SEO is Not Rocket Science

Been a while since I’ve written anything about search engine optimization, but I recently read a couple of articles ( 1, 2) a couple of weeks ago relating to the complexity of being a search engine marketer that gave me the desire to add my two cents.

I thought I would start out by stating the obvious. As much as we might like to think how difficult it is to get to the top of search engines and stay there, SEO is not rocket science. Last time I checked, SERPS (define) had nothing to do with velocity or thrust.

However, what makes it such a controversial issue is that the industry is filled SEO experts taunting white and black. You might refer to it as best practices or search friendly “insert word here.” But when the dust settles, opinions will vary and so will results. And since there is no regulation per se, a guy in his basement has as much of a chance in claiming his fame as a director of a major search engine-marketing firm.

I guess the real question is whether a company should hire a SEO or do it internally? Additionally, does the expert knowledge vary so much, that the company should think twice about the SEO company or individual it hires?

Before we attempt to answer that, lets look at some current trends:

1. The Internet is “in” and everything else is “out.” By that I don’t mean that other mediums are invisible, but rather “internet” is under the spotlight for the time being.
2. Getting expert advice is costly. No one wants to hire second-rate services. One can usually tell the difference between subpar and first rate. Maybe it’s not entirely about the SEO’s knowledge, but there is certainly more to company’s persona than knowledge.
3. The Internet is measurable. Not to say that other mediums are not easily measured, but nothing comes close to what can be measured online. From form fill-outs to phone calls, online marketers are savvy in determining ad spend
4. Inventory is plentiful. From search to banners, you can literally spend thousands to millions online

All of the above equals the need for management. So do you need an online rocket scientist? If you’re looking for true results then…yes! Simply skimping and saving by doing it yourself is fine if “Internet Marketer” is your title. But if your company is too busy doing its business, then hiring a dedicated Internet marketing company/professional is the key. If your chosen company or internal thrusts aren’t cutting it, you can always change gears and hire another.

SEO isn’t rocket science, but managing a successful business is! You make the call.

[tags] seo, search engine optimization, internet marketing [/tags]