Search Engine Optimization

Written by: Nick Hantge

If you’re reading this article, you obviously understand there is quite a buzz around SEO and internet marketing.  Not only is it becoming a must to be on the first page of Google, you also need to have a presence on all major social networking sites, article and video repositories and directories listings.  Here are some helpful tips on how to avoid getting delisted by search engines so all of your hard work doesn’t go to waste!

Watch your Keyword Density

Your keywords on your web page are very important.  It lets the search engine know what your content is about and what you are trying to target with each page.  Each search engine has keyword density in their algorithm for ranking sites, however, their equation for density differs from one to another meaning their lenience of density allowed before a penalty varies.

If you know anything about SEO, you understand that at least 75% of searchers are using Google – I would think this is a pretty good place to start.  I have heard many SEO’s give the 3-5% rule for keyword density.  In my personal experience, I’ve gotten away with 7% and had great results.  The idea here is to watch you keyword density throughout your web page and never exceed 9%!  If you go over this mark, you are risking a negative reaction from the search engines.  I would say stick between 3-6% here and you should be fine.

Keep your Content Original

If you are running your own SEO campaign, you have and will be investing a ton of time.  Do not take the short cut and use someone else’s content on your web pages – it doesn’t make sense!  Search Engines love original content and in the SEO world, content is king!  It is what separates your page from the next before you even begin to create backlinks.  That being said, why would you want to be on a level playing field from the start with the same content?  Make sure you let the search engines know what separates your page from the competition.  Follow the keyword density rule above and write as much as possible!

Do not allow a search engine to disregard your content because it is a duplicate of someone else’s page. 

Don’t Hide your Content

As much as we don’t want to say it, the search engines (google bots) are actually pretty smart.  They know the difference between visible and invisible content.  Search engines will discredit a web page if they feel you are trying to trick them with text that cannot be read.  Make sure the text on your page is a completely different font and do not hide it behind images.  Make sure you tag your images with keywords but do not make the text invisible.  If you are smart you will have content on your Home page that leads to more content in the site.  

Tip: Publish articles to your home page with “Read More” buttons and your home page will get credit for all of the content on your home page including important keywords and links.

Be Cautious of Your Affiliate Links… too many = negative ranking

Be cautious of adding hundreds of affiliate links along with product descriptions.  If you have too many affiliate links on your website, Google will drop you down the listings.”

I hope this article has helped you understand exactly not what to do to a web page.  An SEO Campaign involves blood, sweat and tears which we don’t want to go to waste by getting delisted.  Search Engines do not like keyword stuffing, duplicate or invisible content and too many outside links.

Nick Hantge is a SEO Professional with Iniquitous, a Denver SEO Firm. Nick Specializes in organic search engine optimization, traffic analysis and conversion as well as SEO coaching in Denver (303) 999-7963.

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