Quick answer: it does. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) still matters significantly. However, what worked before doesn’t work anymore. The focus of SEO has shifted from traditional methods to prioritising user experience, the richness of content, and its credibility. The blog will explore tips and best practices for SEO success in 2024.

SEO is Evolving: Stay Updated

Search engines like Google and Bing use complex algorithms to rank websites. These algorithms consider a multitude of factors, from keywords to site speed, and they are constantly updated. Each update requires your SEO strategy to adapt, and it takes time for search engines to re-crawl and re-index your site. SEO has been around for almost as long as Google, so you can imagine how much it's changed over the years. Thus, it's not a one-size-fits-all kind of deal; it's always morphing and adapting.

Now it continues to evolve. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning changing search engine algorithms at a faster speed than ever before. Keeping adapted with each algorithm update and making appropriate changes is crucial for developing SEO-effective strategies.

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User-Centric Approach for Ranking

To achieve higher rankings on Google's Search Engine Results Page (SERP), it's now essential to centre our content creation and web page optimization around the user. This means enhancing the user experience and delivering content that aligns with what the user is searching for.

Implement a responsive design to ensure your website is optimised for mobile users, guaranteeing quick loading times on mobile devices. Minimise the use of pop-ups and intrusive advertisements that can disrupt the user experience. Allocate funds towards developing clear navigation and prominently displayed call-to-actions.

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Voice and Visual Search for SEO

Voice search is experiencing a significant surge, largely driven by the increasing adoption of smart speakers and virtual assistants. Adapting SEO strategies to this trend is essential for market relevance. Optimise your content for spoken-word search queries that are commonly used by your audiences. Prioritise creating content suitable for featured snippets, which are often read aloud in voice search responses, and develop FAQ-style content.

Video content is also a major trend. Once you've identified your target keywords, enhance your video production and distribution for your SEO strategy. However, do not be limited to just YouTube. There are plenty of social media platforms, such as Instagram Reels and TikTok, that now support short-form video content, playing a significant role in your SEO strategy. For example, enhance your videos with metadata and descriptions containing your target keywords, aiding search engines in quickly comprehending your content and improving your site's ranking.

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Optimising Local Search

Local SEO continues to be a vital aspect of digital marketing. For businesses serving local communities, the impact of local SEO is particularly significant. With users increasingly looking for products and services near their homes, local SEO remains a highly effective strategy. Your Google Business Profile (GBP) often creates the first impression for potential customers. Here are key areas to focus on:

  1. Optimise it thoroughly by selecting the appropriate business category, crafting a compelling description, uploading attractive photos, and listing accurate business hours.
  2. Use schema markup to enhance search engines' understanding and indexing of your site. This includes adding specific details such as business hours, location, services offered, and reviews on your website.
  3. If your target audience is on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat, ensure your business has a strong presence there. Include essential business information such as location and hours, and consistently post content that resonates with your customers.

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Reference:

https://backlinko.com/seo-this-year

https://mikekhorev.com/seo-trends

https://www.semrush.com/blog/future-of-seo/#4--focus-on-topical-authority

https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/future-seo-predictions-strategies-2024-infiraise-he12f/

https://www.searchlogistics.com/learn/seo/is-seo-dead/

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