How to Navigate Recent Changes to Google's SEO
As a communications firm, we are always focused on ensuring our clients have a professional and well-thought-out online presence. This includes a high-quality and useful website with consideration for user journey and content. With so many websites competing with each other for organic views, utilizing search engine optimization (SEO) has become even more important for ensuring your website is seen by your desired audience. However, successfully implementing that is easier said than done. With search engine algorithms constantly changing, staying on top of the latest updates and trends is also essential for success.
Google is one of the foremost search engine platforms. They recently provided an update in March 2024 about changes to the search engine algorithm to enhance search functions and provide users with “more relevant results.” Here’s what that means for you:
Understanding SEO
Search Engine Optimization, or SEO, refers to the practice of optimizing your website in order for it to appear higher in search results by using relevant keywords and phrases. This usually involves a combination of tactics aimed at improving visibility, driving organic traffic, and ultimately, boosting visitors and conversions.
Google's Latest Update: What it Means for You
Google's March 2024 update seeks to further refine its search algorithms to deliver more accurate and relevant results to users. While specific details about the update are unknown, it showcases the importance of using SEO best practices and focusing on user experience throughout your website.
Google also mentions a focus on improving quality results by removing spam and low-quality pages from its results. This means that churning out more content isn’t necessarily the best strategy. The content you create still needs to be relevant, consistent and high-quality as it relates to your audience. Here are some tips for improving your website’s SEO:
Tips for Improving Your Website’s Ranking
1. Keyword Research: Identify keywords relevant to your mission, work, etc. and incorporate them into your website's content including in tags, image alt-text, blog posts, etc.
2. Quality Content: Create high-quality, engaging content that provides value to your audience. Don’t just create content for the sake of creating content.
3. Social Mentions: Engage with your audience on social media and encourage shares, likes, and comments. Try to direct your audience back to your website as much as possible. This can not only help increase traffic as a whole, but also impact your organic ranking.
4. Local SEO: Optimize your website for local searches by claiming your Google My Business listing and getting listed in online directories (where relevant).
5. Mobile-Friendly: Ensure your website has a seamless experience across all devices. When designing, take a look at the mobile view and make sure everything works well. Google tends to rank websites with great mobile experiences higher than those that don’t.
Looking Ahead
One of the main takeaways from Google's update is its increased focus on understanding and meeting user intent. This means that websites that provide valuable content are likely to rank higher in search results. As a result, website owners and digital marketers should prioritize creating content that addresses audience questions and needs effectively and provides genuine value.
In conclusion, mastering SEO is essential for maximizing your website's visibility and driving organic traffic. By understanding the fundamentals of SEO and staying abreast of Google's latest updates and algorithm changes, website owners and marketers can stay ahead of the curve and maintain a competitive edge in the digital landscape. Remember, SEO is not a one-time effort but an ongoing process that requires dedication, adaptability, and a commitment to providing value to your audience.
Need help with your website design and optimization? Contact us for more information.