Is there any integrity left in Search Engine Optimization?

Search Engine Optimization has taken its toll on a lot of businesses, by so many companies trying to make a quick buck! But there is still hope ... and I'm here to tell you why and how to find a search engine optimizer with integrity.

Because every site requires optimization in order to achieve the rankings needed to be successful on the internet, many businesses have turned to the $24.95 per month programs because they sounded affordable. After months of searching their keyword phrase and not being found they stopped paying the fee and either started looking for alternatives or just give up all together.

Here are a few 'red flags' to be aware of when looking for a search engine optimizer:

• The only way to be successful is to completely rebuild your site
• You need to sign a minimum contract of 12 months
• We will submit you to hundreds of search engines and directories
• We guarantee your placement

But all of these sound very promising, why would they be considered 'red flags'?

• First of all, there is always a work around if your site design is not up to par. If the optimizer does not fully explain your options in detail then they are looking to increase their sale!
• Second, if they are good then you will see results and won't want to go to anyone else!
• Third, 98% of all submissions to search engines are considered SPAM. Why would you want to be submitted. The correct way to get into a search engine is to have them find you!
• Last, no one can guarantee placement. Even if you become #1 for a certain keyword phrase, the site that used to be there will find a way to get their placement back!

Find out exactly what they are going to do for you, and look for detail in their plan. Don't be afraid to ask questions, if the person you are interviewing is dodging your questions then move on. Pricing across the Internet varies greatly in this field from individuals charging $100/month to coach you for an hour to $3000 to review your site and tell you what you need them to do. And each has their place in the market, you have to decide what will work for you.

Emily Leach has opened a Search Engine Academy and teaches a 3-day intensive, hands-on search engine marketing workshop in New Mexico and Arizona