Web 2.0 is already here / coming…not fully implemented but we’re getting warmer. As a flexible SEO professional, it is becoming more apparent that old SEO methods…are that…OLD. We are coming into a new era where traditional media and their ability to push content volume will make them into a way more effective force to garnering the eyes of web audiences and capturing web search results.

How is this so?

Well if you do some of your normal searches on Google and other search engines you may start to notice results coming up that come from directory sites, MySpace.com, YouTube.com, local newspaper classifieds, Craigslist.org listings, and many more user organized and published data sites. Also, blog writings are commonly being found in search results and used as references to build relevant information to a topic.

Onsite Optimization…Where is it today?

Onsite optimization is still critical in getting your site listed on the major search engines but is more often becoming only the cornerstone to the project of SEO. Having onsite optimization alone, will not get you listed as frequently and efficiently as using an all-encompassing optimization method. Onsite optimization includes meta-tags, site maps, well organized information, linking paths on website similar to site map, and great funnels that bring your end-user to the conversion point of your site.

Other factors that will help critically in your site optimization process beyond current onsite techniques include listing on various human organized directories, having information that proves your active in the local market, pushing media volume that points back to your homepage, sponsored search advertising campaigns, social networking sites, and many other elements. The complexity of being noticed on the web is starting to reach a definitive curve where those sites that are taking it to the next level can establish rankings that will remain solid over time. Others that are depending on onsite techniques are setting themselves to be part of the next major search result shake out.

Traditional Media…Their Move to Dominate Modern Media

It took traditional media a little while to delve into modern media because they had attempted to block the future (or buy time) through their traditional means of lobbying efforts and lawsuits against companies picking information of their sites. When they realized that 90%+ of adults are seeking their information on the search engines they realized it might actually benefit them to be listed there.

So many major media companies have committed over the past few years and into the near future to invest substantially in on-site staffing to implement their online content into modern media. This will allow them to push deeper into the roots of new media as the search engines continue to become increasingly dependant on new and fresh information.

Where Will This Leave Small Business?

Long tail to the rescue, because of the ever-changing world we live in, and over looked areas by big dollars. There will still be room for small local businesses to optimize their sites. It will continue to be an ever-changing battle to combat off the larger players, but to be able to place your information ahead of a directory (where your competitor may also be listed) is priceless. Your ability to draw in a captive audience to your site and your site only will continue to be the holy grail of web traffic. You and You only are given the first chance to close the deal.

The Future for Web 2.0

As the web continues to move beyond simplicity and into the world of complexity, it will be interesting to see what new and great tools appear on the web. All the tools will in future make our world an easier and more productive place to live and work in. There are many surprises that you will be seeing as early as in the next few years, including photograph search technology, real-time syndication of website edits, search engines that begin to understand you from a persona standpoint and much more fascinating innovations.

Hope you enjoyed this newsletter, and feel free to pass it on to a friend. Also, if you have any questions or comments please write me at Zach@SEO.cc.