Ted Leonsis Contest – Keep it Clean

Brian thought a contest for Ted Leonsis would be a good idea – and of course Michael’s always up for a bit of SEO experimenting. I think this “contest” offers a good opportunity to demonstrate the importance of rep management in a positive way. I created a Ted Leonsis page as well – so if that page manages to win – I’ll gladly donate Brian’s money to charity (Leukemia research). My plea to those that compete is that you keep it clean – focus on Ted’s accomplishments, and help teach people about the positive things he’s done instead of just being a wanker and tryin’ to get something to rank. I’ll gladly put up a bio or redirect after the first of the year, if Ted bothers to comment on the contest at all.

For the very short time I’ve been aware of Ted at AOL – he seems like a good enough chap. He DOES get SEO – at least he knows OF it. That’s honestly a lot more than most non-search executives I would venture to guess. I really couldn’t run AOL – I’d probably try for a little while and snap in about 6 months of having to wear a suit everyday, but I think Ted is giving the wrong message that ANYONE can do DIY SEO at a high level.

He’s honestly doing a pretty good job of improving the exposure of SEO – which is something I always appreciate. I hope that it will be kept a positive experience for all involved, however. Ted did us a solid by MENTIONING SEO to the kind of folks that know and listen to what he has to say. Despite not COMPLETELY understanding the wonderful world of search optimization and reputation management – Ted is aware of it, and should be somewhat commended, and not chastized for his beginner knowledge. Tagging a subdomain on AOL is a pretty easy way to do SEO – you have to admit – but there’s a LOT of other room in the top 50 or top 100. Please keep it clean folks.

Todd Malicoat

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