The Start of SEO

The acronym, “SEO,” had its first recorded usage in 1997. However, the official term predates the creation of the various search engines we know and love. The search engines that did exist at the time functioned more like a directory that you would find on the wall of a mall. SEO really begin when smaller business owners realized their businesses were not highly ranked, and from there, it took off.

Google works similarly to the Yellow Pages, if you recall what those are. If you don’t, the Yellow Pages was a very large book that was given out with listings of all the companies in your area, some paying for more ad space. In the same way, google allows you to take action to push your business up in the rankings. After all, google is a business too, so they want people to use their search engine. Therefore, to serve their customers, they will put the best results at the top of the page.

Google has a great interest in ensuring that the businesses at the top of their rankings are truly the best of the best. So, if you believe you are a leader in your industry, then you will want to ensure you take on SEO and aim for the top.

The concept of SEO did not start with Google and search engines. Rather, it started with the Yellow Pages, billboards, newspapers, and magazines. Every place where a business would try to get an edge, make their company stand out, catch some customers, and show them why you deserve their service.

The history of SEO can be a reminder for the future, SEO is a tool. Alone, it is not the only way a business can optimize themselves, but it is very prevalent in modern society and should not be overlooked.