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Search Engine Optimization - How Long Until I See Results?

By , About.com Guide

Question: Search Engine Optimization - How Long Until I See Results?
Answer: Search engine optimization, if done correctly, includes a lot of "hurry up and wait" time. It's just the nature of how it all works - you create a site, write killer content, submit it to search directories, and....wait.

However, if you have diligently applied effective search engine optimization techniques; in other words, if you've really done your search engine optimization homework, you shouldn't have too horribly long to wait.

If your site has already been on the Web for some time, and is already listed in all of the major directories, then you will probably begin to see improvements in your search engine rankings within 4-6 weeks or less.

If your site is not listed in the major engines and directories, then taking the time to submit it will have a significant positive impact on your rankings.

A complete revamping of your website using search engine optimization techniques will result in an improvement in your search engine rankings fast. You should expect to see improvements for six to nine months, as the changes to your site are added throughout the databases that drive the major search engines.

The bottom line is this: search engine optimization is not about instant results. You can't expect a top ten ranking over night. Like anything else worth doing, search engine optimization takes patience and hard work and more patience. Here are some search engine optimization resources that can help you get started making your site the very best site it can possibly be:

  • Top Ten Tips to the Top of the Search Engines: Jill Whalen is a recognized industry expert in search engine optimization. Here are her Top Ten Tips to get your site to the top of the search engines.
  • Ten Search Engine Optimization Myths - Debunked!: If you're just getting started in search engine optimization for your Web site, you might (unfortunately) have been subjected to a few SEO whoppers. Before you start throwing away your time and money on search engine optimization wild goose chases, read these ten myths of search engine optimization.
  • Ten Steps to a Well-Optimized Site: Want increased website traffic, higher search engine ranking, and increased customer satisfaction? Read these Ten Steps to a Well-Optimized Site and you'll be well on your way to accomplishing these goals.

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