On December 4, Google adjusted its algorithms and Republic Resumes dropped nine organic places. Whoa! I knew what was wrong. Not enough content and one other issue.

I contacted a few SEO guys (where are the women SEO experts?) and got a quote ranging from $5000 to $400. There was one guy who simply wouldn’t answer my questions.

If you thought recruiters, used car salesmen and resume writing businesses were dodgy, wait to you deal with so-called SEO ‘experts’.

I’m actually not too bad at SEO and I’m lucky enough to have some nerd mates who help out.

You’d think business would have dropped off, giving me time to fix the issues.

But no. I got busier!! Some of my work comes from recruiters and Facebook but Google Analytics picked up increased traffic (deducting overseas people – I’m big in America and Egypt apparently. Ha!).

Here’s why. Word of mouth beats Google every time. Prospective clients check out my website to check me out. Then they look at my fees and the testimonials.

I asked a couple of clients, ‘how did you hear about me?’ and they said, ‘my brother’s sister used you and got a job’ or ‘my Mum used you and said you’d help me with my graduation resume’.

People also contact me because they want job hunting advice or they’re looking to change careers or they’re fighting age prejudice.

I plan to make some web changes in the light of the Covid-19 recession and the rise of casual work. Just need the time! More later.