Because Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is among the most popular subjects on the Internet, which invites scams, the best attitude for you to have is skepticism. The fact is, even though every web site design should plan SEO in from the very start like our designs do, you might not need to be overly concerned about it. One thing you can be absolutely sure of is that everyone with a web site wants to be #1 in the search engine results, so it's not easy to achieve.
We can help you achieve top search engine results, but before we go headlong toward that goal, we will help you be sure you are ready for it. When we create your web site and marketing from the start, you will know in advance when proactive SEO should be done.
If someone else created your site, or you are educating yourself on SEO and web marketing, SEO could be the proverbial “cart before the horse” if you are not careful. For example, if your site is not generating sales, or getting the desired action from the visitors you are already getting, SEO will just give you more traffic without correcting the problem.
Also, it could hurt your business if you underestimate the power of your traditional marketing. What! A web design company would dare say such a thing? Yes, because your web site design and web marketing are only “part” of your marketing mix. Very few businesses can succeed on a web presence alone. Most businesses will benefit from a web site, but still rely on other means too.
Aside from the wrong emphasis that often prevails in SEO, there are also some sinister things to be avoided. The search engines are always adapting because so many people try to cheat. Any good SEO advice will always recommend honesty. You need web pages with good structure and specific purpose, useful content, and people friendly. Avoid any kind of “tricks” and you will do better.
Bad advice is only one pitfall though. Cheap solutions and “magic pill” secrets can be worse than a mere waste of money, they can even be devastating. Many of these schemes can get you blacklisted by search engines, which is a death blow to your web site. Always seek professional advice.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
There is no magic SEO software program to put you on top of the search results. But there are a lot of con artists looking for ill informed buyers.
Automated submission services are viewed by search engines the same way you feel about all that junk mail you get. It is just like sending spam email, and automated submissions are rejected by all major search engines.
Some schemes use link strategies and promise to deliver hordes of traffic to your site. Search engines either know of these offenders, or will soon discover them. Either way, sites associated with a linking scheme could find themselves punished by the search engines.
You will only benefit from targeted traffic. Trying to spread too wide a net with each page dilutes the effectiveness. The idea of capturing hordes of traffic hoping for a bite here and there is a good formula for frustration and disappointment.
Regardless of any SEO claims made, there are only two ways to get on top: time and effort, or buy your way to the top. Your natural desire to get there quickly, easily, and cheaply is the very thing that will be used to try and scam you. Bogus snake oil will always look good because it plays on your natural desires.