SEO (Search Engine Optimization) or SEM (Search Engine Marketing) is a huge topic that I will attempt to briefly summarize here. Snap Media has over a decade of experience with Search Engine Optimization. In a nutshell, we do things to improve the organic (free) search results. We will optimize our sites with Google, Yahoo, Bing, AltaVista, Excite, Ask, Dogpile, Lycos, and more. For example, Google uses an algorithm to decide which websites pull up ahead of the others. We try to understand this algorithm the best that we can in order to get higher up in the search results. We’ve tested many different methods over the years with hundreds of websites which allows us to see differences in results. One thing that you should know about us is that we absolutely do not do any “black-hat” tricks in an attempt to get better results. These are things that Google and other search engines frown upon and can cause them to devalue the rankings (how good the search results are) of the website. An example of this would be a trick that people did many years ago. They would put keyword laden text hidden in the background that is the same color as the background so that it is hidden. The search engines are too sophisticated these days for that. As a general rule, if you don’t try any tricks and try to provide your customer with a lot of valuable information that relates to what they are looking for, the search engines will reward you.
Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
The days of phone books and newspaper ads have come and passed. Today the internet is the primary way that consumers search for local products and services. As a matter of fact, millions of searches are made each day – many of which are for services just like the ones that you offer. Are you getting the most from this resource?
SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is the process of getting your listing to appear in the top results of major search engines. Of every of marketing available, SEO has, time and time again, proven to be one of the most cost effective for local businesses.
The Constantly-Changing Field of Search Engine Optimization
Snap media specializes in the science and art of search engine optimization. This industry changes on a daily basis. We will anticipate trends and search engine algorithm updates, which allows us to manage effective SEO strategies. Our SEO campaign exposes your company’s web-site to a new batch of potential clients.
When a person performs a search that is related to your company’s location and service (i.e. San Diego Realtor or Pittsburgh Roofers), your search engine optimized web-site will rank high on the results page, which means it will show up on the first page of a search rather than several pages deep. This will allow you to get traffic from organic rankings, which translates to more sales calls coming in.
Why SEO is so important
Targeted Traffic
Many people will aim for a general keyword, like “Roofers” or “Personal Injury Lawyers,” however these aren’t what your potential customers are exactly looking for. They are concerned with the location of the business. This is where SEO becomes crucial.
- 70% Of users prefer clicking on “organic” results as opposed to Pay Per Click ads
- 90% Of users don’t go past the first few pages of organic search results
SEO has an ability to target particular keywords in specific geographical areas. Consumers that find your optimized web-site are in your immediate area or looking for a service in your area. Search engine optimization makes your web-site attractive to local searchers and search engines alike.
High ROI (Return on Investment)
Compared to any other type of marketing, you will never find a higher return on investment (ROI) than by using Search engine optimization. In a society of viral media and the internet, things such as telephone directories, direct mail, and publication advertising are things of the past.
SEO Website Marketing that Never Stops
This is where Search Engine Optimization is different from Pay-Per-Click advertising. While PPC (Pay-Per-Click) campaigns also provide results, you have to pay for every click. The moment you stop, your website’s sponsored result will disappear. In stark contrast, a Search Engine Optimization campaign produces results long after the initial investment. Keep in mind that Pay-Per-Click campaigns can be utilized to enhance your organic ranking presence.
A Growing Consumer Base
The Internet is fast becoming the primary way for people to gather information and communicate. As a matter of fact, the internet had an estimated 1.73 billion users in 2009 – which was an 18% increase over the prior year. An investment in quality Search Engine Optimization today will ensure that you maintain a dominant presence on the Internet as more and more people use it.