When you first learn about search engine optimization, it’s easy to get caught up in all the new strategies and tactics you’re discovering. Finding out about different methods for attracting spiders and search engine robots can be exciting, especially for a new Internet marketing venture. However, it’s really important that you remember to be sparing in your SEO efforts. Too much of a good thing can actually be detrimental. What is known as “over optimization” can lead to a lower ranking on search engine results … the exact opposite of what you’re trying to accomplish.
As you probably already know, search engines such as Google and Yahoo implement programs that dispatch virtual creatures known as robots or spiders out to the Internet to gather information so that they can categorize and rank the millions of sites on the web. They then compile their findings so that they know where your site should appear in search results. Using proper headlines, keywords and anchors is integral in attracting the attention of the spiders and indicating what your sites topic and offerings are. Yet, if you overdo it, your efforts will backfire.
One thing to look out for is repetitive phrasing. Using the exact wording in your page title, H1 headline, sub-headlines and anchors can come across as spammy and send a signal to the robots that your site may not be valuable to viewers. Another common SEO-newbie mistake is creating too many cross-links. If every link on your website sends your visitor to another page on your site, the robots are going to catch on and most likely lower your rankings based on their findings.
The point is to make efforts at improving your search engine rankings without looking like you’re trying too hard. A site that comes across as standardized or obviously manipulated for optimization will have a negative effect on the spiders and will decrease your chances of being found via a web search. Definitely use SEO tactics; just be sure you find the proper balance.
