Mike Levin – An SEO in New York City

I’m Mike Levin, the NYC tech geek who most recently created 360iTiger, and this website is my daily #dailyjournal. I’m also a husband, daddy, and “Earned Media Optimizer”, the creator of a SEO secret weapon, HitTail …and the guy who got a the most notorious Google penalty of all time lifted for a major retailer. I live on top of the hill on of the island on top of the world—working for the top brands on the planet on behalf of a top digital marketing firm. I used to work for Commodore, which still worms its way into my heart. Scroll down to see recommendations, or read my Q/A.

---

Inventor and Creator, HitTail.com

Liz Bazini, Managing Director of Connors Communications/Chief Marketer for HitTail.com, Connors Communications worked with Mike at HitTail.com

Mike is an extremely knowledgeable individual. While I worked with him at Connors Communications, he was the expert on search, blogging, and all things related to Web applications and tools. His role as a programmer evolved into the development of HitTail, where his ability to promote a new product was invaluable. On a personal level, I enjoyed working with Mike and appreciated his depth of understanding and patience when explaining both technical and non-technical concepts.

Justin Hitt, hired Mike as a Application Services Provider in 2007

After using Mike’s Hittail solution, I interviewed him for my members. Mike is knowledgeable and provides practical advice for increasing not just search engine traffic, but sales on a website, while reducing advertising costs. His business oriented approach to Internet marketing was refreshing.

Sara Holoubek, Free Agent, Columnist, Self-employed was with another company when working with Mike at HitTail.com

Mike leaves an impression on two distinct fronts. Not only are his hard skills undeniable, but his intellect and poise win him bonus points. His contributions to the SEMPO New York Working Group are most appreciated.

---

Lead Marketing Engineer, Hachette Filipacchi Media

Daniel Wong, VP of Marketing, Hachette Filipacchi Media managed Mike at Hachette Filipacchi Media

I only worked with Mike a very short time at Hachette, but in that time he demonstrated a unique resistance to the group-think that often afflicts teams. His hands-on approach to search engine optimization and strong personality won him the respect of the technical team in a way that got projects done in weeks that take months or even years under normal circumstances.

Aaron Alquist, Senior Marketing Engineer, Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. worked directly with Mike at Hachette Filipacchi Media

Mike’s ability to find new and innovative search optimization solutions is never ending. Any company that’s serious about improving their web presence should trust in Mike’ss ability.

Jason Hartley hired Mike as a SEO

Mike is one of the most knowledgeable SEO professionals it’s been my pleasure to work with.

Jessica Zorn, Director of Web Analytics, Hachette Filipacchi Media worked directly with Mike at Hachette Filipacchi Media

Mike is one of those rare technical people who really get business. He is engaged and enthusiastic, and always asks the “why” questions that so many people don’t. He is devoted to innovation. I recommend him wholeheartedly.

John Guaragno, Web Developer, Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. worked with Mike at Hachette Filipacchi Media

I have worked with Mike for the past year while he was Lead Marketing Engineer at Hachette Filipacchi Media and since day one I have been impressed by Mike’s passion toward his work. It is evident that he clearly understands all aspects of business and possesses the skills to lead a project from start to finish. Always looking ahead, Mike is a visionary who defines success not only in the present but strives to create solutions that will advance well into the future. A team player who understands the importance of innovation with the ability to make those around him “see the light” as well. I have learned a tremendous amount working alongside Mike and truly believe his tireless work ethic will be a great asset to any team.

Alex Sadykov, Database Administrator, Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S., Inc. worked directly with Mike at Hachette Filipacchi Media

Besides being a joy to work with, Mike is a take-charge person who is able to present creative ideas and communicate the benefits. Mike knows how to manage his time, work in group situations, under strict deadlines and to recognize the importance of a strong work ethic, persistence, and intellectual integrity. I highly recommend Mike for employment. He’s is a team player and would make a great asset to any organization.

Matthew Rothenberg, Editorial Director, Hachette Filipacchi Media U.S. managed Mike indirectly at Hachette Filipacchi Media

Starting as a contractor and graduating to a full-time member of the HFMUS staff, Mike Levin was a tireless and talented advocate for the complex art of search engine optimization. I’ve learned a great deal about SEO thanks to our association; his enthusiasm and passion are infectious, and his knowledge is impressive.

Laura Gasslein, Senior Web Developer, Hachette Filipacchi Media worked with Mike at Hachette Filipacchi Media

Mike was essential to the team, and contributed significantly to the success or our web sites during our company’s time of strategic transition. He has a very strong work ethic and unparalleled analytical and problem solving skills. Mike possesses a winning combination of solid tech skills and business sense. I learned a great deal from Mike and really appreciated his intellectual curiosity and depth of knowledge regarding SEO strategies in particular. He approaches finding web solutions with great creativity and thinks on the cutting edge. As one of the senior, standout contributors, Mike was well respected in our department and everyone enjoyed working with him.

---

Vice President, Connors Communications

Karen D’Angelo Hopp, Account Manager, Connors Communications worked with Mike at Connors Communications

Mike is incredibly passionate about his work. He is a dedicated professional and a pleasure to work with.

Walter Fowler, Account Coordinator, Connors Communications worked indirectly for Mike at Connors Communications

All too often, the biggest challenge in PR can be helping a client see the true value of your work. Mike is a true visionary, and provides substantial/tangible value to his clients through a superior understanding of SEO and experience in building and executing integrated PR/Marketing campaigns. Alone, his ability to continually identify creative ways to bolster or leverage a company’s online presence is invaluable. However, it is his personality and clear commitment to the success of each program that made him a favorite among clients and inspiration to his colleagues.

John Myles White, SEO Programmer, Connors Communications reported to Mike at Connors Communications

Mike was an ideal manager at Connors: he is intensely dedicated to his workers, always willing to go out of his way to answer their questions or resolve their problems, invariably open to new ideas and constantly working to improve the efficiency and quality of the work done under him. I strongly recommend Mike given his obvious talents as an administrator and manager.

Kun Feng Chun, Systems Admin, Connors Communications reported to Mike at Connors Communications

Mike is a visionary and an exceptional speaker and motivator. His leadership has moved mountains and created waves in the SEO world.

Mike Manning, Account Manager, Connors Communications worked indirectly for Mike at Connors Communications

Mike constantly amazed me with his industry insight and original approaches to solving problems, he was an incredible asset to our organization and a true innovator in SEO.

Ambar Shrivastava, Product Manager, Connors Communications reported to Mike at Connors Communications

Calling Mike Levin a visionary would be an understatement. He is years ahead of anyone else in terms of SEO, web development, and online marketing. Mike has the rare ability to communicate and connect with people from various backgrounds – programmers, CEOs, marketers, IT people, editors, vendors, etc… He can walk into a room of people he has never met before and know exactly what each person cares about how to really connect with them and make them feel ownership. I have learned a great deal from Mike about SEO, web applications, architecture, sales, and marketing. He is constantly introducing me to new concepts and ideas I would have never been exposed to otherwise. I truly appreciate everything he has taught me. In addition to his solid technical and business knowledge, Mike is extremely passionate about his work and ideas. Just Google on “HitTail” to see how active Mike is in promoting his product – to the point where he will answer every customer service issue that comes up in forums or blogs outside of HitTail. I highly recommend Mike to any company looking for a leader with a plan that can actually get things done.

Matt Mack, Account Executive, Connors Communications worked indirectly for Mike at Connors Communications

Mike is visionary who doesn’t mind getting his dirty with the work it takes to see his visions through. It was my pleasure to work on projects with him, and learn from his example.

Tatiana Nam, Senior Programmer, Connors Communications reported to Mike at Connors Communications

Working with Mike at Connors was one of the highlights in my career. He is a person who can motivate everyone on his team, a great mentor and he can take a complex concept and explain it in very simple terms. He’s very tech savvy and at the same time has a great business sense. Mike is one of the smartest, most interesting people I know and I would highly recommend him and would absolutely work with him on any business project.

Bryan Pope, Account Director, LEWIS PR worked with Mike at Connors Communications

Mike’s brilliant. Simply brilliant.

Todd Barrish, Director, Connors Communications worked with Mike at Connors Communications

Mike is a tremendous resource for anyone seeking information on search optimization. I highly recommend his work and thought leadership.

Akosua Albritton, Technology Sr. Editor, Our Time Press worked with Mike at Connors Communications

Mike is an amiable, intelligent man. He became the VP of Interactive for Connors Communication because he knows his stuff. His Hit Tail search technology is smart and helps with choosing tags and subjects for blogs. Thank you for your patience when I ran late for your interview.

Robert Nelson, President, EDWARDS-FREEMAN NUT COMPANY worked with Mike at Connors Communications

I have known Mike for 36 years, He is one great and honest guy.

Adam Edwards, Senior Project Manager, Connors Communications reported to Mike at Connors Communications

I’ve worked with Mike on and off for 10 years starting at Scala and now at Connors Communications. He has been a great mentor and is truly a visionary.

---

Director of eBusiness, Scala Multimedia

Rick Salmon, President, Scala USA, Scala Computer Television managed Mike at Scala

Mike has the unique combination of traits that include technical expertise, creativity, attention to detail and the ability to deliver results on time. He was a valuable part of our team and I would recommend him without hesitation.

Mike Rivers, Technical Support Specialist, Scala worked with Mike at Scala

Mike did ground breaking eCommerce work and web design for Scala, which was nothing short of astonishing. He’s innovative, creative, and artistic, a true visionary.

Lorraine Watkins, National Retail and Distribution Sales Manager, Scala managed Mike indirectly at Scala

Mike is a genius behind the keyboard and at the same time a wizard of marketing. He was hugely instrumental in getting Scala successfully launched in the U.S. And he is a genuinely nice guy. If you have a chance to work with him, take it!

Peter Critchley, Managing Director, Beaver Group worked directly with Mike at Scala

Mike has always been a responsive and positive force to work with, and has always been ready to help whenever I’ve needed it. Mike has also worked in a range of roles which have meant our paths crossed, and I’ve found him to be a clear thinking guy to work with.

Viola Roseby, Sales Manager, Scala Inc worked indirectly for Mike at Scala

I’ve worked along side Mike for 7 years. I highly recommend him personally and professionally.

Ahmed Balfaqih, Founder/MD, Click Grafix, Malaysia was with another company when working with Mike at Scala

Mike developed a back and front end of Sales Lead System among others for a company in the US that we represent in South East Asia. The system was very useful then and very useful now and helped us to generate sales. I was always impressed with Mike design philosophy of making things simple yet powerful.

Gerard Bucas, CEO, Scala managed Mike at Scala

Mike has a unique combination of business acumen and technical skills which contributed considerably to establish Scala’s brand on the web, continuously driving visitors to Scala’s website and as a result generating a continuously increasing number of sales leads which significantly contributed to the company’s growth. Mike was a pioneer in what today is called SEO.

Michael Sinz, Director of R&D, Scala worked with Mike at Scala

Mike worked wonders at Scala as he grew into larger and larger roles within the organization. While Mike never worked directly for me, his contributions were critical to our customers and to the design and development teams of our new products. Mike’s energy and exuberance for the Scala technology and the solutions he was able to provide for the customers was infectious.

Wayne Lutz, Senior Software Engineer, Scala Inc. worked with Mike at Scala

My experience with Mike literally goes back to the days of Commodore Computers, where his unlimited enthusiasm as a student intern was infectious, and made him a welcome member in this team of early industry pioneers. He forged relationships, including with me, that have lasted to this day (we’re talking over 15 years). I’ve seen him play a major role in getting a post-Commodore spin-off company off the ground by mobilizing the legacy Amiga Computer user-base, and turning their website into a customer-finding machine through search engine optimization, lead capture, and business process. Not many people can be effective in any situation you drop them into. This is one of them. If you have a chance to work with Mike, take it.

Stephen Kopcho, CFO, Scala Inc managed Mike indirectly at Scala

Mike is a dedicated hard worker who completely immerses himself in whatever task he takes on. He is also a good listener who works well with others.

Marc Rifkin, Dir. Training & Services, Scala, Inc. worked with Mike at Scala

Mike is a strategic thinker who can take initiative and get things done. He’s a great source of knowledge and advice, and great to work with too.

Dale Larson, President/CEO, IAM worked with Mike at Scala

Mike was doing SEO before it had a name. He had vision to see the benefits and the passion to turn that into measurable results and competitive advantage.

John Fox, President, Venture Marketing was a consultant or contractor to Mike at Scala

Mike literally invented the whole idea of internet landing pages, which at the early stages of SEO and AdWords, he named “vignettes.” A brilliant tactician and highly creative talent, Mike know how to connect online business goals with relevant campaigns.

David Mays reported to Mike at Scala

Mike consistently applied good principles of organization and focus to achieve his objectives at Scala. He provided excellent leadership in guiding my work and helping me start my career as a software developer.

Leslie LeComte, Director of Telemarketing, Scala worked directly with Mike at Scala

Mike Levin is one of the most technically astute, brilliantly creative and genuinely engaging people I have ever had the pleasure of working with!

---

Webmaster, Prophet 21

Nancy Brincheiro, Director Educational Services, Prophet 21 managed Mike indirectly at Prophet 21

Mike has a wonderfully unique blend of technical skills and keen insight into human nature. His understanding of how people approach tasks shows in his sound judgment in web design projects. He has strong communication skills and is always able to quickly see the big picture which makes him a strong asset in any collaboration project.

Linda Napoli, Marketing, Prophet 21 worked with Mike at Prophet 21

I worked with Mike at Prophet 21. Mike was one who possessed a rare combination: he had both “Tech Savvy and had Business Processes Intelligence”! He was a pleasure to work with and could be counted on to “get it” while working with all departments.

Steve Elsner, Webmaster, Prophet 21, Inc. reported to Mike at Prophet 21

In my work with Mike at Prophet 21 and in maintaining much of his work at Scala, I see time and time again his foresight being played out. It’s a common occurrence to have someone ask me about this, or that, new “Web 2.0″ application, and upon examination it turns out that Mike had foreseen and probably even implemented something similar years ago for his and his employers’ use.

Doug Levin, EVP, Prophet 21, Inc. managed Mike indirectly at Prophet 21

At Prophet 21, Mike came in as our Webmaster, reinvigorating our website. But he also quickly integrated himself into our Inside Sales and Telemarketing departments to ensure that all the web-captured leads were routed into our SalesLogix system for follow-up. While answering to Marketing, Mike also became an valued team member to our Training, IT, Sales and Telemarketing departments, creating our first corporate Intranet, and assisting with the many cross-departmental projects ushered with the Internet. He would make a valuable addition to any team.

Scott Deutsch, VP, Marketing, Prophet 21 managed Mike at Prophet 21

Mike’s success is based on his ability to understand business objectives and how technology could be used to address the specific buisiness needs. This is a rare combination in a technical person. It was a pleasure to work with Mike and I would recommend him to anyone.

---

Design Student, Drexel University

Sandy Stewart, Department Head, Media Arts, Drexel University was a consultant or contractor to Mike at Drexel University

Mike was one of the most inventive students in the Graphic Design program at Drexel University. His projects combined mathematics, design and concept development that would entertain and persuade any target audience.

Chris Simon, Head lighter, Smokers Club was with another company when working with Mike at Drexel University

I worked with Mike back in college on various projects. He always had an eye for design and was able to use cutting edge technology to bring design work to life. Mike is a person that thinks outside the box and uses intelligence and creativity to get work done with impact. I always admired Mike and thought highly of him. He is an asset to any company as well as a team player and a friend.

Mike Welsh, Creative Director + User Experience, ActivityOne.com worked directly with Mike at Drexel University

Mike’s enthusiasm and awareness of people’s need to be engaged and entertained was amazing. Classmates in a design program, Mike understood the critical differences between form and function and was skilled at bringing them together in new and interesting ways. My experience knowing Mike for those 4 years and what he went through– it’s no surprise how successful he is today. From Scala to search and beyond…

---

President, Philadelphia Amiga Users Group

James Ianni, Sen. Software Engineer, HPTi was with another company when working with Mike at Philadelphia Amiga Users Group

Mike is a multifaceted and unique individual. He is an engineer, hacker, and foremost artist. But there’s another inspiring facet to Mike that was evident when he was president of the Philadelphia Amiga Users Group, where he inspired the members of this computer club to great creativity and friendships that have endured over the years.

---

Student Intern, Commodore

Paul Calkin, Director of Marketing, Commodore Business Machines was with another company when working with Mike at Commodore

Mike was a genius level person while at Commodore, then many years later, I came across him at P21 when I was at VerticalNet. Still genius level, I’d recommend him for anything requiring high intelligence, drive and aptitude. A first class acheiver, and nice guy to boot!

John Di Lullo, Senior Director, Commodore International LTD managed Mike at Commodore

Mike was an extremely sharp and creative intern who contributed a great deal of enthusiasm and knowledge to Commodore’s Sales and Marketing programs. I have no reservations recommending Mike for success in whatever tasks he takes on.

---

And here is my wedding invitation picture

Mike Levin - An SEO in New York City, 10.0 out of 10 based on 1 rating