Search Engine Optimization (SEO)

The internet's modern loaded statement of 'expertise'. Search Engine Optimization (or SEO) covers a wide-range of topics, which, when you get right down to it, is really just intelligent website design, content development and pertinent linkage. There are very few 'magic bullets' and even fewer actual 'secrets' known. The reality is pretty simple: Google (and other search engines) index material using a complex algorithm with 200+ variables that range from 'keywords-in-your-domain' to inbound links containing a keyword from a .EDU website.

A usable, engine-friendly website, with content that makes sense for the topic at hand, along with ongoing development of external linkage is the tried and true way to have a fighting chance of coming up on page1 of Google's organic results for the keyword you choose. If you can't keep up or all your hard work doesn't work, don't fret - you can always pay for your keywords with a PayPerClick ad.

Years ago, we sent one of our developers to a certification course with Bruce Clay and we have been learning ever since.

VickeryHill uses (and pays for) a belt full of tools for assisting with SEO including:

Drop us a line about your SEO woes. Maybe we'll both learn something.

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Fallacies

Can the "We can get your site #1 in Google for $399" people do just that?

Answer: First, you get what you pay for. Second, every aspect of Google's search algorithms are known to a small number at Google and mastered by a few outside. Third, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Most often, these offers can and will get you to #1 on Google for the keyword "blankity blank", but you probably won't stay there for long. Google has teams of people tweaking the hundreds of variables in their algorithm. We read and listen to a lot on the web - Matt Cutts is a good place to start.

The first rule of thumb is that if it makes sense to a visitor, reads well and your site talks about the keyword you think you should come up for, then you have a fighting chance. The domain matters, the titles of your page, the alt tags on images, the meta description and the links...you can always pay someone to take advantage of a loophole or flaw in the algorithm, but Google will most likely fix the hole and you will be penalized for taking advantage of it.

As in most things in this world, starting with a plan, putting in hard work and adapting to the situation is usually rewarded with positive results. Let us know if you want to talk more about seo.