In 2013, Google released their Hummingbird update, which brought several changes to how keywords are interpreted on the Internet. The most substantial change from the Hummingbird update improved the way in which the search algorithm understands conversational phrases. So, what does this mean for SEO experts? Well, essentially, you need to make sure your website is useful for users and entertaining while targeting your audience with sharable content.
This certainly isn't a new trend, but it is important to cover it. SEO campaigns absolutely need to support mobile optimization strategy, which will bo beyond simply having a responsive website. Your site should not only be readable and accessible from every device, but it should also be optimized for each. For example, content and included images need to appear lighter on smaller devices. It has been stated that Google algorithms will not take user behavior like bounce-rate into consideration. So, the lesson is, if you deliver a bad user experience due to poor optimization, your ranking will be effected! It's entirely possible that by the end of the year, the first page Google results will be made up of pages that are fast, mobile friendly, and contain answers to important questions.
While the interaction between SEO and social media is nothing new, SEO specialists can no longer pretend that social media management and search engine optimization are two unconnected things.
It makes sense that human signals (like social media) will play an important role in the future of SEO. If you don’t have a strong social media presence or a strategy that allows for users to find and share your content, you have a lot of homework to do. Social Media cannot be swept under the rug if you expect to succeed. Understanding your target market and delivering quality content is essential.
Balance is key. You need to find the balance between creating, optimizing, and distributing content. You want it to be simple to consue, espeicially for mobile readers. However, you should make sure that your website's content is unique and not mundane. Many sites aim for blog articles between 600 and 800 words, but you need not be afraid to increase word count if you are an expert on a particular subject. Don't neglect video and audio content, as they can be optimized for search engines.
Never depend on search engine optimization alone for the growth of your business. Often the businesses that fail are the ones that depend on SEO alone for the entire growth of their business. The companies that survive and thrive are the ones that have a solid approach and market in a variety of ways both online and offline. SEO can be a big piece; however, it is only one slice of the marketing pie.
By integrating all of today's Web tools such as SEO, social media, pay per click, and blogs, ImageWorks can provide a level of permission based inbound marketing that will turn your site into a lead generation tool. With continued nurturing programs, you become a trusted source, and prospects convert to customers.