Content and Search Engine Optimization

January 30, 2015 by

After Google’s latest update of the Panda search algorithm, webmasters and developers are faced with the fact that Google is on a mission to raise the quality level of websites it indexes. What Google is looking for is content that is relevant, authoritative, and well written.

Content That is Relevant

First, relevant content is just that, content that provides the visitor with answers to their query. A searcher looking for information on exotic, beachfront vacation spots will not be happy if they land on your site and it is a blog about Civil War reenactments. Your content must be optimized with keywords that accurately represent the concept of your website. You must write for your audience not the search engine.

Content That is Authoritative

Second, authoritative content is just that; content that has external links and comments that extoll the level of information provided. In-depth posts on subjects that visitors are looking for, or white papers on issues important to them, are examples of authoritative content. This does not mean you have to writ an encyclopedic tome on the meaning of life, but you need to present your content with the certainty that it will be accepted as factual.

Content That is Well Written

Third, your content must be well written. This is a no brainer but poor writing is constantly present on numerous websites. Good writing is essential for attracting visitor, holding their interest, and hopefully, gaining their trust as a reliable source of information. If your goal is to sell a product, then convincing them to a conversion with your content is the objective. If you are developing an information site, being seen as a reliable source of news and information is your goal, and converting subscribers is the goal.

Remember the Goal

Whatever your intentions are for your website, finding and attracting visitors is the goal. By presenting content that the Google algorithm reads as meeting its standards will go a long way in enhancing your search engine results. Remember, you want to write to tell a story. That story should be aligned with the audience you are trying to convert. Write for the user’s intent, not yours.

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