Internet Marketing, SEM, SEO

Tip of the Week
This week we offer a helpful hint regarding Search Engine Optimization.
It's a known fact that search engines do not crawl or index graphics. However, you can still optimize the graphics on your website. Simply place an "ALT TAG", also knows as alterntaive text in the code behind the graphic. if you have ever scrolled over an image on a website and seen a text box appear with a description of the graphic, this would be an alt tag.

Other Helpful Hints

Search Engine Optimzation (SEO):

• Always place keywords in your hyperlinks (also known as hypertext). Avoid using the words "click here" when you can.
• Engines place more importance on bold, colored or increased font size text.
• Do not discount meta data. Engines still crawl it, so just make it a best practice.

• Conduct research to see what keywords your competitor ranks for and make sure you include those keywords in your campaign.
• Try to visit your ad campaigns daily to adjust your cost-per-clcik or ad copy, especially if certain keywords are underperforming.
• Google's AdWords program allows you to run ads locally. If you are a small business operating in a specific geogrpahic area, this can be very helpful.

• Form focus groups from your existing client base. Use them to conduct surveys and usability studies. This will provide ongoing insight into the needs of your customers.
• Offer all focus group particpants something in exchange for their time (i.e. a gift certificate, movie tickets, etc...).
• Remember the Golden Rule: A website must always be built with the user in mind. If it is not easy to use or understand, you might as well not have a website.

• A purchased list can generate results, but a homegrwon customer list usually will perform better.
• Make sure that all your e-mails, and the use of your clients data meets all CAN SPAM requirements.

• Prior to launching a digital ad campaign, conduct industry research to see what websites offer the best digital advertising options. Usually this will be in the form of banners on a website or within eNewsletters.
• Ask for the current year's media kit. Price usually can be negotiated, especially if you are purchasing multiple placements.
• Make sure the website provides how many visits it receives and other key analytical data before you enter an agreement.