​Link building is an important part of SEO, but Cutts suggests putting UX and design ahead of most optimization practices.

​In a recent Google Webmaster Help video, Matt Cutts talks to three misconceptions in the SEO content industry that prevent brands from making the most of web marketing opportunities. Cutts explains the difference between algorithm updates and data refreshes, and he even expels the notion of Panda and Penguin being used to drive revenue for the search company, but Brafton focused on his third point. Cutts says SEOs spend too much time and energy trying to build links and thinking only about search engines.

Cutts expressed his continued support for developing internet marketing strategies that focus on end users, not search engines. He explained that too many people have tunnel vision when optimizing their websites, pushing forward with link building and neglecting other beneficial practices along the way. He pointed toward websites like Instagram, Twitter and Path, saying these sites provide users with stellar experiences that compel members to come back time and time again. Cutts notes that websites with a greater focus on design outperform pages that focus too closely on SEO.

Brafton’s latest infographic on Penguin 2.0 shows businesses how to avoid a fight with the algorithm, and once those steps have been implemented, it’s clear marketers should turn their focus to enhancing the UX and design of their sites for greater visibility online.

Ted Karczewski is an Executive Communications Associate at Brafton. He works to develop his own voice and apply his passions to the evolving world of SEO and content marketing, but he doesn't shy away from writing for fun. After graduating from Suffolk University, Ted used his Communications degree to test out Sports Journalism before Marketing at Brafton.