Optimizing a website in Brussels a is quite complex task. Indeed, while ranking for keywords may be less difficult than in the UK for example, a SEO expert has to take into account the fragmented nature of the Belgium web mainly due to the coexistence of at least four different languages: French, Flemish, English and German. Believe me, that’s a lot for such a small country!

The situation in Belgium

Indeed, one has to remember that there are three official languages: French, Flemish and German (although the latter one is only spoken by a tiny minority). What makes things more complicated is that Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is also the capital of the European Union. Hence, the three main institutions of the EU – the Council of the European Union, the European Commission and European Parliament – are located in Brussels. The “EU quarter” is also surrounded by thousands of interest groups trying to influence to the decision-making process. Needless to say that the predominant language in this European’s affairs small world is English.

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Today, Friday 28 May 28, I participated at a TechTalk organized by Google Belgium featuring Matt Cutts. I must confess that – as a SEO consultant – I felt like a child before meeting Father Christmas. Gregory Janssens –  another Brussels-based SEO expert, as well as other professionals, both from the private sector – SEO agencies, media, etc.. – and from the public sector – the European institutions in particular – were also present.

I will not comment on the content of this conference, where I didn’t learn so much about SEO.  I would rather concentrate on aspects a bit more anecdotal, such as Google offices in Brussels or meeting with Matt Cutts.

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