SEO is an unpredictable game; we don’t know what the next level will be. But we never stop trying to win this game. And that’s the fun part, right?
Among all the unpredictability, one thing is constant. SEO helps you rank your content on the SERPs for relevant searches that bring loads of organic traffic. But the tactics to reach that milestone keep changing every year.
In this blog, I am going to present the top SEO trends for you to follow to scale up your ranking game.
The stage is set. Let’s pull up the curtains and start the show.
25 Top SEO Trends Right Now
The Search Engine Optimization industry has undergone many changes in recent years. It’s hard to keep up with all the changes. That’s why I have created this list of the top 25 SEO Trends you should know about in 2023.
After learning the SEO basics, keeping an eye on the ongoing trends is vital to stay on top of your game.
Let’s begin!
1. A New “E” with “EAT”
If you know about SEO, there’s a good chance you know the term E-A-T. Google’s E-A-T guidelines help Google decide which content to rank for specific searches.
In December 2022, Google's E-A-T family welcomed an additional E (Experience), making it E-E-A-T (Expertise, Experience, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness).
They aren't just buzzwords; they're the VIP passes to higher rankings. Show Google you're the authority in your niche and have experience on the subject matter, build trust, and flaunt your expertise like a badge of honor.
Remember, it's not just what you say but who you are that counts in the eyes of search engines. Enter E-E-A-T. Google's latest recipe for ranking relevant content higher on the SERPs.
2. Write Audience-Focused Content, Not Search Engine-Focused
“Successful SEO is not about tricking Google. It's about PARTNERING with Google to provide the best search results for Google's users.” – Phil Frost
Think quality over quantity. In the SEO realm, it's no longer about luring crowds of visitors; it's about creating content that caters to your audience's specific cravings.
What questions do they have?
What problems do they need to solve?
Creating content that directly addresses your target audience’s needs ensures better engagement and builds long-lasting relationships. Understanding your audience's preferences and interests is the key to crafting content that resonates with them.
“Content is the reason search began in the first place.” — Lee Odden
If you can find your audience’s pain points and provide valuable solutions, you won’t have to worry about bringing traffic to your site. It will happen automatically.
3. AI Content Writing and Optimization Tools
Content writing and optimization reached a whole new level with the advancement of artificial intelligence. It is one of the most talked about SEO trends on the internet right now. You will get tons of new AI writing generator tools that use NLP and Machine Learning algorithms to write a complete blog from scratch.
The AI-generated blogs are not yet the best in terms of SEO, but the quality is improving day by day. Even though the blogs need manual editing by a human editor, the popularity of AI-generated blogs is increasing. The reason for that is it saves time, effort, and money.
In terms of optimizing a blog, AI-powered tools are changing the game. You can provide your blog, and the tool will suggest SEO-friendly improvements. You can easily optimize your blog and rank them with the help of these tools.
Some examples of these AI tools are ChatGPT, CopyAI, Rytr, Jasper, etc.
4. SEO Automation Tools
Are you bored of spending hours on repetitive SEO tasks?
Hand them over to SEO automation tools.
They're like your trusty sidekick, streamlining processes, analyzing data, and letting you focus on what truly matters: strategy and growth.
SEO automation tools are a godsend for modern digital marketers and website owners. These tools save you valuable time and enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of your SEO efforts. You can automate tasks like keyword research, content optimization, competitor analysis, monitoring website performance, etc.
One of the standout features of SEO automation tools is their ability to handle data analysis with precision and speed. They can crunch vast amounts of data to provide actionable insights into your website's performance, user behavior, and competitor’s details.
This data-driven approach empowers you to make informed decisions that can propel your SEO strategy to new heights.
5. Voice Search
“Hey, Alexa. Play some music.”
“Hello, Siri. Tell me the weather updates.”
These are the phrases I often use in my daily life. I’m sure you do, too.
Voice search is the new cool kid on the SEO block. People are talking, and search engines are listening. More and more people have been using voice assistants to search for their queries. In fact, according to Insider Intelligence, more than 50% of internet users in the US will use voice assistants by 2026.
So the question is, is your content optimized for voice searches?
How can you achieve that, you ask?
Well, making your site mobile-friendly should be your top priority. That’s because most of the voice searches happen on mobile devices. So, it makes sense that a mobile responsive site will perform better for voice searches.
Next, make sure to include and answer common questions in your content that users may ask on that topic. People tend to use longer queries in the voice search, so focus on your long-tail keywords to gain an advantage.
“The shift toward long-tail keywords will be even more essential to SEO success. Why? Because of voice search.” — Jeff Keleher
6. Attention Grabbing Headlines
In a world flooded with content, your headline is your life jacket. It's the first impression, the deal-maker or deal-breaker. Nail your headlines, and you've got their attention. Miss the mark, and your masterpiece might go unnoticed.
How can you craft headlines that make readers stop, click, and stay?
To craft attention-grabbing headlines that genuinely resonate with your audience, it's crucial to think from their perspective. Consider what questions they have, what problems they need to solve, or what interests and emotions drive them. A headline that speaks directly to these aspects is likelier to hit the mark.
Power words can be your secret weapon. They add a punch to your headlines, making them more compelling. Words like "essential," "revolutionary," or "exclusive" can create a sense of urgency and importance, drawing readers in.
Another effective technique is posing intriguing questions. Questions spark curiosity and make readers pause to find the answers within your content. However, be sure to provide those answers within your article to make it SEO-friendly.
7. Video in SERPs (Video SEO)
How often did the following scenario happen to you,” You searched with the “How to” keyword, and Google suggested a video in return?”
This isn’t a coincidence. Google knows that people who use “How to” searches are looking for a step-by-step guide. And what’s better than a video to teach you how to do something?
Blogs containing video content receive higher numbers of backlinks and experience a significant 157% increase in search traffic.
Videos aren't just for entertainment; they're SEO powerhouses. With video snippets showing up in search results, you've got a chance to snag more eyeballs. You can even divide your videos into short chapters, each covering a crucial topic to provide complete information.
Are your videos optimized for search engines?
If it’s not, then it's time to invest some time and do it. This SEO trend isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.
8. PAA is Important
Curiosity didn't just kill the cat; it also boosted SEO.
In the ever-evolving landscape of search engine optimization, staying ahead of the curve is paramount. This is where "People Also Ask (PAA)” boxes come into play as invaluable assets in your SEO toolkit.
When you perform a search on Google or other alternative search engines, you've likely encountered those intriguing PAA boxes that display a list of related questions. These boxes are more than just clickable queries; they represent a treasure trove of insights into user intent and interests.
"People Also Ask" boxes in search results are goldmines of information. They give you a sneak peek into what users are itching to know. They reflect the queries and concerns real people are typing into search engines. This real-time data is a goldmine of information that can shape your content strategy, guide your keyword research, and enhance your overall SEO efforts.
Answer as many relevant questions as possible from the PAA box of your target keyword, and you’ll see a flood of traffic on your site.
9. Featured Snippets and Zero-click Results
Imagine giving out free samples and becoming the go-to expert in return. This is precisely what featured snippets offer in the world of search engine optimization. These snippets are like bite-sized servings of your knowledge, enticing users with a taste of what you have to offer.
Featured snippets are concise, information-rich snippets that appear at the top of search engine results pages, providing immediate answers to user queries. Being featured in these snippets positions you as an expert in your field and increases your website's visibility and credibility.
The power of featured snippets lies in their ability to satisfy user intent promptly. Users can access valuable information without clicking a link when your content is selected as the source for a featured snippet. While this may seem counterproductive at first glance, it's actually a strategic move that can pay off in the long run.
According to a recent study, more than 25% of Google searches provide zero-click results. So, you need a proper strategy to cut your way into the zero-click game.
10. Build Topical Authority
In a world of online chatter, being the undisputed voice of authority in your niche is nothing short of priceless. When you've established topical authority, you become the guru people naturally turn to for guidance, insights, and expertise. Remember, achieving this level of trust and recognition is not an overnight transformation.
Building topical authority is akin to constructing a solid foundation for a towering skyscraper. It requires time, effort, and a strategic approach. When you start writing on a niche, make a plan to cover each little detail of it. No relevant topic should be left behind.
11. Different Content Format for Different Channels
Not all content is created equal, and not all channels are created for the same content. Twitter craves brevity, Instagram loves visuals, and LinkedIn is the land of professionals. Do your content planning based on the unique needs of each platform.
Adapting your content format to suit the nuances of each social media channel is essential for maximizing your reach and impact. It demonstrates your understanding of platform-specific expectations and caters to the preferences of your target audience.
Effective content strategy on social media isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. It's a dynamic and thoughtful approach that aligns with the unique attributes of each platform to enhance your online presence and engagement.
12. Prioritize User Experience
The user is king, and the kingdom is your website. A clunky, slow-loading site is like a moat blocking your audience. User experience isn't just a buzzword; it's the secret sauce to retaining visitors, reducing bounce rates, and keeping Google's bots happy.
Are you giving your users a royal experience?
Remember, a good experience stays with us for a long time. If users like how your website makes them feel, they will return to enjoy the experience again and again. On the other hand, a bad user experience is hard to forget. Plus, their negative reviews will drive away more potential visitors.
13. Update Content Regularly
Dust settles, but not on your website. Fresh, updated content is your secret weapon against the lurking cobwebs of outdated information. Content update is an evergreen SEO trend.
In this fast-paced digital world, where information evolves swiftly, the importance of fresh, up-to-date content cannot be overstated. Search engines, especially Google, deeply appreciate websites consistently serving the latest and greatest content.
Regular updates ensure your website remains a relevant and reliable source of information, catering to the ever-changing needs of your audience. Doing so will enhance your SEO efforts, boost user experience, demonstrate expertise, and stay competitive in your niche or industry.
Your commitment to delivering accurate and current content fosters trust among users, encouraging repeat visits and solidifying your position as a trusted authority in your field.
14. Fulfill Search Intent
Imagine this scenario: You're hungry and have a strong craving for pizza. You eagerly place an order, only to receive a salad instead. It's frustrating, disappointing, and far from what you were expecting.
In the world of search engines, a similar frustration occurs when your content fails to align with the user's search intent. Meeting and satisfying user expectations is the fundamental objective in the intricate game of search engine optimization (SEO).
Understanding search intent is akin to knowing what your hungry customers are really looking for. Users enter search queries with specific goals, whether seeking information, making a purchase, solving a problem, or simply being entertained. Search engines, like discerning restaurant owners, aim to deliver the most relevant results that match these intentions.
Your content must cater precisely to these diverse search intents to excel in SEO. It means crafting content that answers users' questions and guides them to the next steps they want to take. That can be further exploration, purchasing something, or finding solutions to their problems.
15. Link Building is Crucial
Link building stands as a crucial pillar of online success. Consider links as the digital counterparts of referrals in the real world. They serve as powerful endorsements, affirming your website's credibility and forging connections to the vast, interconnected web. Yet, it's imperative to grasp that link building isn't a numbers game; it's all about quality over quantity.
Quality link building signifies more than a mere numbers game. It transcends the notion of accumulating as many links as possible and, instead, focuses on obtaining links from authoritative and relevant sources.
These high-quality backlinks hold immense sway in the eyes of search engines. They convey trustworthiness, bolster your website's reputation, and ultimately influence your search engine rankings.
The process of quality link building isn't a passive endeavor but an active, strategic effort. It involves outreach, content creation, and the cultivation of meaningful relationships. The key is to produce genuinely valuable content, compelling others to link to it organically.
16. Reverse Outreach
The old way: begging for backlinks. The new way: make them come to you. Reverse outreach flips the script. With this new SEO trend, instead of asking, you're offering valuable content that attracts links naturally.
“To educate is not just the best way to sell. It's also the best way to build links.” — Jason Acidre
But how can you become a link magnet without sending a single outreach email?
The key things to do include identifying in-demand topics, incorporating visual elements, conducting research and presenting statistics, effective content promotion, audience engagement, and continuous content monitoring and optimization.
This strategy saves time, enhances your online authority, and leads to organic link growth, improving your overall SEO game.
17. Product SEO
Got products? You have to optimize them. E-commerce isn't just about the shelves; it's about the digital shelf — the search engine results page.
To succeed in the online marketplace, you must ensure that your product listings are effectively optimized for search engines, making them more discoverable to potential customers. This involves keyword research, compelling product descriptions, high-quality images, structured data markup, and other SEO strategies tailored to your specific products.
Doing so improves your chances of ranking higher on the SERP and attracting valuable organic traffic to your e-commerce store.
18. Target Zero Volume Keywords
Big numbers aren't everything. Sometimes, the magic lies in the tiny details — like zero-volume keywords. These are the hidden gems that others overlook. Zero-volume keywords may not have a large search volume, but they can be incredibly valuable because they often represent highly specific and niche queries.
Targeting these keywords allows you to reach a highly targeted audience with less competition, potentially leading to more qualified leads and higher conversion rates. It's a strategic approach that values quality over quantity in your SEO efforts.
Of course, you can create a perfect mix with other relevant keywords that have high search volume potential. That way, you can be king of both worlds.
19. Image SEO
Do you know that over 32% of Google searches return image results?
So don't let your images get lost in the crowd. They're not just pretty pixels; they're SEO assets. Properly optimized images boost your visibility and can land you in Google's image search results.
How can you ensure your images are sending all the right signals?
You can optimize your images with relevant alt text, descriptive filenames, and proper image tags to enhance your website's overall visibility in search engine results. Moreover, well-optimized images can potentially earn you a spot in Google's image search results, opening up a new avenue for attracting organic traffic and reaching a broader audience.
20. Long-Form Content Performs Better
Size matters, especially in content. Long-form content isn't just lengthy; it's comprehensive and authoritative. Google loves comprehensive resources that cover all angles. Google values this type of content because it offers users in-depth information and addresses all their queries.
But it doesn’t necessarily mean you must write thousands of words for each content. Write only as many words as needed to cover the topic thoroughly. It doesn’t matter whether it’s 500 words or 5000.
21. Secondary Keywords are more Important
Don't just put all your eggs in one keyword basket. While your main keyword is essential, secondary keywords should not be underestimated to perform excellently in SEO. These often overlooked keywords play a crucial role by complementing your primary keyword and capturing various aspects of user intent.
When you incorporate secondary keywords strategically into your content, you broaden your reach by addressing a wider range of user queries. It enhances the overall relevance and comprehensiveness of your content in the eyes of search engines.
In essence, secondary keywords are the unsung heroes of SEO, diversifying your content's appeal and potentially improving your search engine rankings and organic traffic. They complement your main keyword and capture different facets of user intent.
22. Local SEO
Ever searched for a nearby coffee shop?
According to First Site Guide, 46% of Google searches are local.
Local SEO is your digital map to local discovery. Local SEO ensures that your business is the one that pops up when someone in your vicinity searches for a nearby service or product. It's all about being prominently visible to potential customers when they're actively seeking businesses in their area.
Optimizing your business for local SEO increases your chances of attracting nearby customers and becoming your go-to choice. It's your ticket to being found in the neighborhood and boosting foot traffic or online inquiries.
23. Technical SEO
Imagine your website as a well-oiled machine. Technical SEO is the mechanic that ensures every part runs smoothly. From optimizing site speed to enhancing mobile-friendliness and fixing broken links, technical SEO is the secret sauce that ensures your website looks great and performs like a champion.
“No website can stand without a strong backbone. And that backbone is technical SEO.” — Neil Patel
Technical SEO is the digital toolbox that fine-tunes your online presence, making sure your website is the one that search engines favor and users adore. It keeps your website in top shape, ensuring search engines can crawl and index your pages effectively. It's the unsung hero that lays the foundation for all your SEO efforts.
24. Passage Indexing
Passage indexing is Google's way of digging deeper into the content on your page. Instead of scanning the entire page, it focuses on specific sections to identify the most relevant and valuable information. This means that a crucial paragraph or section can stand out in search results even if your page is lengthy.
To ensure your valuable content doesn't go unnoticed, focus on creating clear, informative, and concise sections within your content that address specific user queries or topics. Doing so can increase the visibility of important information, making it more likely to appear in search results and capture users' attention.
25. Core Web Vitals
Speed matters. User experience matters. Core Web Vitals tie these together in a neat package. Core Web Vitals are all about the critical aspects of user experience. Google emphasizes loading speed, interactivity, and visual stability to ensure websites provide a seamless and enjoyable digital experience.
To meet these standards, focus on optimizing your website's performance by minimizing loading times, ensuring swift interactivity, and preventing content shifts during page loading. Prioritizing these aspects aligns with Google's criteria, enhances user satisfaction, and can positively impact your website's search engine rankings.
👉 Want to master the essential terms and concepts of SEO? Check out our ultimate list of 195+ SEO Glossaries in 2023
Some SEO Challenges in 2023
In the ever-evolving world of SEO, challenges are as common as keywords. Let's navigate the hurdles that 2023 brings and discover how to overcome them.
Frequent Algorithm Change
Google loves shaking things up. These changes can either work in your favor or present challenges. To stay ahead and prevent your website from falling behind, it's crucial to keep up with these shifts. Regularly monitor industry news and Google's official updates, adapt your SEO strategies accordingly, focus on providing high-quality content, and maintain a user-centric approach.
Ranking Inconsistency
Ranking inconsistency in SEO can feel like a wild rollercoaster ride – today on top, tomorrow buried. To stay sane in this unpredictable journey, focus on long-term strategies, not just short-term wins. Emphasize content quality, user experience, and ethical SEO practices. Regularly monitor your performance, adapt to changes, and be patient.
Deindexing
Deindexing is like a nightmare where your web pages vanish from search engine results, rendering them invisible to users. To prevent this, maintain a healthy website by regularly checking for issues like broken links, duplicate content, and low-quality pages. Abide by search engine guidelines, provide valuable and unique content, and use proper tags and metadata. Consistent monitoring and quick action on issues can help ensure your pages stay in the search engine spotlight, avoiding the abyss of deindexing.
Extensive Keyword Research
Keyword research is the compass of SEO, guiding your strategy in the right direction. However, in the vast sea of keywords, finding the right ones can be like searching for a needle in a haystack. To uncover the keywords that lead to SEO success, start with a clear understanding of your audience and their search intent.
Utilize keyword research tools like Ahrefs, Semrush, Ubersuggest, etc., and prioritize long-tail keywords. Consistent refinement of your keyword strategy based on performance data is key to striking SEO gold in this ever-evolving landscape.
As we tackle these challenges, let's not forget the core question: Why is SEO a non-negotiable for your business's success? Let's uncover the power of SEO in the digital age.
Why is SEO Important for Your Business?
In a world where clicks, taps, and swipes reign supreme, SEO isn't just an option—it's a lifeline for your business. Let's break down why SEO deserves a front-row seat in your digital strategy.
Picture this: You've got a shop tucked away in a bustling alley. But what if there's no sign pointing to your treasure trove? That's what happens without SEO. Your website might as well be that hidden gem. SEO ensures your virtual storefront is front and center, where everyone can see it.
But it's not just about visibility. Think about a librarian who knows exactly where every book is in a vast library. That's what search engines do for the web. They help users find exactly what they're looking for in the vast expanse of the internet. And where there's visibility, there's potential for clicks, engagement, and conversions.
Still not convinced? Imagine a megaphone that amplifies your brand's voice. That's what SEO does. It puts your content, products, and expertise in front of the people actively seeking it. It's not pushy; it's just showing up at the right time, right place.
Think of SEO as the backstage crew that makes sure your website is ready for the grand performance. It ensures your website is fast, responsive, and user-friendly—essential for keeping visitors engaged and returning for more.
So, SEO is the digital compass guiding customers to your door, the librarian helping them find what they need, the megaphone amplifying your message, and the backstage crew making sure everything runs smoothly. It's not just a trend; it's the heartbeat of your online success.
What is the Latest SEO Trend in 2023?
2023 is a playground of new possibilities in the SEO landscape. Want to know about the latest trend that's stealing the spotlight? It's the evolution of AI tools to automate the SEO process. Search engines are getting smarter, and it's time to keep up with it with the help of AI.
What is the Future of SEO?
The future of SEO will be heavily dependent on using the right AI tools and focusing on showing the author’s experience in the writing, along with other things. Voice search will play a big role in the future, too, that’s for sure.
👉 Got more questions about SEO? Check out our ultimate list of 60+ Top SEO FAQs to find your answer.
Conclusion
In the ever-evolving universe of SEO, trends are the stars that guide us. But remember, the true essence of SEO isn't just about keeping up with trends. It's about understanding the basics — building a user-friendly website, publishing valuable content, and creating strategies that go a long way. It's about mastering the art of being found in a sea of digital noise.
Embrace the trends, navigate the challenges, and let SEO be the beacon that guides your digital voyage. After all, being found is the first step to being remembered in this age of bits and bytes.
