Google’s recent spam policy update is more than just a mere tweak. It is a much-awaited refinement that is designed to foster a safer and more authentic web ecosystem. To navigate this new terrain, we’ve picked out ten key takeaways to help you steer clear of what Google really detests.
Treat bots and users the same
Duplicity in content presentation is a cardinal sin. Creating content for Google’s bots and serving different content to users can lead to dire consequences.
Don’t be one dimensional
Creating landing pages or websites that exist purely to rank for a specific term is frowned upon. For instance, locksmith services with individual websites for each city that all lead back to the same page. The one-track-minded approach is not what Google likes.
Play safe
Security is no joke to Google. If your site is hacked and tampered with, waving the white flag won’t save you. As website owners, it’s your duty to ensure your site is secure to avoid any penalty, including possible delisting from Google’s search results.
Don’t use hidden keywords
Those clever enough to hide “cloud security” twenty times in white font on a white background to climb Google’s rankings should think again. Hidden content and links shown only to Google’s crawlers are a major red flag.
Keyword Stuffing is out
The age-old trick of inflating your content with a barrage of keywords, regardless of context, no longer works. Google’s algorithm has become smarter and keyword stuffing will only harm your rankings. Write for the users, not the bots. Focus on providing value rather than taking shortcuts to rankings.
Don’t do link spamming
Google frowns upon any tactics aimed at acquiring links unnaturally. This includes buying links, reciprocal linking, using tools to create links, and directory submissions, to name a few.
Yes, links are important, but unnatural methods can attract penalties. Instead, aim to create value that makes people naturally want to link to your site.
Act honestly and provide genuine value
Avoid using tools that mimic website traffic or generate content devoid of real value. If you are borrowing content from other sources, add unique value to it. Google can tell the difference.
Don’t deceive
Never use malware or misrepresent functionality. Misdirecting users to different destinations than where the search engine bots land is unethical and harmful.
Write original content
Thin affiliate content, which merely lists products with unoriginal descriptions, will not do you any favors. While not all affiliate sites are deemed spammy, those that lack original content risk being penalized.
Understanding and adhering to these guidelines indicate your commitment to ethical practices. Google’s rules may seem overwhelming but they are designed with one overarching purpose – to eliminate manipulation and foster a fairer search world, a goal we can all align with.
Bear in mind, while Google aims to create an unbiased and user-friendly ecosystem, they also have a business agenda. But, that’s a topic for another blog post.
With these insights, you’re better equipped to navigate the post-update landscape, ensuring your website thrives while respecting the ethos of a clean, quality internet.
