No matter who you are or where you live, chances are you’ve used the phrase “just Google it” at some point or another. Google, and other search engines, are incredible tools to learn something quick, like what the most popular Halloween candy is (Reese’s Cups, obviously) or how old Adele is (36). But search engines are also great for looking up the best restaurants or bars nearby, finding a local insurance agent to talk to, or looking up reviews for a local boutique. And if your business isn’t properly using Search Engine Optimization (or SEO), and following SEO trends, then you’ll be left in the lurch.

While navigating the digital landscape can feel like a wild rodeo ride, it doesn’t always have to be so up and down. Search engines are constantly evolving, so staying on top of SEO trends is more crucial than ever. Specifically, search engine algorithms can and will change and what that means for your digital marketing efforts will change too. So, let’s talk about it.

1. You Can’t Stop AI, So Work With It

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning are two buzzwords that have been making waves in the world of SEO trends — and everywhere really. Search engines like Google are using these technologies to better understand user intent and deliver more relevant results. For instance, Google’s latest update has transformed how search engines interpret natural language. Instead of merely matching keywords, Google now can grasp the context behind queries, most of the time.

So, let’s put it like this, if a potential customer types “best places to eat near me,” and you’re a local restaurant, you want your establishment to be one of the first results. Now, an AI-powered algorithm can analyze the actual intent behind the search, considering factors like location, previous search history, and even the time of day. As a result, local restaurants that may have once been buried in the search results can rise to the top if they effectively leverage SEO best practices. For local businesses, this means optimizing your website with quality content that answers common questions your customers might have. Think about creating blog posts that highlight local favorites or showcase unique dishes at your restaurant.

2. Don’t Forget to E-E-A-T!

Another crucial trend shaping the digital marketing landscape is the growing emphasis on E-E-A-T—Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness. Google’s algorithms are increasingly rewarding content that demonstrates these qualities, particularly in niches that can significantly impact a user’s well-being, such as health or finance.

Imagine you’re a financial advisor in Lubbock. If you publish a blog post about investment strategies without any credentials or backing, you might struggle to rank. However, if you share your qualifications, link to credible sources, and offer valuable insights backed by research, your content is more likely to rank well. This isn’t just about pleasing the algorithm; it’s about building a genuine connection with your audience. They’re more likely to trust your expertise and come back for more. When crafting content, remember to focus on providing real value—like actionable tips or unique perspectives—and make sure it’s credible.

3. Voice Search and Mobile Optimization

With the growth of smart speakers (like Alexa, etc.) and mobile devices, voice search has become a game changer. As more people use voice-activated search queries, the way we think about keywords needs to shift. People tend to speak in complete sentences when using voice search rather than typing fragmented phrases. And if you don’t think voice search is huge, just look around for a Boomer or grandparent using their phone  — they’re all about the voice technology!

So, someone asking their phone, “What are the best family-friendly activities in West Texas?” is a lot different than someone typing into Google, “family activities.” And you’ve gotta keep up! To do so, businesses should focus on optimizing for conversational keywords and phrases. This means integrating more question-and-answer formats into your content and considering how users might phrase their searches verbally.

Additionally, mobile optimization has never been more critical. Google’s mobile-first indexing means that if your website isn’t mobile-friendly, your rankings will suffer. So, make sure your site is responsive, loads quickly, and provides a seamless user experience, whether on a desktop or a smartphone.

So what does this mean for me?

In the ever-changing world of digital marketing, staying updated on SEO trends is essential for ensuring your business remains visible and competitive. By embracing AI and machine learning, prioritizing E-E-A-T, and adapting to voice search and mobile usage, you can position your business for success.

Flint Avenue is here to help you navigate these changes and implement effective SEO best practices tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re a local restaurant, a service provider, or a retail store, mastering the SEO game is a journey worth taking. So saddle up, and let’s ride into the future of digital marketing together!