Have you been hearing a lot about Google’s Helpful Content Update?
It has people panicking that their site will soon take a hit or freaking out because it already has.
This most recent update from Google is designed to reward websites that searchers find useful. And to demote sites packed with content that’s purpose is largely written for higher ranking.
Instead of taking this update in the spirit with which it is intended, to help connect searchers with experts and answers, we’re hearing from our senior living colleagues that SEO consultants are telling them there are “quick ways around it.”
That’s such a bummer. But, as is true of every Google update since Panda, there are no tricks or short cuts.
If you are trying to improve or recover your senior living website’s rank, it’s important to remember that. And to focus on visitor experience and quality.
Does Google Have Minimums for Keywords and Word Count?
The myths about keywords and word count are making the rounds again since this update rolled out.
We’ve had a few prospective clients email us lately asking if we can rework their senior living content to add more copy and more keywords.
They’re hearing that’s the key to recovering and surviving after the Helpful Content update.
In reality, that’s going to make the situation worse. Here’s why…
You are already an expert in the aging services industry. Your teams are likely made up of people who have expertise in areas ranging from dementia to nutrition.
While you might need to hire some freelance or agency copywriting or editorial talent to write the content, you already have the expertise Google is looking for in a website.
Stuffing your existing copy with more keywords or adding unnecessary words to your content just to make it longer isn’t it, friends.
Quality Over Quantity
Despite what you might have heard, longer content doesn’t give you authority. Google wants you to write until you address the intent of the visitor’s search. No more and no less.
People don’t want to scroll through redundant jabbering. In an industry like ours, they want answers. Information. Good resources. Helpful tools.
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