Why is Genuine User Content Becoming More Important for SEO?

Search engine optimisation is a foundational part of marketing. However, it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest requirements for ranking high in search engines. Google recently released an update about spam, which will alter the way some websites are ranked in search engines. This update highlighted the demand and need for more genuine user content from businesses and websites.

Keep reading to learn more about Google’s update, genuine user content, and why this kind of content is more important than ever.

Google Spam Update

In October 2022, Google released an update about how they will handle spam. Their update states that the Google search engine will begin ranking websites that violate their spam policy lower or not at all. The update is meant to filter out spam from search results and boost more transparent and credible sources. 

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Some examples of websites that would violate Google’s spam policy include websites that use cloaking, or which market differently to the user and the search engine to mislead users into viewing a webpage. Websites that use hidden links or text also violate Google’s spam policy. If your website has seen a reduction in views since October, you may be violating Google’s spam policy and thus, be ranking lower.

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This update is meaningful to businesses, organisations, and other initiatives that have online presence through websites and social media. This policy highlights the importance of content tailored to users and their interests.

What is Genuine User Content?

Genuine user content is content created with the audience in mind. This content centres on the needs, interests, and questions of users, with the objective of interesting your target audience in your brand. Genuine user content involves search engine optimisation (SEO) strategies, such as incorporating keywords and answering user questions related to your niche. Genuine user content also must be transparent and straightforward about what your content is about and who it is targeted at.

Why is Genuine User Content Important?

Genuine user content is more important than ever, in order to rank well in Google search results. However, it’s also important to provide value to your target audience and have the most impact. Content described in Google’s spam policy that misleads users may get your website more views, but probably not from your target audience. The most effective marketing strategies revolve around the value your content will provide to your audience. 

Implement Genuine User Content

Overall, genuine user content is more important than ever in marketing, not only because of Google’s spam update, but also because it is most effective in reaching your target audience. Mensa Marketing helps companies build comprehensive content and marketing plans. Get a digital audit to elevate your strategy!

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