In early 2008, Jason Gambert (who?!) began his quest to trademark SEO.  Many people were after him to squelch it, but only one woman kept fighting until the end.  Rhea Drysdale of Outspoken Media, was able to hire a lawyer out of her own pocket and file a Notice of Opposition in response to Gambert’s “SEO” trademark application.  As Barry Schwartz of Search Engine Land reports, we all owe a great deal to Rhea.

So what would have happened if he had been successful in trademarking SEO?  Rhea cites his blog from April 9, 2008:

“My goal in owning the trademark for the word SEO is not to try to force people to change their SEO process, but rather, prevent companies from selling “SEO” as a service under false pretenses.

…We will also be forming a board of directors to oversee changes to the process, and format in which SEO can be sold (basically the BBB for the SEO industry). We will restrict businesses from selling the process of SEO as an “SEO” service if they do not meet the process approved by the SEO trademark requirements. Those approved will use SEO as normal, but will now be able to use the term as SEO™, and will be able to claim that their SEO service is approved under SEO trademark guidelines.  This power is for the people of the Search community and the protection of the general business consumer.”

And Rhea’s response after her arduous journey for the industry?

“Was it worth it? I don’t know. I do know that I learned an invaluable amount about business, trademark law, the SEO industry, my relationships and myself. I never asked the industry to donate to the cause, because this was my responsibility. I chose to pursue this in the face of criticism. I knew that it was something I believed to be wrong. I knew the USPTO did not understand what our industry did or how SEO worked. I wanted to fight for that knowledge and I won. I don’t regret the experience, but I am going to take a breather from hopeless causes for awhile.“ -R. Drysdale

Sources: Search Engine Land, Barry Schwartz; Outspoken Media, Rhea Drysdale

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