Can Google Identify the Author of Your Content?
So, we are still seeing the aftermath of the many recent Google updates.
As regards the Helpful Content update, one thing that Google is looking for is an identifiable name, an author with a profile.
And that author bio should have as much information as possible to show Google why you have the knowledge, expertise and experience to write about the topic of the post.
Here is what Google themselves have said:
"Does the content present information in a way that makes you want to trust it, such as clear sourcing, evidence of the expertise involved, background about the author or the site that publishes it, such as through links to an author page or a site's About page?"
So, there are a couple of things you can do.
Have a clearly visible "About" page, and within that, if you have any social proof, such as a LinkedIn account, add links to them.
And have an author bio in every post.
You can do this with the Simple Author Box plugin.
But make sure that it's not just in your sidebar.
There is some suggestion, that Google may only look at the first 2000 words on a page.
If your post is longer than that, and your author bio is at the end of it, or in the sidebar, Google may not even see it.
And finally, with your domain-specific email address, use the same name as the listed author.
Rather than support@mywebsite.com or contact@mywebsite.com, use dscorpio@mywebsite.com.
You are trying to build up a complete picture with Google that there is a real, helpful person behind the website.
Now, let's see an example.
First of all, a bio for a home DIY site that doesn't tell Google anything important!
"Hi, I'm Jen, an everyday homeowner with seven kids on a mission to make DIY projects easy and fun. Care to join me?"
Here's a better version.
"I'm Jen, a seasoned DIY enthusiast with over a decade of hands-on experience in transforming living spaces. With a knack for creative solutions and a keen eye for aesthetics, I have successfully remodelled numerous homes, turning everyday spaces into unique sanctuaries. Through years of trial, error, and continuous learning, I've honed my skills and am thrilled to share my knowledge and tips through this platform."
BUT, don't make something up!
Don't invent qualifications or a previous career!
I hope this helps, thanks for reading.
Recent Comments
34
This is great Diane and I needed this.
I have made terrible (I think) About Me pages bc I don't like making them.
Ever wonder why most people don't like something?
Usually bc they don't understand it!
Now I understand your point and I have noticed that a good, CONCISE About Me page is engaging. Now I like reading them.
Corinne
So do I understand it right that it is better, always, to use my name email when I publish the posts rather than admin?
It makes sense, but my account for my name has only my face but not my logo so I was thinking!
Thank you for all these important updates, There is so much going on that it is almost impossible to keep track of all of it.
So it is outstandingly useful to get this adding but important info.
Thanks, Diane
Great idea! 👍
I will add a lot more of my guitar playing, teaching, and building experience to my author profile.😎
However, Google is looking for data that may be of little value since they are not vetting its validity.
Rock On! 🤘
Frank 🎸
So, Diane
I updated the About Me page on my site with as much info as possible without sounding like a "bragging blowhard." Lol
However, it does have a photo of me sitting with Les Paul. 😎
Thanks Again & I hope it helps!
You Rock (as usual)! 🤘⚡️🤘
Frank 🎸
Diane, one thing I will not do is use my domain email address. I got a lot of spam from my old website that I no longer have anymore. I learned from that lesson. No thanks, it's not worth it. At least in the comments, I can delete spam, but getting a lot of spam emails from my website is annoying. It irked me. Deleting them is too time-consuming, they weren't real people, just bots, and a lot of it is those casino junk money-making schemes, a lot in the Chinese language. I do not want to go through that process again. Not even those anti-spam blocker plugins work to stop that, so I just removed the email address from my About and Privacy page. I do not use a contact form either. There was too much spam coming through that. Did you use your domain email address and did you get a lot of spam? How do you stop that?
See more comments
Thanks for the insights on establishing authorship and trust post-Google updates. Your tips on visible "About" pages, strategic placement of author bios, and the importance of being genuine are quite valuable. Your example of an improved author bio serves as a good reminder to be authentic in our credentials. This post is a handy guide for content creators looking to boost their online credibility.
Ginerik