In my last post I discussed the 4 very simple steps that have most effect on google search engine optimization. To say though that there are only 4 tricks in the armory of a search engine optimization consultant would be untrue. There are lots of techniques we can use to improve our SEO and come out on top in search engine rankings; keywords placed in title tags, keyword-rich content throughout the site; submitting the site to DMOZ and Yahoo!…these are all extra things we can do in a flash to boost our ranking.
However there is one factor that even the best Internet Marketer has trouble overcoming….
You will remember in my last post I discussed the bias that Google has towards keyword optimized domains, page names, file names and anchor text. In this post I will discuss another of Google bias’, though unfortunately this aspect of Search Engine Optimization can be a bit more challenging…though there is a way to succeed!
Firstly lets look at a couple of different factors that influence search engine ranking and I will explain the different levels of trust that Google places in each.
Keywords in the page content – Whilst this is of course important, Google is no fool. Keywords can be added or taken out of page content within a matter of seconds. Google understands that it can be influenced almost instantly and therefore puts little trust in it.
Backlinks – A more trusted factor. Whilst back links can of course be influenced it takes far more time to to build a quality network of back links. Because it is harder to manipulate and takes far more time an effort, google puts a lot of trust in back links when deciding which sites should get top rankings.
But, there is one “trust” factor that simply cannot be influenced…..
Domain Age.
If you buy a domain today and try and compete against a competitor who has had their domain live for 3 years, even in 3 years time you will still have a domain that is 3 years younger than your competitor’s.
We might be able to equal or beat them in other areas of SEO, but we will never be able to beat a competitor with an aged domain..on domain age! So this is probably starting to sound a bit depressing if you are trying to enter an established market right now….well don’t despair yet as there is a solution;
Simply BUY an Aged Domain.
Aged domains are domains that have been purchased in the past and have fallen in to disuse, have expired or even been parked. A good aged domain can be a great source of traffic as it will likely have pre existing links and even content. Most importantly though it has age, the crucial quality we are looking for. So the idea is very simple, side step the problem by buying used as opposed to new!
Finding and then purchasing a pre-owned domain can be a bit tougher though
Generally aged domains only become available after they have expired or if their owner decides to sell. A lot of the domain registrars such as godaddy.com and sites such as Flippa.com, have created online marketplaces for aged domains. What is unique about Flippa though is that you can buy the domain and the entire site content as opposed to just the domain name like many other auction sites.
I use a great tool called Domain Samurai to locate keyword rich aged domains that are available on the market. However, what if you cannot find a domain that has all the right attributes that you are looking for? Well if this is the case you could try being more proactive. Site owners details will always appear in the “who is” records of the site. If you find a domain you really like but is in use, simply locate the owners details, pick up the phone and make them an offer.
If the site is well established the owner may not sell or may request a high price for it. If the domain however is inactive, there is a strong likelihood that you can acquire the domain at a good price.
Keep an eye on the market
If you are really looking to get ahead in your market and are looking for domains that score high on age as well as other SEO factors you cannot just afford to check the auction sites once. Of course checking flippa.com on a regular basis can be very time intensive, however the potential traffic boost you will get just by finding one keyword optimized aged domain can repay you many times over through the traffic it brings.
Recommended Domain Tool:
Domain Samurai – Get your FREE trial now.
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James is an internet marketer living in Dubai. He makes his living almost entirely online, using internet marketing strategies that generate income for him and his clients 24/7. His tested techniques focus on the core fundamentals that work […] 
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