We reported that Google has mixed messaging around having an SEO Google Partner program. A week or so ago, Google said that they do not offer SEO certification but then shortly after that, Google posted a page saying they have an SEO partner program.
Well, yesterday afternoon, Google changed the page to confirm they do not have an SEO partner program.
Before:
After:
I did email Google about this and I also asked John Mueller about it yesterday in a Google+ hangout at the 41:37 mark. When I asked John why didn't they change the language yet - this was before the language was changed.
John Mueller: I know there are discussions about that but I don’t know what the current outcome there is. I think Gary [Illyes] taking that one.
Barry Schwartz: So can you confirm or deny that Google 100% doesn’t have a partner program for SEOs?
John Mueller: We don’t have a partner program for SEOs. I mean, SEOs can be partners in other sense but we don’t have a specific program.
Barry Schwartz: So it is a mistake? Correct?
John Mueller: I don’t know the specifics around that page. So I can’t say the specifics...
Barry Schwartz: I can read it for you. “Need Help question mark. Find a Google certified partner to help you implement a smart SEO strategy and drive more traffic to your site.”
John Mueller: Yea. That sounds like something we wouldn’t say.
So I guess Google updated the content on the page to confirm all of this.
Here is the video embed:
Forum discussion at Google+.
