"When Will I Be on Google?"

If you're looking at SEO or search engine marketing, then you no doubt have one ultimate goal: ranking at the top of Google, Bing and Yahoo. Having the No. 1 ranking for highly competitive keywords and phrases places your website far above your competitors, and when your website earns a No. 1 placement, you're almost certain to get the most traffic – and business – instead of your competition.

But, it's difficult to say when this will happen. If you're wondering, "When will I be on Google?" or when your website will rank at the top for a certain phrase, don't expect it to be an overnight thing. Companies who promise top rankings in a certain period are most likely looking at you as low-hanging fruit ripe for the picking. So, why can't predictions be made about search engine placements? There are several reasons:

Algorithms are always changing

Search engine algorithms are always changing to make for a better user experience. These are trade secrets, and techniques and strategies that may have worked six months ago might not today. And when a change happens (especially in Google's case), rankings can be affected.

Rankings are the results of effort

You've created a great website, and you're ready to roll. You let it go, waiting for things to happen. Three months later, they haven't, and you're getting frustrated. Understandable, but rankings don't happen just by creating a website. A great SEO campaign can get your site the rankings and traffic you desire. If you want your website to rank No. 1 for an extremely competitive term, know it will only happen after a great deal of effort.

New competition everyday

While you're waiting for your website to get to the top, so are your competitors. And the battle for rankings can be fierce, and if you don't have an Internet marketing tank on your side, then your website might be a forgotten casualty.

Have questions or a comment? Share your thoughts on the WebDrafter Facebook page or tweet us @webdrafter.

Questions to Ask Your SEO Company

Searching for an SEO company can be hard if you're not familiar with what search engine optimization and search engine marketing entail. So, it's important to make sure you're not losing business even before work begins underway.

Here are three questions you should ask SEO companies before you make your final choice:

"Do you have references and/or case studies?"

Any SEO company that exalts its abilities should be able to prove they can walk the walk and not just talk the talk. If you ask for references and case studies so you can see whether they know their stuff or are just blowing hot air, and you get nothing, then they are probably hiding something you'll want to give more consideration to the other contenders.

"How will it take until I see my site at the top of Google?"

We'll touch on this in more detail next week, but no one can or should guarantee you "No. 1 rankings." When you ask this question, you shouldn't receive a definite answer, and if you do, then it's highly advisable you look elsewhere.  

"Will I receive a report?"

If the company will also be administering search engine marketing campaigns, then you should receive from them a report of what was done on a monthly basis. They should be more than willing to answer affirmatively when you ask this question, and if they don't, then they're probably not as ethical as they're making themselves out to be.  

Is your SEO company reputable?

For every good SEO and Internet marketing company, there is another that seeks to do little more than take your money while not giving you the results and ROI you deserve. Sure, you might rank No. 1 for a keyphrase, but if no one is searching for it and therefore isn't generating traffic, are you really at the top or is your bottom line getting skimmed?

So, how do you know if your SEO provider is ripping you off? Here are three key signs you're not getting your money's worth:

You never hear from them

At WebDrafter.com, we touch base with our marketing clients on a monthly basis, so we can find out what's happening on their end, and vice versa. This way, we can learn about specials and products they wish to promote and feature, while getting news and tips about their respective industry.

Sadly, some companies never hear from their provider. And when this happens, their probably not seeing results either, which leads into the second sign …

You don't know what they're doing

If you're not receiving a report outlining what your SEO firm is doing to help your site's rankings and traffic, then your investment most likely isn't providing you with a return. Or, if you do receive a report, but don't understand what it all means, and get the runaround when you ask questions, you're probably getting ripped off. As a site owner, you need to know what is being done, as some tactics can hurt. Don't be afraid to call them up and demand answers. And if you can't get them, then it may be time to find another company.

You're guaranteed "No. 1 rankings on Google"

"We'll express submit your website to Google, Yahoo! and Bing!" You've probably seen a self-proclaimed SEO expert guarantee you this, while telling you they will be able to get your site ranked No. 1 on Google and "all other major search engines OVERNIGHT." There's just two problems:

1. There's no such thing as "express submission" when it comes to Google, Yahoo! and Bing.
2. No one can guarantee any sort of rankings.

If you've heard this from your SEO provider, you'll more than likely want to begin looking somewhere else.

Further reading from WebDrafter.com:

-          Avoiding Search Engine Fraud

-          Are You "Low Hanging Fruit" for SEO Fraud?

-          Search Engine Optimization Fraudsters

-          SEO Companies Are Stalking You

Can Pinterest Benefit Your Business?

Some social media usage has nothing to do with driving traffic to your own website; instead, it's about being more visible, being seen as an authority in your particular industry, and being helpful to those who don't quite understand your field the way you do. Not only are you doing a great thing by helping those who need help, you're also becoming someone they trust and might bring business to down the line.

When you come from this angle, and you're in an industry that works with the site's main premise, Pinterest is definitely an avenue to consider.

Pinterest is an online pinboard that puts a heavy emphasis on visuals. When a user "pins" something from a website, they're allowed to choose an image from that website to represent the content they're linking to. When you visit the profile of an established Pinterest user, you'll see a number of boards and an array of photos, each linking back to a website.

Take a step back and look at the kind of business you're in. Does it lend itself well to photos? If the answer is yes, ask yourself another question: will people be interested in what you're sharing?

This is the Pinterest account of Myrtle Beach, SC (the city). Myrtle Beach did a great job providing useful content that is also very visual. They have a board called, "Things to Do in Myrtle Beach," a board dedicated to hotels in Myrtle Beach, a board of favorite places/spaces, and a board highlighting the southern food that you're likely to find in Myrtle Beach. In a way, the Pinterest account is recreating the Myrtle Beach experience in photos, and convincing people that they should go without being pushy.

I can see Pinterest being useful for businesses like flower shops, travel agencies, Web design companies, clothing designers, landscaping companies, architects -- really, any business where visuals come into play, or can be utilized in an interesting way. And, as Pinterest continues to grow, I'm sure we'll see more companies jumping on board.

Website Redesign for The Wave Pizza Cafe

We're happy to unveil the new website design we recently completed for The Wave Pizza Cafe, located in Duck, NC. During the winter, the Outer Banks-based pizza shop remodeled its kitchen and added a few new beers to the menu; now it has a brand new website design to complete its makeover.

If you're ever in Duck, stop by for their weekday lunch special (2 slices and a drink for $5). If it's a Monday or a Tuesday, you won't beat The Wave's price on PBR cans ($1).

Thinking about a website makeover of your own? Visit WebDrafter.com today for a free Web design quote.

SEO: When to Listen To or Question Your SEO/SEM Provider

How do you know the SEO you paid for will help people find your website? Is your SEM company doing what needs to be done to get your website great search engine placements?

If you don't know the answers to these questions, you're not alone.

Search Engine Watch recently posted a great blog on when to listen to or question whoever is providing your SEO. Author Kristi Hines had a number of great points including:

"QUESTION When They Say They Can Guarantee You Results Within a Specific Timeframe.
 The only thing that can be guaranteed as far as placement within a search engine is an advertisement via Google AdWords or similar program.
 The goal of any search optimization efforts is to put a favorable influence on search engines to rank your website. If someone says they can guarantee you No. 1 ranking within 30 days, then they are either going to spam you to the top with short lived results or take your money and run."

A proper SEM campaign takes time. It's not something that happens overnight. As one commenter noted, it could take weeks, months or, in some cases, even years.

"LISTEN When They Say They Can’t Guarantee You Results
 It's probably not something anyone wants to hear when they sign a contract, but be sure to listen to those who are honest when they say they can’t guarantee you results. The world's top SEO may not be able to help you, especially if they have suggested you add link-worthy content or properly optimize your website and you’ve chosen to ignore them."

This is important because there are many companies out there who guarantee you will receive X amount of clicks in a certain timeframe. You'll receive the clicks, but it won't result in visitors using your products or services. At WebDrafter.com, you can trust we won't make you guarantees or promise you things we know aren't likely to happen.

As a small business owner or someone needing SEO and/or SEM for their website, the blog is worth taking a few minutes to read. Check it out by clicking here.

Website Design for Prescription Heating & Cooling

We recently completed this new website design for Prescription Heating & Cooling, a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) company based in the Twin Cities region of Minnesota.

Prescription focuses on services like HVAC installations and repairs, and provides a cost-effective maintenance plan to keep your systems running efficiently.

Check out the new Prescription Heating & Cooling website and keep them in mind for any heating or cooling-related services you may have in the future!

Wohlwend Concrete Website Design by WebDrafter.com

WebDrafter.com is happy to feature its recent website design for Wohlwend Concrete.

For years, Wohlwend Concrete has been dedicated to residential and commercial concrete and masonry work in the Twin Cities MN.

Visit www.wohlwendconcrete.com for more information on their residential and commercial services.

Looking for a new website design?  Visit www.webdrafter.com for a free estimate now!

All Source Website Redesign by WebDrafter.com

WebDrafter.com is proud to unveil the newly redesigned website for All Source Building Service and Supply Co.

For over a decade, All Source has been proud to serve businesses in the Twin Cities MN metro with professional, office cleaning and consumable supply services.

Visit www.allsourcemn.com today to request a free commercial cleaning estimate.

Make efforts toward getting a fresh web design by requesting a free estimate for website design at www.webdrafter.com.

Using Social Networks to Become More Visible

Marketing clients of WebDrafter.com benefit from a wide variety of services designed to drive traffic from search engines and other relevant websites. The more traffic you have coming to your website, the more chances you have to convert website visitors into paying customers. But your website is just one way for you to interact with potential customers.

Another service we've worked into the equation is social media management, which takes a less formal approach to telling people about the products or services you offer. We aim to increase your audience on networks like Facebook and Twitter, and provide answers to questions from potential customers who could one day bring you business.

We'll cover exactly what each network can do for your business in the future. Until then, know that there are multiple marketing and communications channels working around the clock for your business -- to increase brand recognition, increase traffic, and, ultimately, increase your bottom line.

Integrity Exteriors & Remodelers Inc. Website Redesign by WebDrafter.com

WebDrafter.com is happy to announce its recent website redesign of Integrity Exteriors & Remodelers Inc.

Integrity Exteriors & Remodelers is a company that cares and takes pride in its ability to guide homeowners through their remodeling project.  Replacement windows and doors, gutters and downspouts, commercial remodeling and residential remodeling are just a few of the services they have to offer.

Visit www.integrityexteriorsandremodeles.com to view all services available.

Looking for a fresh web design?  Visit www.webdrafter.com for a free web design estimate.

Ryan Roofing Website Redesign by WebDrafter.com

WebDrafter.com announces website redesign for Ryan Roofing.

Ryan Roofing specializes in roofing, siding of all types, replacement windows, gutters, as well as soffit and fascia in the Twin Cities MN area.

Visit www.ryanroofingco.com for a list of all services available from Ryan Roofing.

Make efforts towards getting a fresh web design by requesting a free quote for web design at www.webdrafter.com.

A Remodeled Website for Mathews Funeral Home

WebDrafter.com announces the redesign of the Mathews Funeral Home website.

Matthews Funeral Home is a full service funeral home offering funeral services tailored to your specific needs.  They offer a full line of funeral merchandise including quality caskets, burial vaults, burial garmets, cremation urns, cremation caskets, cremation vaults and associated products.

Visit www.mathewsfuneralhome.com for more information!

Want to better serve your clients and customers?  Visit www.webdrafter.com now to request a free estimate for web design.

The Galler Law Firm LLC Website Redesign by WebDrafter.com

WebDrafter.com is happy to announce the website redesign for The Galler Law Firm LLC.

Galler Law Firm, of Georgia, is there to help if you are in the middle of a financial crisis and thinking about filing bankruptcy.

For more information on Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 Bankruptcy, visit www.georgiabankruptcyattorney.net now.

Looking to better serve your clients or customers?  Visit www.webdrafter.com now to request a free web design quote.

BugStuff Ecommerce Web Design

WebDrafter.com is proud to announce the ecommerce web design for BugStuff.

BugStuff is a seller of quality VB Beetle parts.  Products include air cooled Volkswagen Bug engine, brakes, transmission and more.  Performance and restoration parts available.

Visit www.bugstuffonline.com to view all products offered.

Make efforts towards getting a fresh ecommerce web design by requesting a free web design quote at www.webdrafter.com.

Make SEO, SEM and SMM Easier to Understand

Talking about my job isn't always easy sometimes.

“So, what do you do?” I was asked the other day. “Oh, I do Internet marketing,” I responded. The conversation then went something like this:

“Oh, cool. Do you do SEO?”

“Yeah! You know about SEO?”

“It's where you get people to go to your website, right?”

“Well, kinda.”

The Internet marketing alphabet soup – SEO, SEM and the new SMM – can be understandably difficult to understand. Each piece interacts with the others, and the process doesn't work unless all three pieces run smoothly together. Without a properly optimized (SEO) website, you can't get search engines (SEM) to find it and without that, people won't discuss (SMM) it on Facebook or Twitter.

Here's how I tend to think about the three:

SEO = Smashing Every Obstacle

The basic premise behind search engine optimization is to get your site prepared to be found on search engines. Sounds easy enough, right? Depending on the product or service, you could be facing some hefty competition (obstacles) to people finding you. How do you break through these obstacles? Have your website optimized with great content and the right keywords. Your SEO is sure to be an optimization masterpiece and an obstacle smasher.

SEM = Sending Everyone to Me

SEO is merely the first step. The second part is to get the word out with some search engine marketing. This should be all about getting your message out there, telling your audience about the products and services you have to offer. In doing this, it's all about getting traffic to your website, as more traffic leads usually to more sales. And you do this with great SEM that is all about sending everyone to you.

SMM = Social Means More

I've had many tell me, “I have a Facebook/Twitter account, but I have nothing interesting to say, so I don't use it.” They're missing on the monetary rewards associated with great social media marketing. Having an account is only one part: using it reaps the rewards. Your fans and followers might be discussing you, so why not jump in? The more engaging you are, the better the chance you'll have at turning those fans into repeat buyers.

A Remodel for TitusContracting.com

Twin Cities commercial construction contractor Titus Contracting excels in commercial remodeling and renovation. They wanted the same for their website, so the WebDrafter.com team got to work. With some careful finesse, we gave www.TitusContracting.com a new look, built on WordPress.

Check it out and let us know what you think. And be sure to visit www.TitusContracting.com.

The Ins and Outs of QR Codes

You’ve probably seen them on business cards, flyers and other promotional materials. They are often referred to as “bar codes,” and many folks have no idea how to use them, while others whip out their smartphone whenever they see one. As QR Codes become more popular, however, you’re sure to see more people getting out the smartphone to scan them.

Quick Response

QR is an acronym for “Quick Response.” The quick response comes from the code being scanned and the object – a link, picture, information, etc. – being given to the scanner in short time.

Quick Access

Many companies who WebDrafter.com has worked with have used the codes on business cards, advertisements, flyers and other printed materials to give quick access to their websites. As smartphones are becoming more prevalent, many business owners have recognized the popularity and marketing possibilities associated with them. The QR Code is just one of these.

Quick Usage

In order to scan a QR Code, you need a smartphone with a camera and a QR Reader. There are different applications available for the various kinds of smartphones available. Some of the more popular free ones include (click the app name to go to a page to download it):

• iPhone: QR Reader, NeoReader and Semacode
• Android: QR Droid, BeeTagg and EggMon
• BlackBerry: QR Code Scanner, Code Muncher and QRem
• Windows Phone: i-nigma and UpCode

Upon downloading it, install the application onto your phone. Many have a button that can be clicked to scan the code. Give it a try on the QR Code at left, and get scanning!

Border Buddie Website Design

WebDrafter.com is proud to unveil the newly redesigned website for Border Buddie.

Border Buddie is “the ultimate wallpaper border hanging tool,” and can help users to hang wallpaper borders by themselves.

Visit www.BorderBuddie.com to check out the site and to view the product. 

Don't Let Your Internet Marketing Fail ...

From Mashable.com

The death of British songstress Amy Winehouse was a stark reminder of the dangers of drugs and alcohol, but also reminded Internet marketing gurus why death is not a good marketing ploy.

Microsoft and Apple came recently under heavy fire for, as critics accused them, using Winehouse’s death to encourage the purchase of her albums on the Zune and iTunes services. Both companies offered an apology for their “tacky” tweets and advertising efforts.

So, it’s never a good idea to use any celebrity’s death for marketing a product. What else shouldn’t you have used in your Internet marketing efforts? Here are three things that are sure to set back any campaign, and that WebDrafter.com will never do:

1. Lack of research

When your SEM company launched your campaign, did they ask for your input about keyword research (i.e. what people are/you want people to find you under on Google, Yahoo, Bing, etc.)? Or did they just decide the list on their own?

When it comes to search engine prominence, you should be asked for what words you wish to rank under. There should be a dialogue between you and your SEO company about what keywords are likely to best serve you, and which aren’t. If you were kept out of the loop, this is an indicator the company didn’t put much effort into researching the keywords and what is being targeted will probably not result in the best ROI.

2. Sending unsolicited e-mail

Everyone hates spam. Blog spam, forum spam, e-mail spam, Facebook spam, etc. It’s annoying, but most spam can be ignored. E-Mail spam, however, is a little different. Even though most e-mail providers (GMail, Hotmail, etc.) have great spam protocols in place, unsolicited mail will every so often make its way into our inbox.

Spam will not gain you any customers. It will not increase your search engine results. It will not result in traffic to your website. It may, however, drive away business and cost you rankings. Offer persons a newsletter for which they can sign up, so those who are interested can receive it and you won’t pester those who don’t.

3. Deception

You should never lie to your customers. If you promise savings on a product, you better be willing to come through, lest you anger buyers and cause business to take a nosedive. Your clients will want to deal with a company that is forthright and honest. If you’re not going to be true to your word, then there’s no use for customers to deal with you.