Ever since the internet began playing a major role in achieving revenue goals, search engine optimization (SEO) has been one of the most popular IT services in the world. Even those who know just a little bit about search engine marketing (SEM) can understand why: If the search engine results position (SERP) of a website is not near the top of the first page of search results, the website is less visible to search users, who typically focus on the top half of the page.
Choosing a Provider
Despite being such a popular IT service, SEO still remains one of the most misunderstood IT services in a technical sense. This is why so many Chicago-based companies prefer to outsource their SEO needs to a provider of IT consulting in Chicago instead of trying to do the job in house, especially when they don’t have a full-fledged IT department. If your company is in this position, you can use the following tips to help you choose an SEO provider.
Avoid Black Hat SEO Practices
Despite heavy penalties that search engines dole out to websites that use the practices, black hat SEO tactics remain popular due to the fast results the provider promises. There is no gimmick; the practices do deliver quick results, but sustaining the results in practically impossible, as search engines use algorithms that easily detect black hat SEO. Once detected, black hat practices can cause the website that uses them to be banned from the search engine.
Don’t Insist on Quick Results
Unlike paid search listings (e.g., pay-per-click ads) that quickly appear near the top of the page of search results in an ad box, high organic search listings are achieved over time using a myriad of website optimization strategies. As the strategies are applied and detected by search engines, the website gradually gains “authority” with the engines, which results in the site achieving a better SERP. In some cases, it may take six months or longer to get the best results.
Choose Ongoing SEO Services
Once your website achieves a great position in search results, the goal is to keep it in that position — an endeavor that requires ongoing support from an SEO provider, particularly concerning the development of new keywords (a.k.a. “search terms”) that customers use to search for products or services your company offers. Ultimately, ending your SEO campaign after best results are achieved will only result in having to perform the campaign again.
Contact Stratosphere Networks
Stratosphere Networks is a provider of IT consulting in Chicago that offers a broad range of IT solutions. We have years of experience in the SEO business, and we know what it takes to push a website to the top of search results and keep it there. To receive a free evaluation of your SEO needs, contact us today at (877) 950-1999, or fill out the contact form on our website. We are the provider of IT consulting in Chicago that you need on your side for SEO campaigns!
