SEO shortcuts can lead to a dead end

This search engine optimization tip is brought to you by the Austin SEO Guy -- search engine wisdom for Austin, Texas companies.

"I don't care what we have to do, we need first-page ranking ASAP."

This attitude exists among many Austin companies regarding SEO, but that doesn't change the fact that it's a dangerous attitude to have. But before we get into the perils of SEO shortcuts, let's talk business models...

If you're ever in a situation where your business survival depends on "instant ranking" in the search engines, then you're already doomed. SEO is a long-term process. You should build it into your weekly activities just like training or any other repetitive task. But it's not an immediate process by any stretch of the imagination.

As for the perils of SEO shortcuts, just know that they're very real. Check out this SEO horror story to see what I mean.

Want to show up on page 1 of Google tomorrow? Try their pay-per-click program, Google AdWords. Want to show up on page 1 through natural SEO? Start a long-term SEO campaign ... and stay away from the shortcuts!

-The Austin SEO Guy