In the ever-changing online word, staying ahead of the game is crucial for website owners. The recent Google Helpful Content Update has brought a fresh perspective to SEO, targeting over-optimised and overly SEO’d content. While the exact algorithmic changes remain a mystery, SEO experts have identified actionable tips to enhance your website’s performance, avoid ranking losses, and recover if impacted by the update.
Positive Trends in SEO
1. Tech Savvy Site
Start by ensuring your site is a smooth operator. Fast load times, glitch-free functionality, and a user-friendly experience are the secret ingredients. Google loves sites that prioritise user satisfaction. Check out my Technical SEO Optimisation Guide to find out more.
2. Modern Design
Spruce up your site’s look to stay in vogue. A modern design not only catches the eye but also signals trustworthiness. Ditch the outdated appearance and embrace a fresh, contemporary vibe.
3. User-Generated Content
Encourage user engagement by letting them have their say. Whether it’s comments on your blogs or reviews of your products, user-generated content adds authenticity. Just keep an eye out for the spam monsters.
4. Diverse Traffic Sources
Don’t put all your eggs in Google’s basket. Build a robust brand presence across various online platforms. Social media, anyone? Having multiple traffic sources makes you look like a real player in the business game.
5. Content Authorship
Showcase your content’s authors. An author page or a well-documented about page adds credibility. Proper citations for sourced info are like golden tickets in the trust department.
6. User-Focused Content
Craft your content with your users in mind. Get to the point. Skip the lengthy intros; your audience is here for a reason. Solve their problems, answer their questions, and do it pronto. For longer form content, incorporate storytelling techniques to keep your readers interested.
Behaviors to Avoid
1. Blog Roll Home Page
Refrain from displaying the latest articles on your home page or turning it into a blog roll. A cluttered homepage can negatively impact user experience and dilute your site’s focus.
2. Linking Without Context
Avoid sharing numerous affiliate links without proper context. Context-less links may confuse users and diminish trust. Provide relevant information alongside affiliate links to enhance user understanding.
3. Unrelated Content
Remove content that is not specific to your niche. If your site has been affected, consider culling SEO-focused content and articles unrelated to your niche. Focus on delivering helpful content that aligns with your core offerings.
4. Intrusive Display Ads
Don’t scare visitors away with a barrage of intrusive ads. Keep it clean, keep it user-friendly. A balanced site is a happy site.
5. Ads Above the Fold
Don’t throw ads in users’ faces right away. Let them breathe. Prioritise a clean, welcoming layout over aggressive ad placement.
6. Generic Imagery
Ditch the stock photos. Use your own images, featuring real people from your business. Authenticity speaks louder than generic imagery.
7. Hasty Backlink Building
Building links is great, but don’t rush it. Quality beats quantity. Engage with your community, collaborate with others, and let your link profile grow organically.
In a Nutshell
Navigating the Google Helpful Content Update is about finesse. By focusing on user experience, staying technically savvy, and serving relevant content, you’ll not just survive but thrive. Remember, SEO is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay nimble, stay informed, and watch your site climb the digital ranks.
If you find yourself in need of expert assistance, consider exploring my freelance SEO services. Let’s elevate your website together and boost your online sales!
