top of page

Digital Marketing Course 2: How to Verify SEO Claims

Overview 

In this eye-opening video, Anton from Blackstone Consultancy highlights a crucial yet often overlooked aspect of digital marketing—verifying the truth behind SEO claims. 


With so many agencies and influencers making bold statements online, it’s essential for business owners to look beyond traffic numbers and focus on what truly matters: conversions and long-term performance. 


What the Video Covers 

The video opens with a critical analysis of high-profile SEO figures and brands, using Neil Patel’s public claims as a case study. Anon explains how many marketing influencers, while not necessarily dishonest, may present incomplete narratives that focus heavily on metrics like traffic—without addressing whether that traffic converts into real business value. 


Most expert search engine optimization services use SEO tools like Ahrefs. Here, Anton investigates traffic trends on Neil Patel’s website. Contrary to the claim that 80% of traffic comes from outside the U.S. through AI-driven translations, the data reveals that the site’s traffic has been declining steadily since 2021. 


This serves as a practical demonstration that data should always be verified, especially when used to justify marketing strategies. Anon then draws a parallel to his own work at Blackstone Consultancy, where client case studies and SEO outcomes are tracked transparently. 


He shows examples of real projects where SEO optimization efforts caused traffic to dip temporarily before a significant increase—proving that growth is rarely linear, but measurable with the right strategy and persistence. 


Key Takeaways 

  • Traffic ≠ Conversions: It’s easy to be impressed by high traffic numbers, but what really matters is how that traffic translates into leads and revenue.

  •  Always Verify SEO Claims: Use tools like Ahrefs to double-check performance claims made by marketers or agencies.

  • There Are No Shortcuts: Sustainable SEO requires time, consistency, and adaptation—not gimmicks or inflated promises. Branded Traffic 

  • Signals Trust: Search engines value consistent branded searches and authentic business presence more than quick traffic hacks. 

  • Algorithm Changes Are Normal: Expect fluctuations in traffic; the goal is long-term growth and adapting to Google's evolving standards. 


Why This Matters for You 

As a business owner or decision-maker, it’s your responsibility to cut through the hype and focus on results that matter. 


By understanding how to evaluate SEO claims with real data, you’ll be in a stronger position to choose the right partners and avoid being misled by flashy but empty promises.

bottom of page