10 SEO Mythologies to Abandon | Once Interactive

10 SEO Mythologies To Abandon

Preface

In the past decade of SEO, we have experienced a great change in the way searchers complete queries and interrelate with outcomes; in the way engines search, index and position pages; and the way that marketers effectively affect the engines to drive them traffic. Nonetheless, despite these boundless shifts, a scandalous level of misrepresentation about the practice of SEO continues.

It is likely that you have come across SEO companies or SEO practitioners in the past who were not well versed or you may have come across articles in the blogosphere or the conventional media(the latter is no better than the former in spreading misinformation) that inspired several of these myths I will hold as fact.

What’s offered here are unwise ways of thinking that can destroy your advertising efforts on the internet and some compact advice on how to evade it. Please relish and use, plus all the best in your SEO campaigns!

Overview

To say SEO has “transformed a lot” would be an irony of the epoch. Just consider how Google’s Panda, penguin, and hummingbird updates trembled up the SEO realm.

Nevertheless, does that dictate that an SEO expert work is to provide good quality, keyword–enhanced content? This is far-off from it, in fact, there has been a great change in the previous years to an extent that many promoters are not sure what is out of date, what is crucial, what will bring change and that which is a waste of energies.

This guide points out all of the shared myths and assumptions on how SEO works and exposes them for you, be sure that no time is getting wasted on things of little importance for SEO.

Let’s begin

Myth 1 – forward my site to Google

forward my site to Google

The thought that you begin with submitting your site to Google so as to be seen in the search results (or rank) is lack of sense.

While a brand new website can forward its URL to Google directly, a search engine like Google can still locate your webpage despite of you not submitting it.

Bear in mind that, a submission does not assure anything.

Crawlers will locate your page and rank it as time passes, so do not get anxious about the thought of necessitating to “inform” Google on the presence of your page.

Myth 2 – Extra links are superior to more content

In the ever-changing digital world, there’s a common question: “Should I focus on getting more links or creating great content?” The answer lies in striking a balance between the two.

If you have the budget, consider hiring a skilled writer to help you create engaging content. Good content is like the secret sauce that can be used in various ways, from your website and blog posts to lead generation offers and guest posts on other websites.

When it comes to link-building, it’s not about quantity anymore. Instead, it’s about quality. Focus on building links from relevant and diverse sources that connect to the right pages on your site. These valuable links boost your online presence.

The beauty of investing in quality content is that it can naturally attract more links over time. Every piece of content you create can act as a magnet, drawing in more connections and enhancing your online presence.

So, it’s not a choice between content or links – it’s about finding the right balance to make your online presence shine. Both are essential pieces of the puzzle, working together to achieve success in the digital world.

Myth 3 – SEO revolves around positioning

While there is a great link between search outcome placement and clickthrough rates, ranking is no longer the ultimate goal that it once was.

An observation through rate of clickthrough and the behavior of users reveal that many seekers go for the top outcomes- especially the top three listings. On the other hand, it’s been revealed that on following pages, appearing on the top of the page reveals related click behavior. Additionally, with search outcomes now being joined with gorgeous text/snippets, outcomes that come below the top three search results receiving more clickthrough rates.

Even before all of that was practiced, positioning was not an assurance of success. In practice, you would be well positioned for some considerable period, get lots of traffic, and not get a dime from it. Do you desire that? I don’t think so.

Myth 4 – Meta explanations have a massive influence on search indexing

Big explanations are HTML attributes that well tell the make of webpages. You’ve seen them previously on Google’s search engine outcomes pages (SERPs), here, they’re usually used as preview snippets. So, it creates sense that Google’s algorithm would accept these Meta portrayals into account when deciding on search rankings…correct? Well, not so much.

Google publicized back in the year 2009 that Meta explanations (and Meta keywords) got no bearing on search rankings. That’s not to say, however, that these explanations are not crucial for SEO. On the contrary: Meta descriptions bring forward a major chance to distinct yourself from the riff –raff and assure searchers that your page is worth visiting.

Getting a relevant, absorbing Meta depiction can be the difference between a seeker who ticks through your website and who taps on another.

Myth 5 – SEO is something I can leave for the IT department

SEO

There’s a common misconception that SEO is purely technical, and as a result, many believe it’s a task best left to IT professionals or web creators. While technical expertise is certainly a part of SEO, it’s far from the whole picture, and before you hand over the reins of your SEO project to IT, it’s worth giving it some careful consideration.

While you may need technical skills to help optimize your website, it’s a mistake to simply delegate all SEO responsibilities to IT and expect best practices to automatically fall into place. In reality, many IT professionals have a wide range of technical talents. They can handle tasks like making sure your pages are easily crawlable and setting up redirects and XML sitemap files. However, it’s essential to remember that IT experts are often involved in a wide array of technical duties, from fixing copiers to maintaining servers. These tasks require a different skill set compared to the nuanced approach needed to execute a successful SEO strategy.

So, while technical knowledge is important in SEO, the full scope of SEO demands a broader skill set that encompasses content creation, keyword research, user experience, and marketing strategies. SEO is not solely a technical endeavor; it’s a multifaceted discipline that requires a combination of technical and creative skills to truly excel.

Myth 6 – Keyword optimal use is the vital to SEO

Until when the search engines will get the ability to get into our minds and sturdy our thoughts, we’ll always need to apply written language in order to create search inquiries. We have to use keywords to converse.

With that mentioned, it’s crucial to know that Google has done away with matching the keywords you type in to its search engine to the keyword of a website. It’s rather trying to get the intention behind the keywords you search so as to match the intent to useful-high quality content.

The base line: search engines to come will not punish persons for the low usage of the keyword or the failure to have a well-crafted, keyword-optimized page title..but they will go on punishing people for the keyword overuse.

Myth 7 – My Internet domain requires a lot of content

Have you ever come across a website filled with copy? Or, on the differing spectrum, a website with hardly any content at all? Consider your homepage as the entry to your business. See it! This is an opportunity to make the main impression and deliver what you’re all about. Maybe your importance plan is ease, choosing a slider with appealing images of your work( if you are a photographer would make sense)

For many promoters, however, there is an importance for more content and the context than that. The content on your homepage should be long enough to show clearly, who you are, tell what you do, your location (if local), your value proposition and tell what visitors should do next. These guests should depart from your page well informed, not overawed or underwhelmed…And not get mixed up.

Myth 8 – The more websites I own, the better

It’s a common misconception that having a larger website will automatically result in higher search engine rankings. However, this belief doesn’t hold up under closer scrutiny.

Firstly, not all the content you publish will be ranked by search engines, and this is entirely reasonable. Search engines strive to deliver the most relevant and valuable results to users, and not all content meets those criteria.

Secondly, even if some of your pages are initially positioned in search results, that position can fluctuate. Search engine rankings are dynamic, influenced by factors like competition and algorithm changes.

Thirdly, merely having a high number of indexed pages doesn’t guarantee you’ll attract quality traffic and leads. It’s not just about quantity; it’s about the relevance and quality of your content.

Unfortunately, some individuals who aim to expand their website’s footprint end up neglecting the quality of their content. In reality, it’s challenging to strike a balance between quantity and quality. The primary goal should always be to provide the most useful, high-quality content that genuinely serves your audience. In the world of SEO, quality content reigns supreme, and it’s what ultimately leads to success.

Myth 9 – Homegrown SEO doesn’t matter any longer

This myth couldn’t be far from certainty. If you are a resident corporate, enhancing for local search will not only help you be discovered, it will assist you be within reach of people in close proximity and they are likely to purchase from you.

Facing ahead, Google will carry on with steps to bring the best local items to the top of the search outcomes. Require some evidence? In July 2014, Google took a big step in this course with the announcement of its new pigeon algorithm. The procedure treats the local search positioning more like the old search indexing, taking hundreds of ranking signal to consideration. Pigeon also raised the way Google assesses distances when settling on rankings.

The baseline: local SEO matters, perhaps more so now than previously

Myth 10 – Microsites and other domains I own that link or redirect back to my site will help my SEO

The chances of achieving significant results by employing such tactics are extremely slim, to the point of being virtually non-existent. It’s akin to conducting an election and casting a thousand votes for yourself – ultimately, it doesn’t yield any real benefits.

Search engines are quite adept at identifying domain registrants and can quickly spot if it’s just one person behind multiple domains. If you’re contemplating the idea of getting new registration information to work around this, you might be headed down the wrong path. Such practices are often associated with less-than-reputable tactics in the SEO world, so it’s best to avoid them.

Instead, consider the value of enhancing your SEO through more legitimate means. One effective approach is to create multiple websites that complement and support each other, rather than concentrating all your efforts on a single main domain. You can focus on expanding the content and offerings of your primary domain or even consider creating a valuable tool or resource that serves as an add-on to your website. These strategies are not only more ethical but also have a better chance of yielding long-term, sustainable SEO success.

SEO Best Practices

In the ever-evolving world of digital marketing, Search Engine Optimization (SEO) remains a critical factor in driving organic traffic to your website. With search engines continually updating their algorithms, staying up-to-date with SEO best practices is vital for maintaining and improving your website’s search engine rankings. Here are some essential SEO strategies to keep in mind:

1. Mobile Optimization

With the proliferation of smartphones and tablets, mobile optimization is a top priority for SEO. Google has made it clear that mobile-friendly websites will rank higher in mobile search results. Ensure your website is responsive and offers a seamless experience for users on all devices.

2. High-Quality Content

Content is still king in SEO. Google values high-quality, original, and engaging content more than ever. Focus on creating content that provides value to your audience, answers their questions, and keeps them engaged.

3. Keyword Research and Optimization

Keywords are the foundation of SEO. Conduct thorough keyword research to identify relevant terms and phrases, and then strategically incorporate them into your content. However, avoid keyword stuffing, as Google is now penalizing such practices.

4. User Experience

Google is becoming increasingly sophisticated at measuring user experience. Page load speed, easy navigation, and a clean, well-organized layout are vital. Make sure your site provides a smooth and enjoyable experience for visitors.

5. Social Signals

Social media plays a more significant role in SEO. Shares, likes, and mentions on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ can impact your search engine rankings. Develop a strong social media presence to complement your SEO efforts.

6. Link Building

While the landscape of link building has evolved, high-quality, relevant backlinks are still valuable for SEO. Focus on earning links from reputable sources and avoid any spammy practices that could lead to penalties.

7. Schema Markup

Implement schema markup to provide search engines with additional information about your content. This can lead to rich snippets in search results, making your site more appealing to users.

8. Local SEO

For businesses with a physical presence, optimizing for local search is crucial. Ensure your NAP (Name, Address, Phone) information is consistent across all online platforms, and encourage customer reviews.

9. Content Promotion

Don’t just publish content and hope for the best. Promote it through various channels, such as email marketing, social media, and partnerships with other websites. The more visibility your content gets, the better for your SEO efforts.

10. Analytics and Monitoring

Regularly monitor your website’s performance using tools like Google Analytics. This data will help you track your progress, identify areas for improvement, and adjust your SEO strategy accordingly.

Keep these best practices in mind and be prepared to adjust your strategy as search engines continue to evolve. By staying up to date with the latest SEO trends, you can ensure your website’s success in the competitive online market.

Closure thought

Now that you are well informed of the common SEO myths, what is hindering you from moving the needle? Or worse, what is it that you are doing and it is making your SEO effort futile? Comprehending these SEO truths will enhance your effectiveness and efficiency with a natural search strategy.

If you can take derive one thing from this guide, it’s this: besides anything else, SEO involves the general experience for a seeker, and trials begin the moment they get to the search query. The healthier their involvement with you-from your SERP citation to the quality and relevancy of the content on your page, including the simplicity to maneuver through your site- the better the SEO
[/av_textblock]

blogs

10 SEO Mythologies To Abandon

Preface

In the past decade of SEO, we have experienced a great change in the way searchers complete queries and interrelate with outcomes; in the way engines search, index and position pages; and the way that marketers effectively affect the engines to drive them traffic. Nonetheless, despite these boundless shifts, a scandalous level of misrepresentation about the practice of SEO continues.

It is likely that you have come across SEO companies or SEO practitioners in the past who were not well versed or you may have come across articles in the blogosphere or the conventional media(the latter is no better than the former in spreading misinformation) that inspired several of these myths I will hold as fact.

What’s offered here are unwise ways of thinking that can destroy your advertising efforts on the internet and some compact advice on how to evade it. Please relish and use, plus all the best in your SEO campaigns!

Overview

To say SEO has “transformed a lot” would be an irony of the epoch. Just consider how Google’s Panda, penguin, and hummingbird updates trembled up the SEO realm.

Nevertheless, does that dictate that an SEO expert work is to provide good quality, keyword–enhanced content? This is far-off from it, in fact, there has been a great change in the previous years to an extent that many promoters are not sure what is out of date, what is crucial, what will bring change and that which is a waste of energies.

This guide points out all of the shared myths and assumptions on how SEO works and exposes them for you, be sure that no time is getting wasted on things of little importance for SEO.

Let’s begin

Myth 1 – forward my site to Google

forward my site to Google

The thought that you begin with submitting your site to Google so as to be seen in the search results (or rank) is lack of sense.

While a brand new website can forward its URL to Google directly, a search engine like Google can still locate your webpage despite of you not submitting it.

Bear in mind that, a submission does not assure anything.

Crawlers will locate your page and rank it as time passes, so do not get anxious about the thought of necessitating to “inform” Google on the presence of your page.

Myth 2 – Extra links are superior to more content

In the ever-changing digital world, there’s a common question: “Should I focus on getting more links or creating great content?” The answer lies in striking a balance between the two.

If you have the budget, consider hiring a skilled writer to help you create engaging content. Good content is like the secret sauce that can be used in various ways, from your website and blog posts to lead generation offers and guest posts on other websites.

When it comes to link-building, it’s not about quantity anymore. Instead, it’s about quality. Focus on building links from relevant and diverse sources that connect to the right pages on your site. These valuable links boost your online presence.

The beauty of investing in quality content is that it can naturally attract more links over time. Every piece of content you create can act as a magnet, drawing in more connections and enhancing your online presence.

So, it’s not a choice between content or links – it’s about finding the right balance to make your online presence shine. Both are essential pieces of the puzzle, working together to achieve success in the digital world.

Myth 3 – SEO revolves around positioning

While there is a great link between search outcome placement and clickthrough rates, ranking is no longer the ultimate goal that it once was.

An observation through rate of clickthrough and the behavior of users reveal that many seekers go for the top outcomes- especially the top three listings. On the other hand, it’s been revealed that on following pages, appearing on the top of the page reveals related click behavior. Additionally, with search outcomes now being joined with gorgeous text/snippets, outcomes that come below the top three search results receiving more clickthrough rates.

Even before all of that was practiced, positioning was not an assurance of success. In practice, you would be well positioned for some considerable period, get lots of traffic, and not get a dime from it. Do you desire that? I don’t think so.

Myth 4 – Meta explanations have a massive influence on search indexing

Big explanations are HTML attributes that well tell the make of webpages. You’ve seen them previously on Google’s search engine outcomes pages (SERPs), here, they’re usually used as preview snippets. So, it creates sense that Google’s algorithm would accept these Meta portrayals into account when deciding on search rankings…correct? Well, not so much.

Google publicized back in the year 2009 that Meta explanations (and Meta keywords) got no bearing on search rankings. That’s not to say, however, that these explanations are not crucial for SEO. On the contrary: Meta descriptions bring forward a major chance to distinct yourself from the riff –raff and assure searchers that your page is worth visiting.

Getting a relevant, absorbing Meta depiction can be the difference between a seeker who ticks through your website and who taps on another.

Myth 5 – SEO is something I can leave for the IT department

SEO

There’s a common misconception that SEO is purely technical, and as a result, many believe it’s a task best left to IT professionals or web creators. While technical expertise is certainly a part of SEO, it’s far from the whole picture, and before you hand over the reins of your SEO project to IT, it’s worth giving it some careful consideration.

While you may need technical skills to help optimize your website, it’s a mistake to simply delegate all SEO responsibilities to IT and expect best practices to automatically fall into place. In reality, many IT professionals have a wide range of technical talents. They can handle tasks like making sure your pages are easily crawlable and setting up redirects and XML sitemap files. However, it’s essential to remember that IT experts are often involved in a wide array of technical duties, from fixing copiers to maintaining servers. These tasks require a different skill set compared to the nuanced approach needed to execute a successful SEO strategy.

So, while technical knowledge is important in SEO, the full scope of SEO demands a broader skill set that encompasses content creation, keyword research, user experience, and marketing strategies. SEO is not solely a technical endeavor; it’s a multifaceted discipline that requires a combination of technical and creative skills to truly excel.

Myth 6 – Keyword optimal use is the vital to SEO

Until when the search engines will get the ability to get into our minds and sturdy our thoughts, we’ll always need to apply written language in order to create search inquiries. We have to use keywords to converse.

With that mentioned, it’s crucial to know that Google has done away with matching the keywords you type in to its search engine to the keyword of a website. It’s rather trying to get the intention behind the keywords you search so as to match the intent to useful-high quality content.

The base line: search engines to come will not punish persons for the low usage of the keyword or the failure to have a well-crafted, keyword-optimized page title..but they will go on punishing people for the keyword overuse.

Myth 7 – My Internet domain requires a lot of content

Have you ever come across a website filled with copy? Or, on the differing spectrum, a website with hardly any content at all? Consider your homepage as the entry to your business. See it! This is an opportunity to make the main impression and deliver what you’re all about. Maybe your importance plan is ease, choosing a slider with appealing images of your work( if you are a photographer would make sense)

For many promoters, however, there is an importance for more content and the context than that. The content on your homepage should be long enough to show clearly, who you are, tell what you do, your location (if local), your value proposition and tell what visitors should do next. These guests should depart from your page well informed, not overawed or underwhelmed…And not get mixed up.

Myth 8 – The more websites I own, the better

It’s a common misconception that having a larger website will automatically result in higher search engine rankings. However, this belief doesn’t hold up under closer scrutiny.

Firstly, not all the content you publish will be ranked by search engines, and this is entirely reasonable. Search engines strive to deliver the most relevant and valuable results to users, and not all content meets those criteria.

Secondly, even if some of your pages are initially positioned in search results, that position can fluctuate. Search engine rankings are dynamic, influenced by factors like competition and algorithm changes.

Thirdly, merely having a high number of indexed pages doesn’t guarantee you’ll attract quality traffic and leads. It’s not just about quantity; it’s about the relevance and quality of your content.

Unfortunately, some individuals who aim to expand their website’s footprint end up neglecting the quality of their content. In reality, it’s challenging to strike a balance between quantity and quality. The primary goal should always be to provide the most useful, high-quality content that genuinely serves your audience. In the world of SEO, quality content reigns supreme, and it’s what ultimately leads to success.

Myth 9 – Homegrown SEO doesn’t matter any longer

This myth couldn’t be far from certainty. If you are a resident corporate, enhancing for local search will not only help you be discovered, it will assist you be within reach of people in close proximity and they are likely to purchase from you.

Facing ahead, Google will carry on with steps to bring the best local items to the top of the search outcomes. Require some evidence? In July 2014, Google took a big step in this course with the announcement of its new pigeon algorithm. The procedure treats the local search positioning more like the old search indexing, taking hundreds of ranking signal to consideration. Pigeon also raised the way Google assesses distances when settling on rankings.

The baseline: local SEO matters, perhaps more so now than previously

Myth 10 – Microsites and other domains I own that link or redirect back to my site will help my SEO

The chances of achieving significant results by employing such tactics are extremely slim, to the point of being virtually non-existent. It’s akin to conducting an election and casting a thousand votes for yourself – ultimately, it doesn’t yield any real benefits.

Search engines are quite adept at identifying domain registrants and can quickly spot if it’s just one person behind multiple domains. If you’re contemplating the idea of getting new registration information to work around this, you might be headed down the wrong path. Such practices are often associated with less-than-reputable tactics in the SEO world, so it’s best to avoid them.

Instead, consider the value of enhancing your SEO through more legitimate means. One effective approach is to create multiple websites that complement and support each other, rather than concentrating all your efforts on a single main domain. You can focus on expanding the content and offerings of your primary domain or even consider creating a valuable tool or resource that serves as an add-on to your website. These strategies are not only more ethical but also have a better chance of yielding long-term, sustainable SEO success.

SEO Best Practices

In the ever-evolving world of digital marketing, Search Engine Optimization (SEO) remains a critical factor in driving organic traffic to your website. With search engines continually updating their algorithms, staying up-to-date with SEO best practices is vital for maintaining and improving your website’s search engine rankings. Here are some essential SEO strategies to keep in mind:

1. Mobile Optimization

With the proliferation of smartphones and tablets, mobile optimization is a top priority for SEO. Google has made it clear that mobile-friendly websites will rank higher in mobile search results. Ensure your website is responsive and offers a seamless experience for users on all devices.

2. High-Quality Content

Content is still king in SEO. Google values high-quality, original, and engaging content more than ever. Focus on creating content that provides value to your audience, answers their questions, and keeps them engaged.

3. Keyword Research and Optimization

Keywords are the foundation of SEO. Conduct thorough keyword research to identify relevant terms and phrases, and then strategically incorporate them into your content. However, avoid keyword stuffing, as Google is now penalizing such practices.

4. User Experience

Google is becoming increasingly sophisticated at measuring user experience. Page load speed, easy navigation, and a clean, well-organized layout are vital. Make sure your site provides a smooth and enjoyable experience for visitors.

5. Social Signals

Social media plays a more significant role in SEO. Shares, likes, and mentions on platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ can impact your search engine rankings. Develop a strong social media presence to complement your SEO efforts.

6. Link Building

While the landscape of link building has evolved, high-quality, relevant backlinks are still valuable for SEO. Focus on earning links from reputable sources and avoid any spammy practices that could lead to penalties.

7. Schema Markup

Implement schema markup to provide search engines with additional information about your content. This can lead to rich snippets in search results, making your site more appealing to users.

8. Local SEO

For businesses with a physical presence, optimizing for local search is crucial. Ensure your NAP (Name, Address, Phone) information is consistent across all online platforms, and encourage customer reviews.

9. Content Promotion

Don’t just publish content and hope for the best. Promote it through various channels, such as email marketing, social media, and partnerships with other websites. The more visibility your content gets, the better for your SEO efforts.

10. Analytics and Monitoring

Regularly monitor your website’s performance using tools like Google Analytics. This data will help you track your progress, identify areas for improvement, and adjust your SEO strategy accordingly.

Keep these best practices in mind and be prepared to adjust your strategy as search engines continue to evolve. By staying up to date with the latest SEO trends, you can ensure your website’s success in the competitive online market.

Closure thought

Now that you are well informed of the common SEO myths, what is hindering you from moving the needle? Or worse, what is it that you are doing and it is making your SEO effort futile? Comprehending these SEO truths will enhance your effectiveness and efficiency with a natural search strategy.

If you can take derive one thing from this guide, it’s this: besides anything else, SEO involves the general experience for a seeker, and trials begin the moment they get to the search query. The healthier their involvement with you-from your SERP citation to the quality and relevancy of the content on your page, including the simplicity to maneuver through your site- the better the SEO
[/av_textblock]

About the Author
Bjorn Wallman
As the CEO of Once Interactive, a highly regarded digital marketing agency, Bjorn possesses a deep understanding of the ever-evolving landscape of SEO. He has successfully guided numerous companies towards achieving higher search engine rankings, increased organic traffic, and improved online visibility.

categories