Tampa Website Design, SEO and H1Tags

H1, H2, H3, Can Someone Please Just Tell Me?

If you're a Tampa or Florida business owner, and you're attempting to maintain your own website and SEO or Internet marketing, you might be thinking that optimization according to Google's standards, seems a little like junk science. You may no sooner tackle one of their recommendations for best practices on web design and SEO, only to realize that it may not apply anymore. Many of our clients have tried the DIY approach to search engine optimization. They've come to us nearly pulling their hair out, frustrated and completely miffed wondering "What just happened?"

 
Well, the fact is---those are the facts. With the SERPs, what is true one day, may not be so true the next. It's like butter vs. margarine, coffee vs. no caffeine and well, yes, drinking vs. having he occasional drink. One client recently said, " I wrote the H1 tags, wrote them all month long, all the way up to H6 on most of my pages. I looked at my analytics a month later and the pages without the tags are ranking better and the "tagged" pages are doing worse. What do these people want? Can someone please just tell me?"

I had to chuckle because those of us in the SEO industry face the same challenges. We don't make up the rules. We are constantly learning, questioning, experimenting and most of us secretly feel that in fact, SEO can be a bit like voodoo science. We abide by the current set of recommendations set forth by Google and other engines, and often times use a combination of tried and true search engine optimization techniques that may be a combination of what Google says, and what works on Google.

Now about those H1 tags.
If you're unfamiliar with what an H1 tag is, simply put, H1, H2, H3 through H6 were used in early programming of HTML. These tags were created as a way to designate web page

headlines and subsequent sub headlines and sections of a web page. H1 tags are still in use today and some consider their use as one of the ranking factors used by Google. But what does Google say about H1 tags?
 
"Use heading tags where it makes sense. Too many heading tags on a page can make it hard for users to scan the content and determine where one topic ends and another begins. Avoid excessively using heading tags throughout the page putting all of the page's text into a heading tag using heading tags only for styling text and not presenting structure.They also advise against excessively using heading tags throughout the page, putting all of the page's text into a heading tag, and using heading tags only for styling text and not presenting structure."  That's it.

Now, given what Google has listed as Optimization best practices regarding the use of H1 tags, all you have to do is do an Internet search on the use of H1 tags and you're right back to the butter vs. margarine debate. Some will say that unlike the title tag, including keywords in your H1 will not improve your rankings in the SERPs any more than placing keyword anywhere high up in the code will. That being said, including a keyword in your H1 is great for usability. Some have found it will increase conversions. Others are overzealous H1 taggers, who believe that their use is a must, spending hours writing and rewriting them, all the way to H6.

I'm somewhere in the middle on the subject believing that H1's are mainly good for communicating the organization of your page to screen readers, which are used by the vision-impaired to browse the web. Now given that, they must be considered by the SERP's and their best practices when ranking sites. But where is the cold hard proof that they absolutely help you rank higher? I'll be honest. We use them on a few of our main pages, but we also have noted that often times, the pages that do not include H1 tags often have a higher page rank. So, who knows really the truth behind the use of H1 tags and their positive or negative effect on ranking? If Google came to me tomorrow and told me that something was a definite must, a a "do or die"  for improved SEO, I might respond with, "Sure, but will it be a must next week and be applicable to every single website we maintain and market."
Every website is different...
Different industries, topics, content, purpose, users and competition. Every site is different and often requires very different SEO strategies. For two decades we've been providing search engine optimization for Tampa and Florida clients. Truth be told, I have to say that what often works for one, may not work the same for others even when we've followed the same protocol and recommendations. So, maybe SEO is junk science, voodoo science and much like the butter vs. margarine debate. (Which won anyway?) SEO is challenging and taking a DIY approach can be rewarding but most small business owners just don't have the time to keep up with it. Running a business and learning everything there is to know about SEO and web design while keeping abreast with the ever-changing environment of the SEO industry is impossible. If  you are a small biz owner in Tampa, Florida and you're struggling with your SEO but wish to stay involved, give us a call.

We'll work together with you to help you to weed through all of the well intentioned good advice online about SEO and actually help you go forward with the methodical process of ensuring your site is properly and professionally optimized. We will review and analyze your site, then write your H1 tags for you if necessary, review and rewrite your titles and descriptions, check your content and website for good health, good structure, relevance and linking and more.
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For more information about H1 tags and Tampa search engine optimization

To DIY or Not to DIY - Florida Businesses Consider Website Design Options

 

I read a post recently from a professional Tampa Florida website designer, that included a statement that read, " I design websites powered by WordPress for a living and it happens to me, too! ... If you can't fix your site, hit up the DIY themes forums or find out how to get help with your site on Twitter.

This pretty much sums up the problems that small business owners face who have decided to take the DIY approach to designing and maintaining their websites. But it's not just WordPress--- It's the many, many different DIY website design options from Godaddy's $1 websites to Joomla's CMS to the free Google websites. 

HOWEVER.....If a Florida small business owner has the time, patience and ability to learn how to design a website using these services then it can be done. Keep in mind that they still must learn how to optimize their sites. But realistically, most Tampa and Florida business owners who need a website, neither have the time, knowledge or patience to really get the type of website they need to run their business efficiently and effectively on a long term basis.

Here are some true stories that support our position that small businesses should always choose a custom website design, even if it only six or seven pages.

A client came to us who had purchased a free website template and hosting, both from separate companies. After painstakingly following directions, he was able to load and launch the site but was never able to add even the simplest features or functions that it was supposed to be able to accommodate. I took a quick look and I was mortified thinking, I am a professional website designer and yes, I would be able to make some adjustments to the template but it would take quite a bit of time... My question was, how in the world was this client expected to know how to do the same? This client ended up going with an all custom designed website and spent about $300 more than what he paid for the templates to begin with. In addition to a custom site, he got a good start on his Internet marketing which included copy writing for keyword rich and relevant content, site submission and set up of his analytics and webmaster account.

Another client came to us who had successfully designed a website for their Tampa law practice. The site was a Wordpress site that a friend had helped out but no longer had time. For having no knowledge of web design she did a great job but just could not maintain the website the way it needed to be maintained. Her ranking was poor, about page 12 so she needed SEO services as well. We designed a smaller custom website, using it as a feeder site for information and link building, and tweaked up her Wordpress site a bit. Without that feeder site however, it never would have ranked to page one as quickly... which was about two weeks after we provided the custom designed site.
Websites tonight or today.... Another case of a hosting company who offers the templates that are DIY. There's virtually no wriggle room for creativity and what clients don't understand is that templates are very difficult if not impossible to change. If the code is bad, it's bad and there is no way around changing it if the company doesn't allow for it. You'll spend more time and money either paying a developer to help you, or you'll wake up one day wondering how you inadvertently made a career change!

Custom websites should not be expensive. When people hear "custom web design" they immediately believe that it's going to cost a fortune and that couldn't (or shouldn't) be farther from the truth. Their are still Florida website design firms or website designers who are ethical and aren't afraid of hard work. The purpose of these template or theme driven services is to give a million people a few template options and simply reproduce the same basics for everyone. Sometimes these services are inexpensive, sometimes not but if you consider a custom website design and really do your research, you'll find it's the best option. They rank better, look better, act better and are uniqe to your brand which is so important and you deserve more than a template or theme that anyone can use.

BUT WHAT ABOUT MAINTAINING A CUSTOM WEBSITE DESIGN?
The truth is, is that most people want the option to update their websites but neither should they be doing it or want to do it. But they want to know they have some control and many assume it's too costly to have a web design firm maintain their site for them. There are many ways to accommodate a client who decides to go custom vs. DIY. Alternatively, we can help you out with your DIY website because the bottom line is, we're here to accommodate your needs. We've taught many clients who weren't sure they would want to perform their own updates how to make simple changes-- and some have learned even the more difficult tasks. An ethical web designer won't have a problem instructing their clients if they are willing to learn. There's always room for both the website owner and the web designer to work together, which really yields the best results.

What's your story about the DIY approach to website design? We'd love to hear about the ease in which you were able to design and launch your website, your ability to add or remove features and if your website templates,themes or "free or low cost" website services have accommodated your companies' overall growth.

For more information about our custom website design services for your Tampa or Florida business, please visit us online at http://www.websitestampabay.com/custom-web-design-Tampa-Florida.html.

Is Your Tampa Graphic & Web Designer Asking the Right Questions?

Asking your Tampa website designer the right questions prior to launching your website is crucial, but in turn, your Florida website designer or graphic design firm should be asking questions that will enhance and expedite your logo design or website design project.

Communication is the key to success in any relationship, including one you have with your clients. Many Tampa logo designers or web designers aren't asking the appropriate questions and that's wasting time and money and can lend unfavorable results. Listening to what your client needs, often times depends on asking the right questions. Don't depend on your client to thoroughly understand the logo design or web design process. Many clients will have a general idea on what they want, but it's up to the designer to help the client understand the importance of the finer details of their project.

Logo design can be simple or complex, finding a logo designer in Tampa, Florida is easy, but be sure you choose carefully, and look for one that asks plenty of questions, and who has great listening skills. These are just as important as the artistic and graphic design ability and skill.

Same goes for website designers in Tampa. Florida website design firms come at a dime a dozen with varying skill sets so find one who can accommodate your project, who will engage you in your web design project, one question at a time. Read more about choosing a website designer in Tampa, Florida.

Choosing a Website Design Firm in Tampa-I don't know how they do it

I don't now how "they do it."

I've been thinking about the choices and options small business owners have when it comes to website design firm in Tampa, Florida. Although we have always put ourselves in our clients' or a prospective client's shoes, it is clear that Florida business owners must frequently get overwhelmed with the process of finding a Tampa, Florida website designer. 


When we asked our current clients what they looked for in a Florida web design company, they all agreed that they wanted their website design firm to be local to the Tampa bay area. Some of our Florida clients, such as our Vero Beach Homebuilder who needed a custom website design knew what they needed. Creativity, affordability, and a Florida based designer. Sure, we clients from outside of Florida, but for the most part, everyone agrees.... They want their website designer to be local to Tampa Bay.

Choosing a web designer should be easy, right?

Finding a website designer in Tampa Bay is almost like going through the process of choosing a Realtor ...(smile) And, much like when I'm looking for a Realtor those who are looking for web design services in Tampa must get a bit overwhelmed. Aren't they basically all the same? In short, there are too many choices, too many fluctuations, too many options yet not enough options. The truth is, most small business owners simply do not know what they should look for in a Florida website design firm.

We've been told that most will narrow their choices down by a few criteria to begin with, beginning with affordability. When asked, some of our customers who interviewed multiple Tampa bay web designers prior to choosing us, told us how frustrating it was to call a company, to have to go through the pitch, get somewhat excited.... then realize that their six page small business website was going to cost $12,000. Really? We followed up with our own inquiries and sure enough, we found that many of the top website design firms in Tampa don't care if you need a one page or fifty page website' design....the cost is the same. And the real issue we had with these firms and something our customer didn't realize is that the websites they offered were mostly template driven. Sure, there were some slight differences, like repositioning a logo, column, color scheme, etc., but , for the most part the websites seemed fairly "cookie cutter" and although functional, they seemed "flat."

So many options, but what options do I need? That's what most clients don't even know. Now some of our clients are extremely knowledgeable and we love that. They have a good idea of what they want, what to look for and what to avoid.

There are really just a few things a client needs to consider before hiring a website designer in Tampa or Florida.

Cost of website design - You need to be realistic about your budget. Don't jump on the $10,000 website because you think you have to. You'll have nothing left to maintain it. Yes, we've seen it happen. Given that, if you think you are going to get results from a website template and hosting that you pay $3.33 a month for, or that a free website is going to function the way you need it to it won't. Consider and include future optimization and ranking, which without that, you might as well not have a website. these sites usually do not rank well at all. Also, build into your cost website updates and search engine optimization. You will need these services so price it out. This is a good time to discuss with your web designer how long they've been in business. Longevity of your website design firm matters if you are going to use their services in the future.

Features - Clients must figure out what they want their website to look like and what functions will be needed. Look at the present time and then consider
what you may want or need in the future. Do you need a basic but custom website design package with only six to twelve pages or more? Do you want your visitors to pay using PayPal or other merchant services? Do you need these functions now, or will you consider adding these features on later? Do you want a DIY website with templates and themes? Do you know how to add the appropriate code, CSS and plugins that are almost always needed to get these sites up and running? These are questions you need to answer. Do you want a custom website design but you are afraid you cannot afford it? Keep looking, custom web design should not be expensive and we've been offering affordable custom web design and internet marketing services in Tampa and Florida for over a decade. They do exist.

Tampa, Florida Website Maintenance, SEO, Updates - This is actually one of the most crucial services that you need to consider when hiring a web design firm.  Ask for specific and clearly defined pricing on how your site updates will be charged and handled, and also ask how search engine optimization is handled and priced out. Do this before you hire a Tampa, Florida website design firm. You may be able to get an awesome site developed but how much will it cost to maintain and are you considering a DIY approach to updates?

Be honest with yourself. Many clients say they want full control, access and want to make their own changes on their websites. What they usually mean, is that they want access to their website, the content, domain, hosting, etc.. It's more of a "trust" issue (and for good reason) then an actual desire to maintain their own site! Most of our clients do not wish to update their own sites and when we tell them the cost of our website maintenance and update service, they are pleasantly surprised and relieved to know that this service is affordable. Yet, they still want to know the option to make those updates is available. All clients are unique. We don't give just one option, we are flexible and clients should look for that type of flexibility. From updating a site that's been built in WordPress, Joomla or Expression Web, PHP, HTML, CSS  and other formats and languages to accommodating unique web services, we can help. Look for that flexibility with any Tampa, Florida web designer you're considering. Be specific, detailed and get the pricing beforehand.

Custom Web Design vs. Templates -  Templates, themes, plugins, scripts to find, coding to change, CSS to struggle with..."OMG" is the general three letter acronym for how our clients who have had to struggle with these issues feel. With little time or knowledge needed to make certain web updates, small business owners can become very frustrated. This is where web designers in Tampa Bay or Florida who push these types of "websites" make their money. With the fixes, updates and return business it requires to stay on top of the marketing challenges that these sites may present, it may be more expensive to take the DIY approach in the long run.

For information or if you need help in finding a website design firm in Tampa, Florida call us today or visit our website, www.websitestampabay.com.

h1 tags - Are they better for SEO.

Want to learn more about search engine optimization, visit our SEO learning center.

Web Design Tampa - Referrals & Internet Searches

Web design is a top priority with Tampa, Florida business owners and with so many options, it's often difficult when it comes down to hiring a Tampa web designer or web design firm.

We've talked in detail about how to go about hiring a web design firm in Tampa, Florida, suggesting that you should always "keep it local." Having pointed out that many Tampa web design firms are outsourcing their design and SEO clients to firms abroad to reduce their own costs and how for the most part, those reduce costs do not always find their way to the consumer's wallet. Even if it were less expensive to hire a web design firm in Tampa who outsources, there are many other reasons why choosing a local Tampa web design firm is crucial to the future of your business.

So how should you go about finding a reliable, affordable web design firm in Tampa?

Referrals - Ask someone in your network of professionals who developed and maintains their website. Now another person's web developer may not always offer the best options for your business but it's a start. If a Tampa web design firm is given a great review by someone you know and trust and you can establish that they are in fact in it for the long haul--- then ask for a quote.

Internet Search - Finding a website design firm in Tampa online is the most popular and probable route most small business owners will take when they need to hire a web designer. Using a variety of search terms, they'll likely choose a few to call for information. This brings me to an important point:

Are small business owners asking the right questions of their prospective Tampa web designers?
Because most people don't truly know about the web design process, it is hard for them to even conjure up the appropriate questions to ask. Normally, people get to the point of pricing fairly quickly and even ask about how they will update their websites. However, those questions that every web designer knows a client should be asking, often go unasked and unanswered unless your website design firm brings these matters up, but sadly, many do not. Find a web design firm in Tampa who asks questions, who seems genuinely interested in your project, and the future of your small business.

For information about how to choose a web design firm in Tampa, Florida, visit our website at http://www.websitestampabay.com for some tips. Feel free to reach out to us if you have any questions.

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Web Design, Tampa -  Much More Marketing Built In to Every Website

The Cost of Web Design & Updates for Tampa Florida Businesses

The cost of web design and website updates for Tampa and Florida businesses are vastly different from one web design firm to another. So how does a business owner decide which firm to hire?

Hiring a Florida web design firm based on cost alone is unwise, whether you choose the least or most expensive web firm. One might be inclined to believe that if they choose the Tampa web design firm with the most costly fees, they will get what they pay for and their project will go down without any glitches. Alternatively, some business owners might choose the least expensive option to save money, only to realize that they did in fact, get what they paid for. Doing your research and deciding on a web design firm in Tampa based on a variety of factors is always the best bet.

Here are some tips to finding a Tampa web design firm that will grow with your company--- After all, establishing a long term working relationship with your web designer will be beneficial to your bottom line.

1.) Before you call a web design firm in Tampa, make a list of questions you need answers to. All businesses are different, but need the same basic services to keep their business productive and competitive. Some of the questions might include:

• How long have you been in business in Tampa Bay? 
• Is your web design firm physically located in Tampa Bay?
• Are there professional graphic designers on staff if I need them?
• Will the website content be provided for my website or is content assistance available by a professional copywriter and content provider?
• Search Engine Optimization is the key to success on the search engines (Google). Will my website be thoroughly optimized prior to launching it or just just "designed?"
• Who will be developing my website. Who will be my contact person during and after the web development process?
• Will my website be custom designed?
•  How many pages are included in the website design?
• If I do not need "unlimited" pages, is their a price discount?
• Is this a Wordpress Site or Other Content Management Website? If so, are there other options? 
• After the website is developed, will I be able to update it myself? 
• What if I need you to provide website updates for my Tampa website? 
• How much will website updates cost and what is the process?
• Do I have to sign a contract for SEO or web update services or commit to a monthly services or can I get my website updates as needed?  
• Are search engine optimization services available, such as link building and social media services? How much does that cost and are the search engine optimization services done by your Tampa web design company?
• Will my web design or SEO (search engine optimization) services be outsourced to any web design firm in Florida or abroad?   
• What is the price for web design, web updates or SEO and do you offer a contract with a breakdown of services?    
•  How long will it take to build my website, from start to finish?    
•  Is hosting included or can you recommend a hosting company? (Remember, choosing web host is one of the most important things you will do. Again, using the cheapest hosting company will most likely result in disappointing search results and downtime can have devastating effects on your revenue.

These are just a few questions you should consider asking any web design firm in Florida. In addition to the questions above, you will want to add any specific questions or concerns to the list.

2.) Check out the reviews of the web design firm in Tampa, Florida. Do not however, rely solely on these reviews. Check with their clients if possible. We have found that often times, firms who have bad reviews actually change their company or website names and addresses to avoid being connected with poor reviews. You can always check on Sunbiz.org to check out the business and do a "who is" on Godaddy to find out who owns their company website. Use this information to do a thorough search on the web design firm.

3.) Finally, we believe that customer service is one of the most important aspects of any business relationship. No business is perfect, and things can happen but if you use a Tampa web design firm that takes pride in customer service, it is half the battle. Ask how long it takes to get a response via email or telephone and inquire as to what hours your web developer will be available to speak with you. Often times, entrepreneurs and business owners do not have time during their busy day to deal with their website matters, and after hour meetings are needed.

4.) It is imperative that you also communicate all of your needs to your website developer. Even if you believe that mentioning particular elements you want or need may cost you more, you must communicate every want and need to ensure the best results and proper, accurate pricing. You cannot be upset if you neglect to mention a key element that you want for your website, and the website design firm charges more for that element. If your web designer will have to find stock images for your site, or will have to provide or rewrite the majority of your website content for you make sure you mention this. Being upfront and providing detailed information will set the tone for a great and long lasting business relationship between you and your Tampa, Florida web design firm. If you need more information or a quote for services, please email us at info@websitestampabay.com or call us anytime at (813)778-9548. Visit our website at http://www.websitestampabay.com.

Suffering from SEO Fear? Tampa SEO Firm Can Help

 

Search engine optimization. It's a term that makes some Tampa, Florida business owners cringe. The mere mention of website marketing or SEO to Tampa business owners is most often met with fear and loathing! Now, if SEO is your niche and if you offer SEO services in Tampa, Florida you may not understand all of the fuss and fear others have over managing their search engine optimization or marketing for their company websites.

Tampa SEO and internet marketing service providers should have some empathy for the small business owner seeking search engine optimization services in Tampa, Florida. Potential clients often "freak out" when they are forced into dealing seriously with their company's website marketing plan and it's completely understandable. Can you imagine being a small business owner who cannot afford a full or part time in-house SEO specialist and either having to resort to a DIY approach to SEO or having to find an affordable, competent SEO firm in Tampa when they all seem to be incredibly costly?
It's a daunting situation to be in, especially if you have little or no understanding about the industry and how each SEO firm may differ.
For instance, some Florida SEO firms offer "old school" web marketing services, others SEM (search engine marketing) or social media management services only. There are Tampa SEO firms who partner with other SEO firms abroad to manage client accounts, and SEO freelancers who are fresh out of college who work from home who provide content and blogging services. How does a small business owner make an intelligent choice when they're already suffering from SEO fear?
Clients who are looking for SEO services in Tampa, Florida often come to us slightly resembling a deer that's been caught in the headlights of an oncoming car...and given the decisions they must make, we understand why. Many are suffering from sleep deprivation, some are completely confused by the process. Others have put forth their bests efforts attempting to manage and market their websites via DIY website marketing . Hence, we continue to rescue many a small business owner from having to burn the midnight oil---attempting to learn a new trade (i.e. SEO).
Up high, down low.. too slow---
Between trying to obtain high organic ranking by way of content management, social media, blogging, or link building, and managing other day to day operations, small business owners are simply taxed for time. SEO tasks are time sensitive and a rigid, solid plan must be developed and implemented in a timely manner. If you're too slow in posting blogs, or updating content, too slow on building an audience on social media or slow on building back links from those sites--- any high ranking pages, will be pushed down low. To save money, some small business owners believe they can take a DIY approach to search engine optimization only to realize that although they can ultimately learn the SEO tactics that will get their site ranking, time is not and will never be on their side.

No Man or Business is an Island...
If you are to be successful, you must understand that no business is an Island. It's impossible to do and to be everything and create a successful outcome. There comes a time when one must ask for help and pass on some or even all of their search engine optimization over to a Tampa SEO firm or freelancer.Working together with an experienced Florida search engine optimization firm who is flexible, can work within your budget, will free up your time and save you money can be the best move you've ever made. But you have to choose wisely and be prepared to do some research before you make that committment. Don't assume that all SEO firms in Tampa bay charge ridiculous fees to market your website...although we know of many from listening to our clients and by doing our research. Be sure to utilize a firm who has proven longevity, one who will be there for you even years from now. There are affordable search engine optimization services in Tampa who do understand the importance of adhering to budgets, and who are willing to develop an SEO strategy even for those on the most modest budgets. These SEO firms, like ours-- can show you how a small investment in your website marketing will be money wisely invested.

What are some of the main things you need to know about SEO?
For most businesses, a little marketing goes a long way.
It may not take as long or be as costly as you may think to improve your ranking.
Optimization done correctly, methodically, and in a timely manner will yield a higher ranking website.
Costly ad campaigns have no lasting value.
Don't pay high prices for SEO.

Don't let your site's ranking remain low.
Don't be too slow in managing and investing in your online marketing and SEO!

For detailed information about SEO and how to choose a Florida SEO firm, visit us online at http://www.websitestampabay.com.

Local Tampa SEO Firm, Keeping it Local

With so much outsourcing of local Tampa SEO (search engine optimization) services, it's hard to know if your Tampa SEO company is keeping your business "in-house" or if they're simply re-outsourcing your search engine optimization work to someone else. Most businesses will not or can't afford to employ staff to handle their SEO needs in-house. Although many of our current SEO clients have attempted a DIY approach to internet marketing, it usually never results in success. Consequently, most Tampa website owners hire SEO firms in Tampa to get their SEO done right. The problem is, is that many so called "local" Tampa SEO firms imply that they are SEO experts, when in fact, they are simply offering an "add on service" to their list of web specialties.

Many of our clients have brought this to our attention and it seems that there are numerous search engine marketing firms in Tampa who neither have the experience or the intentions of servicing you locally.

If you ask most people, consumers are developing the notion that it is cheaper to outsource. Whether it is search engine optimization services for your Tampa website, or your medical billing for your New York City practice, outsourcing is available in nearly every industry. If you ask those who have outsourced their SEO to companies abroad, they can tell you that in fact quality very often suffers at the hand of those who are laboring at outsourced rates. Personalized service surely suffers and if you aren't aware that your Tampa, Florida SEO firm is or has been actually outsourcing the service that you hired them specifically to do, you like many of my current clients may feel a bit violated. The problem in my oppinion begins with the inconsistancy of  SEO pricing from firm to firm. SEO firms in Tampa bay and nationwide were also hit with the greed bug and certainly this has played a major role in why many companies are outsourcing your web development and SEO business to offshore companies. Yes, it takes a great deal of knowledge and experience with search engine optimization and website marketing to acheive the appropriate ROI for our Tampa search engine optimization clients but what is that service actually worth? Unlike our offshore competitors, it is difficult to find companies and their staff who will work as hard for the same amount of money. Realistically, SEO firms can no longer sell SEO services at bloated prices and get away with it, so they have learned to outsource. But as with anything of value there must be balance. Those who are working for too low of a wage, offshore or stateside, will suffer burnout and even loyalty issues. Are they committed to your work or your success on a personalized level? What other forms of marketing can they offer your business and do they actually have marketing experience that includes all aspects of cross marketing to increase revenue? Fair pricing both for our clients and for us, makes our Florida SEO service a win-win situation. Offering a variety of marketing, cross marketing and SEO services that are kept local and personalized is what we've done best for over a decade in Tampa bay.

We've actually done some research. There are for certain search engine optimization firms in Tampa that are retaining only a portion of the search engine optimization jobs that they obtain. In other words, SEO incorporates many services that aid in your ranking and increased revenue. From copywriting to link building and social media marketing, search engine optimization incorporates many tasks that are necessary to the success and increased revenue that should be produced from your website presence. SEM, PPC management, and other search engine optimization services to improve organic ranking and social media presence all require methodical undertakings that must be completed and maintained. We've found that either all or some of these assingments are being outsourced by local Tampa SEO firms to offshore firms, often times without the expressed permission of their clients.

When clients want the benefits of using a search engine optimization company in Tampa, or local to wherever their business market is, they have their reasons. Customer service, confidentiality and the ability to meet with the company that they hired to for their Tampa SEO firm is as important as finding affordable Tampa SEO services. Bay Area Graphics & Marketing never has or will outsource your search engine optimization services, and we offer affordable SEO and require no contracts. Experience the difference of our Tampa SEO firm. We're keeping it local and keeping it cost effective. The bottom line is that we don't have to outsource your SEO, Web Development or any other service to accomplish our goals or yours. Keep it local Tampa Bay and be sure to insist that your SEO firm in Tampa is doing the same.

Tampa Florida Search Engine Optimization Options & Advice

SEO or "search engine optimization" is a fairly well defined service and most Florida business owners understand at least the basics of SEO.  Deciding to hire a Tampa SEO or Florida search engine optimization firm is a big decision. Hiring the right company who offers the search engine optimization and marketing services for your Florida business that will  improve your business website will save you time and money. SEO simply put and properly done will over time, increase your revenue. Efforts to enhance your Florida website's ranking will pay off  but, if done improperly, you can certainly risk damage to your website and your business reputation including but not limited to your ranking.

Understanding the potential advantages, disadvantages of SEO services as well as the difference in SEO and SEM services for your Florida business, is crucial. Many Tampa Search Engine Optimization firms should be able to provide you with a good understanding of how they will develop or market your Florida website and should include some of these services to help you gain good organic ranking for your website.

• Review your website's content  and offer high quality content management and copywriting services for your Tampa, Florida website.
• Review the structure of your website and make improvements to boost ranking
• Provide you with recommendations regarding hosting issues, which can include necessary redirects, incorrect redirects or errors and back-end issues
• Provide you with analytic reporting and also be willing to provide you with physical keyword searches, which are very important
• services
• Provide you with blogging services, help you with directory and social media back links and listings, as well as ongoing support and service for these services.
• Manage and reduce or even eliminate costly online campaigns through SEO services that concentrate on building organic placement.
• Keyword research
• SEO training for owners -Some of our clients are very proactive in website marketing and SEO. Be advised that there are things that an owner can do that can damage your reputation. Ask an SEO expert before you jump in! Make sure your Tampa search engine optmization service will work together with you, should you wish to be involved.
• Demonstrate experience in SEO for Florida markets and geographical locations.
  
  Differences in SEO Services
  Keep in mind that the Google search results page includes organic search results as well as paid ads and inclusions. Although Google states that adertising on Google won't affect your ranking, or presence. "Advertising with Google won't have any effect on your site's presence in our search results." Even Google will tell you that it is preferable and should be a business owner's goal, to obtain good organic ranking.  
• Many SEO firms in Tampa bay, offer SEO services but really, they are setting up services for SEM such as PPC ads and other ad campaigns. Some are hardly proficient at producing organic ranking or using the recommendations that Google sets forth. Check to see if your SEO company has a "paid ad." If they do, you may want to ask yourself how they're organic ranking is. If they can't rank their own website, will they be able to rank yours? Although it is an owners choice to run ads or not, it is always preferable and in the long run less costly, to avoid them if at all possible. Save that money for other cross marketing campaigns for your Florida business.
• Other SEO firms, approach website marketing in a purely organic way, meaning, they are following Google's recommendations to a "T" and although it may seem time consuming, the lasting results on your organic ranking is priceless. Once established on the engines, depending on your industry and geographics, many companies can get SEO services on the fly, when needed, or proactively market their website with monthly SEO services such as blogging, link building, content management, and social media integration.
  

PSA - NO ONE CAN GUARANTEE PAGE ONE ON GOOGLE, ACCORDING TO GOOGLE.
Google also advises:SEO Services to Avoid ( Not a comprehensive list )
Source: Google Webmaster Support

There are a few warning signs that you may be dealing with a rogue SEO. It's far from a comprehensive list, so if you have any doubts, you should trust your instincts. By all means, feel free to walk away if the SEO:

• owns shadow domains
• puts links to their other clients on doorway pages
• offers to sell keywords in the address bar
• doesn't distinguish between actual search results and ads that appear on search results pages
• guarantees ranking, but only on obscure, long keyword phrases you would get anyway
• operates with multiple aliases or falsified WHOIS info
• gets traffic from "fake" search engines, spyware, or scumware
• has had domains removed from Google's index or is not itself listed in Google

Source:http://www.google.com

SEO "NO-NO's" Retaining Your Website Domain

I'm a business owner who cares very much for the success of my clients. For over a decade, my niche has been helping small business owners in the Tampa bay area develop market and increase their revenue on the web. Affordable pricing for web design and search engine optimization services for my Tampa area clients is coupled with quality work and personalized customer service. Let's face it; everyone is extremely budget conscious these days, but in particular, small businesses cannot afford waste. Each marketing dollar must be put to good use and have lasting effects.

The minute you build a website, whether or not you are aggressively optimizing (marketing) it or not, you will eventually establish a position on the search engines and your domain will be associated with your associated keywords. Maybe you have worked on marketing your website, or perhaps you have a Tampa area search engine optimization firm building your back links and social media presence, or like many, you've done a bit of both. Think about all the directories you've listed yourself in over the years, blogs that have referenced your site, people and businesses who have reviewed or referenced your site on their blogs, pages or directories and the results you have produced. Even if it's not high ranking, you're website is clearly indexed after a few years.

Taking that site (domain) down and building a new site, either because you no longer like it, or because some other designer, hungry for work and eager for a few bucks, has persuaded you to, is an SEO "NO." Often times designers who are concerned only about their own bottom line, have no problems running their businesses this way. They could do the right thing and suggest that you take the existing site and rebuild it, including in their quote the tasks that are needed to retain the integrity of your site-- But they know that this may be time consuming, forcing them to quote you properly, causing you to re-think your options. Often times, a designer will convince the owner of an existing website to build a new site because they don't know how to manage or make website updates their current site. Why? Not all designers speak the same language. Either way, this "hypothetical" designer is not looking out for the overall best interest of their client either due to lack of knowledge or lack of caring.

Perhaps you have convinced yourself there is a better way, or you think that you can save a few bucks to get an updated website, simply by choosing to purchase another domain and then by either opting for a DIY website template or hiring the cheapest web designer to build a new site for you. Again, I urge all new and nearly new business owners to get fully educated on how this will affect you and your business. If the revenue you may save becomes the same revenue you lose...plus some more, it will not have been worth the effort.

Maybe by posting this blog, I'll run the risk of sounding like a disgruntled service provider, but my intentions are to be more of a public service announcer. There is nothing I dislike more than another web design company in Tampa, Florida or freelancer to provide inaccurate advice to an unsuspecting, vulnerable client, in an effort to take their business. Further, allowing a client to let their old business website shut down or expire without telling them the truth about how this can affect their revenue, and doing so simply to make a few bucks while building a web portfolio, is very bad business. If a client of mine ever wishes to go on their way-- and I've had one or two over a decade do so, then I walk them through the correct process of shutting their site down. Fellow developers have asked me, "what if my client won't listen?" I tell them that you can rest knowing you did the right thing.

Shutting down an existing "seasoned" website without considering the effects of doing so is a bad idea on multiple levels. If you are still in business, and you wish to shut down your domain, move your domain, or create a new domain, ask a trusted source if it's a good idea. If that source does not provide you with information regarding how to handle your existing links, walk away. Don't be afraid to be up front with your current Florida website designer, or call other web developers to verify what needs to be done before you shut your site down.

The last thing you want is to have a bunch of dead links, going to an old site that makes you appear to be out of business. There are some fairly simple fixes, and there are also some time consuming and even costly tasks (depending on your site) that can be performed to ensure that this doesn't happen. Hiring someone to go back and fix year’s worth of bad or dead links to pages and subpages can get tedious and costly. If you insist on ditching your domain, and you are still operating the same business, do the work and don't be swayed just because you think the grass looks greener. There's an old saying, "Fast money goes fast." It will go fast for the designer who wants to make a quick buck and it will go fast when you lose business.

The truth is... nothing is free anymore. Look for a local Tampa, Florida search engine optimization and website design firm that can get you results with quality work, and who is reasonably affordable and honest. If you're tired of your designer, then take your content (everyone should have a copy of their own website that they paid for) keep your domain, and rebuild that website. Hire someone to do the necessary work to retain your status and make the changes that you desire before you let the old domain expire. If you insist on a new website for your business, and can afford to keep both, do so. Using both sites can increase revenue by enhancing your web presence.

For more information, visit us at http://www.websitestampabay.com