Danny Sullivan from Google dropped a truth bomb that’s pretty simple but kinda huge. he recently said “Virtually everything someone asks about what Google wants, the touchstone is “Is this what your reader / audience wants?” Because that is what Google wants. “
He expounded on the idea on X by writing:
I have done a few before. Might do as time allows. The difficulty is that people can misinterpret as criticism (perhaps even as harsh criticism) rather than it really meant as "Hey, maybe this is helpful feedback" -- especially as posts can be so impersonal sounding.
— Google SearchLiaison (@searchliaison) January 30, 2024
I worry…
We'd like you to make satisfying content that people want. Something that if someone reads, they go, "fantastic!" That was amazing. Listing 100 different ranking factors honestly won't get you to that. Eventually, I'd really like to finally get a document out that explores all…
— Google SearchLiaison (@searchliaison) February 7, 2024
1. WHAT ARE GOOGLE'S E-E-A-T GUIDELINES ANYWAY?
Google’s E-E-A-T guidelines are like a checklist to make sure web pages are up to the task of enhancing both your seo strategy and Google search rankings.
Here’s the breakdown: Experience, Expertise Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness
First-Hand Experience: The new kid on the block. It’s not just book smarts—Google’s search algorithm also digging whether the writer’s got real-world chops and personal know-how on the subject.
Expertise: Is the person writing this stuff actually have a depth of knowledge or personal experience on the topic? Google wants to see content created by folks who know their stuff.
Authoritativeness: Got any credibility? This is about whether the writer or site is seen as a go-to source in their niche. Think of it as the internet’s seal of approval from other big shots in the area.
Trustworthiness: Can we take this content to the bank? It’s all about whether the site and its info are legit and on the level.
Put simply, Google uses these guidelines to give us the good stuff—accurate, reliable, and credible info for you audience’s search queries.
2. WHAT DOES THIS HAVE TO DO WITH GOOGLE'S UPDATE?
Think of people-first content like having a convo with your audience.
There’s no Google secret.
It’s all about written pieces of content (or whatever type of content, really) that real people actually want to interact with, not just articles or content written stuffed with keywords to climb up the Google ladder. Google’s on a mission to make sure when we hit up search, we get content that’s legit useful and satisfying.
3.WHAT IS HELPFUL CONTENT?
Okay, so there’s a ton of content out there made by AI – and not gonna lie, Google’s not a fan. They’re calling it spam. How will they tell what’s made by real people? It’s all about the quality. If it reads like it’s just there to fill space, Google’s not having it.
4.TIPS FOR KEEPING IT REAL WITH YOUR CONTENT
You’re a digital marketer who wants to write stuff that’s both cool for your readers and still gets love from Google, right? Here’s the skinny on how to do that:
- Stick to What You Know: Write about things you’re into and know a lot about. It shows, and both your peeps and Google will appreciate it.
- Be the Answer Guru: When someone’s Googling a question, be the one with the answers. Make sure they’re clear and on point, or Google’s gonna give you the side-eye.
- Make It a Sweet Read: It’s not just about the info; it’s how you dish it out. Make your readers glad they clicked on your page.
5.COOL THINGS THAT HAPPEN WHEN YOU WRITE FOR PEOPLE
When you start creating content with your readers in mind, some pretty awesome things happen:
- They’ll Trust You More: Real talk builds real trust. It’s that simple.
- They’ll Stick Around: Connect with your readers, and they’re more likely to come back for more.
- You’ll Stand Out: Be you, not a keyword robot, and your content will shine brighter than the rest.
- Your Brand Gets Buff: Your brand gets stronger with every piece of genuine content you put out there.
- More Clicks to Cha-Ching: When you’re all about what your readers want, they’re more likely to take action.
So, with this new update, take a good look at your content. If it feels like it’s trying too hard to win over Google’s algorithms, it’s time for a change.
6.GOOGLE'S TWO CENTS: KEEP IT REAL FOR YOUR USERS
Danny Sullivan from Google keeps saying it: focus on what your users want, and you’re golden. Forget about trying to decode the algorithm and just make sure you’re giving people what they came for.
Here’s some reactions to his input:
It's all subjective and we can see it with Google's ranking at the moment in France, for example, the media with partnerships have taken up a lot of space, government sites with questionable content, sites that make no effort at all - in short, between what you say and reality,…
— Fabien SEO ✳️ (@fabienr34) February 16, 2024
With all due respect you can't just do what users want or you don't hit on ranking signals. G needs to stop pretending G doesn't have ranking signals. You have them. Please stop telling SEOs all they have to do is create good content because that's not all they have to do. 😜
— Kristine (@schachin on Threads/Spoutible) 🇺🇦 (@schachin) February 16, 2024
IN A NUTSHELL...
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