2016 has been an intense year for Google and the world of SEO. It’s been three months since the transition of 2016 to the year 2017. A new year means new time for trends to boom.
A big shift from desktop to mobile
Back then, all websites are developed to have a functional interface for desktops and computers. But as times change and the technology advances, the more avenue are created for people to connect to the web. Due to its compact size and cool features, a lot of people owns a mobile device and prefer it as their main source of connecting to the internet.
Now, there’s a shift from desktop to mobile. Mobile-first indexing was announced and it aims to prioritise mobile since mobile usage topples over the use of computers and laptops. According to research, mobile search became a bigger source because it brings more traffic to websites.
Mobile devices introduced different features which mobile apps can incorporate within its use. It has also boomed the social media industry. To keep up with the trend for 2017, websites should have a responsive design meant for mobile. Outdated websites do not have a good interface that shows compatibility to mobile.
Cross-channel marketing
Using different means to market the website will also be a part of the trend for 2017. This means several channels are being used to market a brand, product, or service in an integrated way. It is one of the effective ways to persuade users to buy even if they did not convert on one channel. This can be done for potential customers browsing products from the mobile app. If they decided not to buy, ads based on their search can be sent through their email or social media platform.
Snippet and rich-answer content
People often turn to Google to look for answers. Search engines are often used for queries. In response, Google displays the required information directly in the search results. Answers may come in different forms such as website URLs, videos, movie, reviews, event information or specific dates.
For website owners, structured data markup (schema markup) can be used to achieve improved listings on search engine result pages (SERPs). This tool assists the search engines in understanding the content that is posted on the website. In that way, it allows them to show the essential information that can be helpful for the users.
Optimising the website for user intent
Search engines are getting better at identifying user intent which they can include in their search results. Webmasters must place value on optimising their digital content. It will be done by basing on intent instead of a specific keyword.
Study what the users are searching for that brings them to your page. Make sure that you have the content to answer their queries. Once you gathered the information you needed, find the areas that need improvement. Make the necessary changes to boost the ratings. To boost or retain a good ranking, check what’s working and what isn’t then update it accordingly.
SEOs and webmasters are formulating new trends to keep up with the competition and optimise their websites. You may check out these trends and apply it to your strategy.
