Over the years, Search Engine Optimisation has witnessed changes and is constantly evolving.
But in 2024, we are seeing a major shift towards user experience and AI-driven search results. This has prompted a major change in the manner SEO services are offered.
As an SEO service-providing agency, we at Code n Design Consultants decided to share some of the most significant trends impacting the industry, equipping you with the knowledge to stay ahead of the curve.
1) Google Search Generative Experience (SGE)
Google has introduced Search Generative Experience (SGE), an AI-powered search experience that provides AI-generated results at the top of search engine results pages (SERPs).
SGE aims to enhance user interactions by delivering clear, concise answers and relevant visuals in a conversational manner. While currently limited, SGE signifies a move towards a more conversational search experience, impacting how users interact with search engines and how websites need to be optimised.
2) Answer Engine Optimisation (AEO)
With the increasing adoption of AI and chatbots, users are seeking immediate answers without having to click through to web pages. Answer Engine Optimisation (AEO) is the process of optimising content for these AI-powered technologies, known as answer engines (e.g., ChatGPT, Google SGE, Microsoft’s Bing chatbot).
AEO ensures that your content is structured and formatted in a way that can be easily understood and surfaced by these answer engines.
3) Voice Search Optimisation
With the increase in smart assistants like Google Home and Amazon Alexa demand a shift in SEO towards voice search optimisation. Natural language processing (NLP) and conversational keywords become important in accommodating voice-based queries.
Here’s how to adapt your strategy for voice search:
- Natural Language Integration: Focus on incorporating natural language in content creation. Instead of keyword stuffing, use conversational keywords and phrases that mimic how people speak in everyday life. For instance, instead of targeting “best laptops 2024,” optimise for “what are the top laptops to buy this year?”
- FAQ and Q&A Style Content: Craft content in FAQ or Q&A formats, addressing commonly asked questions in a conversational tone. This method aligns well with voice-based searches that often involve asking direct questions like “How to change a tyre?”
4) Zero-Click Searches On The Rise
The rise of zero-click searches is a trend that cannot be ignored. Based on findings from the Semrush Zero-Clicks Study, it was revealed that approximately 57% of mobile searches and around one-fourth of desktop searches conclude without users clicking on any organic or paid search result from the search engine results page (SERP).
This is primarily because Google now provides the necessary information directly in the SERPs, such as local business details, conversions, or information about public figures, satisfying user intent without the need to click through.
5) Mobile-First Indexing
The increase in mobile users and search engines’ favouritism towards mobile-first indexing increases the need for mobile-friendly websites. Here’s what you can do to optimise for mobile:
- Optimising for Mobile Experience: Prioritise mobile optimisation by ensuring your website has a responsive design that adapts to different screen sizes. This means users have a seamless experience regardless of whether they’re browsing on a phone, tablet, or computer. Invest in fast-loading pages and easy navigation to keep users engaged.
- User-Centric Mobile Content: Create content specifically designed for mobile users. You must consider mobile-friendly formats like AMP (Accelerated Mobile Pages) and incorporate engaging visuals that align with smaller screens. Bullet points, short paragraphs, and images are easier to consume on mobile devices.
6) Video SEO – A Powerful Opportunity
Video content is something which is consumed largely by people of all ages. As per the latest report, about 3.48 billion people worldwide watched or even downloaded videos at least once!
Recognising this trend, search engines are prioritising video content in SERPs. Optimising your website for video SEO can significantly boost your online presence and attract new customers.
7) Evolving Search Engine Ranking Factors
Search engines are constantly refining their algorithms to prioritise trustworthy and informative content that directly addresses user queries. Major SEO giant Semrush, the following are some of the major areas that stand out:
- Machine Learning/AI (11.3%) – AI plays a bigger role in analysing content and user behaviour.
- Core Web Vitals (10.8%) – Website speed, mobile-friendliness, and overall user experience are crucial.
- E-E-A-T & Trusted Sources (10.2%) – Expertise, authoritativeness, trustworthiness of content and website are critical.
Focusing on these factors can significantly improve your website’s ranking potential.
8) Local SEO Shift
Local searches continue to surge, necessitating businesses with a physical location to emphasise local SEO strategies.
Here’s how to improve your local SEO:
- Enhanced Google My Business Profiles: Optimise your Google My Business listings with accurate information, including your business name, address, phone number, and hours of operation. Regularly update photos of your storefront or office, and encourage customer reviews to build trust and credibility.
- Localised Content Creation: Develop location-specific content and target local keywords to capture regional audiences. Include your city or town in your content and get listed in local directories to boost visibility in local searches.
9) Regularly Refreshing Existing Content
With the ever-increasing volume of content published online (content velocity), the shelf life of information is shrinking. To stay relevant and maintain high rankings, regularly refreshing and updating your existing content is crucial. This doesn’t just mean updating facts and figures; it also involves ensuring your content aligns with current user intent and search engine best practices.
Conclusion
The SEO service as a whole is constantly evolving, and staying ahead of the curve is essential for success. At Code n Design Consultants we understand these latest trends and our SEO experts take all the required measures so that your business remains on top of the search results thereby boosting your online presence.
Connect with us today to boost your online presence!
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