43: Reasons Why SEO Sucks

Summary

In this podcast, Meredith's husband outlines the top five reasons why SEO can be frustrating for many website owners, including the prevalence of scammers, jargon overload, constant updates, lack of direct cause-and-effect, and the time commitment required. He also provides practical tips for overcoming these challenges, such as staying informed, using trusted sources, and remaining patient. These insights can help website owners better manage their SEO efforts and avoid common pitfalls.

Blog Post: The Top 5 Reasons SEO Feels Overwhelming and How to Overcome Them

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is a vital aspect of any online business, but for many, it can seem overwhelming. In a recent podcast, Meredith’s husband breaks down the top five reasons why people often feel frustrated by SEO and offers practical advice on how to manage these challenges effectively.

1. Scammers and False Promises

One of the biggest headaches in SEO is the sheer number of scammers and unsolicited emails. Many website owners are familiar with the messages: "Your website has issues, click here to fix them." These messages are often deceptive, and, as Meredith's husband points out, real SEO professionals don’t typically engage in cold outreach.

How to overcome it: If you receive unsolicited SEO advice or offers, it's best to ignore them. Always vet any SEO consultant or company carefully. Look for reputable firms with positive reviews or recommendations, and be wary of buzzwords or jargon meant to confuse you into thinking they are experts.

2. SEO Jargon and Complexity

SEO can feel like a foreign language with all its technical jargon. Terms like "meta descriptions," "backlinks," and "unmodified JavaScript" might leave you feeling lost. The complexity and lack of transparency in the field can make it even harder for people outside the industry to understand what’s necessary for success.

How to overcome it: Don’t be afraid to ask questions. A good SEO consultant should be able to explain everything in simple, clear language. If someone gives you advice, ask them to explain why it’s important. Clear communication is key, and everything in SEO has a logical, understandable reason behind it.

3. Constantly Changing Rules

Google updates its algorithms hundreds of times each year, which can make it difficult to keep up with what’s working and what’s outdated. SEO techniques that were effective three years ago might now harm your rankings. This constant change adds another layer of difficulty for those trying to manage their SEO.

How to overcome it: Stay up-to-date with trustworthy sources in the SEO world. Meredith’s husband recommends sites like Moz, Search Engine Land, SEMrush, and Ahrefs for reliable, current information. These resources provide up-to-date advice and will alert you to any significant changes in SEO best practices.

4. Lack of Immediate Results

Unlike paid advertising, SEO doesn’t offer instant results. You can’t optimize your title tags one day and expect a flood of traffic the next. SEO takes time to show progress, and this lack of immediate feedback can make it frustrating for business owners who are used to seeing direct cause-and-effect in their marketing efforts.

How to overcome it: The key is patience. Track your site’s organic traffic over time using tools like Google Analytics. While SEO improvements won’t yield immediate results, you’ll start to see a positive trend over weeks or months if your strategies are working. The goal is steady, long-term growth, not quick fixes.

5. SEO Takes Time

Lastly, SEO is a time-consuming process. It requires consistent effort and attention over the long term. Many business owners, particularly those who wear multiple hats, find it hard to dedicate the necessary time to optimize their site properly.

How to overcome it: Treat SEO as an investment in your business’s long-term success. Understand that while the results aren’t immediate, they will come if you stick with it. If time is a major issue, consider outsourcing SEO to a reputable consultant or agency that can manage it for you, freeing up your time for other business needs.

Resources

• Moz, Search Engine Land, SEMrush, and Ahrefs are recommended sources for reliable and current SEO information.

In summary, while SEO might seem daunting due to scammers, jargon, constant updates, the slow timeline for results, and the time investment required, there are ways to make it manageable. Stay informed, ask questions, and focus on long-term growth. By understanding these challenges and addressing them head-on, you can make SEO work for your website without the overwhelm.