A Soapbox Moment: Black Hatters Beware
I’m still recovering from a great day at BarCamp Tampa on Sunday. It was an amazing event where I truly felt connected with the local tech and new media community. Awesome, awesome stuff!
There were some very lively discussions. Okay I admit, I participated in a rather heated debate with a guy in one session who challenged the presenter about original blog content. The challenger insisted that you could “buy” content and beat Google at its SEO game. *Sigh* another black hat tactic guy. I keep trying to convince myself that those guys aren’t still lurking about.
Bottom line, people: you can educate and inform your visitor or trick them. Which method will win you customers long term? You decide. Also, always remember: Google is a user too. Trick them and they’ll be onto you very soon. Those black hat SEO tactics will get you on a nice lonely black list, as well.
I’m off my soapbox…for the moment (okay, one foot is still on.)
Deana Goldasich
Deana Goldasich, CEO and founder of Well Planned Web, plans and implements Content Marketing to help clients nurture leads, market their expertise and create an impactful presence online.
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Clients who hire black-hat SEO services should also beware. Google can penalize or sandbox their site, significantly hurting their search engine ranking.
Exactly, Mike! My fear is that many clients won’t even *know* that their agency or SEO vendor is using black hat tactics. Many who use black hat tactics are GREAT at touting their “genius” services. If you’re a client trying to decide, look out for “get ranked overnight” promises. Quality SEO takes time and patience — but pays off in the end!
I like the inform and educate approach
Indeed, Art! It’s like the golden rule to online content. Treat your visitors as you wish to be treated and Google will reward you!