Google Planning Changes to Search Algorithm
Google is planning to make changes to its search engine ranking algorithm. Few activities of black hat SEO spammers seems to force Google to make these changes.
We often find links of malicious web pages in the top search results of Google. According to insider sources, the proposes changes are meant to fight these spate of links. Black Hat SEOs have been using techniques to manipulate search rankings during the past few months. They were successful to a certain level find top search queries and create targeted webpages to drive web traffic. Google Trends was being used for the success of this activity.
They became very disturbing during the last few months and this helped Google to decide on making changes to its algorithm. Sources at Google indicated that a ranking change is pending that tackles spam of this kind. Once the change goes live, users shouldn’t see it “nearly as often.”
Google's response to this issue looks like an admission of how difficult it is to provide fresh, timely search results and combating spammers at the same time. As Google have no control over the content appearing in its search results, these spammy websites have no issues to intrude into the top results. World wide web had become more dynamic during the last few years and this is a challenge for all search engines and search engine optimization specialists across the globe.
It is not evident from the statements at Google about the changes and consequences precisely. In order to understand this properly, we will have to keep a watch on Google's search results for the coming days.
SEO is gaining much more importance at this point. Let us hope for the best and keep a close look to the updates.
Labels: google, google trends, search engine optimization, search engine rankings, seo
  |
Google Implements Longer Snippets
Google announced changes to its search engine results. This change involves use of longer snippets when users input queries more than two keywords. The objective behind this move is that of providing more context to help user determine if the website is worth to visit. Google is not the first search engine to attempt the issue. Many search engines have attempted to address this using visual tools or previews.
It is not easy to predict how longer snippets are going to affect user behavior. However, it may create an awareness to put longer queries over time. As we know, longer queries will surely lead to better and more targeted results if search engine optimisation is done precisely..
Along with the announcement of longer snippets, Google also announced another significant change related to the acquisition of Orion search technology which was announced by Google in 2006. It was not launched to the public till now.
Refinements will be improved now and start appearing more frequently and that too at the top of pages. These changes are being launched globally in 37 languages in Google.
Google describes how the new refinements will be in the following way:
Starting today, we’re deploying a new technology that can better understand associations and concepts related to your search, and one of its first applications lets us offer you even more useful related searches (the terms found at the bottom, and sometimes at the top, of the search results page).
Let us hope for the best and look ahead for this as a positive aspect for our clients to acquire more targeted leads and business.
Subscribe to our blogs through RSS feeds and keep yourself updated!
Labels: google, keywords, search engine optimization, search engine rankings, search engines
| |
Top 10 Video Sharing Sites
In one of the previous posts, we have discussed about the increased popularity of online videos and video optimization strategies.
Video have become a great way for getting popularity in the web and it is becoming an essential part of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) as well as Sponsored Search or PPC. This helps companies to expose their products in a better way which is appealing and attract users with greater effect. Small and large businesses are marketing their products, service and brand introductions through videos.
It is seen that corporates are using online video as a medium for announcements of product features and events. This has increased the amount of business to companies during the past one or two years.
We can certainly expect more and more video results in the SERP (Search Engine Result Pages) of Google with the launch of Google Universal Search. There is a lot of unwanted or useless videos pretending to be informative even though it isn't. However, the effect of online video on increase in sales surpasses all these facts and seems quite explosive. There is also an increase in users looking for better quality videos and this is to grow in the coming days.
There are plenty of websites offering the service of video sharing and marketing. Please find a list of top performing video sharing sites where you can share or market your videos for free:
As video optimization is an important aspect of SEO, you should optimize it by understanding the target audience and how they would like to engage with your online video. Don't post a video just for the sake of posting it, instead consider the need and perception of your visitors.
Labels: google, online video, search engine optimization, search engine rankings, video optimization, video search
| |
Branding - A Key Factor for Google Rankings
This is one of the hot discussions happening in the search marketing industry. It started with Google CEO Eric Schmidt commenting on cleaning up Internet which is a Cesspool referring to the content quality and abundant false information that is existing in it.
He clarified that “Brands are the solution, not the problem...Brands are how you sort out the cesspool.” It is no more the hype that need to be ranked, but if you need to increase the rank, you should improve on the relevance of your content.
Referring to this, it is now Aaron Wall of SEO Book who had come up with a detailed analysis with his own experience since he got into Search Marketing and SEO. He is explaining various aspects right from Florida update and using various findings in the past.
It is not possible to build a brand at once, as the process of brand building is quite time consuming. Other factors that can come into play include use of longtail keywords, relevancy of content and so on. It might be due to the fact that brands will retain unique content, Google is considering branding as the important factor for better search rankings.
Let us research on more aspects of search rankings by giving due consideration to pioneers in search marketing like Eric Schmidt, Aaron Wall and others.
Please share your comments!
Labels: aaron wall, branding, content writing, eric schmidt, google, google ceo, keywords, search engine optimization, search engine rankings, search marketing, seo, seo book
| |
Video Search Optimization and Search Marketing Strategies
Yes, growing popularity of online videos is the buzzword in today's web scenario. Internet users are watching online video content at a surprisingly higher rate than predicted earlier. Rather, awareness about producing and sharing video have increased globally in the last few years.
Video can be more effective than any other mode of communication. Moreover, it gains more importance in the Internet as the users can comment about the videos they see. The publisher can reply and get in touch with the queries of the user more interactively than in the case of conventional television audience. In order the exploit the current trend of video optimization, you should know few tips and techniques. Few of them are:
- Have keyword rich transcript and title for your videos
- Be sure to include 'video' among the keywords, as this will help you in search engine positioning
- Get referred by others or other websites (Get back links for your video from other websites)
- If you have more than one video in your website, create a sitemap of all your videos
- Ensure that you have a keyword friendly URL structure for your video in your website
- Keep a good thumbnail for your video as it the first thing that a visitor will see when trying to access your video
- Allow people to submit their comments or feedback, so that you can ensure better quality of your video
So it is going to be an era of online video coming up with video search engines like ovguide.com getting increasing popularity. It is no more just publishing videos in youtube, yahoo or google videos, it is going to be video search optimization.
Labels: google, keywords, online video, search engine rankings, search engines, search marketing, video optimization, video search, yahoo
| |
Rise of Personalized Search
We have seen the ups and downs of technology and businesses. The experience of modern Internet and information technology has gained much importance during the last decade and is still continuing to rule the world.
It was the era of web 2.0 that dominated over online marketing during the past few years. This is modern day revolution with rapid changes and the latest buzzword is personalized search. The search engines are transforming themselves into more user friendly, targeted and interactive than ever before. The rise of personalized search is very relevant in this context.
It is not just Google this time. Yahoo also joins the bandwagon of personalization. Google's personalized search is already out to the public from the labs and Yahoo with their 'Search Builder'. Yahoo's move gives much competition to search startups like Eurekster, Rollyo and so on, as it gives options to customize the search engines.
Google's personalized search reorders the SERP (search engine results page) based on the history of previous searches, giving more weight to content that is of interest to the user. However you need to sign in with your Gmail account to make use of this.
As the search engines are becoming more competent in finding the right results for its users, it is the user who is on the winning edge. However, it is SEO experts who are in the mode gearing up with more powerful or proactive ways of optimization. On one hand, they benefit from the fact that the users will get multiple results and will ensure quality business. They'll need to get more broad and will have to switch between personalized, local and universal search.
It is nice time coming up for the web enthusiasts, as web world is getting more interesting and focused.
Please do share your comments!
Labels: gmail, google, local search, personalized search, search builder, search engine rankings, seo, SERP, universal search, yahoo
| |
Removing site from Google search results
Some webmasters might be wondering if it is possible to remove the content of another website from the search listings of Google. However, this is not the case always.
Google allows the webmasters to solve the issue by consensus or mutual understanding. They ask the webmaster questioning the listing to contact the webmaster of the site which is in question.
To the contrary, Google might consider a removal request of the website from its listings in case there exist certain conditions.
The conditions in which they are problem sites or problem content can be listed as below:
- If the site is engaged in spam
- If the site is engaged in buying or selling links that pass PageRank
- If the content need to be removed from Google's index because of a copyright infringement which will need a DMCA takedown request
- If the site is infected with malware or malicious software
- If the webmaster does not make the changes after you request and the page contains your personal or private information
In all these cases you may contact Google through their URL removal tool.
We should inform Google about a URL or content from the search results, if we find any unethical SEO technique being used by the webmaster. This will ensure that all the sites in the web get equal treatment and follow professional as well as ethical methods.
Hats off to all SEO folks who follow White Hat techniques for optimization!!
Labels: google, search engine rankings, search engines, seo, SERP, webmasters
| |
Is “Google Dance” happening now?
"Google Dance" is the term that in the past was used to describe the ups and downs during the period that a major index update of Google search engine gets implemented. The Google database exists on many servers spread throughout the world. A large update of the Google databases can take several days. This happens in case of organic or free listings and not for sponsored or paid listings.
A Google dance is when the Google servers are out of sync with one another. Your web site could be the #2 result for your main keywords on one Google server, and the #9 result on another.
Since August 2003, the famous / infamous Google Dance is no more. Rather, it has become less dramatic. Google now performs updates every week, with most movement occurring on Mondays. These ongoing updates feature mostly minor search algorithm and index updates. Hence, it does happen even now.
There will be minor changes in rankings each month. This is because Google's bot or spider is always running and looking for new updates in the web. It also happens because the bot may have detected that a website no longer exists, and needs to be deleted from the index of Google.
At the time of dance, Google spiders will revisit each website, figure out how many sites link to it, and how many it links out to, and how valuable these links are.
Hence, let us sharpen our Search Engine Optimization efforts on a regular basis to match up with regular updates and changes to Google search algorithm. This will in turn help in mastering over the search results (SERP).
Labels: google, search engine optimization, search engine rankings, SERP
| |
Hallelujah - It's Raining links!
Off late I've seen a surge of interest among website owners to chase for links and more links. Yes, it seems like recession is taking the heat on webmasters to focus on the juicy links! Well this idea isn't new, in fact its been around for some time. This process is simple, all it takes is to offer online users some free utility, tool or information and lure then to link to your site. This is known as Link Baiting.
You can compare link baiting to what anglers do to attract prized catch. Similar to attractive baits used by anglers to lure fishes, webmasters use link baiting strategy to get higher ranking in search engines. Sounds easy, but with with millions of sites clamoring for attention, the lure used should be unique and attractive.
Link baiting is an excellent technique to improve the strength of your web page. The more links point to your site, higher your site stand to gain in search ranking. Thus link popularity can have dramatic effect on your site rank gains you good positing in search engine results page.
Now, let's examine the common ideas used to bring in more links:
- Research report
- White paper
- Freebies and gifts
- An online tool/ calculator
- Online contests
- Online widget
- Small program to help online users
Good luck and happy link baiting!Labels: link baiting, link building, search engine rankings, SERP
| |
How to weather Google storm
Reading from multitude of webmaster forums, will no doubt cause you to wonder how to forecast Google's next move. With many clients on your toe, it's but natural for you to to carry this concern about how optimization can bear fruit.
With frequent changes in Google algorithm it's not a pleasant sight to see your site dancing in the search engine results page. So, how well can you weather shield from unpredictable fluctuation in Google's algorithm.
While there are many strategies you can adopt, let's explore two simple facets:
Befriend Google
Do not consider Google as your nemesis neither try to circumvent around the Google algorithms with unethical practices. Instead, take a long term approach to ensure consistent listing on Google's SERP.
The underlying fact to achieve high ranking is to base your site with quality content, good navigation and appropriate design. The bottom line is to make the site useful for your users by providing quality information and ensure increased customer interaction using web 2.0 techniques. Make use of reliable on-page and off-page techniques to bring your site on the radar of search engines.
Avoid excesses
Webmasters often commit the mistake of flooding the websites with too many SEO tactics. Apply all techniques in moderation, whether it relates to linking, content, tags, keywords density etc. Slow and steady use of all SEO activities is the sure fire way to lead up in the charts of search engines.
Closing thoughts
As an ethical webmaster, know the boundaries of overindulgence and right mix of strategies. Keep away from the “blackhat” techniques and stay firmly with “white hat” for success.
Labels: google, search engine optimization, search engine rankings, seo, SERP
| |
Drop in Google PageRank : Bad links or new algorithm
All went well for our website until one fine day we found to our dismay that our PageRank has dipped from 7 to 5. We pondered on what possibly could go wrong with our site. On querying further on the swings in Google PageRank, I found that many others share the same cup of woes.
Delving deeper into the heart of Google PageRank , I found that many factors play a role in PageRank. For the benefit of folks, I post the three main reasons and how you can insulate from such rude shocks.
Low Page Rank/link popularity:
Link from quality websites to your site can fetch high PageRank. If your site's PageRank depends on one major site link then any changes in that site can adversely effect your page rank.
Solution: Diversify or create multiple links with smaller sites so the loss from one will not effect the PageRank in a major way.
Change in the Search Engine Ranking Algorithm:
Search engines regularly modify the page rank algorithms. Changes to algorithms are done to improve the search capabilities and to remove sites using “black hat” techniques to get ahead in SERP. Google usually makes changes all through the year and other search engines like Yahoo follows bi-yearly pattern.
Solution: One of the accepted way to fight changes in algorithm is to focus your site on your customer needs. Provide quality content and base your website on sound usability principles.
Bad Bad Neighbors, wrong links:
While Google rewards sites with good number outbound links, it can also penalize sites for the wrong choice of bad outbound links. Outbound links to sites practicing unethical SEO techniques can invite penalty or it can result in loss of index with search engines.
Solution: Keep a safe distance with sites low on the rungs of reputation. Tread with caution when you create outbound links. Similar to our social network, check the site's reputation before you collaborate with an unknown site.
Labels: Google PageRank, PageRank, search engine rankings
| |
Google SERP changes revealed
Is SEO changing its focus point to Google? More and more posts and articles are circling around discussions about changes happening with Google. Does this mean Google have already taken monopoly and will play around with world wide web?
However, as it goes we are not left with any choice other than discussing about Google SERP changes. The current scenario or situation in the global web arena demands this.
Reports from various sources suggests that there are differences in huge numbers in results found on Google. For searches performed in the middle of the day, you may get 1 million results. Later in the day, the same search may find 2 million results. This may occur due to querying different datacenters (though that number is pretty large even to me). This might also happen due to capitalization issues.
Another important aspect that needs attention is that few of the indexed pages seems disappearing from the SERP. These pages were previously filtered 4-7 pages deep due to duplicate meta descriptions. This might come back if there are no major changes being done to the site.
Moreover, on page factors of SEO are becoming more relevant as compared to off-page factors. Looking forward to others reporting similar analysis.
Labels: google, search engine optimization, search engine rankings, search engines, seo, SERP
| |
Significance of Link Building
How can you channel quality visitors from other websites to your websites? One quick way in Search Engine Optimization (SEO), to bring in prospects is through Link building.
Search engine values those links that come to your site from other websites. It’s a sure fire way to fetch high ranking and importance in the eye of major search engines. Meaning, you should be working hard to attain quality links from other sites that have high page rank and is trusted by high quality sites.
So, how do you solicit links from other sites?
Make your web site rich with informative content and value source for users. This would result in repeated visits and more time in your site from online visitors. Your efforts must focus on providing relevant and updated information for your website.On the other hand, other websites too will note the traffic and wealth of quality info in your site and take steps to link with your site.
Now what are you waiting for? Start working to make your site in the way your users would like to see and you could see more links from other sites.
Labels: link building, search engine optimization, search engine rankings, search engines, seo
| |
Selecting More Specific Keywords - For Better Search Engine Ranking and Targeted Visitors
In the process of Search Engine Optimization, keyword analysis and choosing right keywords plays vital role to get more targeted visitors and better search engine ranking. So when you are on the process of keyword selection always try more specific keywords which describe your business better and particularly what your target audience can type in search box to find your product or service.
If you are selecting more business related keywords your Key Word Effectiveness Index (KEI) will be high, in other words search volume will be good and your competitor will be less in comparison to generic keywords.
For instance if you are selecting keyword for your old car sailing site always it is better to target keywords like used cars, used cars for sale, second hand cars, second hand cars for sale or give particular geographical location like San Francisco, Florida or New York instead of targeting the generic keyword like Cars or Cars for sale.
Instead of going for high search volume keyword it is always better to choose such a key phrase, which represent not only your service or product better but also your search engine ranking will be higher. It is always better to drive 100 visitors per day and to get 75 conversions instead of driving 1000 visitors per day and no conversion.
Labels: keywords, search engine optimization, search engine rankings, seo
| |
Benefits of Business Blogs
Blogs are fast becoming the face of industry houses globally. They offer an easy option to interact with the clients. Here are some of the many benefits that business blogs offer you.
Easy and Inexpensive
The words easy and inexpensive attract every business manager! A blog is very easy to setup and it doesn’t cost you much. When you look at the benefits that blogs offer, it is a definite win-win situation for all.
Search Engine Friendly
Blogs offer you the chance to get on top of the search engine rankings. Search engine crawlers prefer regularly updated web content to stagnant content. You also get the option to stuff more keywords in the blogs.
Highly Interactive
The blogs offer you a chance to interact with your clients and vise-versa. This helps in building stronger customer relationships.
Better Customer Service
Blogs also give another platform for customers to interact directly with you. This reduces the number of complaint calls and mails.
Labels: blogs, business blogs, customer service, search engine friendly, search engine rankings
| |
