Hey there! Today, I want to discuss an interesting question that has been on my mind – can we trust Google when it comes to SEO advice?
This topic came to mind after I encountered an article about keyword density. Let’s dive in and explore whether Google can truly be trusted.
The Keyword Density Debate
I stumbled upon an article from Search Engine Roundtable from January 7, 2022. In it, someone asked John Mueller if keyword density is still a factor we need to consider when optimizing our content. His response was that it’s not a ranking factor, and we shouldn’t worry about it.
However, this raised some questions for me. If I don’t mention a keyword at least once in my content, how will Google know to show my page for that query? On the other hand, if I overuse the keyword, I could face an algorithmic penalty, which would negatively affect my rankings. So, it seems that keyword density does matter to some extent.
Can We Trust Google’s Responses?
This brings me back to my initial question – can we trust what Google says? In my opinion, we can trust them most of the time, but it’s essential to remember that their advice is geared towards steering SEOs towards ethical practices. Their answers may not be designed to help you “game the system.”
If you ask a question that could potentially help you exploit the algorithm, don’t expect a straightforward answer from Google. Instead, they’ll likely provide guidance that aligns with their best practices.
The Importance of Doing Your Own Testing
Another important point is the need to conduct your own tests when it comes to SEO. I recently watched a video (which I’ll link in the description) that strongly recommended this approach. By running your own tests, you may find that your results contradict Google’s advice, or that certain strategies work better for your specific situation.
Are you a visual learner? Then, check out my video titled “Can You Trust Google as an SEO?” from my YouTube channel.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Do you still have questions? Below are some of the most commonly asked questions about Google.
Can we trust Google’s SEO advice?
While we can generally trust Google’s SEO advice, it’s important to remember that their guidance often focuses on promoting ethical practices and discouraging attempts to “game the system.” To optimize your content effectively, it’s crucial to conduct your own tests and make decisions based on your unique circumstances.
Does keyword density matter, according to Google?
John Mueller from Google has stated that keyword density is not a ranking factor. However, it’s essential to mention a keyword at least once in your content for Google to associate your page with that query. Overusing the keyword could lead to a manual penalty, negatively affecting your rankings. So, while Google may downplay keyword density, it’s still necessary to consider it to some extent.
How can I determine the best SEO strategies for my website?
To find the best SEO strategies for your website, it’s crucial to conduct your own tests and experiments. By running these tests, you may find that your results contradict Google’s advice or that specific strategies work better for your situation. Be prepared to adapt and adjust your approach based on your findings, and stay up-to-date with the latest SEO trends and recommendations.
Conclusion
While we can trust Google’s SEO advice most of the time, it’s crucial to remember that their guidance is often geared towards promoting ethical practices. To truly optimize your content and stay ahead in the SEO game, it’s essential to conduct your own tests and make decisions based on your unique circumstances. So, keep an open mind, stay informed, and always be ready to adapt. Happy optimizing!
That concludes this article. What do you think? Let me know in the comments below (I read and reply to every comment). If you found this helpful, check out my full blog and subscribe to my YouTube channel. Thanks for reading!
