How Your SEO Campaign Compares to High School

Launching your website and embarking on a search engine optimization endeavor, is much like revisiting your social interactions; of school. High School social life, in particular. Your pubescent self esteem and, in this instance the success of your website; is based upon your popularity. On the Internet, this is said to be achieved by establishing meaningful links; using strategies like link building and performance based SEO. In the eyes of Search Engines, these act as a vote and a means of measuring your credibility, and in turn; your popularity. Kind of a, "Yeah, I know him; he’s cool!" However, this is where the plot really thickens.

The weight of the vote that is cast in your favor, is also measured by the popularity of the person (website) giving it. Let me give you an example. Everyone in the Geography Club may say that they all know you and you’re really great; however that is unlikely to boost your overall popularity in school. Make no mistake, every little bit helps. Especially when the Football and Swim Teams start to hear your name often; and begin to recognize you on their own. Of course, the Football and Swim teams represent Search Engines and Directories.

Web merchants should be aware that, there are more rapid means of increasing their Web site's popularity; than the traditional "word of mouth" approach. Here is the Layman's approach to SEO for small business:

Throw a party! Send out invitations to the popular people and ask them to come visit you. This is known as a Search Engine hand submission. You must take the time to individually submit your website to the most popular Search Engines and Directories; inviting them to come and "crawl yo’ crib". I bet you have heard how High School kids love parties; especially the popular kids. Before inviting your guests, make certain that your hair is done right, you have no pimples and there is plenty to do when everyone gets there. This is known as rich, meaningful content; not to be confused with streamers and balloons. Web merchants, need to be aware that, the popular people (Google, Yahoo!, Bing) always have somewhere else to go. At any moment, they might realize that you do not have what they are looking for; and move on. The best that you can hope for is that they have stayed long enough to get to know you; and want to visit again.

Now, it is time to address the facade of the High School image. Trying to be what everyone else wants you to be. In an effort to become more popular, some students will pretend to be something they are not. Most often, deceitful practices often result in embarrassing consequences; both in High School and cyberspace. Search Engines may not be able to read, but they certainly can recognize. If your clothes and image (meta tags) don’t reflect what is truly inside (website content), the smart and popular people will see through it; and avoid you. What’s worse? They’ll tell everyone they know. Do not pretend to be something you are not. If you do and get caught; it will be a long time before even your friends around again.

Hiring a Corporate SEO firm, is much like having a popular older sibling; attending the same school. This trusted ally can make meaningful introductions, and advise on which people to avoid. This approach can quickly increase your popularity, prevent embarrassing situations; and avoid wasted time.