SEO in 2009

SEO in 2009 is going to be changing slightly. No longer do companies need to focus on ‘ranking #1 for their fave phrase’ to the exclusion of all else, but hopefully they will come to see that our job is more complex than that.

It’s all about conversions. You can be #1 on Google to pick up traffic, but if you don’rt deliver what people need it doesn’t count for much. Matt Cutts said recently that tanking is great, but sales are what counts, and that smart SEO’s look past the top spot to see of the ROI is there.

Universal Search is going to be providing momentum, and mobile search will continue to expand. Videos and images will take on a higher priority, and SEOs need to eb aware that they should offer services in the social networking fields as well.

Black Hat SEO is still a threat to good little webmasters everywhere. The thing to remember is that while black hat techniques may help in the short term, in the long run they can ultimately sink your site, your good name, and your business.

The smartest thing to do in 2009 is to plan ahead! Lay out a year long game plan, figure out ways to increase your budget and decide where you need to spend it for maximum results. Look at all your options, and don’t get locked into just one. If you can do solid SEO on the site you have, make sure everything you add is properly optimized, and concentrate on your user experience factor, you can make your site a success in 2009!

Add some link power with a well thought out campaign. Work on a few different advertising approaches, and concentrate on niche demographics within your venue to achieve the highest ROI. Consider starting a blog if you don’t have one, and making your presence known on the social circuit.

Don’t forget the power of good content. If you can’t produce it yourself, be prepared to invest a chunk of your budget in hiring a good copywriter. You get what you pay for, so ask for references and make sure you are going to have only the best on your site.

Look into press releases, and notice if you have a local market you could be cornering or how you can add mobile applications. Don’t be afraid to try new things, but don’tr over look the basics!

Best of luck, and Happy New Year!!