"&" the Ampersand and SEO

**jonlarsen002** · 09-19-2007, 11:01 AM

I designed a site that uses an ampersand frequently and never the actual word "and." Are there any tips for SEO when all our content uses "&" and people might not search using that symbol?

Any input would be greatly appreciated! Thanks!

-Jon

**Malok** · 09-19-2007, 12:07 PM

Of the information that I've read, it appears most persons think the search engines view it as a "break" in the title/name.

Similar to using hyphens, pipes, asterisks, forward slash, etc.

And even if it were possible, I'm not sure it would be advantageous to search engine optimize for something like that.

**twalters84** · 09-30-2007, 02:41 AM

Hey there,

I make sure all my "&" symbols are "&" in my code. Otherwise, my website does not validate as W3C compliant.

Websites that are W3C compliant are more easily crawled by search engines. Hence the term - search engine friendly.

I would not use that symbol in your keywords though. I do not think many people do searches with that character?

Hope this helps.

Sincerely,
Travis Walters

**RJacobsen** · 10-10-2007, 11:53 AM

Hi Jon,

Very nice and clean site! I was rather impressed with the simplicity of your overall layout. I like how you clearly state what it is that your users can expect to get out of your site. I like the flash pics (may I suggest you get more lifestyle photos). The 'Properties' tab is again very clean and your layout is very appealing. I've looked at several similar websites (similar in the product offered) and I must say yours stands out!

May I suggest you do your homework on SEO and link building. There is a ton of information found here on the forum and you can find e-books, blogs, and SEO professionals all over the internet. Download.com offers dozens of free e-books (I've read several). Be weary of hiring SEO consultants (or at least the first one you come across), educate yourself before paying someone for their advice! Best of luck!