Wingnut SEO

You need to know how to set realistic expectations for the results you will see from SEO efforts. Nothing phenomenal can happen overnight so it is important to understand the risks and rewards of SEO. Knowing what to expect can help you become more comfortable with the process.

-SEO Schedule:
If you want to optimize your Web site effectively, you will need to understand how long the process can take. Depending on your keywords, web site focus, and other factors, it can take anywhere from a few months to more than a year to start seeing solid rankings and targeted traffic. This doesn’t mean your efforts won’t be rewarded; if you have competitive keywords or a lot of competitors in the same field, you’ll need to be patient while your SEO efforts work their magic. The timeframe from SEO success will also depend on how long it takes to research keywords and examine your Web site to determine what needs to be done for optimization.

-Getting Involved in Your SEO:
Although you have hired someone for your SEO, you should not feel that your participation is not required. As the client, you will be expected to communicate your goals and needs when your site is being optimized. You may be asked to provide information about your business, give past Web statistics, and other information that we can use to better optimize your site. You should also keep track of the SEO process so you can ask questions or get more information on what is happening with your site.

-Getting SEO Results:
Some SEO firms offer guarantees that promise to get your site ranked on the first page or two of the search engine results. No reputable firm should guarantee number one placement because there are too many variables in place. The search engine rankings constantly change because of new algorithms, changes to the way the search engines look for information, and changes in your competitors’ Web sites.

-SEO Overview
Understanding how to set realistic expectations for your SEO efforts will help you to remain in control of the SEO process and continue your efforts even if you do not see immediate results. This can help you to persevere through the initial stages of optimization and continue your efforts until you see real SEO success.

(I did not write this, it is compiled from several different sources that I cannot remember the links for - I have used this for 3 years as a handout for my clients.)