..:: Beware of Devious SEO practices | Tips on appointing a SEO ::..

Some additional guidelines on what to watch out for in search engine optimization and tips when hiring a Search Engine Optimizer is outlined below.

If you try and deceive the search engines to obtain top rankings you can actually hurt your rankings and your website could be banned. Watch out for devious SEOs that will gladly accept your money and could do your website more harm than good.

	Avoid keyword spamming.
	Avoid hidden text and links.
	Avoid frames and content in Flash on your website
	Avoid cloaking or devious redirects to deceive search engines.
	Avoid multiple domains, sub-domain or pages with duplicate content.
	Avoid "doorway" pages and affiliate programs created for SEO only.
	Beware of SEOs that guarantee ranking for specific keyword phrases that no-one will type in and that you will get in any case.
	Some search engines other than Google combine pay-per-click with regular organic search results so beware of SEOs that promise high rankings and that achieved this with paid advertising.
	You should never have to link to the website of a SEO Consultant.

The hiring of a SEO is an important decision since you run the risk of your website being rejected and banned as mentioned before. A professional and experienced SEO consultant will increase the traffic to your website and be equipped to advise you on all aspects related to SEO and search engine marketing (SEM). If you consider hiring a SEO Consultant, then involve the SEO as early as possible in the website development process when you redesign or launch a new website. In this way you can ensure that your website is designed to be search engine-friendly from the start and do not require rework to achieve your SEO goals.

	How long the SEO has been in business.
	Ask for SEO qualifications/certifications and years of SEO experience.
	Ask for references/testimonials from SEO clients and results achieved.
	Establish SEO Consultant expertise by asking questions on the methodologies followed.
	Ask the SEO to explain exactly what they are going to do.
	Ask if SEO follows the Google Webmaster Guidelines.
	Ask what kind of results can be expected and in what timeframe.
	Ask what kind of ranking will be guaranteed. If the reply is in other than”none” then find someone else (remember, no one can guarantee #1 rankings).
	Establish the SEO Consultant’s experience in your industry and target audience.
	Ask about what feedback will be provided on a regular basis and mode of reporting.
	Establish what packages the SEO Consultant provides and how flexible the SEO is.
	Ask what addition online marketing services or advice is provided to complement your SEO.
	Research the SEO Consultant online.


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