Local Charlotte Web Designer and SEO Spotlight
Posted on July 29, 2010
Filed Under Web Marketing, carolina seo | Leave a Comment
It is always good to meet other SEO and marketing types. I really enjoyed last year’s SMX in New York City for that reason, plus there was valuable information and perspective and that always helps.
I recently met a local web designer and marketing expert named Youssef El Hodaigui. We sat and talked on into the evening about web design, SEO, link building, making videos, and smart phones.
Youssef strikes me as a very talented guy who really gets it when it comes to Internet marketing and design. His portfolio is impressive to me but the work he does behind the scenes is just as striking.
Many Internet marketers work alone. That has many advantages and of course there are the inevitable disadvantages that crop up when working alone.
Three disadvantages are:
- Tunnel vision – it’s easy to have such a narrow focus that a wider perspective can be temporarily ignored.
- Resources — using the same resources over and over because they are tried and true can be a great timesaver and leverage strength but at the same time sticking with the same method of doing any process can become stale leading to ultimate stagnation.
- Wearing too many hats — a lot of people who work alone are extremely versatile and have talents and abilities to do multiple jobs. While this can be a great asset, it can also contribute to that person being mired in a quicksand of duties.
Youssef and I talked about these kinds of things and it was a release for me to open up about the positives and negatives of working in this new Internet marketing medium.
On a lighter note there is a certain search term that I have been interested in for a while. It is — Charlotte SEO. I have been able to rank well for this term but of course Youssef’ site often outranks my site. Google rankings for that search term fluctuate.
I would like to see Youssef’s design site, Charlotte SEO , rank at the very top of Google for that term.
So if you are reading this and have a website I would appreciate it if you would give Youssef a link using the anchor text Charlotte SEO.
This will be an experiment to see what happens and how fast for a deserving and talented web designer – SEO. Enjoy 
Charlotte Marketing and SEO – Hat Tip to the 1 Cent Tradition
Posted on July 20, 2010
Filed Under Copywriting, How to Increase Profits, Web Marketing, carolina seo | Leave a Comment
Penny Lane ( Kate Hudson) Click
Just 99 cents!
When I start to think my Charlotte Marketing and SEO can get complex, I am reminded of the year 1876-
Melville Stone wanted to sell a Chicago Newspaper for a penny. This would compete with the nickel papers that were top dog.
Pennies were scarce so Stone talked shop owners into lowering prices to both create change and raise a bargain spotters eyebrow.
It worked—folks had change in their pockets and the penny paper sold.
Oops…
A shortage of pennies soon developed so Stone went to the Mint and got barrels of them to keep the flow and the paper going.
So today we still have items all over the world priced at a major savings of 99 cents.
4.99, 5.99, 99.99.
It works even today
Play with a person’s perception—blatantly—and they will go for the lower price—even for a penny.
Oh, but we leave pennies all over the sidewalk and in that jar on the shelf .
I would think that in the year 2010, shoppers would be more savvy, and maybe they are.
Seven is the New Nine
If items were priced at a rounded off number maybe consumers would be just fine with that.
But testing sets the bar and prices remain at $.99.
Except, of course, on the Internet where it is $.97 , or $97 or $1,997 — you get the idea –
Red tag sale-
While we’re on the subject, what about a 20% off sale? Would 21% off catch your eye quicker?
Of course it would. So why do merchants stick with rounded off percentages? Tradition.
Same reason we set prices at 99cents. Tradition.
Moral of the Story
Value perception really is everything.
People drive way out of their way to save three cents on a gallon of gas and step over that much on the sidewalk daily.
As for me, I buy generic baking soda. Works great and look what I found– it’s not 6o cents, it’s just 59 cents. Lucky me. On sale.
And so an idea evolves. From a marketing idea to a Charlotte SEO blog. A wink back in time.
What You Can Learn About Marketing From Car Dealers
Posted on June 19, 2010
Filed Under Web Marketing | Leave a Comment
Driven
Automotive marketing has always been a high profile advertising undertaking.
25 years ago, I did some experiments testing various forms of advertising for car dealerships. Just yesterday I heard one of these forms on a radio station and was thinking about it because years of testing, producing, and looking at results has given me some insights into the methods of marketing automobiles.
Quit Yelling Would Ya?
We tried taking the laid-back approach to television auto ads. We selected a female car dealer and had her talk sincerely and frankly with the audience about how she wasn’t going to shout and participate in the hype of typical car dealer ads. That approach fell flat. We wanted it to work, we hoped it would work, and it did not.
So we tried it again, and then we repeated it with various changes, refined it and the sincere approach still didn’t work
We Were Wrong
So we went back to shouting, marching bands, throwing money in the air, loud booms, crazy attention-getting schemes, and that worked much better.
The point is, I have tested a lot of different ways to market automobiles and other products effectively over the years. So, when I heard about some of the innovations that are happening on the Internet I was interested to find out more.
Cars Online
I had a good conversation with Steve Graham of a South Carolina dealership called Midlands Honda. Steve is a smart guy so I went to ask a few questions and learn some things.
www…
The Internet offers many opportunities for alternative distribution of goods and services and those who take advantage of it are finding success. But it takes understanding what works and what does not work to cut through the confusion and focus on success.
This post is not the place to talk about what I learned from Steve because it was a private meeting and I respect his hard work.
But I can say that what he is doing follows the principles and insights that I try to give on this website. I appreciate him spending some time with me to help me better understand successful marketing.
Sleeves Rolled Up
You have to do your homework to learn.
Holiday Greetings in June
Posted on June 19, 2010
Filed Under Radio producer, Raleigh SEO, Web Marketing, carolina seo | 1 Comment
I know this old marketing trick is worn out and it still works. But this one came about in a real way.
Living back and forth in NYC and North Carolina gives me a chance to take advantage of events to stay in touch with
SEO, marketing and how it applies to Charlotte, the Carolinas, and the the world.
I made this video in NYC during the past Christmas Season. My intent was to post it for you, and all my loved ones and relatives.
Well here it is. ( finally) This quick Holiday Greeting to you is sincere even though it is now summer.
As cold as it was in NY last December, this scene is always welcome. People having fun, enjoying the
Holiday’s and celebrating life. I appreciated the moment then and enjoy the memory through this video. Hope you do as well.
On Having a Newsletter or Not?
Posted on June 19, 2010
Filed Under Copywriting, How to Increase Profits, Web Marketing, charlotte SEO | Leave a Comment
The Many Forms of Marketing
From SEO , to radio , TV, the New Google TV, Social networking, and Direct mail.
Charlotte, New York, Hong Kong-
It is all about connection, information, and follow-through action. If a newsletter represents your company or business in a way that can accomplish all these things then by all means have one. A newsletter can be an expanded business card for you. It can update your clients on –
- The fact that you are still around which is often important in that some past clients simply don’t know that you’re still doing business.
- What your services are and how they can add value to your potential clients outcome.
- How to get in touch with you.
- How you can best serve your potential clients and customers.
Getting the Word Out
A newsletter is simply a continued way to maintain contact and give information which will hopefully directly or indirectly add value for your clients.
The form that a newsletter takes can be the traditional paper bulletin that goes out through regular mail.
A newsletter can also take the form of an e-mail publication, a website post, or a website unto itself.
You can also send a newsletter via text message and in today’s technologically advanced world a newsletter can take the form of a video.
As usual, it’s important to recognize the value structure of your customer and communicate directly to their values.
What DoThey Like?
For example- a college sports fan will relate more readily to things pertaining to sports, collegiate life, an age group that resonates with those things, and other values that make sense to a person who appreciates that.
A NASCAR fan might fall within that same category but-again- might not. You need to take a look at the demographics age group and values of your target audience and be sure you are communicating directly with them.
This seems almost ridiculously simple to even mention,
but an awareness of values can make the biggest difference. If you want a clear understanding of values marketing check out the story of the Dixie Chicks and how their career changed overnight based on a few simple values in a politically charged atmosphere.
How Your Internet Marketing is the Same as Traditional
Posted on June 13, 2010
Filed Under Uncategorized, Web Marketing | Leave a Comment
Charlotte SEO
The purpose of traditional marketing is to create buzz within a specific community. Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, blogs, online news all do exactly that. Same principle different means of distribution.
Traditional marketing has always offered both image building and direct results. Internet marketers have been debating this issue for years. The direct crowd prefers measurable results while the image crowd (social networking) leans toward building overall loyalty and community. Either way the Internet is simply reflecting the same principles that have held true for the past 75 years in traditional marketing.
A diversity of styles is expressed through various values. Some marketers trying to make a quick buck will skim the surface, offer questionable service, and even run scams. Other marketers will cater to the more refined values that earn the applause of mainstream audiences. This traditional marketing concept has transferred itself directly to the Internet.
In general ,potential customers can be reluctant to take action. Internet marketing employs the same tactics as traditional marketing to get people to take action. Limited offers, discounts, up selling, buy one get one free and other tactics designed to inspire action are at work both on and off-line. It is human nature to avoid taking what is perceived to be a risky action. (I am certainly the same way.) Using these tactics is a simple and effective way to move things forward toward a sales conclusion.
Emotion and sensory devices are the heart of traditional marketing. The Internet has caught on to this form of communication and persuasion very quickly. Appealing spokesmodels, charismatic personalities, a sense of loyalty, membership and all the other mind stimulants are regularly employed for persuasion online and off.
Immediacy has been radio’s trump card since the beginning. In some ways the Internet and traditional media are working together to maintain a sense of immediacy. Twitter has moved to the forefront in this regard. Add mobility with personal handheld devices and today’s now-moment is a far more viable factor than ever.
Even though the Internet has made the world much smaller, localization is still at the top of the priority list. It’s been said that local marketing using the Internet combined with traditional media is the single biggest lifetime opportunity for marketers. The Internet transcends and includes traditional marketing. There is still plenty of local business to do plus there is more and more global business.
The Internet is a game changer and as an alternative means of distribution has given marketers more choices, to put it mildly.
SEO Marketing Charlotte Supports Oprah Contestant
Posted on May 19, 2010
Filed Under charlotte SEO | Leave a Comment
click image for Leela's site
My SEO and marketing work often reaches outside of Charlotte and the Carolinas to help folks in other parts of the Country and Globe.
This is one of those times, and you can help.
Leela Vox is a talented woman. She inspires many people with her excellent radio and TV interviews, leading local causes, and personal friendship with hundreds.
I have known Leela for many years and I realy believe in her inspiring talent as a broadcaster. She is sensitive to the needs of others and has
an extraordinary ability to communicate. I watched as she joined CBS Radio in Portland and had top rankings in her afternoon slot within three months, a rare feat. She regularly interviews celebrities such as Keith Urban and Taylor Swift plus she supports and leads projects in her local community.
The opportunity to host her own TV show is a great chance for Leela to do what she loves and continue to inspire others on a channel with the backing of one of the worlds great broadcasters, Oprah Winfrey.
Leela has become a contestant in Oprah’s search for the next TV star, “Your Own TV Show.”
Leela could use your support and it will only take a few seconds.
Part of the competition is a free, simple online vote. Here’s how-
Click here and watch Leela’s 2 minute video.
Then, just vote by clicking the green vote button in the lower left corner of the video screen.
You can go back and vote every day. You can also leave a comment below the video.
Plus, remember to share on facebook , Twitter, and other social media if you’d like to help spread the word.
Your ideas are welcome. You can contact Leela Vox here.
Today’s media world offers new and exciting opportunities for those who take action. Thanks to my friends in the Charlotte area
who support this SEO’s small effort to help.
Have a great day.
Charlotte SEO Presents- Proven Best Communication Method
Posted on May 16, 2010
Filed Under Copywriting, How to Increase Profits, Radio producer, Raleigh SEO, Web Marketing, carolina seo | 1 Comment
And the winner is…
Of all the ways to present an idea, there is one that is most effective.
This method has been
- studied,
- analyzed,
- pondered,
- researched
- and tried
until it just flat out wins the prize for best, most effective way to communicate.
No kidding
Here it is, from human developmental specialist Bill Torbert. Bill is an associate of Suzanne Cook-Greuter, one of my favorite people on the planet.
Step one- Frame what you are about to say- Put it in context. This is important because most people have not a clue where you are coming from ( out of the blue usually ). When you frame it with context, they know.
Step two- Advocate. Tell what you want. If you want to change a local street name to Conan O’Brien Boulevard, then say so.
Step Three- Illustrate. Show what it will look like or describe it in a way that brings it to life.
Step Four- Ask for others input. Be open to new twists on your idea. Solicit feedback and opinions.
Using this formula will get you the best communication possible more often than not. It’s a way to stack the odds in favor of accuracy when you’re trying to get an idea across.
Bonus info
Here’s the interesting thing about these four steps. The middle two are self centered and the way manyfolks ( including me) usually jump in to a typical talk.
The outer two are other centered and create a balance for the overall communication.
To be blunt-
Jerks use the middle two pretty much all the time.
More diplomatic people use all four together in an artful style of talking that gets best long term results.
This style of talking and writing can be used
- on the phone,
- in sales letters,
- emails,
- and with family members.
It gives you the best chance of having the best communication and it is simple to do.
Here’s an example of how you could use it-
Let’s say you have a sudden need for food for an event.
You walk into a chicken place and have two choices.
1- You can use steps two and three and blurt out ” I need 50 pieces of chicken put in boxes and ready to go in 20 minutes.”
2- You can use all four steps.
(1)”Hey, how are you? We have a group of 30 people to feed, they are already gathered at the community building and getting hungry.
(2)I would like 50 pieces of chicken to go.
(3)If you could pack the chicken in boxes and recommend some extras like side dishes that would help too.
(4) I’d also welcome any suggestions you have from the menu as I’m sure you’ve got experience in this sort of thing.
As simple as this method is, it can make a huge difference in the effectiveness of your message.
Next…
Some people don’t want to use it. It doesn’t fit their style. The funny thing is, they end up using the middle two steps and get a short circuited, limping result and wonder why.
Using this full method takes patience and extra effort. It feels a bit longwinded sometimes, but it works.
Local Boy Needs Your Support
Posted on April 29, 2010
Filed Under charlotte SEO | Leave a Comment
My work with SEO in the Charlotte area gives me a chance to meet some good people.
According to the report I got, this young boy has been a real trooper and stays positive toward getting better and better.
My friends at Fort Mill BBQ are having an event to raise funds to support Calvin.
Please do what you can to help this young guy get better and enjoy life.
Take I-77 South to Exit 88. That’s the Knights Stadium exit.
Go right about a mile or two and you’ll see a shopping center on the right.
That’s where Fort Mill BBQ is located. Hidden in the corner. Fort Mill’s best kept secret.
Friday, May 7TH
5pm ~ 8pm
There will be a Silent Auction as part of the fund raiser. S0 be prepared to have fun.
A DJ will be there playing music and helping with the announcements.
Pickles Da Clown will make a special appearance. Take the kids, take the whole family
and have a great time supporting this worthy cause for Calvin.
Great Food and Good Company .
Fort Mill BBQ Company
737 Stockbridge Drive, Fort Mill, SC 29708
803-548-7400
Rt. 160 & Gold Hill Rd. ~ behind Gate Station
~If you cannot make it, want to donate and follow Calvin’s progress, go to www.caringbridge.org/visit/calvinbradley
Thank you,
Kyle
My War on Intros
Posted on April 5, 2010
Filed Under Copywriting, How to Increase Profits, Web Marketing, carolina seo, charlotte SEO | Leave a Comment
This guest post is from Charlotte SEO writer Crazy Ernie’s Copy Barn
Give it Your Best Shot
A listener or reader wants compelling information at the very start of your talk, speech, interview, blog post, lecture. Give me something that peaks my interest at the beginning.
The first few words mean a lot. It is best not to waste them with a boring introduction.
Begin with
* news,
* self interest
* curiosity.
Hey, Pass the Remote
Do you remember the early days of cable TV? There was a lot of really bad content on obscure channels.
Movie channels slowly made things better but still, there was a glut of boredom.
I sift through thousands of blogs, podcasts, TV and YouTube interviews trying to get to the best of the content. It can be a challenge.
Ready?…Go!
I say let’s start by cleaning up intros.
There are some excellent blogs on the internet that get straight to the point. Frank Kern always does. Outspoken Media is pretty good, Brian Clark and Aaron Wall. Some others seem to be convinced of the the ‘agonizingly long post’ school of thought. But that’s a different story and another post.
Example of Good to Great
Larry King is the master of interviews. Watch and learn . No long, wordy intros. Larry just blurts out a question and waits for a response. So simple it hurts to watch anyone else stutter and stammer and search for words and hem and haw…and finally make a four word sentence.
Re Runs of Friends
Friends, the TV show- starts with an interesting moment. A hook. Something you can laugh with or hang onto. Then comes the intro music and we’re quickly back into the show. Nice.
Here’s Your mission
Notice how many horrifyingly long introductions there are on podcasts, blogposts, You Tube and others.. It is amazing.
Like a world wide plot to drive me over the brink.
It’s easy to find videos, posts and interviews you can listen or read two minutes into with nothing at all to hang your hat on.
Stop this. Add up the hours the world is wasting with filler.
Give them a Ticket.
When you find such an introduction going on and on, a long bio, a tease, another tease, a list of what we are about to do ( yes, I am aware of the formula –’ tell them what you are going to tell them’) leave a comment linking to this post.
How about no intro at all?
Honestly, I don’t know if I can ever click play on another podcast. I fear that the next eight minutes of my life will be thrown into an abyss. It’s like grabbing an electric fence. I have been neuro-linquistically programmed against content.
Presenting -The Untro. Just do it.
Here’s to better writing, podcasts, videos, speeches, radio shows and SEO . Charlotte today… tomorrow- the world.
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