It seems we have gone conference mad here at State of Search, and with some great conferences about – potential attendees are spoilt for choice – as Bas’ poll would probably suggest. As a conference organiser (I organise the Sascon conference in Manchester UK), I have been on both sides of the fence, as both attendee, speaker and organiser.
One of the things which came out of some recent events within the SEO community are just how many relationships are developed from sources such as Twitter, which then develop onto other social platforms such as Facebook/Skype and often then become ‘real life’ through meeting at conferences whether this be at the conference itself or indirectly via the various social forums which are often associated with these events such as Manchester SEO or London SEO.
So how do you make sure you get ahead in the game of SEO, and make the most of these opportunities ….
Find yourself a voice
Many SEO’s often have their own blogs however one doesn’t necessarily have to have one to fit in with the crowd. Sources such as Twitter or Guest Posts can provide a scalable forum in which to develop a social profile online as well as take some early steps into the online brand space, without the commitment required to run a successful blog. A good place to start is to understand how much time you can dedicate to a particular channel, what resource you have and what your potential commitment is likely to be. This will provide obvious opportunities for you to start.
Don’t be afraid to interact
If you don’t interact, how will anybody ever know you. Some of the most successful bloggers and twitterati, have become ‘successful’ via engagement whether that be offline or other. If you have an opinion on someones post, interact with it – link or no link. If you agree or disagree with something thats been tweeted/commented,express your viewpoint. That same methodology should apply just as much offline as it does online. Whilst the SEO community has its far share of ‘rockstars’, many of them are hugely approachable and that would include the likes of Patrick Altoft, David Naylor, Rishi Lakhani , Jon Myers, our Bas and many others (thats not to say badger them – but most people are more than happy to talk happily about their experiences)
One thing that makes SEO such a great place, is our opinions, and it is that debate which often drives our community/profession forward. That said a confrontational approach is one that should be approached with caution – a friendly intellectual approach will often get you further in the long run.
Dont be overawed
The SEO community is full of opportunity, whether that be blogging opportunities, speaking opportunities or just plain networking. Some of these can involve significant scrutiny by your peers, however many are just as eager to learn from your experiences as you are from them – as long as what you are saying is based on fact and not heresay. Community driven events such as Manchester SEO or London SEO can be a great way to get yourself known in the community and hear of such opportunities, so when they come around, grab them by the horns!!!!
Listen as well as talk
A one way conversation in real life is not something many enjoy so why do that online. I would suggest this is possibly one of the biggest lessons one starting in the industry can learn to do, particularly given how much many in the industry are willing to help and provide advice and assistance. Sometimes less is more and often a couple of insightful comments rather than a barrage of nonsense.
Build your portfolio
Often some of the best people are the ones you never hear from within the community – and sometimes some of the worst can be those who make the most. There is a saying actions speak louder than words, and one surefire wire to impress those in SEO is through a well implemented campaign, a fantastic tool, insightful debate or by citation.
