A Brief Guide to Google’s Algorithms

Occasionally, Google makes changes in how they rank websites. It is speculated that this practice ensures diversification of search results. Google tightly guards their ranking algorithms so ultimately, all we can do is speculate. In fact, some companies even publish a weather-like report based on how volatile rankings have been over the last 24 hours. Once Google makes a change to their algorithm, it’s important to adhere in the pursuit of web relevance. Here are some of the major algorithm updates that you need to consider if you are a webmaster.

Panda

You should evaluate your website to make sure that it is not being hit by a Panda penalty. The first way that you can be hit by a Panda penalty is to have too little content. The second red flag this algorithm detects is plagiarism. Make sure that the content on your website is original. Finally, do not stuff your content with keywords as this tends to make them lose efficacy.

Penguin

Penguin continues to hurt those sites that are linking to bad websites. When it released its Search Raters Guidelines in 2018, the company made this a major point. Do not link to websites of businesses with questionable business models. If you use links on your website, make sure to check your link profile regularly and confirm that your site isn’t associated with red flags. Additionally, do not buy links, but concentrate on producing great content that people will want to share with others.

Hummingbird

This algorithm targets keyword stuffing by penalizing the repeated usage of exact keywords. With this algorithm in place, it’s important to build context around your keyword usage and not blatantly overload your blog with keywords. Google values organic usage of keywords instead of artificial bombardment.

Pigeon

The intent of Pigeon was to focus on local SEO. This algorithm was implemented in 2014 and aims to level the playing field between small and large businesses. If you’re a small business owner looking for an advantage, be sure to prove your locality. Make your proximity of operation very clear by applying to local business boards using your locality’s name on your website. Ensure that your company’s name, contact information, address, and hours of operation consistent among all online platforms on which you operate. Being small has its perks, so be sure to take advantage of this algorithm.

Running a website can be very difficult with constant changes in the web marketing landscape. Contact REK Marketing and Design about your web development needs here in Orlando. Their team of professionals will be glad to audit your website and suggest ways that you can improve on your web development in Orlando.