SEO Ranking factors in 2024 (that no one talks about)

In 2024, SEO is more dynamic than ever. While you’re likely familiar with the classic ranking factors like content, backlinks, and alt text, Google’s ever-evolving algorithm now places a stronger emphasis on user experience (UX). As a result, many websites that once held top positions have seen shifts in rankings. The key to staying ahead is integrating a superior user experience into your SEO strategies.

But how do you incorporate an exceptional user experience into your SEO plans and strategies?

Here are the main factors that Google considers when evaluating a user’s experience:

1. Page Speed: A Critical Factor

Page speed remains a crucial factor in 2024. Users expect websites to load almost instantly, and Google rewards fast-loading sites with higher rankings. In fact, even a one-second delay in page load time can lead to a significant drop in conversions and increased bounce rates.

How to Improve Your Page Speed:

• Optimize Images: Use image compression tools or plugins to reduce file sizes without compromising quality. Consider modern formats like WebP for faster loading.
• Minify CSS, JavaScript, and HTML: Reducing the size of your code files can speed up load times.
• Leverage Browser Caching: Ensure that resources are cached so returning visitors experience faster load times.
• Use a Content Delivery Network (CDN): A CDN can distribute content across multiple servers worldwide, reducing latency and speeding up access.
• Select a Lightweight Theme: For CMS users, choosing a theme optimized for speed can make a significant difference.
• Reduce the Use of Plugins: Too many plugins can slow down your site. Use only essential ones and ensure they are updated regularly.
• Choose a Powerful Hosting Provider: Reliable and fast hosting is foundational to page speed. Consider managed hosting solutions for optimal performance.

2. Core Web Vitals: The Foundation of UX

Core Web Vitals continue to be pivotal in 2024. These are a set of specific factors that Google considers crucial in a webpage’s overall user experience. They include:

• Largest Contentful Paint (LCP): This measures the time it takes for the main content on a page to load. An ideal LCP is within 2.5 seconds.
• First Input Delay (FID): This metric measures the time from when a user first interacts with your site (like clicking a link) to when the browser responds to that interaction. A good FID is less than 100 milliseconds.
• Cumulative Layout Shift (CLS): This measures visual stability. A good CLS score is less than 0.1, meaning the page’s content doesn’t shift around unexpectedly while loading.

How to Improve Core Web Vitals:

• Optimize Your Server: Ensure your server is fast and reliable.
• Minimize JavaScript: Reduce the impact of third-party code and defer non-critical scripts.
• Use Lazy Loading: Only load images when they are about to be displayed in the viewport.
• Improve Visual Stability: Ensure that elements on the page don’t shift during loading by setting dimensions for images and ads.

3. Understanding Search Intent: A Game-Changer

Google’s ability to understand and prioritize search intent has evolved significantly. In 2024, aligning your content with search intent is more critical than ever. Search intent can generally be categorized into four types:

• Informational Intent: Users are seeking information (e.g., “How to optimize website speed”).
• Navigational Intent: Users are looking for a specific website (e.g., “Amazon login”).
• Transactional Intent: Users are ready to make a purchase (e.g., “buy iPhone 15 online”).
• Commercial Investigation: Users are comparing options before making a purchase (e.g., “best laptops 2024”).

How to Align Content with Search Intent:

• Conduct Keyword Research: Understand what your target audience is searching for and how it aligns with your products or services.
• Create Relevant Content: Develop content that directly answers the user’s query and fulfills their intent.
• Optimize Meta Tags: Ensure your title tags and meta descriptions clearly reflect the intent of the content.
• Use Structured Data: Implement schema markup to help search engines better understand and present your content.

4. User-Centric Content: The Heart of SEO

Content quality has always been a cornerstone of SEO, but in 2024, the focus is on creating content that is not only relevant but also engaging and user-centric. Google’s algorithms are getting better at understanding context, relevance, and user satisfaction.

How to Create User-Centric Content:

• Focus on Value: Your content should provide real value to the reader, answering their questions, solving their problems, or entertaining them.
• Keep it Fresh: Regularly update your content to keep it relevant and accurate.
• Engagement Matters: Encourage user interaction through comments, shares, and other forms of engagement.
• Multimedia Elements: Incorporate images, videos, and infographics to make content more engaging and easier to consume.

5. Mobile-First Indexing: A Non-Negotiable

As of 2024, Google continues to prioritize mobile-first indexing. This means that the mobile version of your website is the primary version that Google indexes and ranks. A mobile-friendly site is no longer optional; it’s a necessity.

How to Ensure Mobile-Friendliness:

• Responsive Design: Ensure your website adapts seamlessly to different screen sizes.
• Mobile Page Speed: Optimize for fast loading times on mobile devices.
• Touch-Friendly Elements: Ensure buttons and links are large enough to be easily tapped on mobile screens.
• Simplified Navigation: Make sure your site is easy to navigate on a small screen, with clear calls to action.

Conclusion: Prioritizing User Experience in 2024

In 2024, SEO is not just about keywords and backlinks; it’s about delivering a seamless, engaging, and satisfying user experience. As you optimize your site, focus on improving page speed, aligning with search intent, ensuring mobile-friendliness, and creating valuable content. By doing so, you’ll not only improve your rankings but also build a loyal audience.

At Ranked, we understand the intricacies of modern SEO. We offer a full suite of SEO services tailored to the Dubai market, including keyword research, on-page optimization, technical SEO, content creation, and link building. Whether you’re looking to improve your search rankings, increase traffic, or enhance your online presence, our team of experts is here to help you achieve your goals.