Blogging & SEO: An Old Dog’s Guide

You're probably thinking "Shawn, what is this all about - you're young - you know all the new trends!?"; that's only half true.  I've been coding websites as long as I can remember, and things have changed drastically.  I've been able to easily snag #1 result on Google and related engines, but that was over 5 years ago.  5 years isn't much to any average Joe, but when it comes to technology it can seem like a lifetime.
- Try to remember when tabled layouts were more than acceptable!

The "New Web" is cluttered with social networks - and this is great - but it can prove very difficult to optimize anything for search engines.  Everything has become what you could call "organic".  It's not longer focused on hits or links, it's focused on content and interest.  Hits and links still play a key role, but the old "link spamming" tactics don't work anymore.

Let me guide you through some key points to help bring your website recognition!

Dont's

Don't Force Traffic

It's all about generating interest, trying to force people to see your website by spamming links just wont work.  You will end up getting a high bounce ratio with numerous pointless hits - it might work temporarily, but it will kill your recognition and followers.

Write posts that you actually enjoy writing, keep in mind you want it to be interesting to others.  People are browsing your blog to find something that interests them.

Don't Be Greedy

It's obvious when a website is trying to generate money from ads; the content often lacks passion, while links and advertisements get in the way of browsing.  Besides, you want more interest in your websites to encourage visitors to return.

Some SEO experts even recommend holding off on ads entirely until you have an active reader base.  As of writing this article, you can see I have done so myself.  The primary purpose of my blog is recognition, why should I have ads when I don't have many readers?

Don't Overdo It

Trying to make your website rank better can also kill it!  Too many links can make navigation cumbersome and in some cases even knock some points off.  Like I said, everything is organic - Search engines want to differentiate between what's fake and real.

If you have a large website that seems to be extremely active with few inbound links and a high bounce ratio, something is obviously going to look fishy to any search engine.

Do's

Be A Part Of It

Don't just make a blog and post random bits and pieces - be a part of the online community.  It may sound odd to some, but go on Twitter and try following successful individuals with similar interests.  Reading their posts and shares can provide you with inspiration and even grab your attention.

If you have an opinion or suggestion, comment back.  Always be courteous and show respect even if you disagree with their article.  You want respect, so please show some in return.

Sharing Is Caring

Share other people's articles you find interesting, they might take even take notice.  The more your fellow bloggers take notice, the more they may feel the need to share some of your articles.

It's all about socializing with others and enjoying yourself reading, writing, and sharing!  Share your passion with others, anything passionately written will have more value to both yourself and others.

Tread Lightly

The small things count.  Try using plugins like commentLuv and Digg Digg, they don't obstruct your blog and they provide means to ease the sharing of your content and share articles your readers have written.

Remember, you want to show other bloggers you're unique and worthy of attention - not superior or above them.  Make it easier for people to share their articles with you and your articles with others.

Final Note

Now I hope you liked my article, I tried to put more heart into it, but I just can't fully explain what I've learned without giving a final note.  Twitter can remind you of Facebook and Wordpress of Xanga, but never underestimate services even professionals enjoy.

I have found numerous articles and amazing content through Twitter alone, I'm currently in a Google group called Worthy Of Attention that is all about sharing attention worthy articles.  I have learned more than I could even imagine about blogging in the past two weeks. 

It seems so simple, yet you can easily lose sight of what's in front of you.

About Shawn K.

I'm a "Web Guy" with a sense of reality. I enjoy trying new things and meeting new people! You could call me an entrepreneur, I enjoy both business and the effort behind it.