Google Now Testing New Search Labels
In case this hasn’t been covered yet, I read where Google is currently testing 2 new labels, Quick Read and < 5 Minute Read, in their search results. It wasn’t quite clear if Quick Read and < 5 Minute read will be defined differently, but it will look something like this (all photo credits – Twitter):
Google has said that word count is not a rank determining factor, and it’s not considered indicative of level of quality. From what I read, I gather that unless it’s obviously spam or not, google cannot judge quality of content from content itself.
Of course, writing a long article affords greater chances of targeting long tail or Latent Semantic Indexing (LSI) keywords. Those are keywords relevant to what your article is about. Ex., Keyword Horses, LSI words might be mane, hoof, tail, withers, forelock, bridle, saddle, etc.
It’s recommended to use LSI words early in an article. This provides crawlers a chance to collect relative words and determine how best to match search results to queries.
Writing long articles still have their place and in many instances are even necessary.
It's also recommended not to go rework all published posts to the Quick Read/5 Minute module.
Google feels people are tiring of having to read through 1000-2000 words to get the point of an article. The example given explained that this model could affect sites like recipe blogs which are known to be heavy to navigate with pictures, tips and methods, before getting to the actual directions for a dish.
This new labeling makes a difference to us because our goal is to rank in the search results.
The questions are:
• How much rich information can we provide in a 5-minute read?
• How will the SERPs differentiate how they rank between word-rich informational articles and short to the point prose?
• Will it change how affiliate marketers structure their marketing campaigns?
This is one to watch!
What are your thoughts and concerns?
Recent Comments
7
As I have always said, Tami, Google is a fickle beast! Who knows what it will come up with next?
jeff
Hi, Tami
I've come across these labels in the Google SERPS.
I have stated many times on WA that I think a new informational format will emerge on the Internet to accommodate mobile technology, which will eventually be moving toward wearable technology.
Wearable tech will present even more challenges in terms of display size. We are already seeing it implemented with devices like the Apple Watch, but it will get much more sophisticated with bendable displays that can be worn as bracelets, in eyewear, etc.
The new informational format will be something like a 3D expandable/collapsable outline or list format with image and video integration.
People want to be able to pull up just the info that answers their question or solves their problem in the shortest amount of time.
Google is finally coming around to this realization.
Just my opinion,
Frank