The SSM Blog

Shelley is a well-known digital marketer and SEO expert. Her SSM blog covers SEO, PPC, SEM, digital marketing, social media, and analytics. Get important updates and tips that improve your business.

Man in an orange shirt looking at a computer screen, representing real marketing strategy in 2025.

What REAL Strategy Looks Like in 2025

Forget the hacks and gimmicks. In 2025, real strategy isn’t about quick wins or fake promises — it’s about smart content, SEO that actually helps humans, ads that don’t suck, and consistency that compounds. Most people chasing shortcuts burn time and money. This post breaks down what real marketing strategy looks like today so you can stop wasting energy and start getting results.

Digital Advertising

Sep 182 min read

Illustration showing the contrast between SEO and Google Ads, highlighting the difference between long-term organic growth and short-term paid visibility.

SEO vs. Google Ads

Think SEO and Google Ads are the same thing? Think again. This post breaks down what each one actually does, how to spot the difference, and why smart businesses stop wasting money on the wrong one. What is the difference between SEO and Paid Ads?

SEO

Aug 53 min read

Small business owner working on a laptop, symbolizing Wix websites ranking on Google

The Myth: “Wix Can’t Rank”

Heard that Wix can’t rank on Google? That’s just not true. I’ve been getting Wix sites on page one since 2016. It’s not the platform. It’s how your site’s set up. In this post, I break down what actually matters for SEO and why rebuilding your site might be a waste of time. Before you spend thousands on a redesign, send me your site. I’ll tell you straight up what’s working and what’s not.

SEO

Jul 223 min read

Shelley Iverson smiling and giving a thumbs up next to the phrase ‘Why SEO Takes Time’ — emphasizing that slow, strategic SEO is a good thing

Slow SEO Wins

Think SEO should work overnight? Think again. Real SEO isn’t instant — it’s built on smart strategy, solid content, and long-term trust with search engines. In this post, we break down why quick-fix promises are a red flag, what real SEO actually involves, and how long it really takes to get results that last. Spoiler: it’s worth the wait. If you're ready to grow the right way, this one's for you.

SEO

Jul 73 min read

“Infographic illustrating key red flags of SEO scams, including too good to be true offers, pressure tactics, and vague language.

Google Doesn’t Cold Call

In the digital marketing landscape, spotting SEO scams can be challenging. Many businesses fall victim to cold calls promising rapid results, only to be left disappointed. In this blog post, we'll explore the key red flags to identify scam SEO offers, such as unrealistic promises, pressure tactics, and vague language. You'll learn how to differentiate between legitimate professionals and fraudulent schemes, ensuring your investment in SEO is safe and effective. Arm yourself w

Digital Marketing

Jun 183 min read