In August 2022, Google released an algorithm update that may redefine the practices of SEO experts and digital marketers.
Namely, Google rolled out a fresh update of their algorithms that favors people-first content over SEO-optimized content. It revolves around creating valuable content for audiences — one that doesn’t just exist to rank high on search engines.
Search engine data professionals argue that Google’s decision is a response to the increased AI use, thus the algorithm update that favors content written by actual people.
Stay with us as we reveal what Google’s HCU is all about and how to stick to its newly set guidelines.
How to Adhere to Google’s HCU Guidelines
If you’re a digital marketer or work for a digital marketing company, you’re probably familiar with terms like affiliates, SEO, leads, etc. With the latest Google search algorithm change, things are about to become more user-centered.
To survive these algorithm changes and stay on top of the competition, follow our step-by-step survival guide below:
Stick to Your Main Topic
Until now, content creators had to find a way to incorporate high-volume keywords to rank a site or a platform higher in the search results. In many cases, they needed to extend their expertise to other niches besides their principal one to attract more views.
The problem with crisscrossing niches is that it confuses your target audiences. If you run a nail business and want to capitalize on a high-volume keyword related to natural remedies, users would expect to find those products, not nail designs.
With the latest update, Google asks whether you have a target audience that would find the content on your site valuable if they turned to you for assistance. SEO experts believe that this is one way for Google to tell creators to stay within their niche and capitalize on what they do best.
To make sure you fulfill Google’s updated algorithm guidelines, try answering the following questions:
- Are you creating content about topics because they are hot at the moment? Would you be doing the same if it wasn’t trending, solely for your audience’s interests?
- Is your content written in a way that only appeases search engines, or is it intended to attract actual readers?
- Are you endorsing a niche without experience or expertise and doing it only because it drives traffic?
Provide Genuine Answers to Searchers’ Queries
Google’s latest algorithm revolves around being user-centered and addressing the needs and inquiries of searchers.
To prompt you to comply with the latest algorithm update, Google advises asking yourself whether users would leave your site feeling they’ve learned enough about a topic to help accomplish their goals.
This question encourages creators to think holistically before producing material that ranks high on search engine results but doesn’t serve any purpose.
Try creating content for people rather than keywords to ensure you stick to Google’s guidelines. Help searchers find the answers to their burning questions, and let the value of your content be the reason they found your website in the first place.
Moreover, Google encourages you to answer the following question and see whether your answers are in line with the latest update of their algorithm.
- Do you stick to a specific word count because you’ve heard Google follows a particular count for words while ranking?
- Do you offer your readers enough info that answers their questions, or do they have to search for more elsewhere?
Present Yourself as a Knowledgeable Source
“Does your content clearly demonstrate first-hand expertise and a depth of knowledge (for example, expertise that comes from having actually used a product or service or visiting a place)?”
Google goes back to the basics by encouraging content creators to stick to what they know. By asking yourself the abovementioned question, you can shift your focus toward something you have experience with.
The thing about placing content to appeal to search engines is that it involves creating content revolving around products or services you might not know anything about. And that’s when you make a gap between you and your audience.
Let’s say you switch to home improvement topics because they are trending, but you are unfamiliar with them – you still might be able to drive traffic to your site. However, this traffic will be short-lived, as users will eventually see right through you.
Instead, write about what you know, choose topics that offer clear insights, and throw in some visual aids while you’re at it (original photos of the item/service work best).
Before you start writing, ask yourself the following questions, and see if your answers adhere to the essence of Google’s latest HCU:
- Are you just summarizing what’s already been established about the product/service?
- Are you offering a personal opinion or verdict?
Don’t Dab into Multiple Topics on a Single Site
Google will ask whether your site has a primary focus to remind you that websites should have a niche they operate in.
You can’t just use a website to offer everything imaginable that everyone needs. Besides being confusing to users, all sorts of niches in one website are also confusing to search engines. They will have difficulty deciphering your site’s goal.
Create your site around a single area of focus. If you offer cleaning and maintenance services – stick to that! Don’t talk about light fixtures for indoor and outdoor use just to reach a wider audience. Eventually, you’ll drive users away rather than attract them to your services.
Yet, if you’re knowledgeable on multiple topics and offer several services or products, you can always build more websites or create more pages.
Try and answer this question to help you determine your goal:
- Are you creating content about various topics, hoping some of them will rank high in search results?
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