Thanks for the warning. I was looking for experienced members here that would stand to lose if they dogged me. What would you suggest?
Feel free to PM me the URL & keyword and I'll happily take a look. Maybe I can advise a way to spend $1k that lasts longer than a week.
Well, why don't you consult with a company, whether it be mine or not, and discuss what you want to accomplish and go over it with someone who can offer you the support and continuing maintenance that you need to move forward. This isn't a Pac Man game out here, and you are just looking for a good "Key" pattern. Competition is steep. #1 can be very expensive to get and maintain depending on your keywords,and requires a real professional to have on your team, that is going to work with you for the development of your company over all. If you get a "quick fix" to get number one, i can almost guarantee you, it will be something that will get you penalized or banned. It is not that simple. There are millions of companies that want that spot, with huge budgets, and teams on payroll to get there. Like I said, it all depends on the terms, and what market it is. When you get to the level of SEO that you are looking for, you need to consult with an expert for a comprehensive plan, that offers long term support. JMO. Look around and talk to some people. You can give me a call if you like. (click sig) I am PST. If nothing else I can tell you how to shop for this and what to look for, based on your needs. FYI, nobody stands to lose anything by ripping you off, except you. You have to seek out services professionally. Some guy with an SEO book will not get you there, legally. Also remember this...Google is PR 10, Yahoo is PR9! Think about that!
I've generated him comprehensive reports which is enough for any non SEO to use the information, and spend the 1,000 on suggested areas to acheive excellent results. If he wants to take the reports and do this, i'm quite happy. Position #1 isn't really attainable with his budget, but the others are. Yes i was one of those who asked if there was any form of payment up front. This is understandable considering Directory inclusion, as well as permanent backlinks arn't free. Being "burnt" is a two way street, and no offence to the OP but with 1 iTrader i wouldn't want to spend a few hundred on solid lifelong white hat link building strategies for nothing. If he chooses to take the free reports i gave him and have a go himself, it would make me just as happy.
Thanks for those reports sweetfunny. I found them very informative. By the way, I was willing to give payment up front for links. I was just saying that it would be part of the payment, not in addition to the payment.