The 5 Most Common Misconceptions About SEO
September 2022The 5 Most Common Misconceptions About SEO
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Search engine algorithms are complicated, to say the least. Not only that, but their inner workings are so secret that most of what we know about how they work comes from trial and error. Search companies rarely reveal anything directly about what makes a page rank better than another—but that doesn't mean that search engine optimization is impossible. On the contrary, today's techniques are very effective when used correctly.
However, many misconceptions surrounding SEO can cloud your understanding or even lead you down the wrong path. What do you need to know?
Myth 1: Good SEO Means Links and More Links
When algorithms were less advanced, they could not adequately judge the quality of links between pages, but assumed that more links meant more authority. This led to stuffing pages full of links regardless of quality or relevance, creating a bad user experience. Today, you can't assume that more links are better for your ranking. Too many could hurt your efforts instead.
Myth 2: Only the #1 Spot Matters
When trying to rank online, many business owners covet the top spot on the results page for major keywords—and they can spend too much time and money trying to get there. It's true that more than half of clicks on results pages go to the first three results, but that still gives you more room to work. Don't fixate only on the top spot.
Myth 3: Only the Biggest Keywords Are Worth Your Time
Consider that longer keywords and phrases may be easier to win. Trying to immediately out-compete others for the most basic keywords is an uphill battle. Instead, target more localized queries and "long-tail" keywords that don't have as much competition. You'll have to start somewhere, and dominating the lower volume keywords is a solid beginning.
Myth 4: You Can "Set and Forget" an SEO Strategy
SEO is an ongoing process, not an effort you only invest in once. To stay relevant, a winning strategy requires frequent reconsideration, adjustments, and upgrades to your content. Otherwise, you'll find your rankings start to sag, and the clicks begin to dry up—sometimes after even just a few weeks or months. To invest in SEO successfully, you must be ready to stay engaged with the strategy for the long term.
Myth 5: There is a Definitive Path to SEO Success
Anyone who tells you that they have the secret to successful SEO for every brand isn't telling the truth. There is no "one size fits all" strategy that guarantees a successful program. Remember, the way users behave matters, too. While there is no definitive path to winning with SEO, there are dozens of techniques proven to work. You must pick the right ones for your firm.
Busting Myths and Building Your Strategy
It's not always easy to tell what works and what doesn't in the SEO world, but defining your approach is key to building success. At Inherent, we assist law firms and many others with services that provide in-depth support for growing your presence and following online. Get started with a deeper look at what good SEO can do for your firm when you speak to us today.