Building SEO Credibility Through Training

As suggested at SEOmoz, carrying out well planned training sessions can be a great way to build the credibility of your SEO whilst educating your organisation. Without this sort of effort, it can appear unprofessional and sloppy. Who is likely to be interested in implementing good SEO if you don't even look like you care about it yourself? Here are some of his tips for good SEO training:

• Identify needs. Because Search Engine Optimisation is a broad term and there are many facets (link building, website strategies, using keyword tools, etc.), determine beforehand those areas of SEO which will be most beneficial to your group and develop your training programme around them.
• Be prepared. That's just the general rule for any training; so, even if it is a one-on-one session at someone's desk, prepare yourself beforehand.
• Create a positive learning environment. Make a check list of everything you and those attending will need and make sure it is all available and in place. This will minimise distractions and maximise results.
• Build training around a selected few key outcomes. Use the objectives obtained when you identified needs to structure your training.
• Ensure training incorporates the different learning styles. Not everyone learns in the same way - so your training should incorporate visual, auditory, and interactive elements.
• Always get feedback. For anyone who wants to improve their training skills, feedback is imperative. There are generic feedback forms on the web which can help you get started.
• Always follow-up by email with contact details, course material copies, resource links, and of course, a thank you.