The update aimed to reduce rankings for websites which copy content from others or are seen as poor “value” in information terms for visitors, and reward sites with original copy, strong information and analysis with a better showing on results pages.
The update was rolled out to the UK and other English-language users in June. Search engine experts reckon it has affected the rankings of around 1 in 12 websites worldwide, with visitor numbers to some sites allegedly halved.
Hardest hit included:
• price comparison sites, which have numerous outbound links but little unique content
• article sites with content duplicated on other article sites
• sites with too many adverts
In the UK, so-called “winners” in the new Panda-based rankings included ITV, the Mirror and Independent sites thanks to their continuous updates on news content and associated reader comments. Ebay and Econsultancy have also had a boost.
5 ways to avoid the Panda penalty
Panda has once again emphasised the need to make website content useful. Users want good quality, value information that’s clear, concise and relevant to their search.
Are your pages focused from their perspective? Are they credible and up to date? Now’s the time for an honest review of your site content.
1. Delete duplicate copy from your site or improve the quality of information on your pages - it’s good for everyone including your users and Google’s ranking system.
2. Pages that are “over optimised” (stuffed with keywords and phrases) could be damaging your Google rating. Look at softening the text and adding in information and analysis that are really useful to your audience rather than search engine spiders.
3. Include videos and images on your pages – this will score points with Google and your users. Low bounce rates and longer visit times to your pages are part of Google’s quality measure, so stronger content that’s regularly updated will attract visitors and encourage them to return. Repeat visitors show Google that your site is worthwhile.
4. Promote your site through twitter and Facebook or social book-marking sites like Digg and Delicious. Google prizes online conversations about useful sites, so building social media connections will help boost your website’s relevance and reputation.
5. Continue to build quality inbound links to your site or pages.
• Call Granite 5 for help and advice or to book a consultancy session.
Contact Jill Davies at Granite 5, Unit 5, Valley Court Offices,
Lower Road, Croydon, Royston.
Tel: 01223 208008.
www.granite5.com.
The update was rolled out to the UK and other English-language users in June. Search engine experts reckon it has affected the rankings of around 1 in 12 websites worldwide, with visitor numbers to some sites allegedly halved.
Hardest hit included:
• price comparison sites, which have numerous outbound links but little unique content
• article sites with content duplicated on other article sites
• sites with too many adverts
In the UK, so-called “winners” in the new Panda-based rankings included ITV, the Mirror and Independent sites thanks to their continuous updates on news content and associated reader comments. Ebay and Econsultancy have also had a boost.
5 ways to avoid the Panda penalty
Panda has once again emphasised the need to make website content useful. Users want good quality, value information that’s clear, concise and relevant to their search.
Are your pages focused from their perspective? Are they credible and up to date? Now’s the time for an honest review of your site content.
1. Delete duplicate copy from your site or improve the quality of information on your pages - it’s good for everyone including your users and Google’s ranking system.
2. Pages that are “over optimised” (stuffed with keywords and phrases) could be damaging your Google rating. Look at softening the text and adding in information and analysis that are really useful to your audience rather than search engine spiders.
3. Include videos and images on your pages – this will score points with Google and your users. Low bounce rates and longer visit times to your pages are part of Google’s quality measure, so stronger content that’s regularly updated will attract visitors and encourage them to return. Repeat visitors show Google that your site is worthwhile.
4. Promote your site through twitter and Facebook or social book-marking sites like Digg and Delicious. Google prizes online conversations about useful sites, so building social media connections will help boost your website’s relevance and reputation.
5. Continue to build quality inbound links to your site or pages.
• Call Granite 5 for help and advice or to book a consultancy session.
Contact Jill Davies at Granite 5, Unit 5, Valley Court Offices,
Lower Road, Croydon, Royston.
Tel: 01223 208008.
www.granite5.com.
