You have likely heard the buzz about the release of Hummingbird, Google’s new search engine algorithm. Google recently unveiled the new algorithm publicly, though it launched in August. The change to the search engine is an effort to better interpret complex queries and provide relevant information to users. It focuses on matching each word in a query to build upon its knowledge graphing. When a user searches for a particular business, for instance, Google will pull up its hours of operation, address, pictures and any relevant information. Likewise, If a user asks a question, “What is the capital of Honduras?” the answer Tegucigalpa is displayed at the top. For all those who were curious.
Search Engine Optimization
The Long and Short of Effective Search Engine Optimization
Posted on 10/07/2013By now, you should have a basic understanding of the main components involved in successful search engine optimization (SEO) if you have read the previous two articles we covered. The long and short of effective SEO is proper on-site protocols so search engine crawlers can index your site, optimized content with natural keyword placement, and engaging content that captures your target audience and increases sharing and reputable link-building. Continue Reading
Studies have shown that 95% of all Web traffic will enter a site that is returned on the first page of an Internet search. This means regardless of how great your site is if search engine optimization (SEO) techniques have not been employed to return your site on the first page of returned searches, you will miss a vast portion of potential visitors. Several components to SEO have been revamped recently to improve the quality of sites returned highest in searches. This overview will touch on some of them. Continue Reading
Search Engine Optimization Infographic
Posted on 08/28/2013Studies have shown that 95% of all Web traffic will enter a site that is returned on the first page of an Internet search.
This means regardless of how great your site is if search engine optimization (SEO) techniques have not been employed to return your site on the first page of returned searches, you will miss a vast portion of potential visitors. Continue Reading
Getting to Know Search Engine Optimization
Posted on 03/14/2013Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the process of improving visibility of a web site or page on search engines by using specifics phrases or techniques. Here’s how you can improve your SEO:
User Search
Search engines, Google, Yahoo or Bing, rank each web page based on content and which is most relevant to the users search. Getting to the first page or the top results takes planning or experience in the field.
Once to your site, users want to know are your pages a valuable source of information, are they entertaining or can it solve a problem.
Keyword Heavy
The first big aspect of SEO is hitting all the keywords you want to be found by. These words should be spread out evenly throughout the site and pages (As I will state later, cramming in too many is often a downfall for SEO.). Correct placement is key. Take for instance this blog, I’ve said or will say SEO, bounce rate, cloaking and Google Analytics just to name a few (Yes, I know that was a crafting way of sneaking them in one more time.). It is how you do it which is key. Whatever your business is, gaining the attention of all customers is most important.
Doing Research
Researching what keywords people may use to find you is yet another step. Doing a thorough search, might take weeks and into months, can reduce unnecessary filler content. This is where Google Analytics and Rank Tracker come in. A systematic process of trial and error is needed to be sure what people are searching in your area, what are they looking for state or nation wide or what phrases or keywords is my competition succeeding in.
The Good Bounce
Another factor to affect SEO is bounce rate, the number of different page views a single user has or how immersed your visitors are in your site.
If many users go to your home page or a single page and then leave, you will have high bounce rate. On the Other hand, if many users go page to page and explore, your bounce rate decreases. Furthermore, companies with only a single page will tend to have higher bounce rates. There is no set mark to hit high or low on bounce rate. General rule of thumb is anywhere between 40% to 70%. But can change depending on company needs.
Remember This
Cramming in too many content words in a small sentence or paragraph can have negative effects. It needs to flow as a normal sentence. Excessively stuffing too many content rich words can be seen by Google or other search engines as a violation and cost you in the long run.
Additionally, if the content is lacking keywords and feels ‘thin’ to the reader, this ultimately will affect pageviews.
Another bad process is Cloaking. This is providing two separate websites for users and search engines,using the search engine to gain all the page hits while getting all the positive attention on your website. This is a serious no-no as well and Google will find out!
This is just a skimming of the surface into the intricacies of SEO.
Interested in learning more? Email hello@hubandspokecreative.com or give us a call 573-298-6980.