Why does SEO take so long?

I work with everyday small business owners, and it is not unexpected to hear someone as “Why does SEO take so long?”. This is a valid question. In the day and age of fast food, microwaves, speed lines at the theme park, and call to order groceries, we are getting used to things being quick! But when it comes to Search Engine Optimization, this is not something we need to do quickly.

The first reason, that I explain to my clients, of why it takes longer than we would like, is because if it is worth making money with on the Internet, then someone is probably making money on it.  The more competition, then longer it takes to compete.  Of course, this is in most cases.  Then the client asks me if there are good terms that they could be ranking on now to receive visitation.  Well it is a practice of ours to have two tiers of key phrases. One of the high competition/high ROI phrases, and one of the less competitive but less return phrases.  Obviously there is a third level, one of the terms that you rank quickly on, but never see a visitor on.   So the first reason it takes a while is because there are others wanting the same thing as you, and supply and demand comes into play.

To get the second point across, I need you to view SEO as a race.  More of a cross-country race than a 100 meter dash.  There are others who have started the race quite a bit earlier than you.  These people are not impossible to catch and beat, but you will have to perform better and more powerfully than they are.  This in turn means spending more money with your SEO Consultant. If you are not willing to put in what it takes to beat that competitor, then some times it is better not to start at all.  You have to be ready for the long haul, and know that once you are passing your competitors, that it will be well worth it.  So the second reason is because you are coming later into the game than your competitors.

Unfortunately, there is no “blue pill” for Ranking in SEO.  So before you begin your research of companies and prices, realize that there will usually be a gap between the time you start paying, and the time you begin getting a profitable return on your investment.  Realize this, and it will help you last the race and get the ROI that you are hoping for!