Search Engine Optimization Terms FAQ

The world of Search Engine Optimization is full of jargon that may at first be a bit confusing to the beginner. The terms involved aren't difficult to understand; they are simply unfamiliar. Here are some answers to common questions about SEO.

What is a back link? In Search Engine Optimization, links that point toward a certain page from another page are called back links. Back links are important in SEO, since they weigh heavily in a site's search engine ranking. Basically, if someone at SomeonesSite.com links to a page on YourSite.com, this would be a back link for you but not for them. By the same token, when you link to their site, it is a back link for them but not for you. In this case, it would be what is called an outbound link for you.

What is a landing page? A landing page is any page where readers arrive after clicking a link from another website. When used in Internet marketing, it usually refers to a page people are sent when clicking an advertisement. Landing pages are usually written a little differently than content pages, as they serve a different purpose. They are designed to draw viewers into their site, and are usually the page with the highest search engine optimization on the site.

What is a squeeze page? A squeeze page is a certain type of landing page whose purpose is to "squeeze" prospects' names and email address from them. This then puts them on a marketing list, where they will receive information as well as sales pitches. Usually, some type of free report or other bonus is offered in exchange for signing up to a list. They also are pages that have high search engine optimization, as this often leads to a higher conversion rate.

What is a conversion rate? A conversion rate refers to the percentage of people who complete a specified action, such as buying your product or opting in to your mailing list. It is, in effect, what you hope to increase by search engine optimization. For example, if one hundred people visit your sales page, and three of them choose to buy, you have a 3% conversion rate (which in many niches is pretty good).

A conversion rate doesn't have to be about sales, though. It can refer to people signing up for a free sample, a trial membership, or taking any other action you want them to take. When the desired action is to sign up for a list, conversion rate is referred to as "opt-in rate."

What is split testing? Split testing is the process of comparing two or more versions of a Web page to see which one has the better search engine optimization. This is most often accomplished by use of software such as Google's page editor. While an entire website may benefit from split testing, it is usually recommended to only test the landing page and any pages where a conversion can happen. This is due to the time and cost commitment involved with split testing.

Such are some of the primary terms that you will encounter in search engine optimization. It should be easier to speak the native language.

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Comments

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 at 4:22 AM, by SEO Expert
It is good to know that the terms in SEO were properly defined so that the reader, who is not very familiar with SEO, can understand the terms.

Fri, 30 Jan 2009 at 9:27 AM, by SEO Expert
It is a great articles a thorough explanation of what an SEO means and the facts behind it ...nice article

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