When you think about it, it’s remarkable that almost any piece of information is quite literally at our fingertips. With a quick Google search, we can find answers to almost any question imaginable. But have you ever stopped to think about the complex system behind those results? This wizardry is possible because of Google and its SERP tool (also known as the Search Engine Results Page).
At True North Technologies, we believe that knowledge is power and that attracting the right audiences can be your superpower. So, let's delve into the world of SERPs, explore how they're changing, and how this impacts the ways we gather information.
Go ahead, open up your browser, and type "best pizza places near lincoln nebraska" into Google. The response you’ll see is a SERP. It's a carefully curated page filled with various elements designed to finish your search in the most informative way.
The algorithm that determines which websites appear on the first page of a SERP is a closely guarded secret by Google. However, some key factors are well-known, and motivate the practices that SEO professionals follow today!
We’re only scratching the surface and Google's algorithm is constantly evolving, so check back with us in a couple of years. However, by focusing on these key elements today, small businesses can create a strong foundation for SEO success.
Traditionally, search results relied heavily on keywords. Users would string together specific terms to find the information they needed. However, Google currently focuses on understanding a search’s intent, not just its keywords and keyphrases. These efforts continually rely on increased AI and natural language integrations.
This shift towards semantic search means Google analyzes the entire context of a search query, including surrounding words and phrases. This provides a more nuanced understanding of what a searcher is truly looking for.
For example, if you type "best pizza," Google might interpret the intent as "find a highly rated pizza place near me" instead of simply listing websites containing the words "best pizza." This logic allows Google to tailor results to the user's specific needs, making searches more accurate and relevant.
That’s why if you’re a home and cooking influencer focusing on a cuisine’s best recipes, focus on a keyword like “best pizza recipes.” If a certain niche is trending, you can go further and use long-tail keywords (for example, “best new york style pizza recipes”). In this scenario, this is what your readers will search for next, and understanding their motives is crucial.
If you're a small business owner looking to improve your online visibility, contact True North Technologies today. We'll dive into your specific needs and develop a customized SEO strategy that is geared toward your digital marketing goals. Reach out to our team today and get ready to rise to the top!
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