As Christmas and the New Year fast approaches, it’s time to start thinking about your SEO for the year ahead! Here are four SEO trends to be aware of as we move into 2020.
Google’s BERT update earlier this year focused on improving Google’s understanding of the context of words when used in more complex search queries. This, alongside Google’s RankBrain update, is placing more importance on making sure the intent of the user’s search is met. So, ensuring you have intent led, well-written content on your website is more important than ever for 2020.
Google’s search features are taking up more space and displaying more information in the search result, making Google the end destination for many queries, giving the name ‘Zero Click’. This can mean less traffic to your website, but don’t panic, it doesn’t necessarily mean fewer enquiries. For example, users can now quickly find your address and contact details in your Local pack, so they won’t necessarily move through to your site, but are still likely to contact your practice. To keep up with this trend in 2020, always ensure the information in your Google Listing is 100% accurate and updated regularly.
The increase in Zero Click searches is here to stay for 2020. On-page SEO now needs to focus on the keywords and searches that do bring traffic to your site by creating highly targeted, intent led content to reach these potential patients.
Mobile-first, as we all know, has been a major priority for the last few years. And, it just keeps getting more important! For 2020, a top trend will be websites that optimised and built for mobiles users, then adapted for desktop viewers.
SEOs should also focus on the mobile SERPs, which should be reflected in reporting and overall website optimisation. Most users will be looking at websites on their mobiles in 2020, and desktop is no longer the focus this year.
Trust has been increasingly important since Google’s EAT update back in 2018. Google is ranking brands that are trusted and can prove their authority. And, it is set to be one of the biggest trends for 2020. Building up a trustworthy brand through social media, links, author credentials and online reviews should be a focus for all website owners next year.
The world of SEO and online marketing keeps developing with new challenges and algorithms to keep us on our toes! If you need help with your online marketing strategy for 2020 please get in touch and we will be happy to help.