Google SEO News
Google’s Take on Hiring SEOs and SEO Audits Stirs Debate
At the Google Web Creator Summit, Google suggested that businesses shouldn't need to rely on SEO audits to rank effectively, sparking discussions within the SEO community!
(without audits, businesses don’t know exactly what to work on or improve, right?)
Google's stance emphasizes self-sufficiency through its guidance, although SEO professionals point out that external expertise often remains essential. Google continues to highlight the value of SEOs for businesses with specific needs, likening SEO services to professional assistance in complex fields.
The SEO community, as you'd imagine, was buzzing on this topic late last week:
SEO Recommendations by Jason
This is interesting!! I don’t disagree with Google's idea that businesses shouldn’t be locked into costly SEO contracts without a clear scope or understanding of impact. However I do disagree with Google that audits are not necessary. SEO Audits are the bedrock of an SEO Program. If you don’t know where your areas of weakness are, how do you know what you should focus on? Similar to when you go to the doctor to get a checkup, and the doctor requests you to get blood tests etc, why? Well, the doctor needs to know whats happening with your health before he makes any informed recommendations or advice. SEO is the same.
Not to mention that Google has a track record of not clarifying some key factors for ranking and not showing business owners a straightforward, step-by-step process to ranking for their focus keyword. And let’s not forget algorithm updates and vagueness on search volatility.
Google Proposes New Schema Type to Improve Shipping Data
Google has proposed a new Shipping Service schema type to improve shipping details on schema.org, grouping elements like delivery location, time, size limits, and rates. This move aims to improve the representation of shipping options, potentially leading to better user experiences in search results. Google encourages e-commerce businesses and SEO professionals to review and comment on this proposal for a more structured, standardized approach to shipping data.
SEO Recommendations by Jason
As always Google’s effort to improve the SERP user experience. Website owners should check their schema types on the product pages to verify that the new schema once published is incorporated into their site builders and fields populated.
Google: Consistent Links on Mobile and Desktop Improve Crawl Efficiency
Google updated its crawl budget guidelines, advising sites to maintain identical links on both mobile and desktop versions to prevent crawl delays. For large sites, missing links on mobile pages can impede Google’s discovery process, especially as mobile-first indexing prioritizes mobile content.
SEO Recommendations by Jason
Website should verify the consistency of links from mobile to desktop. Sites with differing mobile links should ensure all links are in sitemaps to support efficient crawling.
Bing SEO News
ChatGPT’s Search Feature Relies on Bing’s Index for Web Results
OpenAI’s ChatGPT Search, launched with Microsoft’s support, uses Bing’s index to provide search results. While ChatGPT incorporates multiple search technologies, Bing remains a primary resource for indexed content. This reliance implies that sites not indexed by Bing due to penalties or issues may be excluded from ChatGPT Search results, making Bing indexing critical for visibility in ChatGPT.
SEO Recommendations by Jason
Bing Search Console, should be utilized by website owners looking to improve visibility in AI generated search. Overlooking Bing as a search engine could hinder relationships between AI crawlers and websites content. I recommend verifying your site’s visibility in Bing search results by setting up or reviewing Bing Webmaster Search Console and verifying Analytics.
General Search Marketing News
OpenAI Acquires Chat.com Domain
OpenAI's recent $15.5 million purchase of Chat.com, announced by CEO Sam Altman and confirmed by Dharmesh Shah of HubSpot, underscores its commitment to expanding ChatGPT's visibility. This strategic acquisition simplifies user access and positions ChatGPT prominently in the conversational AI space. The memorable, user-friendly domain represents a high-value asset to amplify traffic, increase brand awareness, and enhance long-term growth for OpenAI’s flagship chatbot.
