Website design vs links; & google

Fundamental and not new

[Jane_B]

Hi One of our competitors is listed as number 3 on Google results. Their site is designed breaking all the rules (if rules is the right word) - lots of images and no or little html text on homepage. But they do have a mega list of links - runs to seven pages on Google. This site, and mine, are consumer sites therefore they need to be eyecatching. Have I got it wrong going for html, reducing images etc?

[Sinner_G]

No, you've got it right. Now you just have to get as many links as them.

There are several issues there. First, Google will like your content better than theirs if there is more (and it's relevant of course). Second, the users will prefer your site because there are less images so it's faster loading.

As I said, get those links :).

[Jane_B]

Thanks. Very reassuring.

[Marcia]

Jane, it can also be a matter of keyword density on the page, or how links are done. Some sites have their main keyword or phrase in their site name, and if that's used in link text it can also be a major contributing factor.

It's best to stay with a site that's well done that you're happy with yourself. Improvements just come over time, making little additions and modifications as we go along.