SEO Becomes a Top-Of-Mind Priority in Larger Companies. I predicted that more large companies and big brands would realize the value of baking SEO into their website redesigns, rather than first redesigning and then trying to “wedge” SEO into their new site. I also felt that more of these companies would hire SEO consultants to work with their online marketing managers to help with this task and make sure it was done correctly.

For 2009, the trends from 2008 will continue. In addition, companies who previously tested the social media waters and felt that it didn’t work for them may try it again, but in a more structured manner. Those companies who understand that social media marketing can’t be faked, will reap huge benefits from their participation, but many companies will still not quite grasp this concept.