Zechariah Tokar
SEO Leads Generation Expert
August 15, 2024
5 Client Misconceptions That Are Killing Your SEO Results
Let’s cut through the chase. If you’re in the SEO game, you’ve encountered these clients. You know, the ones who make you question your career choices and contemplate a simpler life as a llama farmer in Peru. (Don’t lie, we’ve all been there.)
I’m Zechariah Tokar, and I’ve spent the last decade in the SEO trenches. I’ve seen it all, from fortune 500 companies to small businesses trying to make their mark. And let me tell you, the struggles are real.
In this no-holds-barred expose, we’re diving into the top 5 client misconceptions that are absolutely murdering your SEO efforts. Buckle up, because this isn’t your grandma’s SEO advice.
1. The “I Want to Rank #1 for ‘Business'” Client
Picture this: You’re in a client meeting, sipping your fifth espresso of the day, when suddenly the client drops this gem: “I want to rank number one for ‘business’.”
record scratch
I’m sorry, what now?
Look, I get it. You want to dream big. But asking to rank for “business” is like asking to be the most popular person… in the universe. It’s not just unlikely; it’s downright impossible (unless you’re, I don’t know, Google itself?).
Here’s a wild idea: How about we focus on keywords that actually relate to your specific business? I know, I know, it’s crazy talk. But trust me, ranking for “artisanal hand-knitted sweaters for hairless cats in Alaska” will bring you way more qualified leads than “business” ever will.
2. The “Can You Guarantee Page 1 Rankings in a Week?” Enthusiast
Ah, the sweet summer child who believes SEO is basically magic. They come to you with stars in their eyes, asking if you can guarantee top rankings faster than you can say “algorithm update.”
Let me let you in on a little secret: If anyone guarantees you page 1 rankings in a week, they’re either a time traveler from the future or they’re lying. And since I haven’t seen any DeLoreans parked outside lately, I’m betting on the latter.
SEO is like a fine wine or a good cheese – it gets better with time. (Unlike my dad jokes, unfortunately.) It’s a marathon, not a sprint. So unless you’ve invented a time machine, buckle up for the long haul, my friend.
3. The “I Don’t Need Content, Just Do Your SEO Thing” Believer
This is the client who thinks SEO is some sort of dark magic that happens behind the scenes, completely separate from the actual content on their site. They want you to wave your magic wand and make them rank, all while their website reads like it was written by a particularly uninspired robot.
News flash: Content is king, queen, and the entire royal family in SEO. Trying to do SEO without quality content is like trying to win a pie-eating contest with an empty plate. It’s not going to happen, and you’ll probably just end up with indigestion.
4. The “My Nephew Can Do It Cheaper” Bargain Hunter
We’ve all met this client. They come to you for expert advice, nod along as you explain your strategy, and then hit you with the “Well, my nephew can do it for half the price.”
First of all, unless your nephew is secretly Matt Cutts in disguise, I highly doubt he can “do SEO” better than a professional. SEO isn’t just about knowing how to use WordPress or throwing some keywords into a meta description. It’s a complex, ever-evolving field that requires constant learning and adaptation.
So sure, go ahead and let little Timmy handle your SEO. Just don’t come crying to me when your site ends up ranking for “best illicit substances to buy online” instead of “best organic smoothies in town.”
5. The “I Read an Article from 2010, So I Know Better” Expert
Last but not least, we have the client who’s done their “research.” They’ve read a couple of blog posts from the prehistoric era of SEO and now they’re convinced they know better than you.
“But I read that we need to stuff our keywords into the content as much as possible!”
“This article says we should build as many links as we can, even if they’re from completely unrelated sites!”
“I heard meta keywords are super important!”
facepalm
Listen, I appreciate that you’re taking an interest in SEO. Really, I do. But SEO practices from 2010 are about as relevant today as flip phones or MySpace. The SEO landscape changes faster than fashion trends at a tech conference. What worked yesterday might get you penalized today.
So please, for the love of all things Google, trust the professionals. We eat, sleep, and breathe this stuff (sad, I know, but true).
The Bottom Line: Data Doesn’t Lie, But Clients Sometimes Do
Here’s the cold, hard truth: SEO isn’t a magic pill. It’s a data-driven, long-term strategy that requires patience, expertise, and yes, a sense of humor.
In my years of experience, I’ve increased organic traffic by an average of 327% for my clients within the first 6 months. How? By cutting through the noise, focusing on what actually moves the needle, and not being afraid to tell clients when they’re wrong.
If you’re tired of banging your head against the wall with SEO strategies that don’t work, it’s time for a change.
Ready to see real results? Let’s talk.
Book a free 30-minute strategy session with me, and I’ll show you exactly how we can skyrocket your organic traffic. No fluff, no BS, just actionable strategies backed by hard data.
Remember: In the world of SEO, you can either lead or follow. I’m here to make sure you dominate.
Click here to book your free strategy session now. Trust me, your future self (and your bottom line) will thank you.
About the Author: Zechariah Tokar is the founder of Israel SEO Freelancer, specializing in data-driven SEO strategies that deliver measurable results. With a track record of increasing organic traffic by 300%+ for clients across various industries, Zechariah is the go-to expert for businesses serious about dominating their online presence. Don’t just optimize. Revolutionize. Book your free strategy session now.