If you haven’t it’s time to start thinking about it, if you have – how’s it going?
Google is at a defining point in time at present regarding the way it penalizes sites with paid links and the constantly shifting and evolving algorithm that handles the way it ranks and places web pages. Quite frankly, SERP’s are becoming a guessing game right now.
So, what precautions and measures have you put in place right now to ensure your site survives in the unlikely event of a Google penalty? Ranking highly and placing well today doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll always have the constant influx of traffic and money. What happens if the Google system flags your site, whether deserved or not for some form of spam?
So many people are trying to evade the system these days. It really is no surprise that on occasion Google lashes out with such merciless punishment. On one hand we’re pushing Google to return more accurate search results, to enhance their performance and give us better results. On the other some of us are pushing the morale boundaries to “get ahead” in the rat race.
What I’m saying is, the internet is a very big place. Google shouldn’t be your only stream of traffic. You should be out there, searching and implementing alternative traffic sources. Where else does this traffic flow from then?
Internet discussion forums are an excellent alternative traffic source. Find the biggest in your niche and be active. Don’t post one word answers in the hope of gaining a few signature clicks. Demonstrate your prowess, prove your expertise in your chosen field. People respond well to informative, knowledgeable posts. Give them a reason to click the link you cunningly placed in your signature.
Articles are a phenomenal traffic source. I know article writing is long winded and often boring but it works. Articles are a great way to show what you know, a way to emphasise your points and show your personality to the reader.
Be honest with your readers. This applies with forums, blogs, emails and articles. Don’t pretend to be someone else, people will see right through the masquerade. It’s a safer bet to tell them what you think, they’ll warm to you nicely and guess what? Your traffic will increase.
Seek Assistance. There’s no shame in accepting you need help. When my car won’t start I call roadside assistance, the same should apply to the internet. When a problem arises that you’re unsure of speak to someone with experience. Oftentimes this leads to a prolonged conversation and an exchange of useful information, information you can usually apply to gain links.
Befriend your clients. A word and a smile means a lot in business. The exact same thing applies with online business. Your clients have an extensive network of associates, so performing well for them will increase referrals. They’ll be happy to pass on their dealing with you.
Google is an amazing utility for generating traffic, however it isn’t the only source. Human relations and good interactions are what make the difference. Treating the people you encounter with kindness and respect will tip the balance in your favour. It’s these kind of social interactions that’ll open the traffic flood gates and see your stats soaring like you never thought possible.
