Format: Download Slides with Synchronized Audio - MP4 Video File $9

Presenter: Tammy Hepps

Cousin bait is the public information trail you leave for people researching the same ancestors as you to find you. Making connections to fellow researchers is every genealogist's dream, not only because it gives you a research buddy, but also because each new buddy can provide you with information you may have never found otherwise. But in the Internet age, creating that trail means understanding how search engines work. Content that make seem intriguing to you as a genealogist may fail to meet the criteria of content search engines. This talk will begin with a basic introduction to SEO, search engine optimization, to demonstrate the qualities your digital cousin bait will need to have. Then the talk will cover examples of different ways to post genealogical content online to evaluate the likelihood of their making your content findable. Finally, safety considerations around making your content findable will be discussed.