Tips and Tricks: Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
Author: Michael Smith
November 2007
Situation
Your web site does not have a high rank on search engines and is missing out on e-Commerce opportunities.
Problem
Search engine optimization is an unfamiliar area for your staff. The articles on the internet are often at odds and disagree on main “how to” points.
Solution
Use simple search engine optimization tactics to accomplish a higher ranking within minimal time.
Tips and Tricks
Surveys show that over 85% of internet users use search engines to find new web sites. The art of raising your rank above your competitors within these search engines is called search engine optimization (SEO). When utilizing correct SEO techniques it is possible to double or even triple your online e-Commerce business. However, there has always been a bit of mystery regarding the rules to follow that will help move you up in the ranks. Here are a few of the top guidelines to follow.
- Work with partners to get links pointing back to your site. The theory is that the more popular you are, the more a search engine will notice you. There are many link trading sites out there but be careful as the IT community is debating whether they cause more harm than good.
- Don’t simply throw hundreds of keywords into your meta tags. Your keywords will be more powerful if you limit them to around 24. If you use too many keywords, they will become diluted, and lose their meaning. You can also improve your hits further if these keywords are found in your title, meta description, and heading tags.
- Make sure your website is easy to navigate. There should be a link pointing to each page within your website. The easier users can navigate your site, the easier it will be for search engines to do the same.
- Content is the most important part to search engine optimization. Your pages should be tightly themed containing unique content where possible. You must keep your content updated and fresh to give the engines more reasons to check your site frequently.
- Don’t use any sneaky tactics such as using hidden links, duplicate content, hidden text, or redirects. Such tactics are unethical and some suggest search engines will penalize you.
- Make sure to use free tools to check your site such as http://www.seochat.com. These tools tend to be updated for the most recent SEO trends and can give you up to date information on your site.
By implementing these strategies, you should experience a noticeable growth in the traffic flow of your site. This increase does not happen over night since search engines do irregular updates. However, many of the strongest running businesses have successfully used positive SEO tactics to increase their client base.
If you need more information on how the Ross Group can support your efforts to optimize the web for e-Commerce, call Gary Codeluppi at 937-431-1026 x123 or visit the Ross Group Inc web site at www.rossgroupinc.com.
