David Mihm pointed out on Twitter that Google is hosting a partner workshop event called “Drive Traffic to Your Website with SEO”. Interestingly, the seminar claims to be “hosted by one of Google’s in-house SEO experts, this seminar will give you a behind-the-scenes insight into how Google approaches SEO for their sites.”
This is 100% a partner program with Google, but the problem some have with this is that an internal Google SEO is speaking at this event.
It doesn’t seem that way to me: “Hosted by one of Google’s in-house SEO experts, this workshop will give you a behind-the-scenes insight into how Google approaches SEO for their sites.”
But after I signed up, I received a confirmation from “Grow with Google Partners” with the Google Partner Program logo in the confirmation email.
Yes, Google has an internal SEO team, it’s no secret. In fact, Google said their internal search teams are stricter with their internal SEO teams than their external ones. Google also said it does not give preferential treatment to its internal SEO team.
Here are some of the concerns about this, with Google’s John Mueller responding:
What I find interesting is that Google explicitly presents SEO information under a partner. @Localuniv googlers have always been wary of “SEO tips”.
Also concerned that what works for “internal SEO on Google sites” will not be realistic for SMEs.
For example, we have also featured third party managed events, including when it comes to SEO providers / tools. This isn’t a sign that we specifically recommend them, it’s more that it’s just someone who happens to organize a public event (which is a lot of work).
I don’t think most will have any concerns about G giving SEO advice.
That’s when the additional parts are tied to it – and if they then try to flip / cash / cash in on it (“we have a relationship with …”).
Remember the “cheap site + domain” thing, it worked out more expensive?
Here is a screenshot of the event:
I actually signed up and confirmed that I am there – I will do my best to listen to you and let you know if I find anything out of the norm that is unfair or something else.
