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As a website owner, you will always focus on optimizing your website for search engine rankings. However, are you certain about the ranking factors you are focusing on? What if the factors you prioritize don't actually matter for SEO?
Google's John Mueller shared a LinkedIn post affirming that most two-side charts, considered indications of site quality, aren't ranking factors. His post debunks some common myths about site characteristics and their impact on search engine ranking. This also means that other factors perceived as quality indicators aren’t ranking factors.
Refer: John Mueller’s Linkedin Post
Mueller discussed the two main factors of quality: valid HTML and typos (Typographical errors). His post was inspired by an analysis of 200 popular websites, which found that only 0.5 % had valid HTML. This report proves that what we consider the measure of quality is different in the eyes of Google. His post suggests that valid HTML will be a low bar in terms of ranking, presumably because spammers can easily create web page templates with valid HTML.
Don’t run for valid HTML
A valid HTML is an HTML code free from errors such as syntax, arrangements, missing tags, or incorrect attribute values. It has been long considered the hallmark of well-developed websites. Mueller's posts suggest that valid HTML is not seen as the characteristic of quality. The post begins with a clear question of whether valid HTML is a requirement for ranking factors or essential for Google search. The fact is that 99.5% of websites don't have valid HTML on their page. This means other factors could be more critical in determining a site's position in search results.
Typos don't matter much
For content creators, avoiding typos while writing can be challenging. Mueller's posts emphasize that typos do not impact ranking. They mainly affect the user experience but are not very important for ranking.
Significance of these factors
Focus on Meaningful Strategies
This insight is really helpful for SEO professionals and companies to avoid wasting time and resources on factors like typographical errors and valid HTML and focus on more impactful strategies that can benefit them. They can focus on areas like content quality, friendliness, and user engagement to improve their website rankings.
Better Budget Allocation
Companies can better allocate their budgets by understanding the real indicators of ranking. They will invest less in factors that are less important for SEO and only in the factors that matter for ranking, like keyword search and content quality, which will have a better impact on their SEO performance.
Better Content Quality
Mueller emphasizes that typographical errors are not directly related to ranking but can affect user experience. Understand that Google's algorithm does not focus on attributes like typographical errors. Instead, it prioritizes well-researched, valuable, high-quality content. This will help site owners create high-quality, authentic content that builds trust and authority. However, this doesn't mean site owners should avoid typographical errors, as they impact user experience, even though they do not directly affect the rankings.
Improved User Experience
Mueller's posts suggest that while simple factors like valid HTML and typos are not quality indicators, they contribute to user experience. A website that is easy to navigate and contributes to a positive user experience will help build trust. By focusing on these factors, you directly contribute to the website's success.
Key Metrics to Focus On
Mueller's posts suggest that simple factors considered crucial for ranking are less likely to matter for SEO. This also means characteristics that can be easily manipulated, having little or no impact on ranking.
Although HTML and Typo errors are unimportant for SEO ranking, they can impact user experience. Ensuring your webpage is error-free is the best way to build trust and credibility.
Some traditional SEO practices that emphasize the false signal of quality and ranking factors could be bad for your website. Distinguish between genuine and manipulated ranking factors. Only rely on verified information that could benefit you and avoid wasting your money on misconceptions.
Focus on User Experience
Site owners should focus on creating a positive user experience, as it's more valuable for Google. Focus on every crucial aspect of your website that creates a positive user experience, from page speed to navigation, mobile optimization, and features like internal search functionality.
Prioritize Quality Content
Create high-quality content that addresses the genuine needs of your users. Add relevant keywords related to your services and industry in your content. Use simple, easily understandable language to help users clearly understand your content.
Focus on Indirect Factors
A well-designed and easy-to-navigate website can draw anyone's attention. Focus on creating a positive user experience and adjust your strategy to maximize users' benefits. These indirect factors can contribute to your website's growth.
Conclusion
Mueller's insight on ranking factors is rewarding for SEO professionals and business owners, guiding what should be prioritized. Overall, it can be said that the success of SEO lies in providing genuine value to users. Just because some factors aren't directly related to website ranking, it doesn’t mean you should ignore them. Site owners shouldn't entirely dismiss these factors because they are easy to manipulate. Google has always given importance to things that improve user experience. If something is better for user experience, keep doing it. It will be wise to focus on rewarding strategies that build trust and credibility in the long run. Google tries to pick signals that users and websites give to determine whether the website is high-quality, helpful, and improves user experience.
