customers.
