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Learning Search Engine Optimization is like many things in this life, it takes effort. All to often I come across people that ask simplistic questions such as;
“What is the basic way to optimize a site?” “ Tell me how I can get better rankings” or “ How does Google rank web pages?”
The thing is, I can’t possibl answer any of those in short order. While many of the fundamentals of SEO are easy to pigeon-hole, competing for the money terms in any market that is worth getting into is going to take some more work. Learning SEO just isn't that easy... I couldn’t easily explain it in a few sentences which is what most people are looking for. If it was easy to get top rankings we’d all have them… and that simply doesn’t make sense.
Learning SEO in 2009
The SEO Hand book is truly a starting point that merely touches the surface of the many aspects related to truly understanding search engine optimization. To continue that journey, here are some further resources that will also help in your quest.
For starters, you can find more advanced goodiness on my SEO Blog and then be sure to try our custom search engine; Search SEO Pros
Now some more resources to learn even more about search engine optimization;
SEO Books
One of the great things about books, real or eBook, is that you can not only take them with you and read on-the-go, but they are often easier to reference later should you be looking for a nugget to deal with a given situation.
The downside of SEO books, as with many technology books, is freshness.
The world of search engines is constantly changing and thus any related information must also be updated. Be sure to cross reference information found in books relating to search to ensure freshness and reliability of the information.
Considering the recent decline in SEO book publication one has to imagine the popularity of this form is on the decline. I myself prefer a good read in hard copy or portable digital form… but potentially in the minority on that one.
Online Guides
Once more, like books… the main consideration is how up to date the information is. Here are some guides that are great for those looking for great information online;
There are many more out there but these are some that are truly worthy for anyone getting around the waves of the search marketing ocean. If you know of others, feel free to leave them in the comments and I’ll add them to the list.
Online Training
Unfortunately I haven’t had the pleasure of reviewing any of these services, but there are some fairly respected resources out there for those looking for a more structured system of learning. For me, this type of learning does well as there are generally instructors on hand to help guide the student.
Classes, Seminars and Conferences
Again, while I am a big believer in these types of mre hands-on interactive approaches to learning SEO – I have not had the chance to really participate in many of these. If you want to get out and play with some industry thought leaders, there is no better way than one of these offerings;
Blogs
In some cases, blogs are not the greatest place for learning; at least for the noobs. Many times there are advanced theories, rants and personal perspectives more than structured reading for a person looking to learn SEO. That being said, they are a great wealth of information for beginner, intermediate and advanced SEOs alike. Some of the best include;
..and there are plenty more in Lee’s Big List…or try our custom search engine; Search SEO Pros
Media Outlets
Much like the blogs, these sites are more for those looking for the latest industry happenings and musings. While they may not always offering teachings for the noob, in any industry, staying abreast of the times is an essential element in the process. Here are the more popular websites;
I like these collective publications and advise having them in your reader. They may not be all about the teaching, but can give a strong ongoing grounding in the industry.
SEO Forums
While many times forums can be filled with contradictions and more noise than signal, there is often a dialogue around real-world situations in forums. As with anything, take nothing as gospel and be sure to cross reference information with other sources. Here are some of the more popular forums out there;
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