Search Engine Traffic Levels 2024
Search Engine Traffic Levels in the UK The digital market in the United Kingdom is always changing. It adapts to new technology and how people use it. A key part of this market is the search engine market share. This area plays an important role in the UK’s digital landscape. This blog post will look into how the UK search engine market has changed in 2024. It will talk about trends, major companies, and how mobile usage affects this market. The UK search engine market is mostly led by Google Search and apps that provide related statistics. Google has held a big part of user searches for many years. Still, its position is starting to change. Even though Google is still very important, its market share has gone down a little. This change encourages us to pay more attention to new competitors and understand what users really want. This change shows that the search market is getting more competitive. AI, new search platforms, and increased mobile search are all changing how this market operates. Comparing 2023 to 2024: Significant Changes and Trends In 2024, there was a slight change in the UK search market share. Google had a small drop in its overall market share, but it still does very well, especially in the mobile search market. Bing made significant gains. It increased its market share, mainly in desktop searches. This gain is partly because it is competing with other search engines like Baidu from China. Bing’s growth is mostly due to its use of AI-powered search. This trend shows a major change in how people search for information. Now, users don’t just use normal search engines. They also look at social media sites like Instagram and TikTok to discover new products. They search for products on different platforms too. If you want specific numbers, a Statista account can help. The table below shows the key changes in market share from 2023 to 2024: Search Engine Market Share in 2023 Market Share in 2024 Google 92.07% 90.48% Bing 2.99% 3.93 % Yahoo – 1.90% DuckDuckGo – 1.86% The way people search for information is changing. It is not just about making your site good for Google anymore. A strong plan should look at different search platforms. It is important to understand how users search habits are changing. The Role of Emerging Search Engines in 2024 Google and Bing are well-known search engines. But, we should also explore other search engines and platforms. DuckDuckGo is focused on privacy and is getting more users in the UK. Social media and social networks, such as Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok, are important search tools too. Young people often use these platforms to find products, check trends, and discover local businesses. This change in how people use social media to find things shows a big shift in behaviour. It brings new challenges and opportunities for marketers. SEO strategies now need to adapt. They should work to be visible on common search engines and key social media platforms. By understanding the age and interests of users on different platforms, businesses can create better content. This helps them connect more with their audience. It’s important to include social media optimisation in the overall SEO strategy. Today, this is a key part of a successful plan. Impact of Mobile Usage on UK’s Search Engine Landscape Mobile search is growing fast in Great Britain. People are using their phones more to find information, products, and services. Now, mobile search is more popular than desktop searches. This shows how important good statistics are. They help us understand these changes and the big shift in how users act and what they want. More people are using their smartphones. Because of this, businesses should focus on mobile-first SEO. Websites need to be easy to use on all sizes of screens. The loading speed of a page is very important for mobile search ranking. It is key for businesses to understand how people search on mobile devices. This will help them be seen and stay connected in our digital world. Mobile vs Desktop: Shifting Preferences in 2024 As we get into the digital age, more people are using mobile search engines for their keywords. This shift is helping to raise website traffic. We notice this in the drop of desktop search market share. To keep up with this trend, businesses need to update their online strategies. The increase in mobile search is connected to the growth of social media. More people now use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter for quick searches. Users want quick information, reviews, and recommendations when they are out and about. This is why businesses must have a strong presence on social media. It’s important to make content easy to find and share. Not looking at the rise of mobile search can be bad for businesses. If companies do not make their websites easy to use on mobile, users might not like their experience. This can lower page views and result in less interaction. In the long run, it might mean fewer sales. A mobile-first strategy is now key for businesses that want to do well in the changing world of online search. How Mobile Search Trends are Reshaping Market Shares The rise of mobile search has changed the way search engines compete. This change is clear, especially in November. With fewer desktop searches and more people using mobile devices, businesses need to focus on mobile optimisation. This focus is important for getting noticed online. Here are the ways mobile search trends are changing things in the industry: To be relevant, businesses need to adapt to the mobile search market. If they don’t focus on mobile optimization, they might lose their visibility in searches. This could mean losing customers in a world that cares about mobile. UK Search Engine Traffic Share Knowing the UK search engine market share for 2024 is very important. This includes different formats like XLS. Understanding this information can help businesses improve their
Internal Linking in SEO Best Practices
Importance of Internal Linking in SEO Internal linking refers to the practice of hyperlinking one page of a website to another page on the same domain. These links are paramount in guiding users through your website and establishing a cohesive structure for search engines. By connecting related content, internal links help improve the user’s journey and signal to search engines what the site is about, enhancing SEO. Crucially, internal linking allows webmasters to strategically distribute PageRank (a metric used by Google to rank web pages) across the site. How Internal Links Differ from External Links While internal links connect pages within the same website, external links(also known as outbound links) direct users to a different domain. This distinction is crucial for SEO. Internal links help in spreading link equity to various pages on your website, whereas external links can help establish the authority and relevance of your content by linking to high-quality sources. However, both types of links play unique roles in the overall SEO strategy; internal links optimize the navigation and distribution of link equity within a site, while external links help build relationships and enhance credibility through external references. The Role of Internal Linking in Website Architecture Internal linking is integral to website architecture as it outlines the hierarchical structure and flow of a website. Effective internal linking ensures that all important pages are easily accessible, which enhances user experience by providing coherent navigation paths. For search engines, a well-structured internal linking system facilitates efficient crawling and indexing of web pages. By creating strategic internal links, webmasters can highlight key pages and direct both users and search engines to the most valuable content. This approach not only improves the user experience but also helps in maintaining a logical and organised site structure. Recognising the significance of internal linking allows for a more robust, user-friendly, and search engine-friendly website, fundamentally increasing its likelihood of achieving higher rankings in search results. While comprehending internal linking is crucial, its strategic application is facilitated by carefully developed methods and practices will ensure an optimised and effective site structure. <h4>Benefits of Strategic Internal Linking</h4> Improved Website Navigation and User Experience Strategic internal linking enhances website navigation and the overall user experience by guiding visitors through your site logically and intuitively. When users can easily find related content, they are more likely to stay longer on your website, reducing bounce rates. Clear internal linking pathways allow users to discover valuable information that complements what they are currently viewing, which keeps them engaged and more likely to convert. Furthermore, a well-structured internal linking system enables users to understand the breadth and depth of your content offerings. By connecting pages through relevant links, you provide a seamless experience that mirrors users’ interests and navigation patterns. This ease of access fosters a positive interaction with your site, potentially increasing the likelihood of return visits and repeat engagements. Enhanced Crawlability and Indexing for Search Engines For search engines, internal links act as a map to navigate through your site. They help search engine bots understand the structure of your website and efficiently index its content. Well-placed internal links ensure that all your essential pages are discoverable by search engines, including those deep within the site. This is crucial for the visibility of your content in search engine results. Internal linking facilitates a hierarchical site structure, which search engines can easily follow and understand. When key pages are linked frequently across the site, it signals their importance to search engines, which can positively influence their ranking. Effective internal linking can also help distribute link equity more evenly, ensuring that even less prominent pages gain some level of visibility. Better Distribution of Link Equity Throughout Your Website Link equity, also known as link juice, is the value that a link passes from one page to another. Internal linking helps in the strategic distribution of link equity across your website. By doing so, you ensure that all pages, especially those that are newer or less authoritative, receive the necessary boost needed to rank well in search engine results. Linking to key pages from highly authoritative ones can lift the visibility of these crucial pages, bolstering their SEO performance. Additionally, spreading link equity through balanced internal linking prevents the uneven accrual of authority on a few pages, which can lead to a more robust and uniformly strong website presence. Strategic internal linking not only benefits individual page performance but also reinforces the overall site architecture, making it a vital aspect of any SEO strategy. Next, we will delve into the different types of internal links and their applications for optimal website performance. <h4>Types of Internal Links</h4> Navigational Links Navigational links are a fundamental part of a website’s framework, providing users with a map to explore content. These links are primarily found in the menu, footer, and through breadcrumb trails. Menu Links Menu links form the backbone of your website’s navigation. Typically located at the top of a webpage, they are crucial in enabling users to find primary sections and categories of your site. Proper organisation and clear labelling in menu links can significantly improve user experience and engagement. Footer Links Footer links are often overlooked but are equally important. They serve as a secondary navigation point, guiding users to important but less frequently accessed areas like contact information, privacy policies, and site maps. Effective footer links enhance usability and ensure vital information is easily accessible. Breadcrumbs Breadcrumb links provide a trail for users to follow back to the starting or previous pages. They are usually found near the top of a page and reflect the hierarchy of the site. Breadcrumbs improve user navigation by making it easier to understand and traverse the site’s structure. They also benefit SEO by reinforcing the website’s hierarchy in search engine crawlers. Contextual Links Contextual links are embedded within the content of your pages and direct users to related or supporting information. These links are pivotal for SEO as they help distribute link equity across various
Importance of Local SEO in 2024
Local SEO in 2024 & Location Based Search Strategies Local SEO is important in 2024. This guide will show you how to grow your business using location-based search strategies. More people are using their phones to find quick solutions. Because of this, making your business easy to find through Local SEO is a great way to reach customers who are ready to buy nearby. This guide will explain why Local SEO is so important today. It will also share how Local SEO works and give practical steps to help your business show up better in local search results. The Growth of Near Me Searches and Mobile Optimisation Consumer behaviour has changed a lot because more people use mobile searches, especially for local options. Searches with words like ‘near me’ have grown a lot. This shows that people want fast and easy choices. A recent study shows that 76% of people who search for something nearby on their phone visit a business within 24 hours. This trend shows how important Local SEO is for businesses like restaurants, repair services, and retail stores. It helps them get noticed and bring more customers in by being there for consumers when they need them. By focusing on Local SEO, businesses can benefit from the trend of searching from mobile devices based on location. This helps them connect with people who are looking for products and services nearby. If someone is searching for a Restaurant near me or an emergency plumber, businesses that show up in local searches are more likely to attract these customers who are ready to make a purchase. Higher Conversion Rates for Local Searches Local searches lead to more sales than wider searches. When people look for a specific service, like pizza delivery in [city] or emergency dentist near me, they usually want to act quickly. Google data shows that 28% of local searches end in a purchase. This is much higher than the average for general search queries. This urgency and purpose in local searches make Local SEO a great way to attract eager customers. By focusing on Local SEO methods, businesses can boost their chances of getting sales through online bookings, phone calls, visits to stores, or purchases. For physical stores, Local SEO helps connect online presence with in-store earnings. How Local SEO Works: Key Components for Success Local SEO is not just about showing your business in search results. It helps search engines know two important things about your business: where you are and what you provide. Google looks at several factors when it ranks businesses in local searches. Here are the main parts that affect local rankings: When these parts come together, Google is more likely to show your business in local search results. This can help you attract local customers and gain an advantage. Types of Local Search Results: Local Pack and Regular Listings Google shows two main types of results for local searches. These are the Local Pack and organic listings. The Local Pack is sometimes called the Map Pack. Each type of result helps raise a business visibility in different ways. Local Pack (Map Pack) Results The Local Pack is an important part of Googles search results for local queries. It usually shows up at the top of the page and lists the three best businesses related to the search term. The Local Pack gives key details like the business name, its location on a map, contact info, hours of operation, and customer ratings. Since it is at the top of the search results, the Local Pack helps users quickly find important information. This makes it very useful for businesses that are listed there. Organic Search Results (the Blue Links) Below the Local Pack, Google shows regular search results, known as the blue links. Unlike the Local Pack results, which share Google Business Profile details, organic results direct you to websites. Ranking in organic search results with the Local Pack can improve your visibility and increase your chances of getting local traffic. For local businesses, showing up in both the Local Pack and organic results can be a strong way to take over the search page and draw in more customers. To improve for both kinds of results, you need to know what factors Google looks at for each one. Key Ranking Factors for Local SEO: Relevance, Distance, and Importance To decide which businesses show up in the Local Pack and Google Maps, Google uses three main requirements: For organic search results, which show up below the Local Pack, Google looks at these and other factors, like: By focusing on these factors, Local SEO helps make your business more visible in both the Local Pack and regular search results. This connects you with more possible customers near you. Rising Competition in Local Search With more businesses seeing the benefits of Local SEO, competition for local search rankings is very strong. It’s not enough anymore to just set up a Google Business listing. To stand out, businesses must actively manage reviews, keep their NAP information the same, and often post content that is related to their location. Investing in a good Local SEO plan can create a big impact, especially in tough markets. By focusing on local keywords, getting good reviews, and making sure business information is correct, businesses can improve their local rankings. This will help them have an advantage over competitors who are not as well optimized. Getting Started with Local SEO: Affordable and Good Solutions Local SEO services can be a good way to improve your business online presence and reach more local customers. A custom Local SEO plan includes methods such as: With a tailored Local SEO plan, your business can bring in more qualified visitors. This way, you can get more leads, boost website traffic, and attract more customers to your physical locations. Whether you run a retail shop, a restaurant, or any kind of service, having a strong local presence on search engines like Google and Bing is
Core Web Vitals Documentation
Core Web Vitals & Next Paint (INP) Scores The official Core Web Vitals documentation was updated with new details on Interaction to Next Paint (INP) scores. Posted by the Search Engine Journal, the official documentation for how Core Web Vitals are scored was recently updated with new insights into how Interaction to Next Paint (INP) scoring thresholds were chosen and offers a better understanding of Interaction To Next Paint. Interaction to Next Paint (INP) Interaction to Next Paint (INP) is a relatively new metric, officially becoming a Core Web Vitals in the Spring of 2024. It’s a metric of how long it takes a site to respond to interactions like clicks, taps, and when users press on a keyboard (actual or onscreen). The official Web.dev documentation defines it: “INP observes the latency of all interactions a user has made with the page, and reports a single value which all (or nearly all) interactions were beneath. A low INP means the page was consistently able to respond quickly to all—or the vast majority—of user interactions.†INP measures the latency of all the interactions on the page, which is different than the now retired First Input Delay metric which only measured the delay of the first interaction. INP is considered a better measurement than INP because it provides a more accurate idea of the actual user experience is. INP Core Web Vitals Score Thresholds The main change to the documentation is to provide an explanation for the speed performance thresholds that show poor, needs improvement and good. One of the choices made for deciding the scoring was how to handle scoring because it’s easier to achieve high INP scores on a desktop versus a mobile device because external factors like network speed and device capabilities heavily favor desktop environments. But the user experience is not device dependent so rather than create different thresholds for different kinds of devices they settled on one metric that is based on mobile devices. The new documentation explains: “Mobile and desktop usage typically have very different characteristics as to device capabilities and network reliability. This heavily impacts the “achievability†criteria and so suggests we should consider separate thresholds for each. However, users’ expectations of a good or poor experience is not dependent on device, even if the achievability criteria is. For this reason the Core Web Vitals recommended thresholds are not segregated by device and the same threshold is used for both. This also has the added benefit of making the thresholds simpler to understand.Additionally, devices don’t always fit nicely into one category. Should this be based on device form factor, processing power, or network conditions? Having the same thresholds has the side benefit of avoiding that complexity. The more constrained nature of mobile devices means that most of the thresholds are therefore set based on mobile achievability. They more likely represent mobile thresholds—rather than a true joint threshold across all device types. However, given that mobile is often the majority of traffic for most sites, this is less of a concern.†These are scores Chrome settled on: Screenshot Of An Interaction To Next Paint Score Lower End Devices Were Considered Chrome was focused on choosing achievable metrics. That’s why the thresholds for INP had to be realistic for lower end mobile devices because so many of them are used to access the Internet. They explained: “We also spent extra attention looking at achievability of passing INP for lower-end mobile devices, where those formed a high proportion of visits to sites. This further confirmed the suitability of a 200 ms threshold. Taking into consideration the 100 ms threshold supported by research into the quality of experience and the achievability criteria, we conclude that 200 ms is a reasonable threshold for good experiences†Most Popular Sites Influenced INP Thresholds Another interesting insight in the new documentation is that achievability of the scores in the real world were another consideration for the INP scoring metrics, measured in milliseconds (ms). They examined the performance of the top 10,000 websites because they made up the vast majority of website visits in order to dial in the right threshold for poor scores. What they discovered is that the top 10,000 websites struggled to achieve performance scores of 300 ms. The CrUX data that reports real-world user experience showed that 55% of visits to the most popular sites were at the 300 ms threshold. That meant that the Chrome team had to choose a higher millisecond score that was achieveable by the most popular sites. The new documentation explains: “When we look at the top 10,000 sites—which form the vast majority of internet browsing—we see a more complex picture emerge… On mobile, a 300 ms “poor†threshold would classify the majority of popular sites as “poor†stretching our achievability criteria, while 500 ms fits better in the range of 10-30% of sites. It should also be noted that the 200 ms “good†threshold is also tougher for these sites, but with 23% of sites still passing this on mobile this still passes our 10% minimum pass rate criteria. For this reason we conclude a 200 ms is a reasonable “good†threshold for most sites, and greater than 500 ms is a reasonable “poor†threshold.†Barry Pollard, a Web Performance Developer Advocate on Google Chrome who is a co-author of the documentation, added a comment to a discussion on LinkedIn that offers more background information: “We’ve made amazing strides on INP in the last year. Much more than we could have hoped for. But less than 200ms is going to be very tough on low-end mobile devices for some time. While high-end mobile devices are absolute power horses now, the low-end is not increasing at anywhere near that rate…†A Deeper Understanding Of INP Scores The new documentation offers a better understanding of how Chrome chooses achievable metrics and takes some of the mystery out of the relatively new INP Core Web Vital metric.
Local SEO & Attracting New Business
The Importance of Local SEO Local SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) is a targeted approach to optimizing your online presence to attract more business from relevant local searches. This type of SEO focuses on optimising your business for a defined geographical area, ensuring that when potential customers search for products or services in their vicinity, your business appears prominently in the search results. As mobile searches become increasingly localised, understanding and implementing local SEO strategies is crucial for businesses looking to enhance their visibility and attract customers in their area. Defining Local SEO Local SEO is the practice of optimising your online content specifically for local markets by utilizing various techniques and strategies that increase your visibility in local search results. It encompasses a variety of tactics including optimising your Google My Business listing, acquiring local backlinks, and ensuring your business information is consistent across all online platforms. By tailoring your SEO efforts to a specific location, you can increase your chances of ranking higher on search engines when users search for services or products that are available near them. Benefits of Local SEO for Businesses Implementing a robust local SEO strategy can yield numerous benefits for businesses of all sizes. First and foremost, local SEO helps to drive targeted traffic to your website and physical locations, significantly increasing the likelihood of conversion. For instance, studies show that 76% of people who search for something nearby visit a business within a day. Furthermore, local SEO builds trust and credibility, as users tend to prefer businesses that appear in local search results, often interpreting high rankings as an endorsement of quality and reliability. Statistics Highlighting the Impact of Local SEO Statistics underscore the importance of local SEO for businesses. According to Google, 46% of all searches have local intent, indicating that users are looking for specific services or products in their area. Additionally, a study by BrightLocal found that 87% of consumers read online reviews for local businesses, demonstrating that reputation management is critical in local markets. Moreover, 88% of people trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations, highlighting the significant influence of customer feedback on consumer behavior. Working with Direct Submit SEO Agency What to Look for in an SEO Agency Choosing the right SEO agency is paramount to your success in local SEO. When evaluating potential agencies, consider their experience and expertise in local SEO specifically. Look for an agency that has a track record of improving local search rankings for businesses like yours. Additionally, transparency in their processes and communication is essential; a reputable agency should be able to explain their strategies clearly and provide regular updates on progress. Lastly, client testimonials and case studies can provide insight into the agency’s effectiveness and reliability. The Role of a Direct Submit SEO Agency At Direct Submit, a leading UK Digital Marketing Agency we specialise in ensuring that your business is listed on pertinent local directories and search engines, often through direct submission methods. This involves not only submitting your business to popular directories but also optimizing those listings to include relevant keywords, photos, and customer reviews. The agency’s role also extends to monitoring your online reputation, managing reviews, and ensuring consistent information across platforms to enhance your credibility with both search engines and potential customers. How to Collaborate Effectively with Your SEO Agency Effective collaboration with your SEO agency is vital for achieving optimal results. Start by clearly communicating your business goals, target audience, and any specific areas you want to focus on. Establish a timeline and agree on key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure success. Regular meetings can help maintain alignment, allowing both parties to discuss progress, challenges, and adjust strategies when necessary. Providing feedback and sharing insights about your customer interactions can also help the agency tailor their strategies to better fit your business needs. Strategies to Attract New Business Optimising Your Google My Business Listing One of the most effective strategies for improving your local search presence is optimising your Google My Business (GMB) listing. A fully optimised GMB profile includes accurate information such as your business name, address, phone number, and operating hours. Additionally, incorporating high-quality images of your business, products, and services can significantly enhance user engagement. Regularly updating your listing with posts about promotions, events, or new products can keep your customers informed and encourage them to visit your site or physical location. Leveraging Local Citations and Reviews Local citations, mentions of your business on other websites, play a crucial role in local SEO. Ensuring that your business is listed in reputable local directories not only improves your visibility but also helps search engines validate your business’s legitimacy. Furthermore, managing customer reviews is vital; positive reviews can significantly influence consumer decision-making. Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, and Facebook. Responding to reviews — both positive and negative — demonstrates your commitment to customer service and can enhance your brand’s reputation. Creating Locally Relevant Content Producing content that resonates with your local audience can further enhance your local SEO efforts. This can include blog posts, articles, and social media content that focuses on local events, news, or community highlights. By incorporating local keywords and topics of interest, you can attract more local traffic to your site. Additionally, creating content that addresses the specific needs and preferences of your local audience can help position your business as an authority in your niche, further driving engagement and conversions. Measuring Your Local SEO Success Key Performance Indicators for Local SEO To evaluate the effectiveness of your local SEO efforts, you need to identify and track key performance indicators (KPIs). Some important KPIs include local search rankings, website traffic from local searches, conversion rates, and the number of calls or inquiries originating from local listings. Monitoring changes in these metrics over time can provide valuable insights into how well your local SEO strategy is performing and where adjustments may be necessary to improve results. Tools to Track Local SEO Performance There are
Google’s SEO Tip for Fixing Canonical URLs
Google’s SEO Tip for Fixing Canonical URLsGoogle have offered an SEO tip for making Google choose the correct canonical URL when it ranks the wrong one. They answered a question on LinkedIn about how Google chooses canonicals, offering advice about what SEOs and publishers can do to encourage Google how to pick the right URL. What Is A Canonical URL?In the situation where multiple URLs (the addresses for multiple web pages) have the same content, Google will choose one URL that will be representative for all of the pages. The chosen page is referred to as the canonical URL. The Search Engine Journal has published an update from Google Search Central that explains how SEOs and publishes can communicate their preference of which URL to use. None of these methods force Google to choose the preferred URL, they mainly serve as a strong hint. There are three ways to indicate the canonical URL: Some of Google’s canonicalization documentation incorrectly refers to the rel=canonical as a link element. The link tag, , is the element. The rel=canonical is an attribute of the link element. Google also calls rel=canonical an annotation, which might be an internal way Google refers to it but it’s not the proper way to refer to rel=canonical (it’s an HTML attribute of the link element). There are two important things you need to know about HTML elements and attributes: HTML elements are the building blocks for creating a web page.An HTML attribute is something that adds more information about that building block (the HTML element). The Mozilla Developer Network HTML documentation (an authoritative source for HTML specifications) notes that “link†is an HTML element and that “rel=†is an attribute of the link element. After Reading The ManualThe person reading Google’s documentation which lists the above three ways to specify a canonical still had questions so he asked it on LinkedIn. He referred to the documentation as “doc†in his question: “The mentioned doc suggests several ways to specify a canonical URL. So, if we consider only point 2 of the above. Which means the sitemap—Technically it contains all the canonical links of a website. Then why in some cases, a couple of the URLs in the sitemap throws: “Duplicate without user-selected canonical.†?†As pointed out above, Google’s documentation says that the sitemap is a weak signal. Google Uses More Signals For CanonicalizationJohn Mueller’s answer reveals that Google uses more factors or signals than what is officially documented. He explained: “If Google’s systems can tell that pages are similar enough that one of them could be focused on, then we use the factors listed in that document (and more) to try to determine which one to focus on.†Internal Linking Is A Canonical FactorMueller next explained that internal links can be used to give Google a strong signal of which URL is the preferred one. This is how Mueller answered: “If you have a strong preference, it’s best to make that preference very obvious, by making sure everything on your site expresses that preference – including the link-rel-canonical in the head, sitemaps, internal links, etc. “ He then followed up with: “When it comes to search, which one of the pages Google’s systems focus on doesn’t matter so much, they’d all be shown similarly in search. The exact URL shown is mostly just a matter for the user (who might see it) and for the site-owner (who might want to monitor & track that URL).†Important Takeaway to NoteIn our experience it’s not uncommon that a large website contains old internal links that point to the wrong URL. Sometimes it’s not old internal links that are the cause, it’s 301 redirects from an old page to another URL that is not the preferred canonical. That can also lead to Google choosing a URL that is not preferred by the publisher. If Google is choosing the wrong URL then it may be useful to crawl the entire site (like with Screaming Frog) and then look at the internal linking patterns as well as redirects because it may very well be that forgotten internal links hidden deep within the website or chained redirects to the wrong URL are causing Google to choose the wrong URL. Google’s documentation also notes that external links to the wrong page could influence which page Google chooses as the canonical, so that’s one more thing that needs to be checked for debugging why the wrong URL is being ranked. The important takeaway here is that if the standard ways of specifying the canonical are not working then it’s possible that there is an external links, or unintentional internal linking, or a forgotten redirect that is causing Google to choose the wrong URL. Or, as John Mueller suggested, increasing the amount of internal links to the preferred URL may help Google to choose the preferred URL.
Google: Best Practices Can Have Minimal Effect
Google Says Best Practices Can Have Minimal Effect Google’s John Mueller observed that sometimes best practices have minimal effect on search visibility, he was asked why a site wasn’t ranking despite following SEO best practices. Google’s John Mueller narrated the question: “I changed my website a year ago and did a lot of work on SEO. Should this be affecting my website’s traffic by now?†It’s a hard question to answer when you don’t have the specifics of the webpage in front of you. So Mueller answered in a fairly general manner that ends with him recommending he ask someone else for advice in Google’s help forums. The first part of Mueller’s response acknowledges the difficulty of answering the question. He responded: “It’s tricky to say much here. I don’t know what specifically you did to work on SEO, and I don’t know if that would have resulted in significant changes.†Why SEO Doesn’t WorkMueller’s right. Maybe the website has a great layout, fast page speed performance, spot on structured data and a logical site architecture that optimizes internal linking. What could go wrong with a properly SEO’d website, right? >>> The content could be incomplete.>>> The content could be too comprehensive.>>> The content might be unfocused, lacking a clear comprehension of the topic.>>> The content might be too focused on keywords and not focused enough on users.>>> The content might not match the topic suggested by the keywords in the title and the headings.>>> Maybe the content is aiming too high, trying to rank for a highly competitive search phrase. No amount of ‘good SEO‘ is going to save a website with the above listed problems… and that’s just a sample of what can go wrong. Mueller addressed this shortcoming of SEO in situations where it has zero effect. He continued his answer: “There are many best practices which have minimal effect on the day-to-day performance of a website. For example, having a clean page structure helps search engines to better understand the content on a page, but it might not necessarily result in immediate search ranking or traffic changes.†Ranking Criteria is Different Across TopicsAnother factor that Mueller touches on is that what’s important for SEO varies according to the topic. Some topics require fresh content, some content requires establishing signals of trustworthiness and authoritativeness, maybe even signals that communicate user brand preference and popularity, signals that indicate that users expect to see a specific brand for certain queries. There could be a geographic component that prioritizes local signals. It could be an intent thing where a user just wants to read what a person wrote in a forum. This may be what Mueller is talking about when he says that the best elements of SEO vary across websites. He answered: “The most effective elements of SEO will vary across websites, it takes a lot of experience to go from a long checklist of possible items to a short prioritized list of critical items.†Experience Is ImportantThe last factor Mueller discussed is the role of experience in making one a better SEO. Here’s an example: I thought I was pretty good at creating content that ranks and then I wrote a couple thousand articles for Search Engine Journal and it opened up a whole new conception of content creation, I discovered levels of understanding that could only come from writing about a couple thousand articles. Mentorship, is an option that can cut down the amount of time it takes to learn, but experience is still important. John Mueller recommended experience as an important factor for understanding SEO. He wrote: “Your experience here will grow over time as you practice. I recommend getting input from others, and practicing by helping with challenges that others post in help forums. Getting input from others is always good advice.
Local SEO for Business
Local SEO for Business: A Comprehensive Guide Establishing a robust online presence is crucial for businesses of all sizes. With more consumers relying on the internet to find local services and products, Local Search Engine Optimisation (SEO) has become an essential strategy for businesses aiming to attract local customers. Local SEO focuses on optimising a business’s online presence to attract more business from relevant local searches. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the significance of Local SEO for businesses, the key components, and effective strategies to enhance local visibility. 1. Understanding Local SEO Local SEO is a branch of search engine optimisation that focuses on optimising a website to be found in local search results. These searches are typically conducted by users looking for services, products, or businesses within a specific geographical area. For example, a user might search for “best Italian restaurant near me” or “plumber in Durham.” Local SEO ensures that when such searches are made, your business appears prominently in the results. Local SEO differs from traditional SEO in that it prioritises proximity, relevance, and prominence in a specific locale. While traditional SEO focuses on improving a website’s overall search engine rankings, Local SEO targets a more niche audience – those who are geographically close to the business’s physical location. 2. Why Local SEO Matters The importance of Local SEO cannot be overstated for businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Here are some compelling reasons why investing in Local SEO is crucial: a) Increased Visibility in Local Searches When potential customers search for products or services in your area, Local SEO ensures that your business appears at the top of the search results. This increased visibility translates into more traffic, both online and offline. b) Higher Conversion Rates Local searchers often have higher intent, meaning they are more likely to convert into customers. For example, someone searching for “buy flowers in Durham” is likely looking to make a purchase immediately. Local SEO helps capture this intent, leading to higher conversion rates. c) Mobile Search Optimisation With the proliferation of smartphones, local searches have become increasingly mobile. Studies show that a significant percentage of local searches are conducted on mobile devices, and users tend to visit or contact businesses shortly after searching. Local SEO optimises your business’s presence for mobile users, ensuring a seamless experience. d) Competitive Advantage Many small businesses have yet to fully embrace Local SEO, providing an opportunity for those who do to stand out in local search results. By investing in Local SEO, you can gain a competitive edge in your local market. 3. Key Components of Local SEO Effective Local SEO involves a combination of on-page and off-page optimisation techniques. Let’s explore the key components: a) Google My Business (GMB) Google My Business (GMB) is the cornerstone of Local SEO. It is a free tool provided by Google that allows businesses to manage their online presence across Google’s ecosystem, including Search and Maps. A well-optimised GMB profile can significantly improve your local search visibility. Key aspects of optimising your GMB profile include: b) Local Citations and NAP Consistency Local citations are online mentions of your business’s NAP information on other websites, directories, and social platforms. Consistent NAP information across the web is crucial for Local SEO, as it signals to search engines that your business is legitimate and trustworthy. To improve your local citations: c) On-Page SEO for Local Optimisation On-page SEO refers to the optimisation of individual web pages to rank higher and earn more relevant traffic. For Local SEO, on-page optimisation involves: d) Online Reviews and Reputation Management Online reviews play a crucial role in Local SEO. Positive reviews not only enhance your business’s credibility but also influence search engine rankings. Google and other search engines consider reviews as a signal of trustworthiness and relevance. To manage your online reputation effectively: e) Local Link Building Link building remains a vital component of SEO, including Local SEO. However, the focus for Local SEO should be on acquiring high-quality, locally relevant backlinks. Strategies for local link building include: 4. Measuring and Monitoring Local SEO Performance To ensure the effectiveness of your Local SEO efforts, it’s essential to measure and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs). This will help you understand what strategies are working and where adjustments are needed. a) Google Analytics Google Analytics is a powerful tool for tracking your website’s performance. Key metrics to monitor for Local SEO include: b) Google My Business Insights GMB provides valuable insights into how users find and interact with your business listing. Key metrics include: c) Local Rank Tracking Use tools like Moz Local, BrightLocal, or SEMrush to track your local search rankings. These tools allow you to monitor your position in local search results, including the “Local Pack” and organic listings. d) Review Monitoring Tools Tools like ReviewTrackers, Yotpo, or Podium can help you monitor and manage online reviews across multiple platforms. These tools provide notifications of new reviews, sentiment analysis, and reporting features. 5. Challenges and Common Pitfalls in Local SEO While Local SEO offers significant benefits, it also comes with challenges. Understanding these challenges can help you avoid common pitfalls and optimize your Local SEO strategy effectively. a) NAP Inconsistencies One of the most common issues in Local SEO is inconsistent NAP information across various online platforms. These inconsistencies can confuse search engines and negatively impact your local rankings. To avoid this, regularly audit your business listings and ensure that all information is accurate and up to date. b) Ignoring Mobile Optimisation With the rise in mobile searches, neglecting mobile optimization can severely hinder your Local SEO efforts. Ensure your website is mobile-friendly, with fast loading times, responsive design, and easy navigation on smaller screens. c) Overlooking Customer Reviews Customer reviews are a critical factor in local search rankings, yet many businesses overlook the importance of actively managing them. Ignoring reviews or failing to respond to them can lead to a negative online reputation. 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Title Tags “May†Impact Rankings
Meta Tags ‘May†Impact Rankings Google’s John Mueller has offered a surprising explanation about the ranking impact of title tags. His answer, as published in the Search Engine Journal, challenged the SEO belief that title tags are a critical ranking factor and clarified their actual role. Mueller also discussed the proper use of meta descriptions. Title ElementsThe purpose of title tags is to provide a general description of the topic of a webpage. Google’s SEO Starter Guide shows how to write titles: “…a good title is unique to the page, clear and concise, and accurately describes the contents of the page. For example, your title could include the name of your website or business, other bits of important information like the physical location of the business, and maybe some information about what the particular page has to offer for users.†Meta DescriptionThe meta description describes the web page (that’s why it’s called a meta description). The official W3C HTML documentation says: “descriptionThe value must be a free-form string that describes the page. The value must be appropriate for use in a directory of pages, e.g. in a search engine. There must not be more than one meta element with its name attribute set to the value description per document.†Google’s SEO Stater Guide explains that meta descriptions are “occasionally†used for generating the snippet shown in the search results: “The snippet is sourced from the actual content of the page the search result is linking to… Occasionally the snippet may be sourced from the contents of the meta description tag, which is typically a succinct, one- or two-sentence summary of the page. A good meta description is short, unique to one particular page, and includes the most relevant points of the page.†Notice that both the official HTML documentation and Google do not recommend using your title tag or meta description as a place to park your keywords or for putting a call to action to get people to visit the site? Those are SEO practices that SEOs invented and it’s probably why so many title tags get rewritten, because they’re incorrectly done. The Ranking Impact Of Title TagsGoogle’s John Mueller directly answered and confirmed that changing the title element maybe can impact rankings. He didn’t say anything about the title tag being a ranking factor. He just said that changing the title tag maybe can impact rankings. Mueller’s answer confirmed that changing the title element could maybe impact rankings: This is the question: “We have a website with satisfying ranks and now our product added new features. We need to modify the page meta title & description, does that affect the current rankings?†John Mueller answered that maybe changing the title tag could change the rankings in the search results. Here’s his answer: “Yes, or better, maybe. Changing things like titles or headings on pages can result in changes in Search.†Why did Mueller say maybe? He didn’t explain why. But his answer confirms that changing your title elements doesn’t automatically cause a change in rankings. Mueller’s answer about meta descriptions implied that it doesn’t have an affect on rankings but it could affect the snippet shown in the search results. That’s something that the digital marketing community is already on board with. This is what he said about meta descriptions: “Similarly, changing the meta description on a page can result in changes with how the snippet of a page is shown in Search. This is expected, and usually something that SEOs or site-owners focus on in an attempt to improve things in search.†Title Tags Maybe Can Change RankingsMueller’s answer might come as a surprise to some because belief that the title tag is an important ranking factor has been a part of the SEO tradition since the beginning of SEO over 20 years ago when search engines were relatively primitive compared to today. Some in the SEO community, for whatever reason, continue the decades old tradition that title elements are a huge ranking factor. Mueller confirmed that changing the title element might maybe impact search results, which is what some people have experienced, in either direction of rankings.
Google Search Issue Resolved
Google Search Issue Now Resolved ** Update 20 August: Google reported that the issue had been fixed and there would be no further updates. The bug lasted 4 days and 11 hours. On 15 August Google confirmed that a Search ranking bug was affecting a large number of search results. Google Search Issue In their announcement Google said the issue had been identified and was unrelated to the August 2024 core update, which started rolling out also on 15 August. “There’s an ongoing issue with ranking in Google Search that’s affecting a large number of search results. We’ve identified the root cause and this issue is unrelated to the ongoing core update rollout. Next update will be within 12 hours.†In a post on LinkedIn, Google’s John Mueller confirmed the Search ranking bug was ongoing and unconnected to the core update, and apologised for the issue. “Sometimes we have issues in our systems (like everyone), and we want to be transparent about them for users & site-owners. This issue is unrelated to the core update that’s currently rolling out. Unfortunately you can’t pick the timing of issues, sorry. We’ll update on the search status dashboard as things evolve – both for this issue, as well as for the roll-out of the core update. Isn’t there some rule against issues popping up on Fridays? Drats & sorry.†In subsequent updates on the 16th and 19th, Google said they were still working on the issue and promised further updates. The core update will take up to a month to roll out, so any changes you see in rankings will probably be unrelated to this and down to the Search ranking bug. It’s worth keeping an eye on Google status updates to check when the bug has been fixed, and if this resolves any immediate issue.