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The ABCs of Search Engine Optimization

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 16:03:13 -0600

Search Engine Optimization (or SEO) can either be made very complex and hard to understand or very easy to comprehend. My goal in this article is to make it very easy and give you the basic ABC’s of SEO.

To sum up SEO in one sentence, it simply means getting your website(s) in favor with the search engines like Google, Bing, and Yahoo so they can send you lots of free traffic and then keeping your website(s) there!

First, let's start with what exactly Search Engine traffic means. While this article is not intended to be a complete guide to SEO by any means, I'll quickly cover a bit of the basics to make sure you understand them.

Here is a screen shot from Google when I typed in “mom web hosting” on my computer.

I've marked the Paid listings with black arrows, and I've marked the free “SEO” listings with a red arrow.

To get your web site listed where the black arrows are, you must sign up with the Google Adwords program which is set up as a paid advertising program and that's an entirely different subject. You trade cash for clicks, basically.

But, we'll be talking about the red area – which is FREE. I'll bet you can imagine that MomWebs.com, which has the first position in Google for “mom web hosting”, is working very hard to keep that spot. Free traffic is a good thing.

As I mentioned, Search Engine Optimization can be made very complex or very simple. In order to get traffic from the search engines, you'll need to focus on two things:

Making sure that your website is very clearly telling the Search Engines what it's about.
Making sure other people are talking about your website, too.

The first is called “on-site” factors and includes things like having posts that are relevant to your topic, having lots of great related content, and making sure your titles and images are named using words that will help Google to figure out what your website is about. It obviously gets more complex than that, but look at it like a game of 20 questions. Make sure Google, Bing, and Yahoo only have to ask a few before figuring out what you're about. If they are confused then no dice.

The second is called “Off-site” factors and is all about getting other websites to link to your website. This is the more important of the two, so focus 90% of your efforts on this. You'll want to work on anything that can get you links.

For instance -

Article marketing
Blog commenting
Guest blogging
Squidoo marketing
Twitter & Facebook marketing
Stumble Upon marketing
Video marketing
Press release marketing
Forum marketing
Podcasting

Anywhere you can get links to your website from quality related websites, just do it.

Hopefully now that I’ve defined SEO for you, you’re ready to dive in and take a look at how to optimize your current web site. Remember it all comes down to being a content creating machine! So what's your best SEO tip?

Business Secrets From The Experts Websites 2 Grow TV Episode 17

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 02:23:19 -0600

Websites 2 Grow TV is a web show for business owners who want to easily take their business online and stop working so hard!

Today's show is a little different... I just returned from speaking at the National Convention of Women Business Owners and got some of the other speakers and attendees to share their best business tip.

What do you think of the tips they shared? Do you have any to add? I'd love to hear them by leaving a comment below.

Are You Being Real Websites 2 Grow TV Episode 16

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 16:32:25 -0600

http://www.Websites2Grow.com- Websites 2 Grow TV is a web show for small business owners and entrepreneurs who want to easily take their business online and stop working so hard and let your website do the work!

Are you being real in your business marketing? I took off all my makeup to show you how real I am willing to be! I actually sort of chickened out on sharing this video with you! But without doing anything with the video I got two great comments. So I thought I better share this with you. So what do you think should you "fake it till you make it" or just be real with everyone? For me I'm not that great of an actress so I think I made a good choice. Make sure to share your comments below, I want to hear from you.

What Is Your Website Going To Look Like In The Future Websites 2 Grow TV Episode 15

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 20:46:07 -0600

Want to know what your website will look in the future? Well, I don’t have a crystal ball or anything, but I have some ideas. Let me know what you think and share your predictions below in the comment section. Looking forward to hearing your predictions too!

How A Local Pizza Joint Has Made Me A Lifetime Customer Websites 2 Grow TV Episode 14

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 15:39:56 -0600

Turn your customers into raving fans! That’s what one local pizza joint has done to me! On today’s show I share why I’m their biggest fan and how you can easily create fans in your business as well. Leave a comment on the blog below and we’ll help you brainstorm how you can create lifelong customers and raving fans in your business.

Stop The Spam But Do Not Stop Marketing Websites 2 Grow TV Episode 13

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 01:55:31 -0600

I’ve had it with spammers! Twitter, Facebook, Email, and Blog spammers I’ve had it!

On today’s show, I tell you why I want to send the spammers packing, but caution you against doing the opposite of spammers…. nothing at all! And follow me at Twitter at http://www.Twitter.com/JHaubein

Who Is Helping You Out Websites 2 Grow TV Episode 12

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 20:19:38 -0600

I really believe we should collaborate and work together in our businesses. And on today’s show I share a great story about someone who recently helped me out. Who’s helping you out whether in your business or your next door neighbor? I would love to hear your stories below in the comments section on this blog.

Twitter Power Twitter Your Way To Business Success Websites 2 Grow TV Episode 11

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 16:56:44 -0600

Are you using Twitter for your business yet? Maybe you’ve signed up but don’t know what to do next. In today’s episode I review Joel Comm’s Twitter Power book. Whether you’re a Twitter newbie or already using Twitter you’ll want to check it out. You can order his book from Amazon and make sure you’re following me on Twitter as well.

Business Networking That Is Trophy Worthy Websites 2 Grow TV Episode 10

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 15:48:34 -0600

Have you ever been to an official business networking meeting? Believe it or not but I just went to my first official networking meeting! But on today’s show, I tell you why this networking meeting was so special. I would love to hear about how business networking groups have helped you. Just leave your stories in the blog comment section below.

How To Rock Social Media And Online Video In Fast Forward Websites 2 Grow TV Episode 9

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 02:29:15 -0600

Are you confused by social media or wasting a lot of time with no results for your business?

On today’s show, I share my social media secret. I really can’t believe I’m sharing this with you, but if I’m doing something that is helping my business I want to share it with you. Would love to hear any questions you may have about online video or social media. Leave a comment in the comment section below with all of your questions. Also, if you’re interested in the Fast Forward method they’re having a free webinar Wednesday August 19^th. You can sign up here. It rocks!

When You Are Just Starting Your Biz Stock Up On Free Resources Websites 2 Grow TV Episode 8

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 17:15:25 -0600

Are you just starting your business? Or possibly starting a new phase of your business? I got my start from an amazing free resource.

On today’s show, I share how I started my business and the amazing free resources I received at the beginning. I would love to hear how you started your business! Feel free to share your story in the blog comments below.

Why You Should Be Addicted To Twitter Too Websites 2 Grow TV Episode 7

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 16:11:21 -0600

http://www.Websites2Grow.com- Websites 2 Grow TV is a daily web show for small business owners and entrepreneurs who want to easily take their business online and stop working so hard and let your website do the work!

Do you tweet? I do & Im a bit addicted! But its for a good reason. Twitter brings me 50% of my website traffic.

In todays show I talk about Twitter and why its such a powerful tool for your small business. Are you using Twitter for your business? Which do you prefer Twitter or Facebook? I would love to hear your comments on the blog. And you can follow me on twitter.

What My First Job Taught Me About Standing Out Websites 2 Grow TV Episode 6

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 19:24:19 -0600

My first job like most kids was my very own lemonade stand.

But on today’s show, I reveal how I turned the normal lemonade business upside down & always found a way to make lemonade out of lemons! I would love to hear your stories of your first business and remember to keep having fun in your business. Feel free to share in the blog comments below.

5 Ways To Create A Client Attractive Website Websites 2 Grow TV Episode 5

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 15:08:42 -0600

http://www.Websites2Grow.com- Websites 2 Grow TV is a daily web show for small business owners and entrepreneurs who want to easily take their business online and stop working so hard and let your website do the work!

On todays show, I share my 5 top tips for creating a client attractive website and a website that actually works for you. Leave us a comment and let me know what you think of my list or if I left something off the list tell me about it in the comments section below.

What My 3 Year Old Taught Me About Online Business Websites 2 Grow TV Episode 4

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 15:55:45 -0600

I have got a silly story for you! And it stars my 3 year old son.

On today’s show, I share how my son reminded me of a great online marketing lesson while we were having fun. Have you learned something from your family that has helped you in your business? Share it by leaving a comment here on the blog.

Get Out Of Web Site Overwhelm Websites 2 Grow TV Episode 3

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 13:35:52 -0600

Is your website still on your to-do list?

On today’s show, I share with you how to eat the frog and eat your website at the same time! Do you eat the frog or do you have another time management strategy tip? If so I’d love to hear it. Share it by leaving a comment here on the blog.

Do Not Let Email Overwhelm Get Your Biz Down Websites 2 Grow TV Episode 2

Fri, 07 Aug 2009 06:23:38 -0600

http://www.Websites2 Grow.com – Websites 2 Grow TV is a daily web show for small business owners and entrepreneurs who want to easily take their business online and stop working so hard and let your website do the work!

Are you in email overwhelm? Are sick and tired of Microsoft Outlook not working or crashing? Well I was!

On today's show, I share a great new tool I’m using to get out of email overwhelm & manage my email rather than it managing me. Do you have any tips on how you manage your inbox? I'd love to hear them. Share them by leaving a comment here on the blog.

Work Hard Play Hard, Websites 2 Grow TV Episode 1

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 13:58:04 -0600

Why did you start your business in the first place? As entrepreneurs we tend to obsess about our business and work long hours.

On today's show, I talk about my recent business mastermind trip in which I was able to really work hard and play hard. I’m sure you have several stories about how you reward yourself. I'd love to hear them. Share them by leaving a comment here on the blog.

Alexis Martin Neely And Dave Dee Helping Business Owners Achieve Independence

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 21:43:24 -0600

I recently got back from a trip to Las Vegas where I got to meet Alexis Martin Neely and Dave Dee. I was so impressed by what Alexis has accomplished in her business and very interested in modeling what she was doing.

Well, I guess I wasn’t the only one! Because Alexis and Dave have put together an amazing event showing you exactly what they’ve done in their businesses and already more than 2,200 people have signed up!

I got a sneak peek into the content that they’re going to be sharing on this call and wanted to let you know about it.

I would love it if you could join me as well.

If you want to take your business up to the next level and re-ignite your passion for your business you won’t want to miss this exciting call on July 3^rd.

They’re celebrating Independence Day by revealing the secrets to business owners on how you can get your independence back.

If you’re like most business owners you started your own business to get away from a boss and set your own schedule.

But instead you’re working harder and longer hours instead of enjoying the freedom you set out for in the first place.

To register for the call and find out more details go to: http://www.budurl.com/Alexiscall

MetroMom Website Contest

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 14:01:31 -0600

I'm so excited to announce the MetroMom Website Contest! I hear from so many mommy business owners who realize they need a website for their business to succeed, but are so overwhlemed and just don't know where to start. Also, for mommy business owners cash flow can certainly be a problem when starting up a new business. So to celebrate the launch of MetroMom's new website Kim DeYoung and I came together to create this special contest!

Not only will someone win a free website, but I'll also build the site live on a special webinar presentation for all to see! Talk about ultimate free advertising for the winner.

To enter the contest follow the instructions below and I'm looking forward to announcing the winner!

Rules of the MetroMom Website Contest

1) The MetroMom Website contest runs from Monday June 15th, 2009 to Friday June 19th, 2009. All entries must be submitted before Midnight PST on Friday June 19th.

2) To enter the contest:

You must write a paragraph as to why having Jennifer Haubein build a website for your business would help your business.

Post your paragraph in the comments section below or via email at info@websites2grow.com.

3) I will select the best entry on Monday, June 22nd, 2009, at 9:00 AM Central. The selection will be in my sole discretion, and you must comply with all steps above to be eligible to win. The winner will be notified on June 22nd by me via email, and must reply within 24 hours with additional contact information in order to receive prize. The 1st prize winner must have some content ready to put on website by the deadline of June 29th.

4) Prizes are as follows:

1st Place Grand Prize- Free Websites 2 Grow website for 1 year (including a custom banner graphic & 30 minute online strategy session with Jennifer Haubein)

Click here to read the rest of the contest rules.

I'm looking forward to reading your entries and picking the winners!

Create More Websites Traffic, Boost Your Credibility and Create Buzz with Video

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 14:05:25 -0600

Did you know that a day's worth of video is uploaded to YouTube every minute? It's not a surprise that every speaker at the online marketing conference I just attended talked about video. It's truly amazing the power video has in your marketing tool box. Maybe you're already convinced video has a unique power, but you're just trying to figure out the technology. Or maybe you're wondering why everyone is talking about video. Or maybe you're nervous like I was about putting yourself out there for the world to see.

I know it's hard to believe, but my video camera was just sitting around for a few years because of my perfectionism. I knew how to technically make videos, but for some reason I was being camera shy. But then I met Perry Lawrence, Ask Mr. Video.

Perry pushed me to get out there and just do it! Your first video will not be perfect so strive for 70% and then they will just get better and better.

But why is everyone talking about video and how can it help your business?

1. Traffic- Who doesn't want to be on the front page of Google for your keyword? Who doesn't want more website or blog traffic? With video all of this is possible! Using a website such as www.TubeMogul.com you can send your video everywhere on the web with just a few clicks of a button.

   2. Boost Your Credibility- Video gives you instant expert status and increases your credibility. If you're an authority or expert in your field everyone will be rushing to work with you or buy your product. Because most people are still not using video, if you use video in your business you will certainly stand out.

   3. Make Your Business Buzz Worthy- If you create a viral video, heartfelt video, or really any type of video your business becomes buzz worthy. People forward your video to others and people start to take notice because you're doing something different.

   4. Build Your List- Add a video to your squeeze page and see what happens. You will see a big bump in the number of people signing up for your offer. Because video builds the trust you don't normally have on the web.

   5. Builds Your Relationships- With video you become intimate with your website visitors and start creating those relationships. Of course in person networking is the best, but you can't network with everyone. So you let your video do the networking for you.

Tips for Using Google Analytics

Thu, 04 Jun 2009 21:42:43 -0600

Google Analytics is a free software service that helps to track the goals of your website. Once all of the information is gathered, the program then turns that data into information that you can use to see if you are reaching your goals. This information is presented in the form or reports.

The first step in using Google Analytics is to set up an account.

There are four basic questions that you should consider when setting up your Google analytics account.

1. How many people are visiting your site?

2. Where are your visitors coming from?

3. What would you like for your visitors to do while they are on your site?

4. What are your visitors actually doing?

Once you have your account set up, you can then choose what type of information you want to track. Some important numbers to look at are:

Visitors: This is the number of people interacting on your site.

Bounce Rate: The percentage of people who left your site instantly.

Time On Site: This is the amount of time your visitors spent reading content on your site.

You can also track how your visitors got to your site. Direct traffic arrives at your site by typing in your web address. Referring URLs are other sites that are sending you traffic. Search engines include Google, Yahoo, MSN, and all of the other search engines out there.

There are over 100 different reports that you can run on your site, you select them depending on what information you want to acquire.

Once you run the reports and get the numbers, you can then see what is working on your site, and what needs to be changed. If there are certain areas on your site that are receiving high traffic, that means your readers find your information useful. If there are certain pages on your site not receiving as much traffic you may want to adjust your content accordingly.

Google Analytics is a great tool that can help you improve both the traffic and the content on your site. If you're looking for more tips on how to create a website that actually works, you won't want to miss my upcoming event with James Wedmore. I'll show you how easy it is to create a website that actually works and attracts you all the customers you can handle! To see more details click this link: http://www.TinyUrl.com/JenniferH

Websites 2 Grow Tonight!

Tue, 19 May 2009 10:41:37 -0600

Are you starting your new business, but need some tips on how to get your website up and going? If so, you do not want to miss this special event. Tonight I will be building a website LIVE in 60 minutes, on the launch of Websites 2 Grow. Tonight live at 8pm CST/9pm EST/ 6pm PST, I will be building a website for an entrepreneur re-starting his business as a photographer.

Not only will you get to see me build a site in 60 minutes, but you will also learn some of my great website secrets and find out who the remaining winners are of the “Get Your Business Online” contest. I will also reveal my number one tip on how to use your website to pull your customers toward you.

We all know that when you take the plunge and finally start the business that you have dreamed about, it is so important to have a web presence. However, creating that web presence can be very time consuming and can actually take valuable time away from your main focus, which is the launch of your business. Websites 2 Grow has the solution! With Websites 2 Grow you can easily create a website to grow as your business grows.

So be sure to join me tonight as I build a website LIVE and share with you how you can easily do the same. Make sure you don’t miss out on this power packed event by visiting Websites 2 Grow, and signing up for the live event. I will see you all tonight.

What My Son's Swing Set Taught Me About Online Marketing

Thu, 14 May 2009 14:30:32 -0600

Maybe you've noticed how I've been adding a lot of video to my business and you're wondering how you can too? My secret is Perry Lawrence, Ask Mr Video, and Carrie Wilkerson, The Barefoot Executive. Carrie is the marketing genius behind this dynamic duo and Perry is the video/techy genius! In fact, I Mastermind with them and have known them for almost a year now. I had dinner with both of them when they were speaking in Houston and my life has not been the same since!!!

They take the scary out of video! I encourage you to check out their website for some free videos that will show you a super technique that will help you attract more clients, get more leads & gain more credibility no matter what your niche!

We're All A Twitter!

Fri, 08 May 2009 08:00:00 -0600

We were all a Twitter on Websites 2 Grow TV! I could talk about Twitter for hours. Yes, I'm a self proclaimed Twitter geek. I asked Danielle Miller, TheToolboxTeacher.com to join me as we chatted about why Twitter is such a powerful tool for relationship and business building.

Also, I announced the Grand Prize winner of my Websites 2 Grow contest, Scott Kapich. You can follow him on Twitter at @ScottK75. He won a free website desigined and built by me LIVE on my Ustream show.

Enjoy!