SEO Linking and Submissions

Nothing on the internet remains the same, at least not today in this modern world of social networking platforms and Web 2.0. In order to be successful in any web-based business venture, you need to pay attention to what is happening in search. Google, Yahoo, Bing, Alta Vista, and others are constantly changing the criteria and algorithms they use to determine search engine page rank. To stay ahead of those changes, your search engine optimization strategy needs to evolve on a regular basis.

A good example of the changes in search criteria is the way in which links are now counted in the formulas that determine page rank. In the past, you could get a back link from anywhere and it would improve your positioning. This allowed many companies that had inferior products and services to rise to the top, making a search for services a frustrating exercise for web consumers. Today, the search engines have taken steps to eliminate this “link farm” method of marketing by discounting links from sites that are not credible themselves. Linking to them can actually hurt your rank, not help it.

Another trend that is being addressed in new algorithms is the number of ecommerce or affiliate sites that appear at the top of a search page when you’re looking for information only. There’s nothing more annoying to someone seeking direction or research material than having to wade through a dozen pages of offers and gimmicks. The companies that are presenting those pages use certain tactics to get to the top of search pages, so search engines are looking for ways to detect and discount those tactics.

There are certain elements that do remain constant. A link from a credible article directory will always be counted in your favor. The new algorithms that have been developed in recent years seem to be heavily weighted in favor of quality content. If you’re serious about your ecommerce or service venture, hire a professional content writing service to write your web pages for you. You could do it yourself and maybe save a few dollars, but the content creation phase is too critical in SEO to pinch pennies on.

When planning your next SEO campaign, or rather your next SEO phase, because SEO should be a constant routine for you, use common sense. Search engines look for original content, relevance, and links that actually pertain to the industry you’re in. Choose your categories carefully and make sure that you’re not submitting any type of “spun” material. Check the PR rankings on any site you do link exchanges with. If they are higher than yours, that site will be a benefit. If they’re lower, they might not be.

Most importantly, be open to change. Search engines are still trying to get it right, so changes are being implemented frequently. Remember, the web itself has only been a viable place to do business for the past decade. Roll with the changes. Keep your SEO strategy loose and simple. Look for good links from credible sites and you’ll do fine.

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