In the olden days, about 12 years ago, it was all about pleasing Google. Spammy links, web directories, hidden text and content that made no sense to a human, but helped to dominate SEO results. It was more about Google rankings than actually selling something. Well, Google started adjusting their algorithm to rank sites based on more relevant things, like actual content. The SEO spam was no longer providing any benefits and it mostly evaporated. Now, for the most part, websites rank based on good content, inbound links and proper optimization, all following Google Webmaster Guidelines. Google pushes out updates to their algotithm and we SEO's scramble to be sure our sites are still compliant. These updates have destroyed many spammy websites. That's good for everyone. So, thanks to Google for that.
I have attend a lot of search conferences. They have evolved over the years but a still a great place to hear the industry thought leaders tell their stories and give recommendations.
The Google Booth
Bruce Clay Holding Court at Lunch
Webmaster Radio Broadcasting Live from SES
Danny Sullivan and his Keynote Speech, again
- after running this conference for years he now works at Google.
Bruce Clay - Having a fun Happy Hour Interview
Another Google Booth
- Get Your Free AdWords Coupons Here
The Black Hat Panel - How to Trick The Search Engines
- That's a Google guy on the panel saying the tricks only work short-term
The Original HostingCon in Chicago - 2008