Search Engine Optimization Myths
by S. Housley

 

A "myth" is a traditional story, idea, or explanation which is widely accepted, but actually untrue or unproven. Misconceptions can also be described as modern-day myths. When it comes to Search Engine Optimization (SEO), the myths and misconceptions are abundant. We will try to dispel some of the more common Search Engine Optimization myths here...

 

Myth #1 - SEO Is A One-Time Deal

 

Search engine optimization is an ongoing process that requires attention and effort over an extended period of time. To do it properly, it is an ongoing process, and definitely not a one-time action.

 

Myth #2 - Quantity Is More Important Than Quality

 

When it comes to backlinks, quantity is simply not as important as quality. Attracting a huge number of backlinks is simply not as important as obtaining relevant links from related and trusted sources.

 

Myth #3 - Meta Tags Are No Longer Relevant

 

While meta tags are not the be-all and end-all of search marketing, they still matter. Including a unique and keyword-rich title and description on each page of a website will help the site rank better in organic search results for those terms. Meta tags may not be as important as they once were, but they do still matter in the world of search optimization.

 

Myth #4 - PPC Will Help Search Ranking

 

There is no association between PPC (Pay Per Click) advertising campaigns and how well a website ranks in organic search results. There is simply no evidence to suggest that advertising via AdWords will help improve an organic search ranking.

 

Myth #5 - Submit Your Website Early And Often

 

Submitting your website to search engines is no longer a necessity. Search engines use spiders to follow links on a website.

 

Myth #6 - SEO Is A Scam

 

Search engine optimization, when done properly, is quite effective. In fact, a website may have a difficult time ranking well at all if it is not optimized adequately.

 

Myth #7 - SEO Is A Guarantee

 

As the old saying goes, the only things guaranteed in life are death and taxes. When properly implemented, SEO can very likely improve your organic search rankings. But be leery of any search marketing company that makes guarantees. There are simply too many factors and variables for SEO success to be guaranteed.

 

Myth #8 - Build It And They Will Come

 

Once upon a time, before the Internet became so cluttered, you could build something new and interesting and it would attract attention without any effort. But now, with the noise ratio so high on the Internet, you must work to draw attention to your innovation. Do not assume that people will find it simply because it is cool!

 

Myth #9 - NoFollow Links Are A Waste Of Time

 

Acquiring links that are tagged as "NoFollow" are not a waste of time. A mix of both DoFollow and NoFollow links looks far more natural to the search engine algorithms than a website that has all DoFollow or all NoFollow links. Additionally, some search marketing studies suggest that not all search engines pay attention to the NoFollow attribute, and they do in fact value a NoFollow link the same way that they would value a DoFollow link.

 

Myth #10 - Google Is The Only Search Engine

 

While it is true that Google is by far the largest search engine, a decent volume of web traffic can still be generated by achieving a high ranking in other search engines for competitive search terms.

 

Base your search optimization on facts, and not on myths or misconceptions! And always remember that nothing about SEO is ever an absolute.