SEO is constantly evolving, and staying ahead requires adapting to algorithm changes and user behavior trends. Here's a list of top SEO techniques expected to work in 2024:
1. Prioritize E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness)
- Enhance Credibility: Build backlinks from authoritative websites and showcase credentials on your site.
- Demonstrate Experience: Include reviews, testimonials, and case studies.
- Author Bios: Clearly display author information to build trust.
2. Focus on Core Web Vitals
- Loading Speed: Optimize for faster page load times.
- Interactivity: Improve metrics like First Input Delay (FID).
- Visual Stability: Minimize layout shifts (Cumulative Layout Shift or CLS).
3. Optimize for AI and Voice Search
- Conversational Keywords: Incorporate long-tail and question-based phrases.
- Structured Data: Use schema markup to enhance rich results and make your content easier for search engines to understand.
- Natural Language Content: Write in a way that mimics how people speak to accommodate voice searches.
4. Leverage Video SEO
- Optimize Metadata: Add compelling titles, descriptions, and tags.
- Host on the Right Platforms: Use platforms like YouTube or self-host with SEO-friendly video players.
- Transcriptions and Captions: Provide transcripts and subtitles for better accessibility and ranking.
5. AI-Driven Content Strategy
- Use AI tools to:
- Identify trending topics.
- Optimize for semantic search.
- Generate content outlines based on audience needs.
- Ensure human oversight to maintain quality and authenticity.
6. Hyperlocal SEO
- Google Business Profile: Regularly update and optimize your listing.
- Local Keywords: Include location-specific phrases in your content.
- Local Backlinks: Collaborate with local businesses or organizations for links.
7. Optimize for Mobile-First Indexing
- Ensure a responsive design that adapts to all devices.
- Keep clickable elements user-friendly for mobile.
- Avoid intrusive interstitials (pop-ups that block content)
8. Advanced Keyword Targeting
Move beyond traditional keywords to:
- Target semantic search queries.
- Use topic clusters to cover related subtopics comprehensively.
- Leverage LSI keywords for more contex
9. Engage Users with Interactive Content
- Add elements like quizzes, calculators, polls, and interactive infographics.
- Increase dwell time and engagement, signaling value to search engines.
10. Focus on Zero-Click Searches
- Optimize for featured snippets, People Also Ask (PAA), and knowledge panels.
- Use FAQ schema to increase chances of appearing in rich results
11. Build and Strengthen Backlinks
- Focus on earning contextual links from reputable sources.
- Create linkable assets like research studies, infographics, and comprehensive guides
12. Monitor and Leverage User Intent
- Understand the intent behind search queries: informational, navigational, transactional, or commercial.
- Align content strategy to match user intent at each stage of the buyer journey.