The 4 Biggest SEO Trends for 2022

 

Trying to understand what Google is looking for when it ranks search topics can be an arduous process. Even if you supposedly use all the tools in your arsenal, you may still find that you’re not getting the desired results.

So, how exactly can one get their page to the top of Google search results?

Simply put, it all comes down to perseverance, research, and always staying in the loop for all the latest happenings in the world of search engine optimisation. SEO trends are ever-changing, and something foolproof today can easily become redundant by next year!

Despite constant algorithm updates, there are still proven strategies that can help boost your website’s rankings. These techniques will allow you to avoid getting caught up in the changes and keep improving your rank.

To help you stay informed, here are 4 of the biggest SEO trends for 2022 to help you fine-tune your digital marketing strategy.

1. Target Long-tail Keywords

Long-tail keywords are more specific and are usually lower in search volume than shorter ones. They can be very useful when it comes to boosting your website’s rankings.

Since they’re focused on a specific topic and are more likely to be searched for by users, you’re likely to find the most relevant audience coming to your page, boosting conversion rates and getting a solid ROI.

A study revealed that over 90% of all internet searches are conducted using long-tail keywords. This represents a huge change from the days when the internet was relatively new.

A long-tail keyword is typically related to a specific topic. For instance, if you are looking for ways to rank on Google, a long-tail keyword would be "how to rank on Google".

That being said, try to keep your long-tail keyword usage to 3-4 per page at most because too many long-tail keywords can lead to the opposite of what you’re aiming to do.

2. Add Keywords to Alt-Text

Alt-text is an important addition to your optimisation that search engines consider when it comes to ranking images. According to a study by Mozcast, businesses can see up to 20% better ranking results by using descriptive alt-texts.

Alt text must be written with three uses in mind:

● Accessibility: With the use of a screen reader, users who are visually impaired can easily read and navigate through the Alt text. Unfortunately, over half of e-commerce sites fail to meet the basic accessibility requirements of their users.

● Context: When an image cannot be displayed on a page, the use of the Alt text provides a more relevant and useful alternative.

● SEO: Search engine optimisation refers to the process of ensuring that the text used for an image is properly formatted and ranks properly. In 2021, Google confirmed that the use of Alt text is still very important for search engine optimisation.

Due to the increasing number of websites that are accessible, Google's algorithm will prioritise those that are more likely to meet the needs of users with disabilities.

Use the Alt text to highlight the various parts of your content that are related to the image. For instance, highlighting that the image contains the process that you explained in your content can help users understand what you're talking about.

3. Add Keywords in Headers

Your header doesn’t just play the role of reeling prospective clients to your website, it also reels in better rankings if done right. Keywords in the header signal to search engines that it's well-written and fulfils the target intent of the search terms.

According to a survey, 36 per cent of search engine experts think that optimised headlines are essential for SEO. However, this doesn't mean that they should be forced to fit. A rule of thumb for modern SEO in 2022 is never to keyword stuff.

4. Enhancing User Experience

Your content and keywords can only take you so far until it all comes down to the customer experience. From start to finish, you need to optimise your site so that it provides a smooth, clean, and intuitive experience for visitors. This includes fast load times, sleek navigation, and a visuals-centric design.

Google takes into account several factors when it comes to ranking websites, one of which is the time spent on the page. If your users are leaving your site within seconds after they've arrived, it signals that it's not the content they're looking for.

One of the most important factors that will affect the bounce rates and dwell time of your users is the time it takes for a page to load. According to a study, it takes an average of 10.3 seconds for a desktop site to load and 27.3 seconds for a mobile site to fully load, and with each passing second, your conversion rates drop by an average of 5 per cent.

SEO and Digital Marketing Done Right With TocToc in Canberra

Despite the changes that Google makes in its algorithm and search engine optimisation, one thing that's still the same is that good content is still very important.

The techniques will help improve the quality of your content and ensure that it's engaging and centred around finding the right audience for your business. If you’re looking for a team of professionals to use modern SEO tools and strategies to drive conversions, TocToc is here to help.

They provide a wide range of services to help you get the absolute best that digital marketing has to offer, including web design services, mobile app development, and content marketing services in Canberra, all of which are focused on ranking higher on search engines and finding you an audience that’s most likely to convert. Contact them now to learn more about how they can take your online marketing to the next level.