Google’s recent algorithm update has important implications for businesses aiming to improve their online visibility. Here’s a straightforward breakdown to help you navigate the changes, optimize your SEO strategy, and enhance your presence in local and organic search results.
Local Search and Google Maps Impact
Local businesses have experienced notable shifts due to Google’s new update. Here’s what you should focus on:
- Complete and Accurate Information: Ensure your Google Business Profile (GBP) is current—especially your hours, address, phone number, and business description.
- Active Profile Management: Regularly post updates, add fresh photos, and engage with customer reviews to boost your visibility.
- Positive Reviews: Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews. Businesses with higher ratings typically rank better.
- Relevant Categories and Keywords: Use precise categories and locally targeted keywords to help Google match your business with relevant searches.
- Local Citations and Backlinks: Maintain consistent listings across directories like Yelp and industry-specific platforms.
Enhancing Organic Rankings
Google prioritizes content that genuinely benefits users. To align with the algorithm:
- People-First Content: Create helpful, insightful content tailored directly to user queries rather than search engines.
- E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authority, Trust): Showcase expertise through well-researched content and include author credentials or professional affiliations when possible.
- Fresh and Relevant Content: Regularly update older content and add new material that responds directly to customer needs and market trends.
- Engagement Signals: Create compelling content that keeps users engaged on your site. Google’s AI evaluates user satisfaction as a significant ranking factor.
Improving Website Structure and Performance
Technical aspects of your website are crucial in Google’s algorithm:
- Mobile-First Optimization: Your site must perform flawlessly on mobile devices, as mobile indexing is now standard.
- Page Speed: Optimize your site’s loading time to enhance user experience and rankings.
- Straightforward Navigation: Ensure your site structure and navigation allow users and Google bots to find all necessary content easily.
- Technical Cleanliness: Regularly fix broken links, duplicate meta tags, or other technical issues.
Navigating AI-Driven SEO Factors
AI is increasingly central to Google’s rankings:
- Semantic Relevance: Write content naturally, focusing on clear, conversational language that addresses the actual intent behind searches.
- Structured Data: Use schema markup to help Google better understand your content context and boost your search visibility.
- Authenticity and Originality: Avoid mass-produced or AI-generated spammy content. High-quality, original, human-reviewed content consistently outperforms low-effort alternatives.
Take Action Today
Staying competitive means adapting quickly to algorithm changes. Need expert assistance optimizing your business for Google’s latest algorithm? Contact Jamie Kadavy at (402) 620-2633 or visit 92west.com/contact-us/ to elevate your SEO strategy and ensure your business thrives online.
