I have been designing web sites, providing internet marketing, link building, SEO SEM & PPC marketing training and an increasing amount of social media, reputation management and blog network building services within the Milwaukee and Chicago areas for over 15 years.
While I work for Online Marketing Experts in Milwaukee, I'm occasionally able to take on freelance web design, website marketing, search engine optimization and Paid Sponsor (PPC) projects for Milwaukee and Chicago-land businesses with interesting needs and for people that are genuinely NICE.
My current job is director of online marketing strategy for a marketing company in Milwaukee where results of internet marketing testing provide our client base with seriously competitive advantages. Generally, a business addressing web design, aesthetic and landing page issues is moving in the right direction. Businesses should focus marketing investment dollars into areas providing an increased user satisfaction experience (repeat visits among other metrics), as well as increasing bottom-line conversion metrics of choice: increased RFQ's, increases in online sales/orders, increases in sign-ups, subscriptions, clicks, links, etc. What does this practically mean? Being hands-on, I don't sleep very much.
My 15 years of web design, search engine optimization and Online Marketing Strategy experience can be summed up with the word TESTING. Businesses within highly competitive internet marketing verticals are best served supplementing typical SEO, SEM and PPC web marketing with on-going testing. This is even more true for Social channels as Google has been making larger and more rapid changes within SERPS to address the growing loss of eyeballs.
I've recently stopped three years of kamikaze-like testing of various link initiatives within traditional search engine optimization, the blender of social media marketing and the re-active environment of reputation management.
I have NO TIME but decided to re-design this rank dropping website for, well...additional Website Marketing TESTING.
- Reason Number 1 -
While I have no time I'm somehow interested but will soon lose interest. - Reason Number 2 -
How ANYONE that provides heavy duty SEO beyond building links could actually blog about success stories, effective techniques or related "SEO gems" they've actually come upon themselves, has always been hard for me to understand.
Why would I want ANYONE getting free advice that I've acquired and which could translate into a competitive advantage for them or a client competitor? So, I've decided that this web site will serve multiple pseudo roles where contortions of the usual "SEO Blog Advice" will be provided while I monitor metrics which serve my own purposes.
Businesses which always email or call me for free advice, AS WELL AS the ever growing self-proclaimed SEO genius network moonlighting as mere real estate brokers and financial experts, should probably continue to pay the monthly, SEO subscription dues of choice. AND if you learn anything worthwhile send it off to me as I am always interested in learning FREE STUFF ..JUST LIKE YOU! - Reason Number 3 -
Most web designers are twisted individuals basically interested in providing a very client-suitable design which they come to love, anguish over and simultaneously desire everyone else to see. And, I'm sometimes like that too.
MAINLY THOUGH, and I'm older than most web designers now, I WANT MY CLIENT TO KICK SOME SERIOUS VISIBILITY HIND-QUARTERS. So, the design is really secondary, unless SEO requires the design within this particular situation to be PRIMARY. Got it? - As An Aside -
I constantly test within links of all kinds - among other areas - as I hate them, they seem cheap, and are easy to acquire and manipulate. Yet, links constitute about 90% of all SEO work from the typical SEO. Some are very good at it, most are not. YAWN...
INTERESTINGLY ... the very concept of devaluation of one metric over another; links VS on-page in this context, has been espoused by Michael Martinez for YEARS. Current Google SERP fluctuations (past 6 months or so), seem to have other SEO's and web marketing professionals banging louder on the CONTENT over LINK debate. - Reason Number 4 -
I've been accepting more freelance SEO work for "Traditional Agencies" in Milwaukee and Chicago the past year. Almost without exception they call - not email - and have a project THAT REQUIRES IMMEDIATE ATTENTION because the developer they were using has left them in the lurch. And, because they have graced me with the phone call they want a discounted rate during a sort of trial period. Well, it never takes long to feel A REAL CONNECTION with the unknown developer, designer or God-Forbid poor SEO that bolted on them. So, I'm going to list some of those non-paying agencies here as well. NOT the kind of link-building you'd typically want I guess ... but I'm a giving person.
Frequently Asked Questions I've Just Heard Again - about Web design and SEO
Q.: How much emphasis should my web design have over Internet Marketing Optimization I've read on SEO, web design and usability blogs?
A.: Small businesses with geographically limited service areas should focus on the user experience, unique value a product or service provides, with on-site SEO and more emphasized geo-targeted link building via maps, business listings and niche specific directories available which PASS VALUE.
Q.: What's the impact of Microsoft buying Yahoo?
A.: SEO's will ultimately have one less tool to mine for competitive intelligence with the new version being so loaded with previous algorithm, counter measures in place it will be practically useless. Typical website sales people, infant SEO's and even Search Engineer's swayed more by geeky testing than money are now united by the common theme of a massively shrinking "Search Choice" option being a NEGATIVE. But, I'm likely to also be totally wrong.
Q.: What's the deal; links or content?
A.: Links for new sites, content and on-page tune up for established websites. Unless of course A NEW algorithm TREND pushes content value above link value IN THE TARGETED VERTICAL... then you focus on that. GOT IT? The reality is stuff shifts so much subtle nuisances which have lasting impact are very difficult to determine during the normal SEO, SEM and PPC cycle. This is why you need an SEO expert. Otherwise, those VALUABLE links usually have the unfortunate characteristic of being uncontrollable - even during the BEST OF TIMES; unless you build them (let's keep this simple for now...), while those with a sort of quantifiable value becoming increasingly more expensive to acquire both in money and time.
As of 2010, I believe with few exceptions, the realm of practically 90% of most typical SEO's work between two camps: the DIRECT link acquisition SERP model and the social media link acquisition model; to date, the rel nofollow complete waste of time link building model. Yet, there's an irony within the social link building model within SEO circles.
However, for a business wanting to get back AT LEAST what they spend with a corporate web marketing program or freelancer, know I enjoy both methods and apply what is best for the client.
I have loads of fun acquiring a number one or two spot in search rankings with a web site with "MINIMAL" links in highly competitive query spaces; but it's all about time availability, my interest and CLIENT BUDGET. By the way, MY INTEREST usually RISES IN PROPORTION TO CLIENT BUDGET.
Q.: What's the deal; organic or PPC?
A.: Do both until you know what's best. Unless truly refined I see "average" bounce rates in new projects at roughly 45-50%, with paid bounce rates close to 40% and organic 47%. With paid or PPC, you operate out of an environment where multi variant testing is much easier as a function of the speed with which results can be seen where organically, you depend much more on what the engine in question decides to serve up; providing you are a trusting person. Answers to what's best for a client is the responsibility of the Search Engine Optimization specialist you hire; answers which will vary depending on the background, experience and amount of testing one does.
I have no money but still want USEFUL SMALL BUSINESS web design and search engine optimization ADVICE WHICH I CANNOT PAY YOU FOR,
and I solemnly swear NOT TO CALL AND PRETEND I WILL PAY YOU FOR IT, if you SIMPLY list it here man.
GETTING OVER THE HUMP FOR SMALL BUSINESSES
Q.: Do I do what my competitor is doing? - A.: Yes.
Q.: Should I do different things than what my competitor is doing? - A.: Yes.
Q.: Do I consider mobile platforms when re-designing my website? - A.: Yes.
Q.: Do I forget the mobile audience when re-designing or marketing my website? - A.: No.
Q.: Do YOU consider the mobile audience when designing and marketing websites? - A.: Depends on the vertical and budget and likelihood it translates into something.
Q.: While doing Google searches, are the results I am seeing typical of what others see? - A.: No.
Q.: While doing Google searches, is it best NOT to be logged into or using hardware or software created by any number of large SEARCH ENGINES or software developers? - A.: Do both.
Q.: Is it true that by using different browsers and search engines on my mobile device and further, declaring different geographical regions from those I'm actually in, I'LL see different search results pending the location I declare? - A.: I've heard this is true.
Q.: Why should I care WHAT search results I see? It seems Search engines know SEARCH best so THEY SHOULD dictate what I see, EH? - A.: Most businesses in highly competitive verticals care.
Q.: Our analytics show tremendous growth yet no parallel increase within conversions. Where do we begin? - A.: An experienced third party examining all metrics may provide insight you've not considered. In the short run, internally add several different tracking tools as well and unless within a typically fluctuating seasonal cycle, re-visit after several months.
Q.: What the hell is a bounce rate? - A.: A bounce rate measures how long a website visitor is on your site; the lower bounce rate the better: UNLESS you optimize for high bounce rates while testing as a matter of your DAILY WORK.
Q.: Are local business opportunities worthwhile? - A.: Even lame INSURANCE COMPANIES boldly claim IP based tracking ability, so leverage any LOCAL SEARCH manipulation opportunities you understand; then seek an expert.
Q.: Everyone uses Google. Do we bother with Yahoo and Bing? - A.: ABSOLUTLEY!
Q.: I TOO am a Milwaukee or Chicago Freelance Search Engine Optimization Specialist of note, yet am so lame at properly evaluating the sites I wish to target during the normal course of my lazy ass link building program on behalf of my client, it seems recently, I'VE COMPLETELY OVERLOOKED I was spamming A VASTLY SUPERIOR Milwaukee or Chicago SEO's client in the process of my australopithecine routine. What should I do? - A.: I don't know. What SHOULD YOU do? How about, do something USEFUL for the paying client.
Q.: Everyone said engage in Social Media yet we are uncomfortable and see no change in any results to date. What are we doing wrong? - A.: Everything ... if you are a professional internet marketer. Some businesses see new business, few see massive new sales.
Q.: Is my businesses visibility ALL about links? - A.: ABSOLUTLEY NOT! Only someone with an extremely limited understanding of VISIBILITY metrics focus on links. Unless you are an incredibly lazy, self-perpetuating Internet Marketer, do a 360 and start with fresh website content ( determined only after analyzing what 'fresh' equals within the vertical you also are within.)
YOU ARE NOW OVER THE HUMP:
Q.: ALL I WANT IS A NICE WEB SITE AND GREAT SEARCH ENGINE RESULTS. IS THIS WHAT YOU DO MAN? - A.: Yes. While usually two different things I do provide these services. I have resolved to strictly enforce a new business practice however; CHARGING FOR MY SERVICES. My previously unwritten law of CONTINUALLY providing free advice and time out of generosity and curiosity is over with.
Q.: This website sucks. - A.: Yes, but it's much more scientifically purposed as a function of applying stuff than my previous website.
I'd be disappointed if you thought otherwise.
More Frequently Asked Questions Will Be Posted - as I hear them again, and, if you send them
Having designed over 1500 websites - some very good and others very bad - it's impossible to list something that does justice to my design abilities, or how my related experience can provide what you actually need. Usually, what you think you need - you do. But you usually need much more than web design yet simply don't have the background or experience to properly express or formulate the intent. That's ok. You just need to basically luck out and land with a web designer that listens to what you say and based on experience, also objectively imparts what else you may really need. I turn down web design jobs every week because what the client REALLY needs is different than what they THINK they need.
Needless to say I enjoy clean web design projects yet equally enjoy designing flash, mobile and custom programming projects when I have the time and, the client has the budget. I have a ton of experience within: Industrial - Real Estate - SEO - Financial - Legal - Online Sales and Educational verticals. The past 4 years most web design projects I've taken on revolve around SEO, SEM, analytics and acquiring the best possible position and visibility for a client. This process is related to design but should be the driving force in ALL WEB DESIGN. I routinely consult with frustrated businesses after they've spent tons of money on a new web design. Sales people and most designers alike have no CLUE on what is required for a business to receive a RETURN ON ANY ONLINE MARKETING INVESTMENT. Why? Designers typically know design and ROI is usually a very separate process from simply re-skinning or re-designing an existing web site, regardless of what you may have read or heard from trusted sources. The other thing is that even very polished sales people, accomplished in all other areas, have ABSOLUTLEY NO CLUE as to what is required for businesses to acquire AND MAINTAIN high search rankings, effectively budget a competitive PPC campaign, much less understand shifting search engine algorithm ramifications which accomplished SEOs like myself find frustrating. Usually, advertising agencies focus on the visual or aesthetic website enhancement services they offer - FOR A GOOD REASON: THEY DON'T KNOW ANYTHING ELSE. One thing to ALWAYS remember is that knowledge is power and the more you tinker with web design the more educated and less likely to get taken you are. Who knows; playing around with web design may lead you on a path which may be rewarding for reasons other than money.
Now that the potential client relationship has been fostered with a sort of common, feel-good metric, just remember that if you run a business however don't be a cheap schmuck and try to design AND MARKET a business web site yourself, BUT hire a pro like me. In fact, if you have money and I like you - you can hire me:) The other thing to remember is that meaningfully acquiring business online in sustained bursts is USUALLY NOT EASY within competitive verticals. So, if you are considering having me provide you with SEO, Web marketing or competitor knock-downs using an existing product and you wish to also save a buck as a function of the intellectual familiarity you have casually obtained about SEO and internet marketing 20 minutes a week, I AM NOT the person to contact.
Below are a few non-blog web designs in memory at present. You may like them or, you may think they suck. If you seriously have a project and approved budget and would like to see something else, just let me know as I should have about 1,495 web designs remaining in inventory, in addition to new web designs I am always testing and struggling with.
Please contact Mike for web design examples related to a project you have.
ARE YOU AN SEO SEEKING TO BECOME A REPUTATION MANAGEMENT CONSULTANT?
Here are a few reputation management scenarios the aspiring SEO may encounter.
Reputation Management Scenario #1:
- It's 2011 and you are a Milwaukee or Chicago resident. Family members and Pastor alike understand you've recently bought a new computer and while concerned about excessive use of personal time on Facebook and Twitter, you seem to have all the required credentials
to take on, or at least look at, a reputation management case.
The phrase "Reputation Management" has been used by this potential, previously unknown client. You've no idea what the hell a reputation management case is, and would rather have something to eat. However rent is almost due and the folks are sick of seeing you 24/7.
After introductions which brought clarity to the fact the potential client is something shy of 120 years older intellectually than yourself, the infinitesimal notion that something might flare up if you hang around long enough encourages you to accept Reputation Management Case number one. How difficult can it be to offset a MORTGAGE FRAUD issue in Google, Bing and Yahoo anyway? As far as Bing, you'll check into what that is long after you've been paid ALL of the $250.00 you require as a retainer. Reputation Management Scenario #1 Take Away:
- DON'T TAKE the DARNED reputation management case.
If you are so Jethro Bodine as to be unfamiliar with the phrase "Reputation Management", chances are you'll get stiffed financially - regardless of cuisine preferences.
Reputation Management Scenario #2:
- It's 2010 and you are a Milwaukee or Chicago resident, gradually familiarizing yourself with .html, .php and traditional web marketing concepts; now working part time as a web master in Milwaukee, Chicago and virtually using a high-speed ISDN connection at your parents place; but you're making a move soon.
Your personal blog design of which approximately 14,000,000 identical copies are also in use (globally selling everything from NASA constructed mouse traps to Viagra), has been identified as the product of nothing less than sheer web design and landing page optimization genius by a potential client with perpetually revolving checking accounts and 1500 dedicated IP's. and they've asked YOU to consider a reputation management case: schedule permitting.
- However, intellectualizing letters which cumulatively spell "Reputation Management" continue to elicit abnormal amounts of perspiration EVEN WITH your eyes closed. Feeling trapped within a life-sized Escher drawing, you resolve to have something to eat.
Reputation Management Scenario #2 Take Away:
- DON'T TAKE the DARNED reputation management case.
Now crystal clear, simply accept both web design and client problem solving is something you'll grow into; so don't become an obsessive. Rather, eat something Mediterranean and recharge those creative batteries by reading Lame Marketing Books.
Reputation Management Scenario #3:
- You enter year three of this freelance reputation management thing with Milwaukee and Chicago businesses as the primary control group ... err ... client base. Still, rent is always late and you've become immune to the usual threat of being kicked out of the house. You've adopted WHITE HAT to the extent that Google, Google Forums and Google Groups are now the singular source of your entire reputation management and search engine optimization methodology, with certain SEO circles believing you to be Bruce Clay.
- Regularly posting to Google Administrators of your strategic intentions feels good but has provided somewhat mixed results. You've sure filled that social void though with like-minded reputation management buddies each sharing time saving ideas and best practices; like managing all clients from within one Google Account.
You resolve that all future Reputation Management Cases should simply be handled registering 1000 accounts on Knowem; likely best created by staff members but guided by expert anchor text input which only you posses.
- Reputation Management Scenario #3 Take Away: DON'T MAKE reputation management a career path.
But please do contact Mike with any Reputation Management concerns you may have. Complete confidence guaranteed.
 RECOMMENDED yet never paid for SEO READING Google Patent Review by Bill Slawski Humor -End of the internet Google's constant tweaking of platform data as a reflection of losing eyeballs to Social automatically means businesses spending on SEO should expect search engine results positions to continue to fluctuate. It's no secret if you own a website reflecting a Milwaukee or Chicago based business you probably have noticed vast Google search result variations over the past several months. WELL, actually that was a loaded sentence. Let's imagine you know Google search results DO change AND you know how to track this. Whether you have an in-house SEO, a contract search engine optimization firm, a part-time freelance SEO or enjoy taking a peek at search results yourself Google seems to have more personalities manning the results button than they'd like to publicize. |  E-mail Michael Balistreri for Search Engine Optimization Website Design or Internet Marketing Consulting SEO@balistreri.org  SEOmilwaukee |