We know that Google's algorithm is constantly changing. We also know that this algorithm is an unfathomable secret. But fortunately, there are areas where we *can* exert influence. I have listed the most important SEO trends for 2017, so that you can positively influence your website's ranking with the right updates.
Start with the technique
Just like in previous years, technology is one of the most important factors for a good ranking in 2017. By optimizing your website 100% technically, you ensure that Google can read and understand your website properly. Think of creating a good internal link structure who support you with a XML and HTML sitemapIt is also important to check whether certain pages of your website are being blocked by metatags or robots.txt. If important pages are among them, ensure that these pages are still findable by Google. Should you need help with this, my colleagues and I would of course be happy to assist you. Feel free to contact us. contact for more information.
Ensure an optimal user experience
In addition to good technical aspects, it is important that your website's user experience is optimal. Technical aspects such as website speed are part of this as well. Google has recently started indexing Accelerated Mobile Pages (AMPs) in the Netherlands. These are modified HTML versions of web pages, designed for lightning-fast use on mobile devices.
Very few websites are currently set up according to the Accelerated Mobile Pages guidelines, so seize this opportunity, as Google is going to attach great value to it. Mobile-friendliness is, after all, an important factor in 2017. With the 'mobile first' approach, Google will focus primarily on a separate mobile index. If your website is not mobile-friendly, you run a high risk of being positioned lower in Google's ranking.
In addition, we see that reviews have been decisive for a potential customer's decision-making for several years now. You, too, will likely be more inclined to make a purchase if you are confronted with positive reviews from previous customers. It is best to enrich your meta descriptions with Rich Snippets. These are elements that search engines can read from your website, such as the rating you receive from customers. These rich snippets ensure that your website stands out better in the search results. Example:
Keep optimizing your content
Content… If this wasn't already the most important element of your website, it certainly will be in 2017. Ensure that your website contains high-quality content and that you continue to expand and update this content. Google assigns increasing value to websites with relevant content. When writing copy, a good structure, headers, and meta descriptions are important. If you post images, make sure Google knows what these images are about. Only add images with informative filenames, fill in the corresponding alt texts, and ensure the correct file type in combination with the image size. The same applies to videos. If you do not provide a description, Google cannot properly assess what the video you have posted is about.
Secure your website properly
Google attaches significantly more value to websites with a SSL connection (https) than websites without an SSL connection (http). It is therefore absolutely necessary to purchase such a certificate. The majority of website hacks are caused by poorly secured hosting. With hosting and support from Best4u, you receive an SSL certificate for your website as standard. We also host your website on a server optimized for WordPress, which protects your website against common attacks and potential threats.
Ensure relevant incoming links
Quality speaks louder than quantity. Keep this in mind when building a strong link profile. Ensure that you collect high-quality and relevant links to your website and integrate them logically into your content. Additionally, old-fashioned homepage links still work just fine, as long as you ensure they are relevant.
The tips above will help you get started with the search engine optimization of your website. Of course, there are many more things you can do to ensure your website is easy to find, such as conversion optimization en AdWordsDo you have questions for me or one of my colleagues? Then please do not hesitate to contact contact us, we are happy to speak with you!