Google’s Product Reviews Algorithm
The world of content marketing is constantly changing with Google algorithm updates impacting SEO rankings and content strategies. The Google’s Product Reviews Update which touched down on 8 April 2021 and finished rolling out by the end of the month was designed to improve Google Search results. But what did it entail and how can you ensure your review content is well-optimised in light of the recent changes?
Here’s a rundown of the most essential details:
Google Product Reviews Update Summary
According to Google, consumers appreciate product reviews that share in-depth research, rather than thin content that simply summarises a bunch of products. As a result, the search engine giants made ranking systems improvements in a bid to reward detailed review content. The update only involves English language reviews (for now) and is designed to acknowledge those creating rich content in the product reviews area.
If you think about it, this update makes sense. When looking for a product or service online, users are more likely to be interested by reviews that go into detail and therefore Google has made such content a priority.
Was the Google Product Reviews Update a Big Deal?
The recent reviews update was not a core update. But it was still impactful, especially for those specifically focussed on product reviews. Essentially, Google made it clear that it’ll promote product reviews in its search results rankings as they’re ‘above and beyond’ much of the templated information you see on the web.
How Can I Create the Best Product Review Content?
In light of the recent update, you might be wondering how to create the best product reviews. Google suggested asking the following questions in order to post the richest review content possible. Does your review…
- Express expert knowledge?
- Show unique content beyond what’s provided by the manufacturer?
- Explain what sets the product apart from competitors?
- Discuss the benefits and drawbacks based on thorough research?
- Show what the product is like physically or how it is used?
- Describe how the product has evolved from previous models?
- Cover specific product categories? For a car this might include fuel economy, safety or handling?
- Describe key choices in how a product has been designed and how this might affect the user?
Creating good content is always important when it comes to search engine rankings. If you’re writing reviews and hope to rank according to the new algorithm change, it’s essential to go into detail and keep the above questions in mind. Avoid thin content or squeezing multiple product reviews into one. Google has shown that it prioritises detail as it wants to deliver the most useful content possible to users.
Remember, reviews should also include keywords relevant to the brand, service or product as this will also help to improve your SEO strategy.
If you require SEO expertise in-line with the latest Google algorithm changes, contact Whitefish Marketing today for expert help, advice and guidance.
