Debunking Popular SEO Myths

Google uses hundreds of ranking factors in its search algorithm to help determine the ranking order of search results. Some ranking factors have been confirmed, while others are kept under wraps. Over the years, many SEO experts have made predictions based on research and data to help pinpoint some of these secret ranking factors. However, some of them are not accurate - or if they once were, they are no longer being used. Let’s take a look at some of the popular SEO myths that have been debunked!

There is No Set Rule on Keyword Density

Keyword density is the number of times the keyword you want to target appears on your webpage. What the ‘perfect’ keyword density actually is has been highly debated in the SEO world. Some SEO experts say between 2-3% is the sweet spot, whereas others suggest 5% is better. However, Google has repeatedly stated that there is no optimal keyword density.

Google advises focusing more on the value of your content and writing naturally as they put more emphasis on the overall quality of your content and its relevancy. However, as an SEO company in Knoxville, one tip we would offer is to ensure you don’t go overboard on your keywords. If you engage in ‘keyword stuffing,’ Google may flag your content and not rank it as it appears spammy in nature.

Domain Authority is Not a Ranking Factor

Domain Authority is an indicator of how trustworthy a website is, but despite popular belief, it is not one of the ranking factors that Google uses. This has been explicitly confirmed by Google’s Search Advocate, John Mueller. However, during our work as an SEO company in Knoxville, we have seen that it can indirectly impact other ranking factors, such as the quality and quantity of your backlinks. Domain Authority is also a great way to compare how your site stands up against your competitors.

Google Don’t Always Penalize Duplicate Content

One long-held myth in the SEO world is that Google will always penalize duplicate content. However, according to Google, this is not the case - as long as the duplication is not an attempt to purposely deceive the algorithm. Google Webmaster Guidelines has outlined several duplicate content techniques that would be heavily discouraged. These include:

• Avoid creating multiple pages or subdomains with duplicate content.
• Do not use cookie-cutter content from affiliate programs that contain little to no original content.
• If you participate in affiliate programs, ensure your website is still adding value by providing unique, relevant content that will attract visitors.

As an SEO company in Knoxville, we still advise avoiding duplicate content wherever possible. It can still have a negative impact on your SEO as Google may not know which site is the ‘original,’ and they will only rank one version, meaning you may find yourself lower in the search results.

Long Form Content Won’t Automatically Rank Better

It is no secret that long-form content tends to perform better in organic search results. Research has shown that content of 1100 words or more ranks higher. However, this is not necessarily solely because of their length. If you produce 2000 words of content, but it is focused on a topic irrelevant to your business, then it is unlikely to rank for your target keywords. However, an 800-word article that discusses a relevant topic in depth might. A successful content marketing plan hinges on producing high-quality, relevant content that engages, educates, or entertains your readers. With Google Search results now focusing more on search intent, it is worth working with an SEO company in Knoxville to create a content calendar that satisfies the following requirements:

• Engaging titles that summarize the topic of the content
• Logical subheadings to break up the text
• Include accurate and up-to-date information from credible sources
• Use primary and secondary keywords that naturally incorporate into the content
• Produce scannable articles by including bullets, images, and checklists

Meta Descriptions Are Not a Ranking Factor

Meta descriptions are snippets of code that offer a brief description of what each page of your website is about. Google will often take that meta description and use it as a snippet on the search engine results page. However, they are not a ranking factor, and Google may take on page content to use as a snippet instead of the meta description if it is more relevant. You can increase the chances of your meta description being used as a snippet by following these guidelines:

• Although a meta description can be 160 characters, keeping it to 105 characters long will show the entire description in the snippet.
• Make sure you include your target keyword in the meta description.
• Try to include a call to action to make users more likely to click on your link.

Mobile-Friendly Design Matters

As an SEO company in Knoxville, one of the biggest mistakes we see our clients make is putting too much emphasis on creating a great desktop site, and neglecting their mobile visitors. 92.3% of internet users access the internet using a mobile device, and 55% of all website traffic comes from mobile devices. Google has confirmed that mobile friendly design is a ranking factor, so it is important to make sure that your site is responsive. Not only do you need to make sure it is visually appealing for mobile users, but it must also be functional and fast-loading.

These are just a few of the common myths about SEO that are not entirely true. SEO changes so frequently that it can be challenging to keep up. That’s why working with an experienced SEO company in Knoxville is an excellent advantage for your business.

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To Your Best Online!

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Ingrid Maddox, Internet Marketing & Strategy Consultant. bluedress INTERNET MARKETING®, an Internet Marketing Company headquartered in Knoxville, TN. Internet Marketing Developed, Implemented, and Managed to Full Circle! Organic Internet Search Engine Guru. Turn-Key Internet Optimization Programs Placing You Everywhere and Anywhere You Need to Be Online.

ingrid@bluedressinc.com

865-378-7712