Search Engine Optimization Suggestions

It can be hard to see the forest for the trees when pursuing a search engine optimization campaign. The following are useful tidbits I have found over the years that will help you achieve results.

1. Optimize for Google – If you are going to pursue a search engine optimization effort, always focus on Google. It has the most traffic. If you can nail down Google, Yahoo and MSN will soon show similar rankings.

2. Linking Language – When generating links to your site, try to mix up the language you use for the incoming links. The search engines, particularly Google, like to see a mix of language.

3. Determining SEO Competition – You should always use Word Tracker for your keyword research. Make sure to use the competition tool to determine how many people are trying to get ranked under a keyword phrase.

4. Keyword Density Analysis - You need to include the keyword phrase you are focusing on in the text of the page in question. The number of times you should include it is known as the keyword density. Personally, I stick to once every 50 words or so.

5. Avoid Rash Actions – Most forms of internet marketing take time to play themselves out. Don’t act rashly and make changes every few days. You will never find success.

6. What Is KEI? – KEI is a term of art in search engine optimization. It refers to whether a keyword phrase is worth trying to get ranked under. A KEI over 10 is worth pursuing. Higher is better.

7. Keyword Research Common Sense – When doing keyword research, don’t leave your common sense at the door. Think about what phrases you would use to search for something and make sure to incorporate them in your site.

8. Finding Online Buyers – People on the web tend to browse a lot, which is why programs like Internet Explorer are called browsers. Focus on “buy” keywords to get better results. A person that types buy widgets is ready to part with their money.

9. SEO Shuffle - Every once in a while, your rankings on Google will just vanish for a day. Don't panic. Wait a couple days to see if they come back. They often do, which means Google was just doing something with its database.

10. Must Use Article Directories – Not all directories are created equal. If you submit, make sure you focus on ezinearticles, goarticles and articledashboard.

When playing with your optimization efforts, remember to factor in time. Simply put, you need to give the changes time to be digested by the search engines. Making weekly changes isn’t going to tell you anything.