Since the rise of the Google Panda algorithm, websites have been struggling to maintain their search engine popularity. Panda has impacted SEO strategies, and demanded a change in the way that websites are managed. More recently, Google has released an update to its Penguin algorithm, now known as Penguin 2.0. Penguin 2.0 promotes high quality websites, while inflicting a penalty on spammy sites. Although to SEO managers, this appears to be a hassle, it truly is in the best interest of Google users. Penguin 2.0 is making it easier for users to find relevant and valuable content on the first page of the Search Engine Results Page.
How can you maintain your ranking?!
Authorities – Penguin wants to place sites with authority in their niche, at the top of the Search Engine Results Page. By making your the best in it’s field, Google will actually help you out and improve your ranking. Ways to improve your authority include social media, original content, and Author Rank.
Steer Clear of Over-Optimization – Believe it or not, over-optimization is possible. In an attempt to rank higher in search engines, some websites have an excessive use of keywords in anchor texts, tags, headers, and perhaps in every other sentence. However, this is not necessary. In fact with Google Panda, it will only bring your site down. Keywords are still important, but keep it simple.
Valuable Information – You should create content that your visitors will find useful. The more they view and share your content, the easier it will be for you to survive Google Panda. Having any empty pages on your site will effect your ranking as well. Also avoid thin content. Since the user is searching for a specific keyword, the relevance and depth of your content is important. If the content has original value, you can assume that you will be safe from Panda.
Keep the Advertising Minimal – Google’s algorithm targets websites with too many paid ads. If a website has minimal relevant content, or is overcrowded with advertisements, it will suffer the wrath of Google Penguin. This is because Google correlates excessive ads with a negative user experience. To dodge this problem entirely, simply avoid having ads on your site at all. Advertorials are also targeted by Penguin, especially if they are sold. Now, any advertorials require a disclaimer stating that they are paid for, or sponsored. If not, the site will be hit by Penguin.
Social Sharing – Penguin is social! Liking, sharing, and interacting on social media is now more imporant than ever. Penguin 2.0 is smart enough to keep track of how active websites are in social media. The more your website is shared, visited, and discussed, the higher it will be placed in the search engine results.
User Behaviour Data – Using an analytics tool, such as Google Analytics, can help you understand how users are interacting with your site. Have users blocked your site? How much time are users spending on your site on average? If your average time on site is low, and you have a high bounce rate, it means that most users are leaving your site once they see it. Obviously, Google makes the assumption that your site does not contain quality content, and ranks your site poorly in the search engine results.
Overwhelmed by the takeover of Google Penguin? Looking for some assistance in implementing an effective SEO strategy? Mystique Brand Communications can help! Contact Us.
Nikita Kataria
Social Media Marketing Coordinator
Mystique Brand Communications
Are you looking to take your brand to the next level?
Do you need a brand partner who’ll do the heavy lifting while inspiring you to achieve more? A team that not only helps you find your voice, but works with you to ensure that your voice is heard. Let Mystique’s branding pros provide you with scalable lead generation and retention solutions to make certain that you reach the right people with the right message at the right time.
Not sure where you brand stands?
GET A FREE BRAND REVIEW.
Schedule time to review your current situation with us and discuss possible ways to optimize your brand experience to overcome your business challenges and reach your goals. Even if you choose not to use us, you’ll walk away with some great ideas to implement in your business today.