![\"Get](\"https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/24325690/bb144053-f23d-43bf-ab00-3be0881f3db9.png\" "\\"11-Step")
WordPress is one of the most popular CMS, but even the best websites need regular checkups to ensure they\u2019re running smoothly.
\n\n\n\nIf you\u2019ve been wondering how to perform an audit for your WordPress site without drowning in technical jargon, you\u2019re in the right place.
\n\n\n\nIn this 11-step guide, we\u2019ll break it down SEO auditing so you can identify issues, fix them, and set your site up for success in 2025.
\n\n\n\nWhy 11 and not 10? Apollo 11 was the first rocket to land people on the moon. 11: it\u2019s a rocket thing!
\n\n\n\nImagine your website is your car. If you\u2019ve got a clunker, imagine your website is a Ferrari. You wouldn\u2019t drive for years without checking the engine or changing the oil, right?
\n\n\n\nJust like that Ferrari, your WordPress site needs periodic audits to ensure it\u2019s running smoothly. A well-maintained site is faster, more secure, and better optimized for search engines.
\n\n\n\nIf your website doesn\u2019t work, you can\u2019t make any sales. A well-maintained website doesn\u2019t break down. A well-maintained website is better.
\n\n\n\nThe most successful SEO strategies aren’t about chasing algorithms. They’re about building a strong technical foundation and creating content that serves your audience’s needs.
\n\n\n\nBefore diving into the nitty-gritty, let\u2019s gather some essential tools. Many are free and beginner-friendly. Here are some of our faves:
\n\n\n\nGoogle Search Console and Microsoft Webmaster Tools: These are your go-to tools for understanding how search engines view your site. They highlight indexing issues, performance metrics, and more. Both tools are free. Google only has 85% of the market in the US, so use both of them.
\n\n\n\nWordPress Plugins: Plugins like Yoast and Rank Math are invaluable for spotting SEO and performance issues. WP-Optimize can help you with core web vitals. Antispam Bee helps keep the paparazzi away from that Ferrari you\u2019re driving.
\n\n\n\nScreaming Frog SEO Spider: This is a powerful tool for crawling your website and uncovering technical issues from missing H1s to misplaced canonical tags. The free version does a lot!
\n\n\n\nPageSpeed Insights: Google\u2019s free tool to analyze your site\u2019s speed and suggest optimizations.
\n\n\n\nSemrush: Both paid and free versions are perfect for keyword research, site audits, and competitive analysis. The free version allows you one project so it\u2019s a good place to start.
\n\n\n\nWhile paid tools can offer deeper insights, the fundamental health of your website can be assessed using free tools. Start there.
\n\n\n\nNo one likes being stuck in the slow lane. A slow website can frustrate visitors and hurt your search rankings. Use tools like PageSpeed Insights to assess your loading times. Focus on three things to start:
\n\n\n\nSpeed matters. A delay of even a few seconds can significantly impact user experience and conversions.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cRocket.net handles the speed of the server. Caching plugins handle the experience, and how the browser is instructed to handle loading as your page is rendered.\u201d
\nRocket.net – Rocket Still Recommends Caching Plugins \u2013 Though It\u2019s Really About Optimization
Google\u2019s Core Web Vitals are about more than speed. They focus on the user experience. Once your page has loaded, make sure people stay for a while.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cCore Web Vitals are about more than just fast-loading websites \u2013 they are about websites that deliver. It all comes down to UX \u2014 having your websites load quickly so people can do what they need to.\u201d
\nRocket.net – Significance Of TTFB \u2013 The Most Important Metric That Nobody Thinks Of For Core Web Vitals
Website security isn\u2019t an option \u2014 it\u2019s essential. Think of security as locking your car’s doors and taking the keys before leaving it in the parking lot. Here\u2019s what to check:
\n\n\n\nUpdate Everything: Regularly. Keep your WordPress version, themes, and plugins up to date. Out-of-date software is a security risk.
\n\n\n\nInstall a Security Plugin: Use plugins to scan for vulnerabilities and block threats. Ensure your hosting provider prioritizes security, too.
\n\n\n\nUse Strong Passwords: Ensure all users have secure, unique passwords that are regularly changed. Enable HTTPS: If you haven\u2019t (really?) already, install an SSL certificate to encrypt data.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cChoose a website host who prioritizes security and protects your clients out of the box without any special configurations needed.\u201d
\nRocket.net – How To Ensure Security With Your Agency\u2019s WordPress Hosting
A well-organized website is easier for people to use. A well-structured website is at the heart of good SEO. It\u2019s a win-win. Start with these basics:
\n\n\n\nPermalink Settings: Ensure your URLs are clean and descriptive (e.g., “/blog/seo-tips” instead of “/?p=123”).
\n\n\n\nSitemaps: Use plugins like Yoast or Rank Math to generate an XML sitemap and submit it to Google Search Console and Bing Webmaster Tools. Indexing changes daily. Don\u2019t submit and forget. Check-in once a week to see if pages need to be manually submitted.
\n\n\n\nBreadcrumbs: Enable breadcrumbs for better navigation and SEO benefits.
\n\n\n\nOrphans in the Storm: Are all your pages (except for Landing Pages) connected to another page?
\n\n\n\nWith most users browsing on mobile devices, ensuring your site is mobile-friendly is non-negotiable. It\u2019s 2025. The \u201cmobile moment\u201d happened a decade ago.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cWeb accessibility means ensuring everyone can access and use your website. It\u2019s a legal requirement in many places. The ADA requires many websites to be accessible. An accessible website benefits everyone.\u201d
\nRocket.net – Comprehensive Accessibility for WordPress Agencies
While plugins and themes add functionality, they can also slow down your site or introduce vulnerabilities. Review:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cWordPress is a platform for various websites, including niche blogs, online shops, portfolios, and lifestyle magazines. Each theme is tailored to cater to specific markets, and your selected theme should enhance your website\u2019s content \u2013 not compete with it.\u201d
\nRocket.net – Top 5 Considerations For Picking The Best WordPress Theme
Broken links frustrate users and harm your SEO. Use tools like Broken Link Checker or Screaming Frog to identify where you\u2019re bleeding traffic.
\n\n\n\nInternal Links: Fix or redirect broken links within your site. Internal links are SEO gold.
\n\n\n\nExternal Links: Replace or update outdated links to other websites.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cA quarter of all webpages that existed at one point between 2013 and 2023 are no longer accessible, as of October 2023.\u201d
\nPew Research
Data is your best friend when auditing a website. Use tools like Google Analytics or Matomo to understand who visits your website and what they do.
\n\n\n\nContent is the heart of your website. But is it working for you? Here\u2019s how to find out:
\n\n\n\nContent isn\u2019t just about keywords. It\u2019s about creating value for your audience.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cGoogle is prioritising high-quality, original content over low-quality, unoriginal content. Websites that produce informative, in-depth, and trustworthy content are being rewarded, while those relying on thin, keyword-stuffed, or AI-generated content are being penalised.\u201d
\nRocket.net – What the Google March 2024 Core Update Taught Everyone
Your keywords guide search engines to understand your content. They are kind of a big deal for your SEO, but they\u2019re not the A&O of SEO. Don\u2019t panic. Here\u2019s how to incorporate keywords into your audit:
\n\n\n\nThe best keywords aren’t always the most obvious ones. Think about how your customers actually talk about their problems.
\n\n\n\nNow that your website is ready, check to see if search engines can see it. For that, your sitemaps can help. Step 11 is the longest, because, well, visibility is kind of a big deal, right?
\n\n\n\nCreate both XML and HTML sitemaps. The XML sitemap is like a blueprint for search engines, while the HTML sitemap helps human visitors find their way around. Make sure to:
\n\n\n\nThink of robots.txt as instructions for search engine visitors. It tells them which rooms (pages) they can enter and which ones are off-limits. Place it in your root directory and keep it simple:
\n\n\n\nJust because you published a page doesn’t mean it’s in Google’s or Bing\u2019s index. Check your coverage and look for:
\n\n\n\nDon’t panic if you see indexing issues — they’re normal. Focus on fixing the most important pages first and work your way down the list.
\n\n\n\nConducting an audit might seem daunting but breaking it into manageable steps makes it straightforward. Spend ten minutes daily, and you\u2019ve done a weekly hour-long audit before you know it.
\n\n\n\nBy addressing speed, security, structure, content, and usability, you\u2019ll create a WordPress site that\u2019s both user-friendly and search-engine ready. Now, that\u2019s what we call SEO Auditing.
\n\n\n\nAn SEO audit isn\u2019t a one-time task. Regular checkups are key to maintaining a healthy, high-performing website.
\n\n\n\nGrow your business with lightning-fast, secure, and optimized websites that are easy to set up & manage. Top-tier agencies and online businesses choose Rocket.net as their trusted managed WordPress hosting provider \u2013 why shouldn\u2019t you, too?
\n\n\n\n\n",
"content_text": "WordPress is one of the most popular CMS, but even the best websites need regular checkups to ensure they\u2019re running smoothly.\n\n\n\nIf you\u2019ve been wondering how to perform an audit for your WordPress site without drowning in technical jargon, you\u2019re in the right place.\n\n\n\nIn this 11-step guide, we\u2019ll break it down SEO auditing so you can identify issues, fix them, and set your site up for success in 2025.\n\n\n\nWhy 11 and not 10? Apollo 11 was the first rocket to land people on the moon. 11: it\u2019s a rocket thing!\n\n\n\nThink of Your Website as Your Car \u2014 It Needs Regular Maintenance\n\n\n\nImagine your website is your car. If you\u2019ve got a clunker, imagine your website is a Ferrari. You wouldn\u2019t drive for years without checking the engine or changing the oil, right?\n\n\n\nJust like that Ferrari, your WordPress site needs periodic audits to ensure it\u2019s running smoothly. A well-maintained site is faster, more secure, and better optimized for search engines. \n\n\n\nIf your website doesn\u2019t work, you can\u2019t make any sales. A well-maintained website doesn\u2019t break down. A well-maintained website is better.\n\n\n\nThe most successful SEO strategies aren’t about chasing algorithms. They’re about building a strong technical foundation and creating content that serves your audience’s needs.\n\n\n\nTools You\u2019ll Need for Your WordPress Site Audit\n\n\n\nBefore diving into the nitty-gritty, let\u2019s gather some essential tools. Many are free and beginner-friendly. Here are some of our faves:\n\n\n\nGoogle Search Console and Microsoft Webmaster Tools: These are your go-to tools for understanding how search engines view your site. They highlight indexing issues, performance metrics, and more. Both tools are free. Google only has 85% of the market in the US, so use both of them.\n\n\n\nWordPress Plugins: Plugins like Yoast and Rank Math are invaluable for spotting SEO and performance issues. WP-Optimize can help you with core web vitals. Antispam Bee helps keep the paparazzi away from that Ferrari you\u2019re driving.\n\n\n\nScreaming Frog SEO Spider: This is a powerful tool for crawling your website and uncovering technical issues from missing H1s to misplaced canonical tags. The free version does a lot!\n\n\n\nPageSpeed Insights: Google\u2019s free tool to analyze your site\u2019s speed and suggest optimizations.\n\n\n\nSemrush: Both paid and free versions are perfect for keyword research, site audits, and competitive analysis. The free version allows you one project so it\u2019s a good place to start.\n\n\n\nWhile paid tools can offer deeper insights, the fundamental health of your website can be assessed using free tools. Start there.\n\n\n\nStep 1: Check Your Website\u2019s Speed\n\n\n\nNo one likes being stuck in the slow lane. A slow website can frustrate visitors and hurt your search rankings. Use tools like PageSpeed Insights to assess your loading times. Focus on three things to start:\n\n\n\n\nEnabling Caching: Plugins can speed up your site by caching pages. We include WP-Rocket for free!\n\n\n\nMinimizing Code: Compress and clean up your CSS, JavaScript, and HTML.\n\n\n\n\nSpeed matters. A delay of even a few seconds can significantly impact user experience and conversions.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cRocket.net handles the speed of the server. Caching plugins handle the experience, and how the browser is instructed to handle loading as your page is rendered.\u201d\nRocket.net – Rocket Still Recommends Caching Plugins \u2013 Though It\u2019s Really About Optimization\n\n\n\nStep 2: Test Your Website\u2019s Core Web Vitals\n\n\n\nGoogle\u2019s Core Web Vitals are about more than speed. They focus on the user experience. Once your page has loaded, make sure people stay for a while.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cCore Web Vitals are about more than just fast-loading websites \u2013 they are about websites that deliver. It all comes down to UX \u2014 having your websites load quickly so people can do what they need to.\u201d\nRocket.net – Significance Of TTFB \u2013 The Most Important Metric That Nobody Thinks Of For Core Web Vitals\n\n\n\nStep 3: Secure Your WordPress Site\n\n\n\nWebsite security isn\u2019t an option \u2014 it\u2019s essential. Think of security as locking your car’s doors and taking the keys before leaving it in the parking lot. Here\u2019s what to check:\n\n\n\nUpdate Everything: Regularly. Keep your WordPress version, themes, and plugins up to date. Out-of-date software is a security risk.\n\n\n\nInstall a Security Plugin: Use plugins to scan for vulnerabilities and block threats. Ensure your hosting provider prioritizes security, too.\n\n\n\nUse Strong Passwords: Ensure all users have secure, unique passwords that are regularly changed. Enable HTTPS: If you haven\u2019t (really?) already, install an SSL certificate to encrypt data.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cChoose a website host who prioritizes security and protects your clients out of the box without any special configurations needed.\u201d\nRocket.net – How To Ensure Security With Your Agency\u2019s WordPress Hosting\n\n\n\nStep 4: Review Your Website\u2019s Structure\n\n\n\nA well-organized website is easier for people to use. A well-structured website is at the heart of good SEO. It\u2019s a win-win. Start with these basics:\n\n\n\nPermalink Settings: Ensure your URLs are clean and descriptive (e.g., “/blog/seo-tips” instead of “/?p=123”).\n\n\n\nSitemaps: Use plugins like Yoast or Rank Math to generate an XML sitemap and submit it to Google Search Console and Bing Webmaster Tools. Indexing changes daily. Don\u2019t submit and forget. Check-in once a week to see if pages need to be manually submitted.\n\n\n\nBreadcrumbs: Enable breadcrumbs for better navigation and SEO benefits.\n\n\n\nOrphans in the Storm: Are all your pages (except for Landing Pages) connected to another page?\n\n\n\nStep 5: Evaluate (Mobile) Usability\n\n\n\nWith most users browsing on mobile devices, ensuring your site is mobile-friendly is non-negotiable. It\u2019s 2025. The \u201cmobile moment\u201d happened a decade ago.\n\n\n\n\nResponsive Design: Your site should look good and function properly on all screens.\n\n\n\nTap Targets: Buttons and links should be easy to click with a finger.\n\n\n\nReadability: Ensure fonts are large enough, content is spaced well, and contrast is user-friendly.\n\n\n\nOverall Accessibility and Sustainability: How does your site measure up?\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cWeb accessibility means ensuring everyone can access and use your website. It\u2019s a legal requirement in many places. The ADA requires many websites to be accessible. An accessible website benefits everyone.\u201d\nRocket.net – Comprehensive Accessibility for WordPress Agencies\n\n\n\nStep 6: Audit Your Plugins and Themes\n\n\n\nWhile plugins and themes add functionality, they can also slow down your site or introduce vulnerabilities. Review:\n\n\n\n\nInactive Plugins: Delete plugins you\u2019re not using.\n\n\n\nQuality Over Quantity: Avoid bloating your site with unnecessary plugins.\n\n\n\nTheme Updates: Use a reliable, well-supported theme and keep it updated.\n\n\n\nPage Builders: Are you using a page builder where blocks would do the same job? Why?\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cWordPress is a platform for various websites, including niche blogs, online shops, portfolios, and lifestyle magazines. Each theme is tailored to cater to specific markets, and your selected theme should enhance your website\u2019s content \u2013 not compete with it.\u201d\nRocket.net – Top 5 Considerations For Picking The Best WordPress Theme\n\n\n\nStep 7: Check for Broken Links\n\n\n\nBroken links frustrate users and harm your SEO. Use tools like Broken Link Checker or Screaming Frog to identify where you\u2019re bleeding traffic.\n\n\n\nInternal Links: Fix or redirect broken links within your site. Internal links are SEO gold.\n\n\n\nExternal Links: Replace or update outdated links to other websites.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cA quarter of all webpages that existed at one point between 2013 and 2023 are no longer accessible, as of October 2023.\u201d\nPew Research\n\n\n\nStep 8: Monitor Analytics\n\n\n\nData is your best friend when auditing a website. Use tools like Google Analytics or Matomo to understand who visits your website and what they do.\n\n\n\n\nTraffic Sources: Where are your visitors coming from?\n\n\n\nBehavior: Which pages are they visiting and how long do they stay?\n\n\n\nConversions: Are users taking desired actions, like filling out a form or making a purchase?\n\n\n\n\nStep 9: Assess Your Content\n\n\n\nContent is the heart of your website. But is it working for you? Here\u2019s how to find out:\n\n\n\n\nCheck for Duplicate Content: Tools like Screaming Frog can identify duplicates that might confuse search engines. That said, duplicate content is better than no content.\n\n\n\nReview Metadata: Ensure each page has a unique title tag and meta description that includes relevant keywords. Hot tip: Bing still uses the meta keywords tag. You should, too.\n\n\n\nUpdate Old Posts: Refresh outdated content to keep it relevant.\n\n\n\n\nContent isn\u2019t just about keywords. It\u2019s about creating value for your audience.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cGoogle is prioritising high-quality, original content over low-quality, unoriginal content. Websites that produce informative, in-depth, and trustworthy content are being rewarded, while those relying on thin, keyword-stuffed, or AI-generated content are being penalised.\u201d\nRocket.net – What the Google March 2024 Core Update Taught Everyone\n\n\n\nStep 10: Optimise Your Website for Keywords\n\n\n\nYour keywords guide search engines to understand your content. They are kind of a big deal for your SEO, but they\u2019re not the A&O of SEO. Don\u2019t panic. Here\u2019s how to incorporate keywords into your audit:\n\n\n\n\nKeyword Placement: Use keywords naturally in titles, headers, and content.\n\n\n\nFocus on Intent: Prioritise terms that align with what your audience is searching for.\n\n\n\nTrack Performance: Monitor keyword rankings to see what\u2019s working and where you can improve.\n\n\n\n\nThe best keywords aren’t always the most obvious ones. Think about how your customers actually talk about their problems.\n\n\n\nStep 11: Checking Your Site’s Visibility\n\n\n\nNow that your website is ready, check to see if search engines can see it. For that, your sitemaps can help. Step 11 is the longest, because, well, visibility is kind of a big deal, right?\n\n\n\nCreate both XML and HTML sitemaps. The XML sitemap is like a blueprint for search engines, while the HTML sitemap helps human visitors find their way around. Make sure to:\n\n\n\n\nSubmit your XML sitemap to Google Search Console and Bing.\n\n\n\nKeep your sitemaps updated as your site grows.\n\n\n\nInclude all important pages but exclude unnecessary ones.\n\n\n\n\nThe robots.txt File: Your Digital Welcome Mat\n\n\n\nThink of robots.txt as instructions for search engine visitors. It tells them which rooms (pages) they can enter and which ones are off-limits. Place it in your root directory and keep it simple:\n\n\n\n\nBlock access to private areas.\n\n\n\nGuide crawlers to your important content.\n\n\n\nPoint to your sitemap location.\n\n\n\n\nFinding those Pesky Indexing Issues\n\n\n\nJust because you published a page doesn’t mean it’s in Google’s or Bing\u2019s index. Check your coverage and look for:\n\n\n\n\nPages marked as “not indexed”\n\n\n\nRedirect chains that need cleaning up\n\n\n\nDuplicate content issues\n\n\n\nMobile usability problems\n\n\n\n\nDon’t panic if you see indexing issues — they’re normal. Focus on fixing the most important pages first and work your way down the list.\n\n\n\nWrapping Up Your WordPress Website Audit\n\n\n\nConducting an audit might seem daunting but breaking it into manageable steps makes it straightforward. Spend ten minutes daily, and you\u2019ve done a weekly hour-long audit before you know it.\n\n\n\nBy addressing speed, security, structure, content, and usability, you\u2019ll create a WordPress site that\u2019s both user-friendly and search-engine ready. Now, that\u2019s what we call SEO Auditing.\n\n\n\nAn SEO audit isn\u2019t a one-time task. Regular checkups are key to maintaining a healthy, high-performing website.\n\n\n\nFast & Secure Hosting? Yes, Please!\n\n\n\nGrow your business with lightning-fast, secure, and optimized websites that are easy to set up & manage. Top-tier agencies and online businesses choose Rocket.net as their trusted managed WordPress hosting provider \u2013 why shouldn\u2019t you, too?",
"date_published": "2025-04-09T13:54:43+00:00",
"date_modified": "2025-04-09T13:54:44+00:00",
"authors": [
{
"name": "Jeff Trumble",
"url": "https://rocket.net/author/jeff-trumble/",
"avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/8bd1daa25bd1ce58afd607da007b6210?s=512&d=mm&r=g"
}
],
"author": {
"name": "Jeff Trumble",
"url": "https://rocket.net/author/jeff-trumble/",
"avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/8bd1daa25bd1ce58afd607da007b6210?s=512&d=mm&r=g"
},
"image": "https://rocket.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/WordPress-Website-SEO-Audit.png",
"tags": [
"SEO"
]
},
{
"id": "https://rocket.net/?p=6898",
"url": "https://rocket.net/blog/top-6-seo-fixes-for-content-decay/",
"title": "Top 6 SEO Fixes for Content Decay (That Won\u2019t Break the Bank)",
"content_html": "\nContent decay is like tooth decay \u2014 it doesn\u2019t happen overnight. It is the gradual decline of your organic search traffic and rankings. Sometimes it\u2019s a result of poor hygiene and sometimes it\u2019s just genes. Whether behavioral or technical (or both), you can prevent content decay.
\n\n\n\nTo add to the good news, this isn\u2019t a problem with your entire website; rather, content decay is a page-by-page problem. (You can breathe a sigh of relief now.) Remember, Google and Bing don\u2019t index websites; they index pages.
\n\n\n\nContent decay can happen for many reasons: changing search intent, a change in your content focus, increased competitor content, and generally evolving user needs. It needn\u2019t be your fault but becomes your fault if you don\u2019t fix the problem. And, like neglected tooth decay, fixing it becomes more expensive.
\n\n\n\nThink of content like your backyard deck that you post on Instagram. It will fall apart if you don\u2019t maintain the wood, paint, and joints every year. That\u2019s not climate change destroying your deck; that\u2019s the result of you ignoring your property.
\n\n\n\nFighting content decay isn\u2019t rocket science; it\u2019s just work. The good thing is that WordPress makes content updates easier and faster, so you can concentrate on the writing.
\n\n\n\nWordPress 6.7 was a game changer for content creation which helps tremendously with content decay. We\u2019d like to point out that updating content isn\u2019t just about the main article. Updating content includes changing your featured image, rewriting the meta description, adding captions and alt text for images, and checking for broken links.
\n\n\n\nIf you\u2019re not doing all of the following to fix content decay and maintain your ranking and traffic, then you should read on. We\u2019ve got you covered!
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cThe ability to add, rearrange, and edit patterns more efficiently enables you to update your content more frequently, keeping it fresh and relevant. (WordPress) lets you focus on broader content updates without getting bogged down in individual block edits.\u201d
\nRocket.net – WordPress 6.7 \u2013 A New Era of Content Creation and Design
The content lifecycle typically follows a predictable pattern, beginning with an initial period of attention.
\n\n\n\nAs your content gains backlinks and rankings improve, it enters a growth phase.
\n\n\n\nEventually, your content reaches its peak performance, depending on varying factors.
\n\n\n\nFinally, your content enters a period of decay. This is what we want to help you fix.
\n\n\n\nDespite what fancy salespeople like to pitch, there is no magic shelf life for content. It\u2019s not yogurt. Search for a topic in Google or Bing and you still find articles from top brands stretching back to the early 2000s. When does your content expire? As they say in SEO, \u201cIt depends.\u201d
\n\n\n\nCheck your sitemap.xml quarterly to see how old articles and pages are. As a rule, you should take another look at any content that hasn\u2019t been updated in the last six months.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cWhat people mean when they talk about Content Decay is a slow drop in search traffic. But a slow drop in traffic is not a definition, it\u2019s just a symptom of the problem of declining user interest.\u201d
\nsearchenginejournal.com
To find content decay on your website, monitor drops in organic traffic and keyword rankings. Use your analytics tool and SEO plugin in combination with Google Search Console and Bing Webmaster Tools performance reports.
\n\n\n\nOther tools like Semrush, Sistrix, and Ahrefs provide you with similar reporting. If you can\u2019t measure it, you can\u2019t use it. Find a tool that fits your needs.
\n\n\n\nIf you still aren\u2019t using an SEO plugin, WPMarmite has you covered with a review of the best ones.
\n\n\n\nRegardless of your tool of choice, you should be looking at two things: a report of your content performance and a report of your keyword rankings.
\n\n\n\nAnalyze engagement metrics such as bounce rates and time on page to help you identify underperforming content. You want time on page to be 2 minutes or more on average. Check for outdated information, ensure relevance to current trends, and address technical issues like broken links or slow load times. Most important of all is to watch out for content people are looking for.
\n\n\n\nRegular audits help keep your content fresh, accurate, and aligned with user intent. That gets you visits.
\n\n\n\nFreshen those stats, swap out old examples, and add the latest industry buzz. Are you still optimizing for 2023 keywords in 2025?
\n\n\n\nGoogle and Bing love to see that you’re keeping things current. And, if you\u2019re focused on AI citations, your content needs to be better than even the big two search engines. When you edit and refresh articles on your website, don\u2019t forget to request reindexing on Google Search Console. This is an important step that many people forget.
\n\n\n\nIf Google and Bing are still important to your game plan, then here\u2019s a good old basic SEO reminder:
\n\n\n\nWhat does that even mean? It\u2019s 2025, and people are asking Alexa and Siri for recommendations. We\u2019re using AI for informational search queries. That\u2019s 90% of SEO outside of the big two search engines. We haven\u2019t even mentioned Amazon, Etsy, or YouTube. Want to talk about TikTok search for a moment?
\n\n\n\nSearch-friendly doesn\u2019t mean just Google or Bing. Not anymore. Search-friendly means wherever your customers are searching. It could be the local paper. Yes, it could be X, Google Maps, and Yelp.
\n\n\n\nDon’t just stick to surface updates of your content. Think out of the box. Look at your customer insights from support tickets, emails, and even replies on social. Watch the conversations on X. Weave in new research and emerging trends. Updating content is like adding new ingredients to keep your recipe exciting and relevant.
\n\n\n\nWhile you’re at it, don’t be afraid to prune away anything that’s past its prime. Saying goodbye to your number one post can be hard, but if people love it, they will return.
\n\n\n\nWe wrote about content chunking in a recent post. Think of chunking as revamping your kitchen. Everything is perfect, but you could find your favorite spices a little easier, right? (And get rid of the expired ones, gross!)
\n\n\n\nChunking out your content for AI and search engines is like rearranging your spice rack. Not a hobby chef? Then, think of it as rearranging the tools in your workshop.
\n\n\n\nContent chunking breaks long-form content into focused, digestible sections to improve SEO performance and user experience. You can enhance visibility and engagement in AI citations and search engines by simply restructuring your content for specific search intents. No new content is required!
\n\n\n\nLet\u2019s say we have an article about recovering organic website traffic that is six months old. We\u2019re losing visibility but don\u2019t have time to write a new article. You can go in and chunk out two pieces in the same article. It\u2019s like a new layer of paint on your deck. Don\u2019t work harder; work smarter
\n\n\n\nSEO fundamentals remain unchanged: create high-quality, user-focused content that answers audience questions. Focus on semantic HTML for better structure and accessibility, benefiting users and search engines. Craft compelling headlines and opening paragraphs to increase engagement. Use keywords to guide content creation, prioritizing user intent over keyword density. Effective SEO is about making valuable content easily discoverable by people who need it, not outsmarting search algorithms.
\n\n\n\nHow to rediscover SEO and recover organic traffic:
\n\n\n\nEffective SEO focuses on making valuable content easily discoverable by people who need it, rather than trying to outsmart search algorithms.
\n\n\n\nSee what we did there? We optimized the content in a much quicker and more useful way than a complete rewrite would have accomplished. Content decay avoided!
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cFeatured Snippets benefit from smaller chunks of content. AI Search Citations benefit from bigger chunks of content.\u201d
\nRocket.net – Why Content Chunking For Ranking AI Overviews Makes Sense
To keep readers engaged, you have to keep their attention. A video here, an interactive poll there. Learn from social media. Watch your analytics, too. Where are readers dropping off?
\n\n\n\nHolding onto your rankings and page traffic is more than adding attention-grabbing content. Your website isn\u2019t a circus. People need to trust your website in order to trust you with their business. Add relevance and value to your content with videos, infographics, and downloadable content.
\n\n\n\nHere is an out-of-the-box idea:
\n\n\n\nCreate a “living” content hub. This goes beyond a static blog by transforming yours into a dynamic, continuously evolving resource. Integrate regularly updated sections like “What’s New in Digital Marketing for 2025.” Embed live Q&A sessions and utilize webhooks to display real-time industry trends.
\n\n\n\nYou’ll keep your content fresh and search-engine friendly while building an interactive experience that encourages users to return. Your content goes from a one-time read into an ongoing conversation.
\n\n\n\nDynamic Features:
\n\n\n\nWhy It Works:
\n\n\n\nSearch intent is often not as obvious as we would like it to be. Search intent is simply understanding exactly what someone is trying to find. Do they want to purchase, learn something, find a specific website, or solve a problem?
\n\n\n\nHowever, as search habits change, there is a lot we could be missing. That is a good chance to update content and win some clicks.
\n\n\n\nSearch intent can sometimes seem obvious, but some nuances can be missed. Can your content be optimized for any of the following?
\n\n\n\nExplicit vs. Implicit Intent:
\n\n\n\nContextual Clues:
\n\n\n\nUser Demographics and Location:
\n\n\n\nAmbiguity and Multi-Intent Queries:
\n\n\n\nFeedback and Iteration:
\n\n\n\nWordPress. Your trusty Swiss Army knife. Your CMS has all the tools you need to keep your content sharp and performing well. When was the last time you used 100% of your CMS?
\n\n\n\nDon\u2019t forget those SEO plugins and scheduling features to maintain your content; they make your website much less work than maintaining your deck!
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cYour purpose is to create content that educates and helps people \u2013 content that showcases your expertise. That\u2019s what clients are looking for. No one is looking to buy a thousand words \u2013 they\u2019re looking to buy a message.\u201d
\nRocket.net – Still Thinking About Using AI Content on Your Website?
Grow your business with lightning-fast, secure, and optimized websites that are easy to set up & manage. Top-tier agencies and online businesses choose Rocket.net as their trusted managed WordPress hosting provider \u2013 why shouldn\u2019t you, too?
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n",
"content_text": "Content decay is like tooth decay \u2014 it doesn\u2019t happen overnight. It is the gradual decline of your organic search traffic and rankings. Sometimes it\u2019s a result of poor hygiene and sometimes it\u2019s just genes. Whether behavioral or technical (or both), you can prevent content decay. \n\n\n\nTo add to the good news, this isn\u2019t a problem with your entire website; rather, content decay is a page-by-page problem. (You can breathe a sigh of relief now.) Remember, Google and Bing don\u2019t index websites; they index pages.\n\n\n\nContent decay can happen for many reasons: changing search intent, a change in your content focus, increased competitor content, and generally evolving user needs. It needn\u2019t be your fault but becomes your fault if you don\u2019t fix the problem. And, like neglected tooth decay, fixing it becomes more expensive.\n\n\n\nThink of content like your backyard deck that you post on Instagram. It will fall apart if you don\u2019t maintain the wood, paint, and joints every year. That\u2019s not climate change destroying your deck; that\u2019s the result of you ignoring your property. \n\n\n\nFighting content decay isn\u2019t rocket science; it\u2019s just work. The good thing is that WordPress makes content updates easier and faster, so you can concentrate on the writing.\n\n\n\nWordPress 6.7 was a game changer for content creation which helps tremendously with content decay. We\u2019d like to point out that updating content isn\u2019t just about the main article. Updating content includes changing your featured image, rewriting the meta description, adding captions and alt text for images, and checking for broken links.\n\n\n\nIf you\u2019re not doing all of the following to fix content decay and maintain your ranking and traffic, then you should read on. We\u2019ve got you covered!\n\n\n\nTL;DR: 6 SEO Fixes for Content Decay\n\n\n\n\nUpdating existing content\n\n\n\nAdding new, relevant information\n\n\n\nOptimizing for current SEO standards\n\n\n\nImproving user engagement\n\n\n\nStaying on top of current search intent\n\n\n\nUsing a great CMS, like WordPress\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cThe ability to add, rearrange, and edit patterns more efficiently enables you to update your content more frequently, keeping it fresh and relevant. (WordPress) lets you focus on broader content updates without getting bogged down in individual block edits.\u201d\nRocket.net – WordPress 6.7 \u2013 A New Era of Content Creation and Design\n\n\n\nWhat is Content Decay and How Does it Happen?\n\n\n\nThe content lifecycle typically follows a predictable pattern, beginning with an initial period of attention. \n\n\n\n\nInitial indexing and algorithm analysis\n\n\n\nSporadic traffic spikes in the first weeks\n\n\n\nPossible short-term boost from social media and newsletters\n\n\n\n\nAs your content gains backlinks and rankings improve, it enters a growth phase. \n\n\n\n\nSteady increase in organic traffic\n\n\n\nAccumulation of backlinks (hopefully!)\n\n\n\nImproved rankings for more search queries\n\n\n\n\nEventually, your content reaches its peak performance, depending on varying factors. \n\n\n\n\nGrowth plateaus due to reaching a ranking ceiling\n\n\n\nDuration varies from days to months\n\n\n\nThis can occur from maxing out rankings or facing new competition\n\n\n\n\nFinally, your content enters a period of decay. This is what we want to help you fix.\n\n\n\n\nPerformance decline begins\n\n\n\nUsually happens faster for competitive topics\n\n\n\nCaused by decreased relevance or freshness\n\n\n\nCan affect relatively new content in competitive spaces\n\n\n\n\nWhen Does Your Content Begin to Decay?\n\n\n\nDespite what fancy salespeople like to pitch, there is no magic shelf life for content. It\u2019s not yogurt. Search for a topic in Google or Bing and you still find articles from top brands stretching back to the early 2000s. When does your content expire? As they say in SEO, \u201cIt depends.\u201d \n\n\n\nCheck your sitemap.xml quarterly to see how old articles and pages are. As a rule, you should take another look at any content that hasn\u2019t been updated in the last six months.\n\n\n\n\nNews: Hours. Days to weeks.\n\n\n\nTech/Trends: Months.\n\n\n\nSEO Content: 6-12 months.\n\n\n\nTechnical: Months to years for links, years for code.\n\n\n\nEngagement: Months for popular, years for niche.\n\n\n\nAccuracy: 1 year (or less in fast-evolving fields).\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cWhat people mean when they talk about Content Decay is a slow drop in search traffic. But a slow drop in traffic is not a definition, it\u2019s just a symptom of the problem of declining user interest.\u201d\nsearchenginejournal.com\n\n\n\nHow to Find Content Decay on Your Website\n\n\n\nTo find content decay on your website, monitor drops in organic traffic and keyword rankings. Use your analytics tool and SEO plugin in combination with Google Search Console and Bing Webmaster Tools performance reports. \n\n\n\nOther tools like Semrush, Sistrix, and Ahrefs provide you with similar reporting. If you can\u2019t measure it, you can\u2019t use it. Find a tool that fits your needs. \n\n\n\nIf you still aren\u2019t using an SEO plugin, WPMarmite has you covered with a review of the best ones. \n\n\n\nRegardless of your tool of choice, you should be looking at two things: a report of your content performance and a report of your keyword rankings.\n\n\n\nAnalyze engagement metrics such as bounce rates and time on page to help you identify underperforming content. You want time on page to be 2 minutes or more on average. Check for outdated information, ensure relevance to current trends, and address technical issues like broken links or slow load times. Most important of all is to watch out for content people are looking for.\n\n\n\nRegular audits help keep your content fresh, accurate, and aligned with user intent. That gets you visits.\n\n\n\nTip 1: Updating Your Content to Get Google and Bing\u2019s Attention\n\n\n\nFreshen those stats, swap out old examples, and add the latest industry buzz. Are you still optimizing for 2023 keywords in 2025? \n\n\n\nGoogle and Bing love to see that you’re keeping things current. And, if you\u2019re focused on AI citations, your content needs to be better than even the big two search engines. When you edit and refresh articles on your website, don\u2019t forget to request reindexing on Google Search Console. This is an important step that many people forget.\n\n\n\nIf Google and Bing are still important to your game plan, then here\u2019s a good old basic SEO reminder:\n\n\n\n\nCreate comprehensive, original content \u2013 that means first-hand (think Reddit).\n\n\n\n\n\nAdd new insights and current data and remove outdated information.\n\n\n\nAre you using schema markup? Really? To the max?\n\n\n\n\n\nImproving page loading speed is often the same thing as updating your content.\n\n\n\nCredibility Boosters: case studies are fine, but short podcasts with guests are better. \n\n\n\n\n\nUse Google Search Console. Use Bing Webmaster Tools.\n\n\n\nContinuously refine your content strategy. That alone can help stop decaying content.\n\n\n\n\nTip 2: Adding Search-Friendly Content\n\n\n\nWhat does that even mean? It\u2019s 2025, and people are asking Alexa and Siri for recommendations. We\u2019re using AI for informational search queries. That\u2019s 90% of SEO outside of the big two search engines. We haven\u2019t even mentioned Amazon, Etsy, or YouTube. Want to talk about TikTok search for a moment?\n\n\n\nSearch-friendly doesn\u2019t mean just Google or Bing. Not anymore. Search-friendly means wherever your customers are searching. It could be the local paper. Yes, it could be X, Google Maps, and Yelp.\n\n\n\nDon’t just stick to surface updates of your content. Think out of the box. Look at your customer insights from support tickets, emails, and even replies on social. Watch the conversations on X. Weave in new research and emerging trends. Updating content is like adding new ingredients to keep your recipe exciting and relevant. \n\n\n\nWhile you’re at it, don’t be afraid to prune away anything that’s past its prime. Saying goodbye to your number one post can be hard, but if people love it, they will return.\n\n\n\nTip 3: Absolutely Nothing New to Write or Optimize in Your Content? Try Chunking.\n\n\n\nWe wrote about content chunking in a recent post. Think of chunking as revamping your kitchen. Everything is perfect, but you could find your favorite spices a little easier, right? (And get rid of the expired ones, gross!)\n\n\n\nChunking out your content for AI and search engines is like rearranging your spice rack. Not a hobby chef? Then, think of it as rearranging the tools in your workshop.\n\n\n\nContent chunking breaks long-form content into focused, digestible sections to improve SEO performance and user experience. You can enhance visibility and engagement in AI citations and search engines by simply restructuring your content for specific search intents. No new content is required!\n\n\n\nLet\u2019s say we have an article about recovering organic website traffic that is six months old. We\u2019re losing visibility but don\u2019t have time to write a new article. You can go in and chunk out two pieces in the same article. It\u2019s like a new layer of paint on your deck. Don\u2019t work harder; work smarter\n\n\n\nExample: AI Search Citation Chunk\n\n\n\nSEO fundamentals remain unchanged: create high-quality, user-focused content that answers audience questions. Focus on semantic HTML for better structure and accessibility, benefiting users and search engines. Craft compelling headlines and opening paragraphs to increase engagement. Use keywords to guide content creation, prioritizing user intent over keyword density. Effective SEO is about making valuable content easily discoverable by people who need it, not outsmarting search algorithms.\n\n\n\nExample: Featured Snippet Chunk\n\n\n\nHow to rediscover SEO and recover organic traffic:\n\n\n\n\nCreate high-quality, user-focused content.\n\n\n\nImplement semantic HTML for better structure.\n\n\n\nCraft compelling headlines and opening paragraphs.\n\n\n\nUse keywords to guide content, focusing on user intent.\n\n\n\nPrioritize simple, well-structured content over complex SEO strategies.\n\n\n\n\nEffective SEO focuses on making valuable content easily discoverable by people who need it, rather than trying to outsmart search algorithms.\n\n\n\nSee what we did there? We optimized the content in a much quicker and more useful way than a complete rewrite would have accomplished. Content decay avoided!\n\n\n\n\n\u201cFeatured Snippets benefit from smaller chunks of content. AI Search Citations benefit from bigger chunks of content.\u201d\nRocket.net – Why Content Chunking For Ranking AI Overviews Makes Sense\n\n\n\nTip 4: Quick Wins to Improve Use Engagement\n\n\n\nTo keep readers engaged, you have to keep their attention. A video here, an interactive poll there. Learn from social media. Watch your analytics, too. Where are readers dropping off? \n\n\n\nHolding onto your rankings and page traffic is more than adding attention-grabbing content. Your website isn\u2019t a circus. People need to trust your website in order to trust you with their business. Add relevance and value to your content with videos, infographics, and downloadable content.\n\n\n\nHere is an out-of-the-box idea:\n\n\n\nCreate a “living” content hub. This goes beyond a static blog by transforming yours into a dynamic, continuously evolving resource. Integrate regularly updated sections like “What’s New in Digital Marketing for 2025.” Embed live Q&A sessions and utilize webhooks to display real-time industry trends. \n\n\n\nYou’ll keep your content fresh and search-engine friendly while building an interactive experience that encourages users to return. Your content goes from a one-time read into an ongoing conversation.\n\n\n\nThe Ultimate Guide to Digital Marketing Trends (2025 Edition)\n\n\n\nDynamic Features:\n\n\n\n\nRegularly Updated Trends Section:\n\nA dedicated area at the top titled \u201cWhat\u2019s New in Digital Marketing\u201d updates weekly with the latest insights (e.g., “AI-Powered SEO Tools Are Redefining Search Strategies”).\n\n\n\nUse APIs to pull real-time data, such as trending keywords, analytics, or case studies.\n\n\n\n\n\nLive Q&A Widget:\n\nEmbed a chat or forum where users can ask questions (e.g., \u201cHow do I adapt my strategy to algorithm changes?\u201d) and receive answers from experts or AI.\n\n\n\nArchive the Q&A responses as mini-blog entries to build an evergreen FAQ section.\n\n\n\n\n\nIndustry Updates Feed:\n\nA sidebar showing live stats (e.g., \u201cToday\u2019s Most Googled Marketing Buzzwords\u201d).\n\n\n\nUse a service like Zapier to pull data from relevant industries or even a service like UpContent to enhance content on your site.\n\n\n\n\n\nCommunity-Driven Spotlight:\n\nShowcase top comments from users, like \u201cTop Marketing Hacks from Our Readers.\u201d\n\n\n\nAdd support ticket queries or chatbot chats; this spotlights your expertise!\n\n\n\nAllow users to upvote or share their favorite ideas.\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWhy It Works:\n\n\n\n\nRegular updates signal freshness to search engines, improving ranking.\n\n\n\nUser interaction increases dwell time and pages per session.\n\n\n\nReal-time relevance builds authority and encourages backlinks.\n\n\n\n\nTip 5: Is Search Intent Obvious or Are You Missing Something?\n\n\n\nSearch intent is often not as obvious as we would like it to be. Search intent is simply understanding exactly what someone is trying to find. Do they want to purchase, learn something, find a specific website, or solve a problem?\n\n\n\nHowever, as search habits change, there is a lot we could be missing. That is a good chance to update content and win some clicks.\n\n\n\nThe Intent You Might Be Missing\n\n\n\nSearch intent can sometimes seem obvious, but some nuances can be missed. Can your content be optimized for any of the following?\n\n\n\nExplicit vs. Implicit Intent:\n\n\n\n\nExplicit Intent: The user clearly states what they are looking for. For example, “Best Smartphones 2025” shows a clear intent to find information on the best smartphones of that year.\n\n\n\nImplicit Intent: The user might not directly state their need; for instance, “how to make a smartphone last longer” could relate to battery life, durability, or software maintenance.\n\n\n\n\nContextual Clues:\n\n\n\n\nKeywords: The choice of words can reveal intent. “Buy” or “purchase” suggests transactional intent, while “how to” indicates informational.\n\n\n\nUser Behavior: Previous interactions, click patterns, and session history can also provide insight into what the user might be looking for.\n\n\n\n\nUser Demographics and Location:\n\n\n\n\nEven if you know the user is from Canada, don’t assume their current location without confirmation. Ask for more details if the search intent seems location-specific.\n\n\n\n\nAmbiguity and Multi-Intent Queries:\n\n\n\n\nSome queries can have multiple intents. “Apple” could refer to the fruit, the company, or even a record label. Recognizing this requires understanding the broader context of the search.\n\n\n\n\nFeedback and Iteration:\n\n\n\n\nIf you’re in a position to interact with users, feedback can be invaluable. Adjust your interpretation based on user reactions or further queries. Build a FAQ from all those emails and phone calls you receive.\n\n\n\n\nTip 6: Use the Tools You Have. AKA Build Better.\n\n\n\nWordPress. Your trusty Swiss Army knife. Your CMS has all the tools you need to keep your content sharp and performing well. When was the last time you used 100% of your CMS?\n\n\n\nDon\u2019t forget those SEO plugins and scheduling features to maintain your content; they make your website much less work than maintaining your deck!\n\n\n\n\n\u201cYour purpose is to create content that educates and helps people \u2013 content that showcases your expertise. That\u2019s what clients are looking for. No one is looking to buy a thousand words \u2013 they\u2019re looking to buy a message.\u201d\nRocket.net – Still Thinking About Using AI Content on Your Website?\n\n\n\nFast & Secure Hosting? Yes, Please!\n\n\n\nGrow your business with lightning-fast, secure, and optimized websites that are easy to set up & manage. Top-tier agencies and online businesses choose Rocket.net as their trusted managed WordPress hosting provider \u2013 why shouldn\u2019t you, too?",
"date_published": "2025-02-14T14:31:55+00:00",
"date_modified": "2025-02-14T14:31:55+00:00",
"authors": [
{
"name": "Jeff Trumble",
"url": "https://rocket.net/author/jeff-trumble/",
"avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/8bd1daa25bd1ce58afd607da007b6210?s=512&d=mm&r=g"
}
],
"author": {
"name": "Jeff Trumble",
"url": "https://rocket.net/author/jeff-trumble/",
"avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/8bd1daa25bd1ce58afd607da007b6210?s=512&d=mm&r=g"
},
"image": "https://rocket.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/SEO-Content-Decay.png",
"tags": [
"SEO"
]
},
{
"id": "https://rocket.net/?p=6837",
"url": "https://rocket.net/blog/why-content-chunking-for-ranking-ai-overviews-makes-sense/",
"title": "Why Content Chunking For Ranking AI Overviews Makes Sense",
"content_html": "\nHave you ever wondered why some content dominates search results while yours gets lost in the void? Your content may be too flakey. It’s time to think about “chunking” your content.
\n\n\n\nWhether you’re a pro content creator or a rookie, understanding content chunking could be a game-changer in 2025 \u2013 so read on!
\n\n\n\nContent chunking is your website’s secret weapon for SEO in the age of AI. Long articles are great for subscriber content, but not for grab-and-go visibility. Instead of layers, breaking your content into focused, digestible chunks can help you rank in search results.
\n\n\n\nThink about it. When was the last time you read an entire article from start to finish? Most people scan for specific information that solves a particular need.
\n\n\n\nContent chunking isn’t just about SEO; it’s about giving your readers exactly what they want \u2013 when and how they want it.
\n\n\n\nHere’s why content chunking works:
\n\n\n\n\u201cContent chunking?\u201d We\u2019re not making this up. Platforms with the best social and search visibility have been chunking their content for years \u2013 and getting eyes!
\n\n\n\nHere are some examples of content chunking done right:
\n\n\n\nThe New York Times has mastered breaking down complex stories into scannable sections. Each section answers specific questions while maintaining narrative flow. This is exactly what readers (and search engines) love. But hey, they\u2019re a newspaper and that\u2019s how journalists write.
\n\n\n\nCloser to how most of us write is HubSpot. Their blog posts are master works in content chunking. They use clear headings, FAQ sections, infographics, and structured data to maximise visibility for multiple search queries.
\n\n\n\nIf we\u2019re talking about SEO, then we need to talk about Ahrefs. Their comprehensive guides are perfectly chunked with anchor links, accessible sections, and optimised subheadings. It’s no wonder they dominate SEO-related searches.
\n\n\n\nFinally, eCommerce plays a huge part in SEO, so Amazon must be mentioned. They chunk product descriptions, FAQs, and reviews to capture attention for specific search intents.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201c\u2018Chunk SEO\u2019 is here to stay! Think smaller to rank bigger! SEO in 2025 will be all about optimising bite-sized content chunks, not whole pages — because that’s how AI-powered search works!\u201d
\nPam Aungst Cronin
Let\u2019s face it — content creators face two challenges. First, you need content to resonate with human readers, and second, you need to gain visibility through those pesky algorithms. How do you accomplish both?
\n\n\n\nIf you plan to chunk your content for SEO, you need a two-pronged approach. Your content structure must be similar for featured snippets and AI search citations, but it will differ based on goals and presentation.
\n\n\n\nWhat? That was a mouthful; but here is what we mean:
\n\n\n\nWhat to remember: Featured Snippets benefit from smaller chunks of content. AI Search Citations benefit from bigger chunks of content.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cUse AI as a collaborative tool to assist with research, analysis, and idea generation, but maintain your oversight and finalization. Don\u2019t forget to maintain your brand voice.\u201d
\nRocket.net – Still Thinking About Using AI Content on Your Website?
Your Goal: Break content into easily digestible, search-engine-friendly snippets.
\n\n\n\nKey Features of Your Chunk:
\n\n\n\nHow to Improve Website Speed for SEO
\n\n\n\nYour Goal: Create detailed, authoritative sections for AI systems to extract context-rich citations.
\n\n\n\nKey Features of Your Chunk:
\n\n\n\nStrategies to Improve Website Speed for SEO
\n\n\n\nWebsite speed is still a critical factor for SEO. It can affect both user experience and search engine rankings. Here are some ways you can push the pedal to the metal:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cA satisfied search engine and happy visitors are not achieved with fly-by-night content. You can either invest time learning SEO copywriting or get your website copy written by a professional.\u201d
\nRocket.net – Why Good Content Is Still King For SEO. What Is E-A-T?
Ready to start chunking your content? Here are the elements to remember:
\n\n\n\nStep 1: Plan Your Structure
\n\n\n\nStep 2: Optimize Each Section
\n\n\n\nStep 3: Add Navigation Features
\n\n\n\nRemember, content chunking isn’t just another SEO tactic – it’s a fundamental shift in creating and organizing content for people and algorithms. The best part? You can start implementing these changes right away.
\n\n\n\nWhat creative ways are you planning to chunk your content? Jump on over to X (Twitter) and let us know what you\u2019re doing!
\n\n\n\nBy investing in WordPress hosting, you\u2019re equipping yourself with the tools and resources necessary to build a robust, secure, and high-performing online presence. Spend your time captivating and engaging with your audience. Let your hosting take care of the rest!
\n\n\n\n\n",
"content_text": "Have you ever wondered why some content dominates search results while yours gets lost in the void? Your content may be too flakey. It’s time to think about “chunking” your content.\n\n\n\nWhether you’re a pro content creator or a rookie, understanding content chunking could be a game-changer in 2025 \u2013 so read on!\n\n\n\nWhat Exactly Is Content Chunking (And Why Should You Care)?\n\n\n\nContent chunking is your website’s secret weapon for SEO in the age of AI. Long articles are great for subscriber content, but not for grab-and-go visibility. Instead of layers, breaking your content into focused, digestible chunks can help you rank in search results.\n\n\n\nThink about it. When was the last time you read an entire article from start to finish? Most people scan for specific information that solves a particular need. \n\n\n\nContent chunking isn’t just about SEO; it’s about giving your readers exactly what they want \u2013 when and how they want it.\n\n\n\nHere’s why content chunking works:\n\n\n\n\nIt aligns perfectly with AI search\n\n\n\nIt’s ideal for voice search and featured snippets\n\n\n\nPeople find information faster and stay engaged longer\n\n\n\nYour content becomes more discoverable for queries across multiple channels\n\n\n\n\nWho’s Crushing It with Content Chunking?\n\n\n\n\u201cContent chunking?\u201d We\u2019re not making this up. Platforms with the best social and search visibility have been chunking their content for years \u2013 and getting eyes!\n\n\n\nHere are some examples of content chunking done right:\n\n\n\nThe New York Times has mastered breaking down complex stories into scannable sections. Each section answers specific questions while maintaining narrative flow. This is exactly what readers (and search engines) love. But hey, they\u2019re a newspaper and that\u2019s how journalists write.\n\n\n\nCloser to how most of us write is HubSpot. Their blog posts are master works in content chunking. They use clear headings, FAQ sections, infographics, and structured data to maximise visibility for multiple search queries.\n\n\n\nIf we\u2019re talking about SEO, then we need to talk about Ahrefs. Their comprehensive guides are perfectly chunked with anchor links, accessible sections, and optimised subheadings. It’s no wonder they dominate SEO-related searches.\n\n\n\nFinally, eCommerce plays a huge part in SEO, so Amazon must be mentioned. They chunk product descriptions, FAQs, and reviews to capture attention for specific search intents.\n\n\n\n\n\u201c\u2018Chunk SEO\u2019 is here to stay! Think smaller to rank bigger! SEO in 2025 will be all about optimising bite-sized content chunks, not whole pages — because that’s how AI-powered search works!\u201d\nPam Aungst Cronin\n\n\n\nContent Chunking for Featured Snippets vs AI Search Citations\n\n\n\nLet\u2019s face it — content creators face two challenges. First, you need content to resonate with human readers, and second, you need to gain visibility through those pesky algorithms. How do you accomplish both?\n\n\n\nIf you plan to chunk your content for SEO, you need a two-pronged approach. Your content structure must be similar for featured snippets and AI search citations, but it will differ based on goals and presentation.\n\n\n\nWhat? That was a mouthful; but here is what we mean:\n\n\n\n\nFeatured Snippets on search engines benefit from small, concise chunks designed for clarity and immediate user needs. Content comes from one website. Think about how you used to write to be \u201ctweetable.\u201d We\u2019re talking about the AI version of soundbites.\n\n\n\nAI Search Citations require detailed, authoritative chunks that give context and value over a broader narrative. Content is derived from various websites. This is where your authority and expertise come to play.\n\n\n\n\nWhat to remember: Featured Snippets benefit from smaller chunks of content. AI Search Citations benefit from bigger chunks of content.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cUse AI as a collaborative tool to assist with research, analysis, and idea generation, but maintain your oversight and finalization. Don\u2019t forget to maintain your brand voice.\u201d\nRocket.net – Still Thinking About Using AI Content on Your Website?\n\n\n\nLet\u2019s Compare Search Engine Chunks with AI Chunks\n\n\n\nChunking for Featured Snippets\n\n\n\nYour Goal: Break content into easily digestible, search-engine-friendly snippets.\n\n\n\nKey Features of Your Chunk:\n\n\n\n\nSmall paragraphs (2-3 sentences), bullet points, or numbered lists.\n\n\n\nStart each chunk with the most relevant information. Solution first.\n\n\n\nEach chunk aligns with a specific query or subtopic.\n\n\n\nExamples: FAQs, step-by-step guides, and definitions.\n\n\n\n\nExample: Content Chunk Optimized for Featured Snippets\n\n\n\nHow to Improve Website Speed for SEO\n\n\n\n\nCompress images using tools like TinyPNG to reduce file size.\n\n\n\nCache static files locally to reduce load times.\n\n\n\nMinimize your HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.\n\n\n\nDistribute content across multiple servers for faster delivery via a CDN.\n\n\n\nChoose a host with faster server response times.\n\n\n\n\nChunking for AI Search Citations\n\n\n\nYour Goal: Create detailed, authoritative sections for AI systems to extract context-rich citations.\n\n\n\nKey Features of Your Chunk:\n\n\n\n\nParagraphs with comprehensive explanations (5-7 sentences).\n\n\n\nEach chunk expands on a subtopic with supporting details.\n\n\n\nConnect chunks with transitions to ensure readability and flow.\n\n\n\nExamples: In-depth guides, case studies, and research-backed articles.\n\n\n\n\nExample: Content Chunk Optimized for AI Search Citations\n\n\n\nStrategies to Improve Website Speed for SEO\n\n\n\nWebsite speed is still a critical factor for SEO. It can affect both user experience and search engine rankings. Here are some ways you can push the pedal to the metal:\n\n\n\n\nOptimize Images: Large image files slow down page loading. Use tools like TinyPNG to compress images without losing quality. You can also serve images in next-gen formats like webp for better performance.\n\n\n\n\n\nEnable Browser Caching: Browser caching stores static assets (e.g., images, CSS) locally on users’ devices, reducing load times for returning visitors. Implement caching via your server settings or WordPress plugin.\n\n\n\n\n\nMinify Code: Streamline HTML, CSS, and JavaScript by removing whitespace and redundant comments. Tools like Page Speed Insights recommend specific files to optimize.\n\n\n\n\n\nUse a Content Delivery Network (CDN): CDNs store and deliver content from servers closest to the user. Platforms like Cloudflare improve load times, especially for global audiences.\n\n\n\nUpgrade Hosting: Slow servers cause bottlenecks in website performance. Choose hosting providers known for speed like rocket.net, or switch to a dedicated server or VPS for better scalability.\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cA satisfied search engine and happy visitors are not achieved with fly-by-night content. You can either invest time learning SEO copywriting or get your website copy written by a professional.\u201d\nRocket.net – Why Good Content Is Still King For SEO. What Is E-A-T?\n\n\n\nHow to Implement Content Chunking on Your Site in 3 EZ Steps\n\n\n\nReady to start chunking your content? Here are the elements to remember:\n\n\n\nStep 1: Plan Your Structure\n\n\n\n\nStart by outlining your main topics and breaking them into subtopics.\n\n\n\nUse tools like Google\u2019s People Also Ask or keyword research tools like SISTRIX and Semrush to identify user queries.\n\n\n\n\nStep 2: Optimize Each Section\n\n\n\n\nFocus each chunk on one query. Keep it concise and actionable.\n\n\n\nUse structured data to help search engines understand your content hierarchy.\n\n\n\n\nStep 3: Add Navigation Features\n\n\n\n\nUse anchor links and tables of content for enhanced user experience.\n\n\n\nTest navigation elements to ensure they\u2019re intuitive and functional.\n\n\n\n\nReady to Transform Your Content?\n\n\n\nRemember, content chunking isn’t just another SEO tactic – it’s a fundamental shift in creating and organizing content for people and algorithms. The best part? You can start implementing these changes right away.\n\n\n\nWhat creative ways are you planning to chunk your content? Jump on over to X (Twitter) and let us know what you\u2019re doing!\n\n\n\nChoose The Future of WordPress Hosting!\n\n\n\nBy investing in WordPress hosting, you\u2019re equipping yourself with the tools and resources necessary to build a robust, secure, and high-performing online presence. Spend your time captivating and engaging with your audience. Let your hosting take care of the rest!",
"date_published": "2025-01-03T14:29:03+00:00",
"date_modified": "2025-01-03T14:29:04+00:00",
"authors": [
{
"name": "Jeff Trumble",
"url": "https://rocket.net/author/jeff-trumble/",
"avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/8bd1daa25bd1ce58afd607da007b6210?s=512&d=mm&r=g"
}
],
"author": {
"name": "Jeff Trumble",
"url": "https://rocket.net/author/jeff-trumble/",
"avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/8bd1daa25bd1ce58afd607da007b6210?s=512&d=mm&r=g"
},
"image": "https://rocket.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/SEO-Chunking.png",
"tags": [
"SEO"
]
},
{
"id": "https://rocket.net/?p=6688",
"url": "https://rocket.net/blog/how-zero-click-searches-can-impact-your-website-profitability/",
"title": "How Zero-Click Searches Can Impact Your Website Profitability",
"content_html": "\nProfit margins are already daunting… Let\u2019s start there. You don\u2019t need anything more eating into them than it already does. The cost of doing business is rising. It\u2019s more difficult for smaller agencies and freelancers to compete and earn, and they\u2019re having to work harder to get their content seen. That 30% chance of a click is becoming rarer, SEO is becoming a full-time job, and the battle for attention and sales is with the new Digital Natives \u2013 the AI crew.
\n\n\n\nSay what? That’s right. Google is offering up your web content in rich search results for everyone to see without a click while AI delivers your content, free of charge, as if your content were its own. The challenge is real.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cGoogle is testing placing a \u2018quick view\u2019 button overlayed on the images on recipes within Google Search. The crazy part is that clicking on “Quick view” keeps you on Google while giving you a snapshot of the content from the publisher, without sending that traffic to the publisher.\u201d
\nseroundtable.com
Your content contributes to your profits. And you need those profits. Can we get an amen?! Thank you. Generative Search is a problem.
\n\n\n\nFor the little people, and we are all little people, profits are more than a Lambo you can splash on X; profits enable you.
\n\n\n\nProfits allow you to grow, hire more people, and donate more time to your community. Profits are good. AI doesn\u2019t need profits. Algorithms don\u2019t need profits. People need profits.
\n\n\n\nWe called it back in January: social search, the importance of UX, and the rise of the machines.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cHere Are Our Four SEO Predictions for 2024: 1. The Growing Importance of AI in SEO. From voice search to personalized search results, you can bet that AI and machine learning will play an even greater role in SEO than it already has.\u201d
\nRocket.net – Our Top 2024 SEO Predictions. Is SEO Really Doomed?
Let\u2019s look at how you can rein in your free-floating content and take back some of your profits. Let\u2019s make a new prediction for 2025: \u201cThe Growing Importance of Niche Content in SEO.\u201d
\n\n\n\nZero-click searches occur when users get their answers directly from the SERPs without clicking through to any website. While Google displays our content, AI integrates our content into its results.
\n\n\n\nSEO means getting seen, so in many ways, zero-click is not so bad. Your cheesecake recipe is getting exposure. Visibility is a very good thing. That is one way of looking at it.
\n\n\n\nOn the other hand, zero-click means your recipe can be seen and used and you get no click. You get no ad revenue from display ads on your website. You receive no comments and there is a little-to-no chance of a social share.
\n\n\n\nZero-click answers appear in various SERP features, including:
\n\n\n\nSparkToro brought zero-click to our attention back in 2019 and since then the only thing that has changed is AI. 65% and \u2154 are near enough to one another, but the tendency is growing. When you add AI results, then it\u2019s growing a lot.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201c64.82% of searches on Google (desktop and mobile combined) ended in the search results without clicking to another web property.\u201d (2020)
\nsparktoro.com
The key to SEO success hasn\u2019t changed. It still lies in optimizing your content for SERP features. In short, Master SERP features.
\n\n\n\nThe best tip we can offer remains: don\u2019t forget your long-tail keywords. LTKs require detailed explanations and are often calls to action. They present opportunities for in-depth content that can’t be fully answered in a simple snippet. Result: people want to click through to your site for more information.
\n\n\n\nContent Marketing isn\u2019t just about the swag; it\u2019s about using your content as a marketing tool. So ask yourself: Is my content just helpful for my visitors, or does it also help my business?
\n\n\n\nE-E-A-T isn\u2019t about bite-size content people can consume on the go. Your content should provide value. It should be something people stop and want to savor. Go beyond the SERP.
\n\n\n\nDevelop comprehensive resources that include unique insights, case studies, and expert opinions. Be a hero and offer trademark content. E-E-A-T establishes your authority and gives users a reason to visit your site for the full picture.
\n\n\n\nNiche Blogger Tip: Add infographics and other free downloads to your content These elements can’t be easily replicated in SERP features and offer a reason for people to click.
\n\n\n\nDo you have a blog? Then zero-click searches present several challenges for you. However, as a blogger, social media plays a more important role in your ecosystem than search.
\n\n\n\nWhen you\u2019re facing challenges from zero-click results and AI-generated content, look to your community.
\n\n\n\nLet\u2019s look at what you can do to recapture some of that lost traffic and revenue using your social channels:
\n\n\n\nReduced Organic Traffic: When readers find answers without visiting your site, you lose potential visitors.
\n\n\n\nSocial media is a great channel for distributing content and driving traffic back to your blog. That can potentially offset the losses you have from reduced search visibility.
\n\n\n\nLower Ad Revenue and Diminished Affiliate Opportunities: Fewer pageviews mean decreased advertising income. Less traffic results in fewer chances to convert visitors into affiliate sales.
\n\n\n\nSome bloggers are shifting focus to social media-based monetization strategies, like sponsored posts or affiliate marketing through platforms like Instagram or TikTok.
\n\n\n\nBrand Recognition Issues: Users may get information without knowing its source.
\n\n\n\nA strong social media presence helps your content stand out amidst the noise of AI-generated content.
\n\n\n\nAs website traffic decreases due to zero-click results, social media becomes an increasingly important way to engage with your audience. A click from Google is just a click; a conversation on social media is a potential sale.
\n\n\n\nYou’re probably wondering, “How do I make my content stand out in AI results?” Enter Generative Engine Optimization or GEO.
\n\n\n\nSEO focuses on pleasing traditional search engines. GEO is all about making your content irresistible to AI. It’s about creating content that AI can easily understand, reference, and even cite. It\u2019s like a Featured Snippet \u2013 but you are cited in a document. Pretty sweet.
\n\n\n\nHow do you make your content AI-friendly? At its core, GEO content is all about three things: clarity, structure, and authority.
\n\n\n\nMastering GEO doesn\u2019t happen overnight. Neither does SEO. AI is evolving, and so should your strategies. Stay curious, keep experimenting, and don’t be afraid to adapt.
\n\n\n\nSearch machines have evolved into answering machines. AI is that out of the box.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cGoogle Search will continue to evolve in the direction of Search Generative Experience.\u201d
\nsearchengineland.com
Zero-click searches present challenges, but they also create opportunities. The search game hasn\u2019t really changed: your content should provide value beyond basic information.
\n\n\n\nLike core Google updates, zero-click and AI results are a wake-up call; you need to remain agile.
\n\n\n\nDiversify your revenue streams, become an expert, grow your community, and keep up the good work of building a strong brand. You\u2019ve got this!
\n\n\n\nBy investing in WordPress hosting, you\u2019re equipping yourself with the tools and resources necessary to build a robust, secure, and high-performing online presence. Spend your time captivating and engaging with your audience. Let your hosting take care of the rest!
\n\n\n", "content_text": "Profit margins are already daunting… Let\u2019s start there. You don\u2019t need anything more eating into them than it already does. The cost of doing business is rising. It\u2019s more difficult for smaller agencies and freelancers to compete and earn, and they\u2019re having to work harder to get their content seen. That 30% chance of a click is becoming rarer, SEO is becoming a full-time job, and the battle for attention and sales is with the new Digital Natives \u2013 the AI crew.\n\n\n\nSay what? That’s right. Google is offering up your web content in rich search results for everyone to see without a click while AI delivers your content, free of charge, as if your content were its own. The challenge is real.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cGoogle is testing placing a \u2018quick view\u2019 button overlayed on the images on recipes within Google Search. The crazy part is that clicking on “Quick view” keeps you on Google while giving you a snapshot of the content from the publisher, without sending that traffic to the publisher.\u201d\nseroundtable.com\n\n\n\nYour Content Has Left the Building\n\n\n\nYour content contributes to your profits. And you need those profits. Can we get an amen?! Thank you. Generative Search is a problem.\n\n\n\nFor the little people, and we are all little people, profits are more than a Lambo you can splash on X; profits enable you. \n\n\n\nProfits allow you to grow, hire more people, and donate more time to your community. Profits are good. AI doesn\u2019t need profits. Algorithms don\u2019t need profits. People need profits.\n\n\n\nWe called it back in January: social search, the importance of UX, and the rise of the machines.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cHere Are Our Four SEO Predictions for 2024: 1. The Growing Importance of AI in SEO. From voice search to personalized search results, you can bet that AI and machine learning will play an even greater role in SEO than it already has.\u201d\nRocket.net – Our Top 2024 SEO Predictions. Is SEO Really Doomed?\n\n\n\nLet\u2019s look at how you can rein in your free-floating content and take back some of your profits. Let\u2019s make a new prediction for 2025: \u201cThe Growing Importance of Niche Content in SEO.\u201d\n\n\n\nWhat Are Zero-Click Searches?\n\n\n\nZero-click searches occur when users get their answers directly from the SERPs without clicking through to any website. While Google displays our content, AI integrates our content into its results. \n\n\n\nSEO means getting seen, so in many ways, zero-click is not so bad. Your cheesecake recipe is getting exposure. Visibility is a very good thing. That is one way of looking at it.\n\n\n\nOn the other hand, zero-click means your recipe can be seen and used and you get no click. You get no ad revenue from display ads on your website. You receive no comments and there is a little-to-no chance of a social share.\n\n\n\nZero-click answers appear in various SERP features, including:\n\n\n\n\nFeatured snippets (Position 0)\n\n\n\nKnowledge panels and Google Business Profile\n\n\n\nPeople Also Ask boxes\n\n\n\nLocal packs\n\n\n\nDirect answers\n\n\n\nAI Overview (SERPs) and AI Citations\n\n\n\n\nSparkToro brought zero-click to our attention back in 2019 and since then the only thing that has changed is AI. 65% and \u2154 are near enough to one another, but the tendency is growing. When you add AI results, then it\u2019s growing a lot.\n\n\n\n\n\u201c64.82% of searches on Google (desktop and mobile combined) ended in the search results without clicking to another web property.\u201d (2020)\nsparktoro.com\n\n\n\nThe Zero-Click Challenge for Organic Search\n\n\n\nThe key to SEO success hasn\u2019t changed. It still lies in optimizing your content for SERP features. In short, Master SERP features. \n\n\n\n\nCreate content that targets featured snippets. Snippets are teasers. In other words, give people reasons to click.\n\n\n\nStructure content with clear headings and concise answers to common questions in your industry. \n\n\n\nImplement schema markup to give search engines more context about your content.\n\n\n\n\nThe best tip we can offer remains: don\u2019t forget your long-tail keywords. LTKs require detailed explanations and are often calls to action. They present opportunities for in-depth content that can’t be fully answered in a simple snippet. Result: people want to click through to your site for more information.\n\n\n\nContent Marketing: Go Beyond the Basics\n\n\n\nContent Marketing isn\u2019t just about the swag; it\u2019s about using your content as a marketing tool. So ask yourself: Is my content just helpful for my visitors, or does it also help my business?\n\n\n\n\nEmbrace Local SEO to get those Local Pack clicks\n\n\n\n(Really) understand the User Intent behind the search terms\n\n\n\nEnhance UX with first-hand content\n\n\n\nRevisit E-E-A-T\n\n\n\n\nE-E-A-T isn\u2019t about bite-size content people can consume on the go. Your content should provide value. It should be something people stop and want to savor. Go beyond the SERP. \n\n\n\nDevelop comprehensive resources that include unique insights, case studies, and expert opinions. Be a hero and offer trademark content. E-E-A-T establishes your authority and gives users a reason to visit your site for the full picture.\n\n\n\nNiche Blogger Tip: Add infographics and other free downloads to your content These elements can’t be easily replicated in SERP features and offer a reason for people to click.\n\n\n\nThe Zero-Click Challenge for Niche Bloggers: Get Social\n\n\n\nDo you have a blog? Then zero-click searches present several challenges for you. However, as a blogger, social media plays a more important role in your ecosystem than search. \n\n\n\nWhen you\u2019re facing challenges from zero-click results and AI-generated content, look to your community. \n\n\n\nLet\u2019s look at what you can do to recapture some of that lost traffic and revenue using your social channels:\n\n\n\nReduced Organic Traffic: When readers find answers without visiting your site, you lose potential visitors.\n\n\n\nSocial media is a great channel for distributing content and driving traffic back to your blog. That can potentially offset the losses you have from reduced search visibility.\n\n\n\nLower Ad Revenue and Diminished Affiliate Opportunities: Fewer pageviews mean decreased advertising income. Less traffic results in fewer chances to convert visitors into affiliate sales.\n\n\n\nSome bloggers are shifting focus to social media-based monetization strategies, like sponsored posts or affiliate marketing through platforms like Instagram or TikTok.\n\n\n\nBrand Recognition Issues: Users may get information without knowing its source.\n\n\n\nA strong social media presence helps your content stand out amidst the noise of AI-generated content.\n\n\n\nAs website traffic decreases due to zero-click results, social media becomes an increasingly important way to engage with your audience. A click from Google is just a click; a conversation on social media is a potential sale.\n\n\n\nMastering the Art of AI-Friendly Content\n\n\n\nYou’re probably wondering, “How do I make my content stand out in AI results?” Enter Generative Engine Optimization or GEO.\n\n\n\nSEO focuses on pleasing traditional search engines. GEO is all about making your content irresistible to AI. It’s about creating content that AI can easily understand, reference, and even cite. It\u2019s like a Featured Snippet \u2013 but you are cited in a document. Pretty sweet.\n\n\n\nKey GEO Content Strategies\n\n\n\nHow do you make your content AI-friendly? At its core, GEO content is all about three things: clarity, structure, and authority.\n\n\n\n\nClarity: Use clear, descriptive headings to guide people and AI through your content. Write as you would when you\u2019re aiming to land a Featured Snippet.\n\n\n\nStructure: Revisit your semantic SEO structure and create a logical flow of information. Create headlines that lead readers from one connecting point to another.\n\n\n\nAuthority: Everyone is an expert. Don’t be shy about your credentials. Back up your claims with data and links to reputable sources. But ask yourself – is your content worth referencing?\n\n\n\n\nMastering GEO doesn\u2019t happen overnight. Neither does SEO. AI is evolving, and so should your strategies. Stay curious, keep experimenting, and don’t be afraid to adapt. \n\n\n\nSearch machines have evolved into answering machines. AI is that out of the box.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cGoogle Search will continue to evolve in the direction of Search Generative Experience.\u201d\nsearchengineland.com\n\n\n\nGet Your Profit On!\n\n\n\nZero-click searches present challenges, but they also create opportunities. The search game hasn\u2019t really changed: your content should provide value beyond basic information. \n\n\n\nLike core Google updates, zero-click and AI results are a wake-up call; you need to remain agile. \n\n\n\nDiversify your revenue streams, become an expert, grow your community, and keep up the good work of building a strong brand. You\u2019ve got this!\n\n\n\nChoose The Future of WordPress Hosting!\n\n\n\nBy investing in WordPress hosting, you\u2019re equipping yourself with the tools and resources necessary to build a robust, secure, and high-performing online presence. Spend your time captivating and engaging with your audience. Let your hosting take care of the rest!", "date_published": "2024-11-15T14:30:10+00:00", "date_modified": "2024-11-15T14:30:10+00:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Jeff Trumble", "url": "https://rocket.net/author/jeff-trumble/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/8bd1daa25bd1ce58afd607da007b6210?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Jeff Trumble", "url": "https://rocket.net/author/jeff-trumble/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/8bd1daa25bd1ce58afd607da007b6210?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://rocket.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Zero-Click-Searches.png", "tags": [ "SEO" ] }, { "id": "https://rocket.net/?p=6576", "url": "https://rocket.net/blog/how-to-rediscover-seo-and-recover-organic-website-traffic/", "title": "How to Rediscover SEO and Recover Organic Website Traffic", "content_html": "\nIt\u2019s tempting to run after the shiniest new thing. The latest trends and the newest algorithms add promise and flavor to our jobs, right? But don\u2019t con yourself \u2013 the job remains the same \u2013 you need people to find your websites. Why make it harder than it is? Don\u2019t exhaust yourself.
\n\n\n\nThe bedrock of great SEO hasn’t changed much: get yourself in front of people who don\u2019t know your name. So, save the bulk of your energy for closing sales after people find you.
\n\n\n\nIt\u2019s easy to follow slick salespeople and trends, but the truth is that we don\u2019t need to reinvent search engine optimization but to rediscover the timeless principles that have always worked.
\n\n\n\nThe most effective strategies are often the simplest ones. SEO is no different. Search engines, at their core are answering machines. You ask a question, they answer. Remember Ask Jeeves? Even ChatGPT is just really answering questions. Answering machines aim to connect people with the most relevant, useful content that solves their problems.
\n\n\n\nWhile technical optimization of your website matters, nothing beats high-quality, well-structured content that these answering machines can queue up and display as the answer.
\n\n\n\nSo the real gem of SEO is how to create the best answer. What makes a complete and trustworthy answer to a user\u2019s query? Content from firsthand experience. Content that genuinely answers users’ questions. Stop trying to outsmart search algorithms. In fact, stop thinking about Google\u2019s latest updates altogether.
\n\n\n\nFocus on creating content that serves your audience’s needs.
\n\n\n\nComplex SEO strategies fall apart when algorithms update, but clear, informative content maintains its value. Think of your content as a conversation with your readers rather than a puzzle to solve for search engines.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cThere is no fixed framework for developing an SEO strategy \u2013 too many variables exist \u2026 (but) You would be surprised how many ideas present themselves if you just carefully review everything that ranks high on the SERPs for your dream keywords.\u201d
\nsearchengineland.com
At its very core the word semantic means, well, meaning. And you may be familiar with the term \u201csemantic\u201d in the SEO context \u2013 i.e. Google loves semantic SEO. Bringing meaning and context to search is the general idea of \u201csemantic SEO.\u201d Here\u2019s how it works:
\n\n\n\nWithout semantic search, \u201cvegan diet and health\u201d would just deliver all results containing any of those terms. You\u2019d get results that include \u201chealth\u201d but not \u201cdiet\u201d or \u201cvegan.\u201d You\u2019d see results promoting beef for heart health. How irrelevant, and possibly offensive, might that be? Semantic search, on the other hand, includes all of those terms, \u201cvegan diet and health,\u201d and delivers better results for the user.
\n\n\n\nSemantic HTML goes along the same vein with context and meaning. While Google is a black box (no one really knows how it works), semantic HTML is uncomplicated. Semantic HTML basically refers to the best practices of heading structure and context to links and buttons. Semantic HTML (or some people would just say \u201cgood HTML\u201d) increases the accessibility of your website; and actually, helps make your site more sustainable.
\n\n\n\nSemantic HTML elements like <article>, <section>, <nav>, and <header> provide context that search engines use to determine the relevance and importance of your content. Just like we scan articles to find those highlights and subheadings, so do crawlers.
\n\n\n\nUsing proper heading hierarchy (<h1> through <h6>), meaningful alt text for images, and appropriate meta descriptions help SEO, too. They aren\u2019t just good practice \u2014 they’re essential for accessibility. It turns out that any good accessibility moves are also good for SEO. Why? The internet is all about words. So giving meaning to those words is key.
\n\n\n\nSemantic HTML elements create a clear content hierarchy that both search engines and users can easily navigate and understand.
\n\n\n\nHTML isn’t just about making your website look good\u2014it’s about helping search engines understand your content’s structure and meaning. In short, HTML is good for SEO.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cEnsure your website is not only mobile-responsive but also accessible to users with special needs. Use semantic HTML, provide alt text for images, and ensure proper colour contrast. Test your site using tools like Lighthouse to identify accessibility issues. That helps your visitors and your SEO!\u201d
\nRocket.net – Top 5 Ways to Improve the CTR on Your Website
If you think about the headline in the context of semantic search, you\u2019ll be nodding your head thinking \u201coh! That\u2019s why Google dings clickbait.\u201d A headline should do more than catch attention. It\u2019s not just the hook that matters, but what it\u2019s attached to. That said, your page title (SEO Title) is one of the most important factors in whether someone clicks on your content in the SERPs.
\n\n\n\nThe headline of a blog article is not the same as that of a social media post. It\u2019s different from an advertisement, too. The headline matches the intent of the content. It\u2019s a shortened, thesis if you will.
\n\n\n\nA well-crafted headline should do three things:
\n\n\n\nIt’s worth spending as much time on your headline as you do on the rest of your content. Write your headline first but go back after you have written your article. Can you improve on your original headline? Probably!
\n\n\n\nHow does your headline stand up? You can score your headlines for free with Sharethough. The headline for this article is 85%.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cGreat titles are clear and compelling. They reveal what the content is about but also entice the searcher to click for more.\u201d
\nsemrush.com
A headline may be what gets people clicking on your website, but your opening paragraph is what will decide if they stay there. Think about those first ten seconds of an interview. It\u2019s all decided then. Treat your opening paragraph with the same preparation and respect.
\n\n\n\nYour opening paragraph is also prime real estate for SERPs, your meta description, your pay-per-click ad \u2013 and much more.
\n\n\n\nIf you can\u2019t sell me your product in ten seconds, you won\u2019t sell me your product.
\n\n\n\nYour opening paragraph cuts through the noise. If people aren\u2019t convinced, they won\u2019t read the rest of your content. You need to deliver on your headline’s promise and convince readers they’ve found what they’re looking for.
\n\n\n\nIf readers can’t understand your main point from the first paragraph, you’re likely losing both engagement and search visibility.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cBy relying solely on Google for website traffic, you\u2019re vulnerable to algorithm changes, ranking fluctuations, and increased competition for dwindling space in the SERPs. You\u2019re competing against AI now, too.\u201d
\nRocket.net – Why You Can\u2019t Rely Just on Google for Website Traffic Anymore
Keywords remain fundamental to SEO, but their role has evolved. Google looks at topic clusters around search terms. AI doesn\u2019t interest itself with keywords at all. This is a game changer because more and more people are using AI for informational searches.
\n\n\n\nInformational searches (why is the sky blue?) account for 80% of all searches. How many more years will we use Google as an answering machine? Not many.
\n\n\n\nRather than stuffing content with repeated phrases, use keywords as a compass to keep your content focused and relevant. Keywords should guide your writing, not define it.
\n\n\n\nHere is an exercise: \u201cOrganic fish, couscous cooking time, vegan tofu, best Italian white wines.\u201d Write a paragraph around these keywords.
\n\n\n\nWhat did you come up with?
\n\n\n\nKeywords are about intent. You probably didn\u2019t write a story about the keywords on the list; you probably wrote a paragraph around the intent behind them.
\n\n\n\nIntent is everything. Keywords are fine for a shopping list, but not very helpful for helping your readers cook a meal.
\n\n\n\nKeeping your content focused makes it faster and more accessible. Faster wins and accessibility means you\u2019re reaching more people — and machines. That\u2019s the post.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cWhile keywords are essential for SEO, prioritize high-quality, informative content above all else. Don\u2019t make your content read unnatural or too long by cramming in keywords. This won\u2019t help you rank and will decrease content quality.\u201d
\nahrefs.com
The most successful SEO strategies aren’t the most complicated ones. Get back to the basics: simple, well-structured content, strong headlines, focused topics, and clear organization.
\n\n\n\nContent that best serves your audience’s needs, performs well in search results.
\n\n\n\nSEO isn’t about search engines; it’s about making your valuable content easily discoverable by the people who need it. Core SEO practices naturally align with good content creation practices.
\n\n\n\nThe next time you’re tempted to chase the latest SEO trend, don\u2019t. Take a step back and consider whether you’re making things more complicated than they need to be. The best approach is to rediscover what has always worked: creating valuable, well-structured content that serves your audience’s needs.
\n\n\n\nBy investing in WordPress hosting, you\u2019re equipping yourself with the tools and resources necessary to build a robust, secure, and high-performing online presence. Spend your time captivating and engaging with your audience. Let your hosting take care of the rest!
\n\n\n", "content_text": "It\u2019s tempting to run after the shiniest new thing. The latest trends and the newest algorithms add promise and flavor to our jobs, right? But don\u2019t con yourself \u2013 the job remains the same \u2013 you need people to find your websites. Why make it harder than it is? Don\u2019t exhaust yourself.\n\n\n\nThe bedrock of great SEO hasn’t changed much: get yourself in front of people who don\u2019t know your name. So, save the bulk of your energy for closing sales after people find you.\n\n\n\nIt\u2019s easy to follow slick salespeople and trends, but the truth is that we don\u2019t need to reinvent search engine optimization but to rediscover the timeless principles that have always worked.\n\n\n\nRediscover SEO: Keep It Simple\n\n\n\nThe most effective strategies are often the simplest ones. SEO is no different. Search engines, at their core are answering machines. You ask a question, they answer. Remember Ask Jeeves? Even ChatGPT is just really answering questions. Answering machines aim to connect people with the most relevant, useful content that solves their problems.\n\n\n\nWhile technical optimization of your website matters, nothing beats high-quality, well-structured content that these answering machines can queue up and display as the answer.\n\n\n\nSo the real gem of SEO is how to create the best answer. What makes a complete and trustworthy answer to a user\u2019s query? Content from firsthand experience. Content that genuinely answers users’ questions. Stop trying to outsmart search algorithms. In fact, stop thinking about Google\u2019s latest updates altogether.\n\n\n\nFocus on creating content that serves your audience’s needs.\n\n\n\nComplex SEO strategies fall apart when algorithms update, but clear, informative content maintains its value. Think of your content as a conversation with your readers rather than a puzzle to solve for search engines.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cThere is no fixed framework for developing an SEO strategy \u2013 too many variables exist \u2026 (but) You would be surprised how many ideas present themselves if you just carefully review everything that ranks high on the SERPs for your dream keywords.\u201d\nsearchengineland.com\n\n\n\nSemantic HTML for the Win\n\n\n\nAt its very core the word semantic means, well, meaning. And you may be familiar with the term \u201csemantic\u201d in the SEO context \u2013 i.e. Google loves semantic SEO. Bringing meaning and context to search is the general idea of \u201csemantic SEO.\u201d Here\u2019s how it works:\n\n\n\nWithout semantic search, \u201cvegan diet and health\u201d would just deliver all results containing any of those terms. You\u2019d get results that include \u201chealth\u201d but not \u201cdiet\u201d or \u201cvegan.\u201d You\u2019d see results promoting beef for heart health. How irrelevant, and possibly offensive, might that be? Semantic search, on the other hand, includes all of those terms, \u201cvegan diet and health,\u201d and delivers better results for the user.\n\n\n\nSemantic HTML goes along the same vein with context and meaning. While Google is a black box (no one really knows how it works), semantic HTML is uncomplicated. Semantic HTML basically refers to the best practices of heading structure and context to links and buttons. Semantic HTML (or some people would just say \u201cgood HTML\u201d) increases the accessibility of your website; and actually, helps make your site more sustainable.\n\n\n\nSemantic HTML elements like <article>, <section>, <nav>, and <header> provide context that search engines use to determine the relevance and importance of your content. Just like we scan articles to find those highlights and subheadings, so do crawlers.\n\n\n\nUsing proper heading hierarchy (<h1> through <h6>), meaningful alt text for images, and appropriate meta descriptions help SEO, too. They aren\u2019t just good practice \u2014 they’re essential for accessibility. It turns out that any good accessibility moves are also good for SEO. Why? The internet is all about words. So giving meaning to those words is key.\n\n\n\nSemantic HTML elements create a clear content hierarchy that both search engines and users can easily navigate and understand.\n\n\n\nHTML isn’t just about making your website look good\u2014it’s about helping search engines understand your content’s structure and meaning. In short, HTML is good for SEO.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cEnsure your website is not only mobile-responsive but also accessible to users with special needs. Use semantic HTML, provide alt text for images, and ensure proper colour contrast. Test your site using tools like Lighthouse to identify accessibility issues. That helps your visitors and your SEO!\u201d\nRocket.net – Top 5 Ways to Improve the CTR on Your Website\n\n\n\nYour Page Headline is 80% of the Article\n\n\n\nIf you think about the headline in the context of semantic search, you\u2019ll be nodding your head thinking \u201coh! That\u2019s why Google dings clickbait.\u201d A headline should do more than catch attention. It\u2019s not just the hook that matters, but what it\u2019s attached to. That said, your page title (SEO Title) is one of the most important factors in whether someone clicks on your content in the SERPs.\n\n\n\nThe headline of a blog article is not the same as that of a social media post. It\u2019s different from an advertisement, too. The headline matches the intent of the content. It\u2019s a shortened, thesis if you will. \n\n\n\nA well-crafted headline should do three things:\n\n\n\n\nclearly communicate the content and value proposition\n\n\n\nnaturally incorporate keywords and intent\n\n\n\nspark curiosity to encourage a click\n\n\n\n\nIt’s worth spending as much time on your headline as you do on the rest of your content. Write your headline first but go back after you have written your article. Can you improve on your original headline? Probably!\n\n\n\nHow does your headline stand up? You can score your headlines for free with Sharethough. The headline for this article is 85%.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cGreat titles are clear and compelling. They reveal what the content is about but also entice the searcher to click for more.\u201d\nsemrush.com\n\n\n\nThe First Paragraph is Your Elevator Speech\n\n\n\nA headline may be what gets people clicking on your website, but your opening paragraph is what will decide if they stay there. Think about those first ten seconds of an interview. It\u2019s all decided then. Treat your opening paragraph with the same preparation and respect.\n\n\n\nYour opening paragraph is also prime real estate for SERPs, your meta description, your pay-per-click ad \u2013 and much more.\n\n\n\nIf you can\u2019t sell me your product in ten seconds, you won\u2019t sell me your product.\n\n\n\n\nSeconds 1-3 Explain my problem (aha you \u201cget me\u201d)\n\n\n\nSeconds 4-7 Tell me how it can be solved (aha, you DO \u201cget me\u201d)\n\n\n\nSeconds 8-10 Show me how you did this for someone else (where do I sign?)\n\n\n\n\nYour opening paragraph cuts through the noise. If people aren\u2019t convinced, they won\u2019t read the rest of your content. You need to deliver on your headline’s promise and convince readers they’ve found what they’re looking for.\n\n\n\nIf readers can’t understand your main point from the first paragraph, you’re likely losing both engagement and search visibility.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cBy relying solely on Google for website traffic, you\u2019re vulnerable to algorithm changes, ranking fluctuations, and increased competition for dwindling space in the SERPs. You\u2019re competing against AI now, too.\u201d\nRocket.net – Why You Can\u2019t Rely Just on Google for Website Traffic Anymore\n\n\n\nKeywords Keep Your Article Focused\n\n\n\nKeywords remain fundamental to SEO, but their role has evolved. Google looks at topic clusters around search terms. AI doesn\u2019t interest itself with keywords at all. This is a game changer because more and more people are using AI for informational searches.\n\n\n\nInformational searches (why is the sky blue?) account for 80% of all searches. How many more years will we use Google as an answering machine? Not many.\n\n\n\nRather than stuffing content with repeated phrases, use keywords as a compass to keep your content focused and relevant. Keywords should guide your writing, not define it.\n\n\n\nHere is an exercise: \u201cOrganic fish, couscous cooking time, vegan tofu, best Italian white wines.\u201d Write a paragraph around these keywords. \n\n\n\nWhat did you come up with? \n\n\n\nKeywords are about intent. You probably didn\u2019t write a story about the keywords on the list; you probably wrote a paragraph around the intent behind them.\n\n\n\nIntent is everything. Keywords are fine for a shopping list, but not very helpful for helping your readers cook a meal.\n\n\n\nKeeping your content focused makes it faster and more accessible. Faster wins and accessibility means you\u2019re reaching more people — and machines. That\u2019s the post.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cWhile keywords are essential for SEO, prioritize high-quality, informative content above all else. Don\u2019t make your content read unnatural or too long by cramming in keywords. This won\u2019t help you rank and will decrease content quality.\u201d\nahrefs.com\n\n\n\nLet\u2019s Wrap This Up and Get Back to Basics\n\n\n\nThe most successful SEO strategies aren’t the most complicated ones. Get back to the basics: simple, well-structured content, strong headlines, focused topics, and clear organization. \n\n\n\nContent that best serves your audience’s needs, performs well in search results.\n\n\n\nSEO isn’t about search engines; it’s about making your valuable content easily discoverable by the people who need it. Core SEO practices naturally align with good content creation practices.\n\n\n\nThe next time you’re tempted to chase the latest SEO trend, don\u2019t. Take a step back and consider whether you’re making things more complicated than they need to be. The best approach is to rediscover what has always worked: creating valuable, well-structured content that serves your audience’s needs.\n\n\n\nChoose The Future of WordPress Hosting!\n\n\n\nBy investing in WordPress hosting, you\u2019re equipping yourself with the tools and resources necessary to build a robust, secure, and high-performing online presence. Spend your time captivating and engaging with your audience. Let your hosting take care of the rest!", "date_published": "2024-10-16T13:35:47+00:00", "date_modified": "2024-10-16T13:35:49+00:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Jeff Trumble", "url": "https://rocket.net/author/jeff-trumble/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/8bd1daa25bd1ce58afd607da007b6210?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Jeff Trumble", "url": "https://rocket.net/author/jeff-trumble/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/8bd1daa25bd1ce58afd607da007b6210?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://rocket.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/rediscover-seo.png", "tags": [ "SEO" ] }, { "id": "https://rocket.net/?p=6159", "url": "https://rocket.net/blog/google-march-2024-core-update/", "title": "What the Google March 2024 Core Update Taught Everyone", "content_html": "\nGoogle’s March update threw the internet into disarray. Websites disappeared from search results, leaving many of us scrambling to understand the new definition of “helpful content.” SEOs were baffled, rankings plummeted, and social media feeds were once again gripped by chaos. Older websites that survived previous updates weren\u2019t spared, and some previously untouched sites faced repercussions.
\n\n\n\nGoogle finished rolling out the update on April 19, 45 days after starting. They described the update as particularly complex, involving changes to multiple core systems. It also marked the end of the separate helpful content update from August 2023.
\n\n\n\nNow that the smoke has cleared, the question is, is this a new golden age for quality content dawning, or a secret Google plot? Should you be sticking with Google, or focusing on other ways to be found? Let\u2019s look at what we know.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cWhich sites have benefited the most (from the Google “Big Brand” Update)? The winners have been the brands’ sites, such as Nike, or Gymshark. Google is ranking the brands directly instead. Also, smaller but authoritative niche brands for the relevant sector.\u201d
\n@aleyda
Our biggest takeaway from the last month is Google is saying, raise your content standards. Considering YMYL and EEAT standards, really, nothing new, right? And it was a long update. This is why we love WordPress so much \u2013 updates are way faster!
\n\n\n\nGoogle primed us for the March update with these words: \u201cWe\u2019re enhancing Search, so you see more useful information, and fewer results that feel made for search engines.\u201d
\n\n\n\nOfficially that reads: \u201cReducing low-quality, unoriginal results Keeping more spam out of your results.\u201d Translated that doesn\u2019t seem much like news: Ditch the fluff, fight the spam! Google’s got your back with a focus on high-quality content.
\n\n\n\nCall me a dreamer, but wasn\u2019t that always what we expected from Google? So maybe Google is cleaning house. We\u2019re using AI tools more for our informational search, and Google is feeling the pinch. People are even talking a lot more about the benefits of Bing. Bing-bling. Maybe Google has read the writing on the wall and is going to get real.
\n\n\n\nThree things:
\n\n\n\nNobody likes spam unless it\u2019s fried on a plate with some eggs, and we don\u2019t like clicking on it. However, with the rise of AI-generated content, spam content has been on the rise.
\n\n\n\nAddressing the increase in content powered by generative AI, as not all AI-generated content meets Google’s quality standards, was really at the heart of the March 2024 core update.
\n\n\n\nThe update targeted webpages that felt like they were created for search engines rather than people, including those designed solely to match specific search queries. Talk about nuance. But Google\u2019s in the business of intent.
\n\n\n\nThe March 2024 Google Core Update marks an evolution in how Google identifies the helpfulness of content, using a variety of innovative signals and approaches rather than relying on a single system.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cWe believe these updates will reduce the amount of low-quality content on Search and send more traffic to helpful and high-quality sites. Based on our evaluations, we expect that the combination of this update and our previous efforts will collectively reduce low-quality, unoriginal content in search results by 40%.\u201d
\nGoogle
Note: Google actually reached a 45% reduction by the end of the update.
\n\n\n\nThe March Google update is a call to action for content creators to publish unique, valuable content that enriches our online experiences. That\u2019s what we all try to do, right? A good user experience is about more than just content, so here\u2019s what you should be doing post-update:
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cThere\u2019s nothing new or special that creators need to do for this update as long as they\u2019ve been making satisfying content meant for people. For those that might not be ranking as well, we strongly encourage reading our creating helpful, reliable, people-first content help page.\u201d
\nGoogle
First up, determine how the latest update has affected your site. Look at search visibility. Monitor changes in rankings, traffic, clicks, impressions, and conversions. Analyze Google Search Console data for any manual actions or significant changes in impressions, clicks, or average position.
\n\n\n\nYou should pay special attention to the GSC Performance report. A drop in impressions may mean your pages appear less frequently, possibly due to the update. Look to distinguish the impact of the update from normal traffic fluctuations. Don\u2019t fall for the causation/correlation trap.
\n\n\n\nThe core update made it clear that Google is prioritizing high-quality, original content over low-quality, unoriginal content. Websites that produce informative, in-depth, and trustworthy content are being rewarded, while those relying on thin, keyword-stuffed, or AI-generated content are being penalized.
\n\n\n\nIdentify problem pages that were recently negatively impacted. Is there a way to improve their relevance by aligning content with user intent?
\n\n\n\nSuggest collaborating with clients to showcase their expertise through author bios, case studies, and guest posts on relevant, ranked sites.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cStill thinking about using AI content on your website? while AI tools can be helpful for content creation, they shouldn\u2019t replace human expertise. Focus on using AI to assist you, not create content entirely on its own.\u201d
\nRocket.net – Still Thinking About Using AI Content on Your Website?
User experience is crucial. The update also emphasized the importance of providing a positive user experience. Websites with fast loading times, mobile-friendly designs, and intuitive navigation are seeing ranking boosts, as Google aims to surface content that is easy for users to engage with.
\n\n\n\nThe update targeted various spam and manipulation tactics. Don\u2019t rely on expired domain abuse, scaled content abuse, and site reputation abuse for your SERP visibility. Google is cracking down on these practices and rewarding websites that follow its guidelines.
\n\n\n\nAdaptability and continuous improvement are key. So, don\u2019t panic. Updates happen, and recovery takes time. Be patient while waiting for the update to settle.
\n\n\n\nIn the meantime, regularly monitor your site\u2019s performance, adjust strategies as needed, and stay informed about any further updates.
\n\n\n\nThe volatile nature of the update and the ongoing changes to Google’s algorithms underscore the need for website owners and SEOs to remain adaptable and continuously improve their content and strategies.
\n\n\n\nMonitoring performance, conducting audits, and staying up to date with Google’s guidance are still essential for long-term success.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cThe best cure is prevention, which is true both in medicine and in surviving a Google update. Here\u2019s another clich\u00e9: the best predictor of future behavior is past behavior. Learn the cycles to predict corrections and updates, stay with the basics of search engine optimization, and ditch hacks.\u201d
\nRocket.net – How to Recover From A Google Algorithm Update
Not everyone has the resources to fight for visibility. If you want to reach your target group, you can often do this more effectively over social media, or in a forum. Just look at what\u2019s happening over at Reddit lately. Even year-old threads are ranking better than some website content from yesterday.
\n\n\n\nYou may be a niche blogger, or even a mom-and-pop local business using WooCommerce to sell to your customers. How can you effectively increase the visibility and reach a wider audience without heavily competing for search engine dominance? We have some suggestions.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cNiche marketing is the boujie term for segment marketing. It\u2019s a strategy focusing on a specific, narrowly defined target market instead of reaching a broad, general audience.\u201d
\nRocket.net – 10 Reasons Why Niche Marketing Can Scale Your Agency
Google Business Profiles, and Bing Places, offer smaller businesses a big chance to be found in the SERPs. Both services are free of charge and support both your organic and paid search engine marketing. Take advantage of both!
\n\n\n\nUse social media platforms to distribute your content, connect with potential customers, and foster a community around your niche. Use social media platforms that cater to your niche, such as specialized forums or specific social networks.
\n\n\n\nConsistently providing value through social media interactions can help you attract a loyal following and drive traffic to your blog or online shop. Don\u2019t forget to add a Facebook Business Page to your account. It\u2019s another free tool that is indexed by Google & Bing.
\n\n\n\nAs a niche blogger, you can leverage forums and social media to increase your online visibility to reach your target audience.
\n\n\n\nAs a local business with a small online shop, you can benefit in several ways by leveraging both Google and forums/social media to increase your visibility.
\n\n\n\nBy balancing your efforts between SEO in Google, actively participating in forums, and strategically engaging on social media, you can effectively increase visibility and reach a wider audience without heavily competing for search engine dominance.
\n\n\n\nWant white glove service? No problem. Regardless of the plan you choose, we help you migrate your website and start building your own personal brand. Need to migrate several? We got you.
\n\n\n\nStreamline your workflow by choosing a reliable, performant platform for websites of all sizes. The only question is when you\u2019d like to get going.
\n\n\n", "content_text": "Google’s March update threw the internet into disarray. Websites disappeared from search results, leaving many of us scrambling to understand the new definition of “helpful content.” SEOs were baffled, rankings plummeted, and social media feeds were once again gripped by chaos. Older websites that survived previous updates weren\u2019t spared, and some previously untouched sites faced repercussions.\n\n\n\nGoogle finished rolling out the update on April 19, 45 days after starting. They described the update as particularly complex, involving changes to multiple core systems. It also marked the end of the separate helpful content update from August 2023.\n\n\n\nNow that the smoke has cleared, the question is, is this a new golden age for quality content dawning, or a secret Google plot? Should you be sticking with Google, or focusing on other ways to be found? Let\u2019s look at what we know.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cWhich sites have benefited the most (from the Google “Big Brand” Update)? The winners have been the brands’ sites, such as Nike, or Gymshark. Google is ranking the brands directly instead. Also, smaller but authoritative niche brands for the relevant sector.\u201d\n@aleyda\n\n\n\nGoogle March 2024 Core Update in a Nutshell\n\n\n\nOur biggest takeaway from the last month is Google is saying, raise your content standards. Considering YMYL and EEAT standards, really, nothing new, right? And it was a long update. This is why we love WordPress so much \u2013 updates are way faster!\n\n\n\nGoogle primed us for the March update with these words: \u201cWe\u2019re enhancing Search, so you see more useful information, and fewer results that feel made for search engines.\u201d\n\n\n\nOfficially that reads: \u201cReducing low-quality, unoriginal results Keeping more spam out of your results.\u201d Translated that doesn\u2019t seem much like news: Ditch the fluff, fight the spam! Google’s got your back with a focus on high-quality content.\n\n\n\nCall me a dreamer, but wasn\u2019t that always what we expected from Google? So maybe Google is cleaning house. We\u2019re using AI tools more for our informational search, and Google is feeling the pinch. People are even talking a lot more about the benefits of Bing. Bing-bling. Maybe Google has read the writing on the wall and is going to get real.\n\n\n\nWhat We Learned from the Core Update\n\n\n\nThree things:\n\n\n\n\nDeindexing is real: websites were completely removed from search results!\n\n\n\nContent matters (more than ever): high-quality, user-centric content that provides value wins.\n\n\n\nThe user reigns supreme: fast loading times, clear navigation, and mobile friendliness still matter.\n\n\n\n\nOur Main Takeaway: Was Google\u2019s Update a Spam Fight?\n\n\n\nNobody likes spam unless it\u2019s fried on a plate with some eggs, and we don\u2019t like clicking on it. However, with the rise of AI-generated content, spam content has been on the rise.\n\n\n\nAddressing the increase in content powered by generative AI, as not all AI-generated content meets Google’s quality standards, was really at the heart of the March 2024 core update.\n\n\n\nThe update targeted webpages that felt like they were created for search engines rather than people, including those designed solely to match specific search queries. Talk about nuance. But Google\u2019s in the business of intent.\n\n\n\nThe March 2024 Google Core Update marks an evolution in how Google identifies the helpfulness of content, using a variety of innovative signals and approaches rather than relying on a single system.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cWe believe these updates will reduce the amount of low-quality content on Search and send more traffic to helpful and high-quality sites. Based on our evaluations, we expect that the combination of this update and our previous efforts will collectively reduce low-quality, unoriginal content in search results by 40%.\u201d\nGoogle\n\n\n\nNote: Google actually reached a 45% reduction by the end of the update.\n\n\n\nSticking with Google After the Update? What You Should Be Doing\n\n\n\nThe March Google update is a call to action for content creators to publish unique, valuable content that enriches our online experiences. That\u2019s what we all try to do, right? A good user experience is about more than just content, so here\u2019s what you should be doing post-update:\n\n\n\n\nAssess the Impact on Your Sites\n\n\n\nOptimise Content and Relevance\n\n\n\nRevisit Technical SEO Basics\n\n\n\nEvaluate the Market and Industry Trends\n\n\n\nStay Calm and Monitor Progress\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cThere\u2019s nothing new or special that creators need to do for this update as long as they\u2019ve been making satisfying content meant for people. For those that might not be ranking as well, we strongly encourage reading our creating helpful, reliable, people-first content help page.\u201d\nGoogle\n\n\n\n1. Assess the Impact on Your Sites\n\n\n\nFirst up, determine how the latest update has affected your site. Look at search visibility. Monitor changes in rankings, traffic, clicks, impressions, and conversions. Analyze Google Search Console data for any manual actions or significant changes in impressions, clicks, or average position.\n\n\n\nYou should pay special attention to the GSC Performance report. A drop in impressions may mean your pages appear less frequently, possibly due to the update. Look to distinguish the impact of the update from normal traffic fluctuations. Don\u2019t fall for the causation/correlation trap.\n\n\n\n2. Optimize Content and Relevance\n\n\n\nThe core update made it clear that Google is prioritizing high-quality, original content over low-quality, unoriginal content. Websites that produce informative, in-depth, and trustworthy content are being rewarded, while those relying on thin, keyword-stuffed, or AI-generated content are being penalized.\n\n\n\nTake Another Look at Your Content: Focus on Quality, Not Quantity\n\n\n\nIdentify problem pages that were recently negatively impacted. Is there a way to improve their relevance by aligning content with user intent?\n\n\n\n\nYou can strengthen the authority of problem pages by acquiring some high-quality backlinks. Just remember that link quality matters more than link quantity. The update reduced the importance of links as a ranking factor, shifting the focus away from acquiring as many links as possible and towards obtaining high-quality, relevant links. Or, \u201cless is more.\u201d\n\n\n\nCreate a content hub with your authority pages to increase the value of your internal links.\n\n\n\nPerform a content audit to identify and eliminate thin, irrelevant content.\n\n\n\nRefresh outdated content and focus on in-depth guides, user testimonials, and data-driven pieces.\n\n\n\n\nSuggest collaborating with clients to showcase their expertise through author bios, case studies, and guest posts on relevant, ranked sites.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cStill thinking about using AI content on your website? while AI tools can be helpful for content creation, they shouldn\u2019t replace human expertise. Focus on using AI to assist you, not create content entirely on its own.\u201d\nRocket.net – Still Thinking About Using AI Content on Your Website?\n\n\n\n3. Revisit Technical SEO Basics\n\n\n\nUser experience is crucial. The update also emphasized the importance of providing a positive user experience. Websites with fast loading times, mobile-friendly designs, and intuitive navigation are seeing ranking boosts, as Google aims to surface content that is easy for users to engage with.\n\n\n\n\nEnsure your technical SEO elements are in good shape. Check for crawl errors, broken links, and mobile friendliness. It\u2019s 2024.\n\n\n\nOptimize your website\u2019s performance, including page load speed and other core web vitals.\n\n\n\n\n4. Evaluate the Market and Industry Trends\n\n\n\nThe update targeted various spam and manipulation tactics. Don\u2019t rely on expired domain abuse, scaled content abuse, and site reputation abuse for your SERP visibility. Google is cracking down on these practices and rewarding websites that follow its guidelines.\n\n\n\n\nReview changes in search engine results pages (SERPs) for your key terms.\n\n\n\nUnderstand what else has happened in your industry. Consider the bigger picture.\n\n\n\nCompetitor analysis can provide valuable insights into how others are adapting to the update.\n\n\n\n\n5. Stay Calm and Monitor Progress\n\n\n\nAdaptability and continuous improvement are key. So, don\u2019t panic. Updates happen, and recovery takes time. Be patient while waiting for the update to settle.\n\n\n\nIn the meantime, regularly monitor your site\u2019s performance, adjust strategies as needed, and stay informed about any further updates.\n\n\n\nThe volatile nature of the update and the ongoing changes to Google’s algorithms underscore the need for website owners and SEOs to remain adaptable and continuously improve their content and strategies.\n\n\n\nMonitoring performance, conducting audits, and staying up to date with Google’s guidance are still essential for long-term success.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cThe best cure is prevention, which is true both in medicine and in surviving a Google update. Here\u2019s another clich\u00e9: the best predictor of future behavior is past behavior. Learn the cycles to predict corrections and updates, stay with the basics of search engine optimization, and ditch hacks.\u201d\nRocket.net – How to Recover From A Google Algorithm Update\n\n\n\nIs Google Becoming Too Much of a Distraction? What You Should Be Doing Instead\n\n\n\nNot everyone has the resources to fight for visibility. If you want to reach your target group, you can often do this more effectively over social media, or in a forum. Just look at what\u2019s happening over at Reddit lately. Even year-old threads are ranking better than some website content from yesterday.\n\n\n\nYou may be a niche blogger, or even a mom-and-pop local business using WooCommerce to sell to your customers. How can you effectively increase the visibility and reach a wider audience without heavily competing for search engine dominance? We have some suggestions.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cNiche marketing is the boujie term for segment marketing. It\u2019s a strategy focusing on a specific, narrowly defined target market instead of reaching a broad, general audience.\u201d\nRocket.net – 10 Reasons Why Niche Marketing Can Scale Your Agency\n\n\n\nUse Search Engine\u2019s Strengths to Your Advantage\n\n\n\nGoogle Business Profiles, and Bing Places, offer smaller businesses a big chance to be found in the SERPs. Both services are free of charge and support both your organic and paid search engine marketing. Take advantage of both!\n\n\n\nLeverage Social Media and Forums to Generate Leads\n\n\n\nUse social media platforms to distribute your content, connect with potential customers, and foster a community around your niche. Use social media platforms that cater to your niche, such as specialized forums or specific social networks. \n\n\n\nConsistently providing value through social media interactions can help you attract a loyal following and drive traffic to your blog or online shop. Don\u2019t forget to add a Facebook Business Page to your account. It\u2019s another free tool that is indexed by Google & Bing.\n\n\n\nAs a niche blogger, you can leverage forums and social media to increase your online visibility to reach your target audience.\n\n\n\n\nOffer Unique Perspectives: Differentiate yourself by providing unique insights, perspectives, and solutions that cater to your target audience. This can help you stand out in a crowded online landscape. Answer questions and get into a conversation. You can\u2019t sell anything without a dialogue. \n\n\n\nEngage in Niche-Specific Forums: Actively participate in forums related to your niche. Share your expertise, engage with your audience, and build credibility within the community. This can help you reach a new audience and drive traffic to your blog.\n\n\n\n\nAs a local business with a small online shop, you can benefit in several ways by leveraging both Google and forums/social media to increase your visibility.\n\n\n\n\nOffer Personalized Service: As a local business, you can leverage your personal connection with the community and provide exceptional customer service. This can set you apart from larger online retailers and create a more enjoyable shopping experience for your customers.\n\n\n\nEngage in Industry Forums: Actively participate in relevant industry forums, where you can share your expertise, engage with your audience, and build credibility. This can help you reach a new audience and drive traffic to your online shop. Engage with people by answering their questions and sparking conversations. You can\u2019t sell if you\u2019re not talking with people.\n\n\n\n\nBy balancing your efforts between SEO in Google, actively participating in forums, and strategically engaging on social media, you can effectively increase visibility and reach a wider audience without heavily competing for search engine dominance.\n\n\n\nChoose The Future of WordPress Hosting!\n\n\n\nWant white glove service? No problem. Regardless of the plan you choose, we help you migrate your website and start building your own personal brand. Need to migrate several? We got you. \n\n\n\nStreamline your workflow by choosing a reliable, performant platform for websites of all sizes. The only question is when you\u2019d like to get going.", "date_published": "2024-05-16T13:38:40+00:00", "date_modified": "2024-05-16T13:44:58+00:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Jeff Trumble", "url": "https://rocket.net/author/jeff-trumble/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/8bd1daa25bd1ce58afd607da007b6210?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Jeff Trumble", "url": "https://rocket.net/author/jeff-trumble/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/8bd1daa25bd1ce58afd607da007b6210?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://rocket.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Google-March-2024-Core-Update.png", "tags": [ "SEO" ] }, { "id": "https://rocket.net/?p=5807", "url": "https://rocket.net/blog/top-2024-seo-predictions/", "title": "Our Top 2024 SEO Predictions. Is SEO Really Doomed?", "content_html": "\nEvery technology is doomed to be overtaken by a better one. That needn\u2019t be a bad thing. Often our doom and gloom predictions can be completely wrong. Remember when Dreamweaver was going to put every web designer out of business? What about records, books, or board games? All should have gone the way of the dinosaur, but they are all still with us. Now, if you have a Betamax, or are still using floppy discs, you might be in more of a niche than your average techie.
\n\n\n\nIf you\u2019ve been in the business of search for the last twenty years, you\u2019ve seen the headlines predicting the end of SEO before. However, the reports of the death of SEO, as they say, have been greatly exaggerated. You only need to Google back a few years.
\n\n\n\nMany will point out that 2023 was maybe one of the most challenging years for publishers to date with struggling to recover from multiple Google Algorithm Updates, the continued shift on the importance of making sure your content complies with E-E-A-T principles, and the invasion of ChatGPT AI content that is being produced at an astonishing rate.
\n\n\n\nIf we wanted to concentrate on more technical SEO aspects, Semrush just posted a new search ranking factor study for 2024 that analyzed 300K results to see what factors contributed to higher search engine rankings.
\n\n\n\n![\"Semrush](\"https://rocket.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/semrush-seo-predictions.jpg\" "\\"Our")
So where exactly IS SEO headed, and with everyone asking their favorite chatbot for answers, do search engines have a future? We looked at some of the top predictions out there, then predicted for ourselves the big \u201cfour for 2024\u201d SEO changes we can look forward to.
\n\n\n\nTech is changing so quickly, that it is often outpacing even the quickly changing demands of our customers. Combined, they make for a difficult-to-read crystal ball. What will happen to search in the next year? Here\u2019s one answer we can give you with 100% confidence: \u201cIt Depends.\u201d
\n\n\n\nMoz\u2019s SEO Trends and Predictions from Industry Experts focused on several interesting topics including Google updates and the changing SERP landscape, thought leadership in our content strategy, and the importance of user experience. Not surprisingly, the impact of AI featured heavily in the many predictions.
\n\n\n\nYou don\u2019t have to like it, but people and businesses \u2013 yes even Google and Bing \u2013 are investing time and money in artificial intelligence. From voice search to personalized search results, you can bet that AI and machine learning will play an even greater role in SEO than it already has.
\n\n\n\nAs search engines become more sophisticated, they will increasingly rely on AI and machine learning to understand user intent and rank websites. Take, for example, Google\u2019s Search Generative Experience (SGE) \u2013 its an AI-driven search encounter, and not all of it are sending positive signals for what the future may hold for website owners.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n“By 2028, brands\u2019 organic search traffic will decrease by 50% or more as consumers embrace generative AI-powered search.”
\nGartner
SGE allows Google to furnish AI-generated outcomes for numerous search inquiries, prominently featured at the pinnacle of search engine results pages (SERPs). As it gains widespread usage, it is poised to revolutionize user interactions with the search engine, inevitably reshaping the landscape of site optimization for impression and traffic generation.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cAs AI evolves to improve its ability to create content, it makes sense that Google\u2019s own algorithmic AI improves right alongside these developments. With AI\u2019s growing capability of understanding audio, video, and images, Google\u2019s algorithm will get better at accurately indexing and serving multimedia content. This will add competitive pressure to SEO …\u201d
\nKatie Morton, Senior Managing Growth Editor, Search Engine Journal
Whether you\u2019re talking about Google\u2019s Core Web Vitals or simply a website that offers added value, User experience (UX) has always been a sort of \u201csilent partner\u201d in SEO, but it will become even more important in 2024. Google has said that UX is a ranking factor, and this is only going to become more important in the future. \u201cLoading fast\u201d is almost your Mom and Dad\u2019s UX.
\n\n\n\nDoes this mean that SEOs will need to focus on creating websites that are even more easy to use, mobile-friendly, and visually appealing? Sure. Even more important, however, will be helpful content, easy to read and to share, that is optimized for the user’s specific needs and context. It\u2019s not keyword-stuffed content. It\u2019s almost personalized content.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cVisitors aren\u2019t impressed by bells and whistles; instead, focus on a great user experience. Produce quality content that engages your audience, and give them reasons to stick around on your site longer. A great user experience is what really scores points with people, it\u2019s also the same considerations that help with your Core Web Vitals scores too.\u201d
\nRocket.net
From news to shopping, TikTok is becoming one of the more important social media channels — and not just with youngsters. A recent Pew Research study showed that a growing number of adults now get their news from their favorite social media channels. With TikTok and company in the search mix (1 in 3 people use social media to discover new products and brands), you have an exciting new SEO flavor that goes beyond simple blog posts.
\n\n\n\nAdd to that the growing acceptance of vertical video formats and you have people spending more time on social media than ever before. The importance of video content will continue to grow in 2024. As video increases in popularity, search engines will continue to reward those websites that integrate it into their content strategy.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cGoogle might introduce new tools encouraging user-generated content (UGC) and social interactions. This move could attempt to reclaim the audience drawn to platforms like TikTok. \u2026 (their) updated SGE experience will likely change how we optimize content and engage with customers throughout their search journey.\u201d
\nAleyda Solis, Google SGE Predictions
From niche keywords to local businesses, to mobile shopping, evolving mobile-first search trends will continue to gain traction. Customer journeys will become more granular too, which means your small biz will have opportunities to compete in search like never before.
\n\n\n\nWith more and more people using their mobile devices to search the web (almost half of those asked said they used their phone to source information or make purchases while in a shop), SEOs will need to prioritize the mobile-friendliness of their content even more. This means more than just ensuring that websites are optimized for smaller screens, fast loading speeds, and responsive designs.
\n\n\n\nWhatever you call it — local, mobile, shopping, or voice search — succeeding here means understanding where your customers \u201care\u201d physically, in their buyer\u2019s journey as well as the context of their search. It really means knowing their favorite color sneakers and handing them over unlaced. From keywords to processes to content that changes the search game completely.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cGoogle\u2019s recent Helpful Content Update shows that they\u2019re serious about user experience. And that the bar for quality is only going to go up. That just means that people that produce the best stuff will eventually win out.\u201d
\nBrian Dean
How will you incorporate these four SEO predictions this year? Maybe you\u2019re on the fence about your hosting company. We\u2019d love to be your partner and we help you migrate your website. Need to migrate several? We got you.
\n\n\n\nStreamline your workflow by choosing a reliable, performant platform for websites of all sizes. The only question is when you\u2019d like to get going.
\n\n\n", "content_text": "Every technology is doomed to be overtaken by a better one. That needn\u2019t be a bad thing. Often our doom and gloom predictions can be completely wrong. Remember when Dreamweaver was going to put every web designer out of business? What about records, books, or board games? All should have gone the way of the dinosaur, but they are all still with us. Now, if you have a Betamax, or are still using floppy discs, you might be in more of a niche than your average techie.\n\n\n\nIf you\u2019ve been in the business of search for the last twenty years, you\u2019ve seen the headlines predicting the end of SEO before. However, the reports of the death of SEO, as they say, have been greatly exaggerated. You only need to Google back a few years.\n\n\n\n\n2005: Backlinks are losing their significance.\n\n\n\n2006: Personalized search is killing SERPs\n\n\n\n2007: The semantic web is dead\n\n\n\n2008: SEO has no future\n\n\n\n\nMany will point out that 2023 was maybe one of the most challenging years for publishers to date with struggling to recover from multiple Google Algorithm Updates, the continued shift on the importance of making sure your content complies with E-E-A-T principles, and the invasion of ChatGPT AI content that is being produced at an astonishing rate.\n\n\n\nIf we wanted to concentrate on more technical SEO aspects, Semrush just posted a new search ranking factor study for 2024 that analyzed 300K results to see what factors contributed to higher search engine rankings.\n\n\n\nClick to Expand\n\n\n\n So where exactly IS SEO headed, and with everyone asking their favorite chatbot for answers, do search engines have a future? We looked at some of the top predictions out there, then predicted for ourselves the big \u201cfour for 2024\u201d SEO changes we can look forward to.\n\n\n\nWhat the Soothsayers Say: SEO Predictions for 2024\n\n\n\nTech is changing so quickly, that it is often outpacing even the quickly changing demands of our customers. Combined, they make for a difficult-to-read crystal ball. What will happen to search in the next year? Here\u2019s one answer we can give you with 100% confidence: \u201cIt Depends.\u201d\n\n\n\nMoz\u2019s SEO Trends and Predictions from Industry Experts focused on several interesting topics including Google updates and the changing SERP landscape, thought leadership in our content strategy, and the importance of user experience. Not surprisingly, the impact of AI featured heavily in the many predictions.\n\n\n\nWhere Should You Aim Your Rocket? Here Are Our Four SEO Predictions for 2024\n\n\n\n1. The Growing Importance of AI in SEO\n\n\n\nYou don\u2019t have to like it, but people and businesses \u2013 yes even Google and Bing \u2013 are investing time and money in artificial intelligence. From voice search to personalized search results, you can bet that AI and machine learning will play an even greater role in SEO than it already has.\n\n\n\nAs search engines become more sophisticated, they will increasingly rely on AI and machine learning to understand user intent and rank websites. Take, for example, Google\u2019s Search Generative Experience (SGE) \u2013 its an AI-driven search encounter, and not all of it are sending positive signals for what the future may hold for website owners.\n\n\n\n\n“By 2028, brands\u2019 organic search traffic will decrease by 50% or more as consumers embrace generative AI-powered search.”\nGartner\n\n\n\nSGE allows Google to furnish AI-generated outcomes for numerous search inquiries, prominently featured at the pinnacle of search engine results pages (SERPs). As it gains widespread usage, it is poised to revolutionize user interactions with the search engine, inevitably reshaping the landscape of site optimization for impression and traffic generation.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cAs AI evolves to improve its ability to create content, it makes sense that Google\u2019s own algorithmic AI improves right alongside these developments. With AI\u2019s growing capability of understanding audio, video, and images, Google\u2019s algorithm will get better at accurately indexing and serving multimedia content. This will add competitive pressure to SEO …\u201d\nKatie Morton, Senior Managing Growth Editor, Search Engine Journal\n\n\n\n2. An Oldie but a Goldie: UX for SEO\n\n\n\nWhether you\u2019re talking about Google\u2019s Core Web Vitals or simply a website that offers added value, User experience (UX) has always been a sort of \u201csilent partner\u201d in SEO, but it will become even more important in 2024. Google has said that UX is a ranking factor, and this is only going to become more important in the future. \u201cLoading fast\u201d is almost your Mom and Dad\u2019s UX.\n\n\n\nDoes this mean that SEOs will need to focus on creating websites that are even more easy to use, mobile-friendly, and visually appealing? Sure. Even more important, however, will be helpful content, easy to read and to share, that is optimized for the user’s specific needs and context. It\u2019s not keyword-stuffed content. It\u2019s almost personalized content.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cVisitors aren\u2019t impressed by bells and whistles; instead, focus on a great user experience. Produce quality content that engages your audience, and give them reasons to stick around on your site longer. A great user experience is what really scores points with people, it\u2019s also the same considerations that help with your Core Web Vitals scores too.\u201d\nRocket.net\n\n\n\n3. New Venues for Search like Social Media and Video Content\n\n\n\nFrom news to shopping, TikTok is becoming one of the more important social media channels — and not just with youngsters. A recent Pew Research study showed that a growing number of adults now get their news from their favorite social media channels. With TikTok and company in the search mix (1 in 3 people use social media to discover new products and brands), you have an exciting new SEO flavor that goes beyond simple blog posts.\n\n\n\nAdd to that the growing acceptance of vertical video formats and you have people spending more time on social media than ever before. The importance of video content will continue to grow in 2024. As video increases in popularity, search engines will continue to reward those websites that integrate it into their content strategy.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cGoogle might introduce new tools encouraging user-generated content (UGC) and social interactions. This move could attempt to reclaim the audience drawn to platforms like TikTok. \u2026 (their) updated SGE experience will likely change how we optimize content and engage with customers throughout their search journey.\u201d\nAleyda Solis, Google SGE Predictions\n\n\n\n4. Local Search, eCommerce, and Mobile\n\n\n\nFrom niche keywords to local businesses, to mobile shopping, evolving mobile-first search trends will continue to gain traction. Customer journeys will become more granular too, which means your small biz will have opportunities to compete in search like never before.\n\n\n\nWith more and more people using their mobile devices to search the web (almost half of those asked said they used their phone to source information or make purchases while in a shop), SEOs will need to prioritize the mobile-friendliness of their content even more. This means more than just ensuring that websites are optimized for smaller screens, fast loading speeds, and responsive designs.\n\n\n\nWhatever you call it — local, mobile, shopping, or voice search — succeeding here means understanding where your customers \u201care\u201d physically, in their buyer\u2019s journey as well as the context of their search. It really means knowing their favorite color sneakers and handing them over unlaced. From keywords to processes to content that changes the search game completely.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cGoogle\u2019s recent Helpful Content Update shows that they\u2019re serious about user experience. And that the bar for quality is only going to go up. That just means that people that produce the best stuff will eventually win out.\u201d\nBrian Dean\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nYou Don\u2019t Need a Crystal Ball: Choose The Future of Website Hosting\n\n\n\nHow will you incorporate these four SEO predictions this year? Maybe you\u2019re on the fence about your hosting company. We\u2019d love to be your partner and we help you migrate your website. Need to migrate several? We got you.\n\n\n\nStreamline your workflow by choosing a reliable, performant platform for websites of all sizes. The only question is when you\u2019d like to get going.", "date_published": "2024-01-05T15:11:31+00:00", "date_modified": "2024-01-06T05:01:36+00:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Jeff Trumble", "url": "https://rocket.net/author/jeff-trumble/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/8bd1daa25bd1ce58afd607da007b6210?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Jeff Trumble", "url": "https://rocket.net/author/jeff-trumble/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/8bd1daa25bd1ce58afd607da007b6210?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://rocket.net/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/2024-SEO-Predictions.png", "tags": [ "SEO" ] }, { "id": "https://rocket.net/?p=5631", "url": "https://rocket.net/blog/private-blog-networks-what-are-pbns/", "title": "What are PBNs? Why You Should Stay Clear of Them", "content_html": "\nBack in the wild, wild west of the world wide web, just about anything went. Everyone wanted to be listed on Ask Jeeves, Yahoo, and any directory site they could get their hands on. Then came Web 2.0. Google was all of the rage, Twitter and Facebook were on the scene, and people began to understand that they could work together to exchange clout (\u201clink juice\u201d) for their mutual benefit. That\u2019s when blogging clubs and services like Triberr came about.
\n\n\n\nThese blogging clubs are sometimes referred to as PBNs. We\u2019re not talking about Peanut Butter Nutella sandwiches. We\u2019re talking about an old-school, black-hat SEO hack. Private Blog Networks. Once a darling of SEO agencies, they\u2019re shady and we recommend steering clear of them \u2013 if you care about your long-term reputation.
\n\n\n\nEssentially private blogging networks are a series of websites set up with articles that link to one another. PBNs can be owned and operated by one agency in order to get leads or they can simply be a co-op of sorts between agencies that work together. There were much simpler days in the past where you could buy a pre-owned domain with a history of some domain authority and usually get away with it, but Private Blogging Networks are now considered 100% black-hat SEO and Google actively works against ignoring or penalizing these types of links on your website.
\n\n\n\nIt\u2019s not that you can\u2019t exchange links, it\u2019s just that you can\u2019t exchange links just to exchange links. (Wait. What?) Meaning, exchanging a link just to exchange a link tends to lower the quality of the writing. People will work in a phrase just to get the words in. With Google\u2019s Content Quality (E-E-A-T) requirements, links must be natural and supportive of the overall thesis.
\n\n\n\nIn other words, write your articles like a 7th grade persuasive essay, and you\u2019re likely to be on the right track.
\n\n\n\nAnd, heads up to affiliate marketers: if you\u2019re paid to include a link, you must include a rel=sponsored attribute tag. Otherwise, rel=nofollow is the way to go.
\n\n\n\nBacklinks must be earned to be valuable. It\u2019s like diamonds that are mined versus lab created diamonds. If you didn\u2019t find it in the ground, it\u2019s just not as valuable. People must link to your content because of the value you\u2019re giving, not because you\u2019re part of a PBN or link exchange.
\n\n\n\nWhat\u2019s the solution? Write good content. It takes work but it\u2019s worth it. Take a stand. Make your opinions known. We have done this by stating we\u2019re the fastest WordPress host. That\u2019s a statement we can back up. We\u2019ve taken a stand on cheap $3 hosting for agencies as well. Don\u2019t be afraid to have a personality.
\n\n\n\nGoogle\u2019s Spam Update doesn\u2019t make guest blogging obsolete because it\u2019s always a good thing to publish new perspectives and raise up voices. Co-marketing (influencer or brand marketing) isn\u2019t bad. Random guest posts from people without a high author score (experience, expertise) is what\u2019s bad.
\n\n\n\nInstead of cheating with PBNs, interview your clients. Be on a podcast. Don’t worry about whether it’s a follow or nofollow backlink, those will be natural backlinks at least.
\n\n\n\nReach out to people you know have expertise to bolster up your own content. They\u2019re more likely to share it and you can show your audience that you\u2019re open minded. Make a video (backlink from YouTube). Sell a WordPress plugin (backlink from WordPress.org). Write a book (backlink from Amazon.com). You get the point, but recovering from a Google Algorithm Update is usually pretty painful and not worth the risk.
\n\n\n\nYou may have been nodding your head this whole time seeing how this is pretty obvious that PBNs are spammy. Hiring a content marketing agency isn’t so easy because what\u2019s not obvious is the scores of SEO and marketing agencies who still use these shady tactics to \u201cdeliver\u201d stunning results to their clients \u2013 albeit very temporary before it eventually blows up in complete disaster.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cGoogle does its best to fight unnatural links by constantly improving its algorithms. However, black-hat communities show a lot of evidence that PBNs still work for many websites.\u201d
\nAhrefs
SEO takes time. Why? Because good SEO has to do with how people find you. SEO is affected by the volume of published words. Words on your website. Words describing images. Words on directory listings. Words on social media. Words in reviews. And then there\u2019s the technical aspects of SEO \u2013 speed, security, accessibility \u2013 good code. Words take work.
\n\n\n\nAnd don\u2019t forget that good SEO should be tied to the business\u2019s goals (revenue). You\u2019ll want realistic expectations with your content budget, ad budget, and off-page SEO budget. Having a backlink to your site from a random food blog just doesn\u2019t make sense when you\u2019re a roofer. People can spot fake.
\n\n\n\nWant white glove service? No problem. Regardless of the plan you choose, we help you migrate your website. Need to migrate several? We got you.
\n\n\n\nStreamline your workflow by choosing a reliable, performant platform for websites of all sizes. The only question is when you\u2019d like to get going.
\n\n\n", "content_text": "Back in the wild, wild west of the world wide web, just about anything went. Everyone wanted to be listed on Ask Jeeves, Yahoo, and any directory site they could get their hands on. Then came Web 2.0. Google was all of the rage, Twitter and Facebook were on the scene, and people began to understand that they could work together to exchange clout (\u201clink juice\u201d) for their mutual benefit. That\u2019s when blogging clubs and services like Triberr came about. \n\n\n\nThese blogging clubs are sometimes referred to as PBNs. We\u2019re not talking about Peanut Butter Nutella sandwiches. We\u2019re talking about an old-school, black-hat SEO hack. Private Blog Networks. Once a darling of SEO agencies, they\u2019re shady and we recommend steering clear of them \u2013 if you care about your long-term reputation.\n\n\n\nWhat Are Private Blog Networks (PBNs)\n\n\n\nEssentially private blogging networks are a series of websites set up with articles that link to one another. PBNs can be owned and operated by one agency in order to get leads or they can simply be a co-op of sorts between agencies that work together. There were much simpler days in the past where you could buy a pre-owned domain with a history of some domain authority and usually get away with it, but Private Blogging Networks are now considered 100% black-hat SEO and Google actively works against ignoring or penalizing these types of links on your website.\n\n\n\nWhy Can\u2019t You Exchange Links?\n\n\n\nIt\u2019s not that you can\u2019t exchange links, it\u2019s just that you can\u2019t exchange links just to exchange links. (Wait. What?) Meaning, exchanging a link just to exchange a link tends to lower the quality of the writing. People will work in a phrase just to get the words in. With Google\u2019s Content Quality (E-E-A-T) requirements, links must be natural and supportive of the overall thesis.\n\n\n\nIn other words, write your articles like a 7th grade persuasive essay, and you\u2019re likely to be on the right track. \n\n\n\nAnd, heads up to affiliate marketers: if you\u2019re paid to include a link, you must include a rel=sponsored attribute tag. Otherwise, rel=nofollow is the way to go. \n\n\n\nHow Do I Get Backlinks Then?\n\n\n\nBacklinks must be earned to be valuable. It\u2019s like diamonds that are mined versus lab created diamonds. If you didn\u2019t find it in the ground, it\u2019s just not as valuable. People must link to your content because of the value you\u2019re giving, not because you\u2019re part of a PBN or link exchange. \n\n\n\nWhat\u2019s the solution? Write good content. It takes work but it\u2019s worth it. Take a stand. Make your opinions known. We have done this by stating we\u2019re the fastest WordPress host. That\u2019s a statement we can back up. We\u2019ve taken a stand on cheap $3 hosting for agencies as well. Don\u2019t be afraid to have a personality. \n\n\n\nDoes Google\u2019s Spam Update Make Guest Blogging Obsolete?\n\n\n\nGoogle\u2019s Spam Update doesn\u2019t make guest blogging obsolete because it\u2019s always a good thing to publish new perspectives and raise up voices. Co-marketing (influencer or brand marketing) isn\u2019t bad. Random guest posts from people without a high author score (experience, expertise) is what\u2019s bad. \n\n\n\nInstead of cheating with PBNs, interview your clients. Be on a podcast. Don’t worry about whether it’s a follow or nofollow backlink, those will be natural backlinks at least.\n\n\n\nReach out to people you know have expertise to bolster up your own content. They\u2019re more likely to share it and you can show your audience that you\u2019re open minded. Make a video (backlink from YouTube). Sell a WordPress plugin (backlink from WordPress.org). Write a book (backlink from Amazon.com). You get the point, but recovering from a Google Algorithm Update is usually pretty painful and not worth the risk.\n\n\n\nMakes Sense. I\u2019m Not Part of a PBN.\n\n\n\nYou may have been nodding your head this whole time seeing how this is pretty obvious that PBNs are spammy. Hiring a content marketing agency isn’t so easy because what\u2019s not obvious is the scores of SEO and marketing agencies who still use these shady tactics to \u201cdeliver\u201d stunning results to their clients \u2013 albeit very temporary before it eventually blows up in complete disaster.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cGoogle does its best to fight unnatural links by constantly improving its algorithms. However, black-hat communities show a lot of evidence that PBNs still work for many websites.\u201d\nAhrefs\n\n\n\nSEO takes time. Why? Because good SEO has to do with how people find you. SEO is affected by the volume of published words. Words on your website. Words describing images. Words on directory listings. Words on social media. Words in reviews. And then there\u2019s the technical aspects of SEO \u2013 speed, security, accessibility \u2013 good code. Words take work. \n\n\n\nAnd don\u2019t forget that good SEO should be tied to the business\u2019s goals (revenue). You\u2019ll want realistic expectations with your content budget, ad budget, and off-page SEO budget. Having a backlink to your site from a random food blog just doesn\u2019t make sense when you\u2019re a roofer. People can spot fake.\n\n\n\nChoose The Future of Website Hosting\n\n\n\nWant white glove service? No problem. Regardless of the plan you choose, we help you migrate your website. Need to migrate several? We got you. \n\n\n\nStreamline your workflow by choosing a reliable, performant platform for websites of all sizes. The only question is when you\u2019d like to get going.", "date_published": "2023-11-16T19:05:02+00:00", "date_modified": "2023-12-04T16:27:25+00:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Jeff Trumble", "url": "https://rocket.net/author/jeff-trumble/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/8bd1daa25bd1ce58afd607da007b6210?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Jeff Trumble", "url": "https://rocket.net/author/jeff-trumble/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/8bd1daa25bd1ce58afd607da007b6210?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://rocket.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/private-blog-networks-PBNs.png", "tags": [ "SEO" ] }, { "id": "https://rocket.net/?p=5561", "url": "https://rocket.net/blog/should-you-buy-a-pre-owned-domain-for-seo-purposes/", "title": "Should You Buy a Pre-Owned Domain for SEO Purposes?", "content_html": "\nSo, you\u2019re in the market for a pre-owned domain? We have just what you\u2019re looking for! It only has 30,000 clicks and was owned by a little old lady in Peoria.
\n\n\n\nWhen it comes to pre-owned domains, don\u2019t let yourself be taken for a ride. Investigate the current usage of any domain you\u2019re eyeballing, identify the owner of the domain, and decide on the maximum amount you are willing to pay for it. Sounds easy enough, right? Well, let\u2019s dive deeper so you don\u2019t buy a domain clunker.
\n\n\n\nAnyone who\u2019s navigated the choppy waters of SEO (Search Engine Optimization) knows it\u2019s not just about creating killer content and hoping for the best. It\u2019s a complex dance of keywords, getting backlinks, and, surprisingly, domain history. Everyone has a history, right?
\n\n\n\nWelcome to the intriguing world of pre-owned domains and their potential SEO goldmines.
\n\n\n\nPicture this: You\u2019re browsing through the digital marketplace, and you stumble upon a domain name that\u2019s not only catchy, but also has a rich SEO history. It\u2019s like finding a hidden treasure in a sea of internet chaos. But, like any savvy marketer, you wonder, \u201cIs this too good to be true?\u201d
\n\n\n\nIn the world of SEO, a domain\u2019s history is like its digital resume. A domain with a strong backlink profile, age, and keyword relevance can be a game-changer for your SEO efforts. It\u2019s like starting a race halfway down the track. However, not all that glitters is gold.
\n\n\n\nAnd, for the record, Rocket bought the rocket.net domain.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cAfter rebranding to Rocket.net, things really started to pick up with some big influencer wins in early 2022. In one month we more than 10x the size of the business and got beyond the first 100 customers. This is crucial because this was now 100+ people talking about Rocket.net.\u201d
\nBen Gabler, CEO
Before you dive headfirst into purchasing a pre-owned domain, you need to play the domain detective. A bit of time invested, sure, but crucial nonetheless.
\n\n\n\nThis process is a lot more involved thinking a domain has magic powers and adding a bunch of ChatGPT AI content is going to bring you success. It doesn’t work that way..
\n\n\n\nHere are a few things to look out for:
\n\n\n\nTools like Wayback Machine allow you to take a peek into the domain\u2019s past life. Were the previous owners upstanding digital citizens, or was the domain part of the dark and spammy corners of the internet? Check the WHOIS History Lookup, too. It\u2019s like CARFAX for Domain Names.
\n\n\n\nLooking for a Premium tool? Then you should check out Domain Tools.
\n\n\n\nIf the domain you\u2019re looking at is all clear, you\u2019re good to go. If not, it might be time to say, \u201cAin\u2019t nobody got time for this\u201d and move on.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n“Your domain likely has some history from previous owners. But can domain history impact your Google search rankings? … Google has … consistently stated that how a domain was used in the past can be a factor in how Google treats it today.”
\nSearch Engine Journal
Have you found a clean, penalty-free domain? Now onto the transaction.
\n\n\n\nPlatforms like GoDaddy Auctions or Sedo provide a marketplace for buying pre-owned domains. But, much like any purchase, it\u2019s important to ensure everything is above board.
\n\n\n\nDouble-check the domain\u2019s history, ensure the seller is reputable, and, if possible, use an escrow service to protect your investment.
\n\n\n\nWhile the SEO benefits of a pre-owned domain are as tempting as a siren\u2019s song, don\u2019t forget the importance of branding and relevance. Does the domain align with your brand? Is it easy to remember?
\n\n\n\nIf not, you might find yourself with an SEO powerhouse that confuses your audience more than it helps your rankings. If you are looking to build a profitable niche website, does the domain name align well with other competitive sites?
\n\n\n\nAnd remember, like any good relationship, it takes time and effort. A pre-owned domain might give you a head start, but consistent, quality content and a solid SEO strategy are what will take you across the finish line.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cWhile your domain name itself isn’t considered to be a direct Google ranking factor, elements of your domain name may play into your overall SEO success. These include elements such as memorability, length, keyword usage, brand-ability, and more.\u201d
\nMoz.com
If a pre-owned domain sounds like the right move for your SEO strategy, then dive in with your eyes wide open. Do your homework, ensure the domain is clean and penalty-free, and remember that while the SEO benefits are significant, branding and relevance are the cherries on top you don\u2019t want to miss.
\n\n\n\nLet’s start the conversation.
\n\n\n\nGood job spending top dollar on that quality domain name. Now you need to protect it with quality hosting that has your back with performance, security, and support by humans.
\n\n\n\nLet\u2019s talk about how we can migrate your portfolio of client sites to Rocket.net, the fastest WordPress hosting in the world.
\n\n\n", "content_text": "So, you\u2019re in the market for a pre-owned domain? We have just what you\u2019re looking for! It only has 30,000 clicks and was owned by a little old lady in Peoria.\n\n\n\nWhen it comes to pre-owned domains, don\u2019t let yourself be taken for a ride. Investigate the current usage of any domain you\u2019re eyeballing, identify the owner of the domain, and decide on the maximum amount you are willing to pay for it. Sounds easy enough, right? Well, let\u2019s dive deeper so you don\u2019t buy a domain clunker.\n\n\n\nNavigating the World of Pre-Owned Domains: An SEO Perspective\n\n\n\nAnyone who\u2019s navigated the choppy waters of SEO (Search Engine Optimization) knows it\u2019s not just about creating killer content and hoping for the best. It\u2019s a complex dance of keywords, getting backlinks, and, surprisingly, domain history. Everyone has a history, right?\n\n\n\nWelcome to the intriguing world of pre-owned domains and their potential SEO goldmines.\n\n\n\nPicture this: You\u2019re browsing through the digital marketplace, and you stumble upon a domain name that\u2019s not only catchy, but also has a rich SEO history. It\u2019s like finding a hidden treasure in a sea of internet chaos. But, like any savvy marketer, you wonder, \u201cIs this too good to be true?\u201d\n\n\n\nWhat\u2019s the Big Deal with Pre-Owned Domains?\n\n\n\nIn the world of SEO, a domain\u2019s history is like its digital resume. A domain with a strong backlink profile, age, and keyword relevance can be a game-changer for your SEO efforts. It\u2019s like starting a race halfway down the track. However, not all that glitters is gold.\n\n\n\nAnd, for the record, Rocket bought the rocket.net domain.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cAfter rebranding to Rocket.net, things really started to pick up with some big influencer wins in early 2022. In one month we more than 10x the size of the business and got beyond the first 100 customers. This is crucial because this was now 100+ people talking about Rocket.net.\u201d\nBen Gabler, CEO\n\n\n\nIt\u2019s up to You to do Your Homework\n\n\n\nBefore you dive headfirst into purchasing a pre-owned domain, you need to play the domain detective. A bit of time invested, sure, but crucial nonetheless.\n\n\n\nThis process is a lot more involved thinking a domain has magic powers and adding a bunch of ChatGPT AI content is going to bring you success. It doesn’t work that way..\n\n\n\nWhat skeletons could a domain have in its closet, you ask? \n\n\n\nHere are a few things to look out for:\n\n\n\n\nPoor domain history: Was the domain previously used for spam or unethical practices, potentially harming reputation and SEO?\n\n\n\nLegal risks: Previous illegal activities or trademark infringement on the domain could cause issues for you as the new owner.\n\n\n\nPotential for poor backlink profile: A low Domain Authority could negatively affect SEO and website traffic.\n\n\n\n\nTools like Wayback Machine allow you to take a peek into the domain\u2019s past life. Were the previous owners upstanding digital citizens, or was the domain part of the dark and spammy corners of the internet? Check the WHOIS History Lookup, too. It\u2019s like CARFAX for Domain Names.\n\n\n\nLooking for a Premium tool? Then you should check out Domain Tools.\n\n\n\nIf the domain you\u2019re looking at is all clear, you\u2019re good to go. If not, it might be time to say, \u201cAin\u2019t nobody got time for this\u201d and move on.\n\n\n\n\n“Your domain likely has some history from previous owners. But can domain history impact your Google search rankings? … Google has … consistently stated that how a domain was used in the past can be a factor in how Google treats it today.”\nSearch Engine Journal\n\n\n\nNavigating the Purchase: The Nitty-Gritty Details\n\n\n\nHave you found a clean, penalty-free domain? Now onto the transaction. \n\n\n\nPlatforms like GoDaddy Auctions or Sedo provide a marketplace for buying pre-owned domains. But, much like any purchase, it\u2019s important to ensure everything is above board.\n\n\n\nDouble-check the domain\u2019s history, ensure the seller is reputable, and, if possible, use an escrow service to protect your investment.\n\n\n\nIt\u2019s Not Just About the SEO: Branding and Relevance Matter, Too\n\n\n\nWhile the SEO benefits of a pre-owned domain are as tempting as a siren\u2019s song, don\u2019t forget the importance of branding and relevance. Does the domain align with your brand? Is it easy to remember? \n\n\n\nIf not, you might find yourself with an SEO powerhouse that confuses your audience more than it helps your rankings. If you are looking to build a profitable niche website, does the domain name align well with other competitive sites?\n\n\n\nAnd remember, like any good relationship, it takes time and effort. A pre-owned domain might give you a head start, but consistent, quality content and a solid SEO strategy are what will take you across the finish line.\n\n\n\n\n\u201cWhile your domain name itself isn’t considered to be a direct Google ranking factor, elements of your domain name may play into your overall SEO success. These include elements such as memorability, length, keyword usage, brand-ability, and more.\u201d\nMoz.com\n\n\n\nAre You Ready to Take the Plunge?\n\n\n\nIf a pre-owned domain sounds like the right move for your SEO strategy, then dive in with your eyes wide open. Do your homework, ensure the domain is clean and penalty-free, and remember that while the SEO benefits are significant, branding and relevance are the cherries on top you don\u2019t want to miss.\n\n\n\nLet’s start the conversation.\n\n\n\nTest Drive Your Pre-Owned Domain on the Fastest WordPress Host!\n\n\n\nGood job spending top dollar on that quality domain name. Now you need to protect it with quality hosting that has your back with performance, security, and support by humans.\n\n\n\nLet\u2019s talk about how we can migrate your portfolio of client sites to Rocket.net, the fastest WordPress hosting in the world.", "date_published": "2023-11-01T13:34:24+00:00", "date_modified": "2023-12-04T16:44:15+00:00", "authors": [ { "name": "Jeff Trumble", "url": "https://rocket.net/author/jeff-trumble/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/8bd1daa25bd1ce58afd607da007b6210?s=512&d=mm&r=g" } ], "author": { "name": "Jeff Trumble", "url": "https://rocket.net/author/jeff-trumble/", "avatar": "https://secure.gravatar.com/avatar/8bd1daa25bd1ce58afd607da007b6210?s=512&d=mm&r=g" }, "image": "https://rocket.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Pre-Owned-Domains.png", "tags": [ "SEO" ] }, { "id": "https://rocket.net/?p=5543", "url": "https://rocket.net/blog/how-to-recover-from-a-google-algorithm-update/", "title": "How to Recover From A Google Algorithm Update", "content_html": "\nThe best cure is prevention, which is true both in medicine and in surviving a Google Algorithm update. You know you\u2019ll get the flu every season, so have DayQuil, chicken soup, and saltines in your pantry. But how will you know what Google\u2019s update will focus on? Well, here\u2019s another clich\u00e9: the best predictor of future behavior is past behavior.
\n\n\n\nLearn the cycles to predict corrections and updates, stay with the basics of search engine optimization, and ditch hacks.
\n\n\n\nTL:DR \u2013 Recover from a Google Algorithm Update by being prepared and professional. Don\u2019t be spammy and you won\u2019t be dinged.
\n\n\n\nUnderstanding release cycles shouldn\u2019t be a new thing for WordPress Developers. We have to pay attention to our 3-4 release cycles for WordPress Core (6.4 will be released November 7), plus plugins and themes. Oh, and PHP updates, too \u2013 which always seem to be released on American Thanksgiving. And yes, PHP 8.3.0 will be released on November 23, 2023. Imagine that!
\n\n\n\nBy analyzing the past update cycles for Google Search, you can predict what subject Google Search will focus on next. This is what Julian Goldie mentioned in his recent quick video.
\n\n\n\nWhat would be your guess at the next focus, maybe for December 2023? We\u2019re thinking Product Reviews since it was last updated in February of 2023.
\n\n\n\nFor our clients, we recommend focusing on automatic translation tools as a potential for being hit by the October update. Otherwise, avoid spammy tactics.
\n\n\n\nGoogle\u2019s Spam Policy Fights Against:
\n\n\n\nThere\u2019s so much to read in Google\u2019s Spam Policy, that it would be a good idea to refresh your memory on Google\u2019s policies. Pay attention to nuance. For example, you\u2019ve got your RankMath settings for auto \u201cnofollow\u201d turned off but you buy links or have a lot of anchored text links. Now\u2019s a good time to change those settings.
\n\n\n\nAs with every update, it\u2019s a good idea to wait a week or so to see what your specific fallout is. Maybe you forgot you published an article for a link exchange. No worries, just unpublish it.
\n\n\n\nWhen you look at the list of items that Google is focusing on, you have a Google Update Checklist. This will give you areas to focus on as you self-audit your website. It will take a few days for this update to roll out so you have time to recover from Google\u2019s Algorithm update.
\n\n\n\nKeyword Stuffing. This isn\u2019t the \u201cJustin Bieber\u201d link spam from the early 2000s either. It can easily happen with a block of text that lists service areas for a general contractor, for example. So think about how you\u2019d create a page just for certain cities instead of grouping them all on a \u201cservices\u201d page.
\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\u201cWait for the updates to hit and then go through the list.\u201d
\nJulian Goldie
Maybe you\u2019ve overly relied upon ChatGPt lately. Now, you\u2019re reeling from September\u2019s update \u2013 which eased up on AI content but still hurt you. Maybe you were refreshing old content and changing the publish date (a no-no, but people do it). Maybe you had an army of writers from third-world countries producing content.
\n\n\n\nGet back to the basics of findability. Who do you want to find you? What terms will they use to find your products? Where do you want to be seen as an expert? What topics have you shied away from? On what platform will your current and potential customers communicate?
\n\n\n\nWith SEO, you\u2019re playing on Google\u2019s Turf. It\u2019s their ball, their field, their vendors in the stand. Trying to short-cut or hack a way for them to best serve their customers (advertisers and users) is never going to help you in the long run.
\n\n\n\nGoogle wants to serve its customers content that serves to answer the question. That makes it high quality. These blog posts should show your Experience, Expertise, Authority, and Trustworthiness. That\u2019s the entire reason for creating content in the first place. Barfing out AI content just to have something to publish might fool some people some of the time, but it won\u2019t fool all people all of the time. It definitely won\u2019t fool Google\u2019s Army of Spider Bots
\n\n\n\nInstead of feeding ChatGPT random prompts, for example, use commonly asked questions from your customers as blog fodder. Answering questions from your customers is always unique and helpful content. Your customers will appreciate it and Google will reward it.
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