Legal Internet Marketing Blog

Even Google+ Needs a Redesign

Thu, 16 May 2013 09:07:34 -0800

If you’re in the Internet marketing business or run your own company’s online campaign, you’ve probably heard about the 6th annual Google I/O conference in San Francisco that began yesterday and will last until May 17. Mainly targeted for software programmers, the developer conference has raised eyebrows and drawn the attention of many. One of the biggest highlights so far is the Google+ redesign.

If you’ve ever felt like a website redesign wasn’t worth your time or money, think again. If Google launches a redesign of its social platform, it shows us that there is always room for improvement.

To Redesign or Not to Redesign …

Coming from the company that mostly calls the shots as far as search engine results go, changing the look, features, and navigation of Google+ is a huge move. On that note, don’t jump into a redesign of your own website without giving it a lot of thought first. According to Mashable, 190 million users participate in the Google+ stream. That’s a lot of people to satisfy. Even if your audience isn’t that vast, one of the main things to focus on in a redesign, as shown by the below points, is improving the user experience.

The Google+ facelift is likely to plant a different image in people’s minds when they hear the phrase “social network,” maybe even replacing the brain’s automatic response to Facebook. The redesign is meant to keep up to speed with, and possibly even surpass, competitors like Facebook and Pinterest, or at least encourage Internet users to jump onto Google+ as well or more often.

Hit by a Google Panda Update and Don’t Know Why? The Answer Might be in Your Content

Wed, 15 May 2013 08:00:41 -0800

Contrary to what you might think, Google’s ultimate goal isn’t to sabotage your website’s search engine rankings. What makes Google the powerhouse that it is rests in its desire for webmasters to create the best user experience possible. All of the recent and up-and-coming algorithm updates are structured with this objective in mind.

You have to remember that Google provides a service to the public. Whatever terms we enter into search, we expect to quickly and easily find the information that fits without having to do a lot of sifting through irrelevant or poorly written material.

While there are more components involved in a website having low search engine rankings than we can address in this one post, focusing on content provides us with a good starting point.

Putting the Microscope on “Quality”

Google looks down upon a wide range of short-cuts to get high search engine rankings. If your website contains a lot of duplicate content, for instance, it’s highly likely that this is why your site tanked after a Panda update. Some additional practices to avoid range from hiding links to keyword stuffing. Two of the biggest questions to consider that Google mentions on its quality guidelines for content are as follows:

"Does this help my users? Would I do this if search engines didn't exist?"

Because Panda penalizes sites with content that is found on multiple pages within a site or on pages from other sites, this means that you have to write your own content and make it original. If you’re asking yourself who has the time to do that, then you’re not alone. Content creation does take time and it’s not just about the actual writing. You have to evaluate who your target audience is and understand what information they need the most. A solid grip on search engine optimization (SEO) also plays a role because you need to know what keywords are pertinent to your users and what links to include. However, Panda also crushes over-optimized content, so you can’t simply write your content only with keywords and the search engines in mind.

6 Tips on How to Blog When There’s No Time

Mon, 13 May 2013 08:00:25 -0800

Whether you’re a lawyer, mom, or SEO, or all of the above!, we all face the same problem – we have no time. Or at least, this is how most of us see it.

If you love doing something, shouldn’t you make the time for it? I know, easier said than done.
What about blogging? If you love to write, writer’s block still happens, and you may not have the time to sit at your computer for hours on end waiting for the words to come. If you hate to write, blogging can be that much harder. However, not being a writer or hating to write are not excuses for neglecting to blog if you run a business. If you’re not a writer and don’t want to blog, you may want to find someone who can write for you. Just be sure that they capture your message clearly.

So, whether you’re mostly lacking minutes or motivation, here are some tips on how to blog when there’s “no time.”

1. Don’t Make it a Chore – It’s important to write about a topic that interests you and it’s even better if it’s something you’re passionate about. Don’t think of blogging as “work” otherwise it may seem like a chore and you might be less motivated or excited to do it. If you blog with your message and target audience in mind, the topics will seem endless.

2. Don’t Always Wait for the Right Time - Write down ideas as soon as you have them. It doesn’t matter if you’re cooking or in the shower - waterproof notepads, anyone? Even if you don’t think you’ll have time to actually write about the topic, you can always come back to your notes later. Jotting down some ideas or having someone else do it for you the moment that they arise will help you remember them and can open up even more ideas.

Creativity and Online Content for Marketing, Not as Different as You Think

Thu, 09 May 2013 13:04:00 -0800

For many, the process of continually writing online content for a marketing campaign can be a draining task. While creating new content that has not been on a site before, or hopefully on any other site, is vital, a writer may feel like he or she is running out of topics or creative juices. If this is happening to you, do not be afraid, you are not alone.

However, do not let yourself simply accept the idea of running out of creativity or topics. This will lead to monotony, which in turn leads to bad writing, which can negatively impact the strength of a marketing campaign. But what can you do to get yourself out of this hole or prevent yourself from getting into it in the first place?

While there are no steadfast guidelines (this can kill creativity), there are some actions that you can take to improve your drive and the overall quality of your future work.

Think of Your Passions

There is a reason for why you have gotten yourself into the position of content writer. While these can vary widely from person to person, there are often unique passions that have led you to this point. Reflect on them and consider how you can feed into them with the work you are currently doing.

Look at Your Inspirations

Who or what inspires you to think and act more creatively? If it is a writer or artist, study his or her work and consider what it sparks within your mind. How are you going to be great if you do not study greatness? Remember, great works are not meant to be simply admired, but to be emulated. Strive toward making your content into something that will inspire others. This cycle of creativity can also be a consistent example for you in future work.

Examine Your Past Mistakes

You’ve made mistakes in your past work. Admit it. But what were they? Consider errors in grammar, syntax, style, and focus. Additionally, consider what mistakes you have made in choosing topics or language when it comes to writing for your audience. Now, what led you to make those choices? Were you in a rush? Distracted? Simply unaware of what was incorrect? Do not just review these errors, remember them in whatever way helps these lessons stick with you and have them inform what you are doing now.

Link Building: The Common Denominator of SEO

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 13:33:25 -0800

Links seem to be the one thing that everyone wants to get their hands on. There are many misconceptions surrounding link building methods, so how do you know which way is best?

No matter what tactics you’ve heard, relevant content is necessary to keep the common denominator of SEO alive. You also have to network and do your research. All of these factors cannot be rushed or fabricated. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news…but it’s actually good news!

Patience is a Virtue, Blah Blah Blah

The crackdown on spam-like linking and poor quality SEO can actually help your site rank better by sifting out sites that only contain paid links and irrelevant content. Even if your site has been hit by recent algorithm updates, you can work your way back up in the search engines by paying more attention to link diversity, where your links are going, and who is linking back to you.

There is no shortcut to this.

For a law firm, building links should be a gradual, natural process. Any industry wants to see results fast, but attorney website link development - that is effective and lasts - can’t happen overnight. You have to take the time to look at each link and if you don’t have the time, then find a SEO consultant that has a solid track record and is trustworthy.

How Social Media Helped The Boston Globe Keep the Nation Informed about Marathon Bombing Breaking News

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 10:20:45 -0800

One week later, our nation continues to recuperate from and make sense of the terror at the Boston Marathon. At SLS Consulting, we express our condolences to the families who have lost loved ones and we wish as smooth a recovery as possible for individuals coping with injuries.

No one can anticipate what their response will be to such a shocking tragedy. The relentless effort on the part of The Boston Globe to accurately report on events surrounding the finish line bombings and the subsequent manhunt is admirable and inspiring.

According to a Mashable article, The Globe had 20-30 reporters at the race and many other reporters participating in the race, but, thankfully, no staff members suffered injuries. One staff writer was near the finish line when the first explosion occurred. Instead of running away from the scene, he began documenting the events and recorded a video. In addition, a producer for Boston.com shot footage of the explosion aftermath that made its way onto numerous websites. These are only two examples of the many efforts by The Globe employees to provide non-stop breaking news coverage on its websites and social media platforms.

When Dedication Produces Results

On the day of the bombing, April 15, 2013, the two websites of The Globe, Boston.com and BostonGlobe.com, had approximately 4.3 million unique visitors and 1.2 million unique visitors. From the day of the attack to the day of the suspect’s arrest five days later, Boston.com received five times as many visitors and BostonGlobe.com received 10 times as many visitors.

The number of site visitors is impressive; however, apart from their success, what stands out the most about The Globe is the courage and perseverance of staff members in a city that was under attack.

Is Vine a Worthwhile Addition to Your Twitter Presence?

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 10:10:38 -0800

In the past several months, the video application known as Vine, which is the latest addition to Twitter, has become an increasing presence on the social media website. And while many individuals have used Vine to make fun short videos, (Vine videos only run a maximum of six seconds) companies have also begun to use the application for Twitter marketing.

But is it the right marketing tool for your company?

Like Tweets, Vine videos are informal in nature. Videos are taken via a smart phone and can be comprised of as many clips as the user wants, with or without sound. While these videos are short, users can play around with them to create a variety of looks and feels. Some users have taken up the entire six seconds with one shot, and others have used rapidly edited clips to create a stop motion feel.

These videos cannot be edited after being shot, which gives them a more rough and informal feel than professional videos in other mediums. However, that does not mean that businesses looking to market themselves with the help of Vine should shoot without a plan.

Is Your Website Design Balancing Style with Function?

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 15:41:01 -0800

Designing a website is a complex process.

There are many aspects involved in creating a successful website design that helps draw in customers and gives your company a better chance at success.

However, finding a balance between the appearance of your website and the functionality of each page can be difficult for many.

When redesigning an old site or designing a brand new website, it is important to balance style and function.

A skilled designer will not simply favor one over the other, but will rather focus on both and create a site that naturally combines the two for the benefit of the company and visitors alike.

Easy-to-Find Links vs. Visual Aesthetics

Visitors should be able to easily move throughout the site, exploring various pages and being able to get to the topic they were originally searching for in the first place. However, the links found throughout each page should not compromise the look of the site. Make sure that the presence of links fits into the look of the page through color use, font, and placement within the page as a whole.

Why Should Personalization Matter for a Law Firm’s Marketing?

Mon, 25 Mar 2013 08:00:40 -0800

For many companies, creating the right appearance online can be a tricky situation. The same is true for law firms, as staying professional while appealing to the strong call for personalization online can seem like a difficult task. However, it is important for law firms to recognize that personalizing their online presence and showing the human side to their company is not a threat to their appearance, but rather a boost to their attractiveness to potential clients.

A law firm should always show clients that they are skilled and ready to represent them. However, keep in mind that people would rather interact with a human being than a faceless organization. This is where personalizing content comes into play.

Personalization, as can be seen by the word itself, is unique for every law firm online marketing strategy. However, there are certain factors to always keep in mind when creating content online. When reviewing your company’s websites think of these factors and consider whether or not you have been appropriately personalizing content.

Need Inspiration to Write? Spring Cleaning for a Lawyer’s Blog

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 12:18:08 -0800

There comes a time in every attorney’s life, maybe more often than most would like to admit, when it seems as though there is never time to blog. Imagine that!

For most lawyers, this isn’t far from the truth as time spent in court, paperwork, and client interaction makes the months and years fly by. With that being said, neglecting the Internet for marketing and branding opportunities, such as a legal blog, can do a lot more harm than good and it is worth arranging your schedule to sort out what’s feasible.

Whether you do your own legal blog writing or hire a company to do it for you, inspiration for writing can often be found through some outside perspective. No one likes to be told what to do, but when you need help, being open to some suggestions never hurts.

How to Clear Some Mental Space

One way to overcome law blog writer’s block is to tap into why blogging is important. Here are some blog posts on areas to focus on for rekindling your motivation and to give your legal blog the new edge it needs:

No matter how slammed you may be with work, taking a few moments to read up on the above and other “How To’s” of blogging can relieve some stress. You’re not the only one out there juggling a lawyer’s responsibilities, marketing, and everything else life throws your way.

Panda Updates Are Joining Google’s Real-Time Algorithm: This Means What Exactly?

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 12:29:01 -0800

We all know the feeling of waiting for that foretold Panda update and seeing what havoc it may wreak, but this does not seem to be the way things are anymore.

According to Matt Cutts, Google’s Distinguished Engineer, future Panda updates won’t be the usual monthly or so manual refreshes they have been, but a part of Google’s real-time algorithm. This means it will be “rolled out” or deployed more gradually as Google is rebuilding the index.

That is all well and good, but what does this mean?

Panda updates won’t just hit your website(s) on a given day as they did before. It is less likely that you will notice any huge changes in analytics should the new Panda method ding your site for “low quality” content because it’ll hit it little by little. But this may make it faster to recover from any negative impact. That is, if you realize that you’ve been hit.

Proactive is Better than Reactive for Reputation Management

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 15:15:49 -0800

For any company, reputation management is a key aspect of online brand development and marketing. Through this process, a company will be able to show the quality of their services or products and be able to properly deal with negative comments and reviews posted online.

The Truth about Bad Reviews

Often, many companies see reputation management as a scramble to react to negative online content concerning the brand. Many will try to get negative reviews removed and cover up such activities as quickly as possible in order to “preserve” the appearance of the company. However, it is important to remember a few important factors.

You cannot simply remove a bad review because you do not like it.
Not everyone will like your company and its products.
Good reviews are the best defense against bad ones.

Crafting a Well-Rounded Online Reputation

Your overall online reputation is the result of each review that has been posted, with a greater number of reviews leading to a more complete view of your company. However, the fewer the number of reviews, the more each one will stand out, with bad reviews being especially noticeable.

What Sites are Right for Your Company’s Brand Development?

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 15:42:26 -0800

No two companies are exactly alike in the services they provide or the image they wish to project to consumers. However, there are a wide variety of websites that will allow a company to develop their brand through content and interaction. Even the same site can be used in drastically different ways by two different companies.

Being informed of the possibilities on a site and taking full advantage of them to develop your business’ unique brand and style is vital for every type of online marketing campaign. Here are a few sites with great potential and what they can do for you.

Company Website

This is the basis for all branding for your company. Starting here, the design of the site and the content will let visitors quickly know what you are all about. As all other sites will redirect potential clients here, every page on the site will need to grab the attention of visitors and provide them with the information that they need. In reverse, the style and images used here should bleed out into other sites.

Facebook

The largest social network in the world, companies should have some sort of presence on this site. Regular updates should involve both business-related posts as well as social interactions with followers. If followers trust your social media content, they can trust your products. The photos and statuses you post are vital to creating a well-rounded image of your company.

Social Media Marketing – You’re Doing It Wrong

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 15:55:53 -0800

While marketing your company online and through social media websites is still relatively new in the arena of business, a large portion of people are already aware of it. However, simply knowing about the idea of social media marketing is not enough. Often, little pieces of advice or conclusions that you have come to on your own are actually misguided. This can come back to hurt your marketing plan and your company as a whole either immediately or in the long run.

However long you may have been marketing your company online, it is never too late to put an end to these mistakes and get on the right path!

Building High-Reward Links that are also Future-Proof is Easier than You Think

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 16:05:00 -0800

Let’s be honest, when we say “future-proof” we actually mean “Google-proof,” since it is Google’s algorithm updates that have been putting a damper on various link building strategies, but that does not change the fact that future-proofing your links is actually possible and not as difficult as you may think.

As a legal Internet marketing company, SLS Consulting offers a wide range of services, including SEO (search engine optimization) and a key component of effective SEO is link building, but not just any link building, natural link building.