For many, Google is a resource that allows one to find information quickly. Whether searching for a product, service or information – Google’s search engine results are driven by a complex system of intertwined algorithmic based decisions.
Here’s how Google’s Search Engine Result Pages Work!
The “Search Query” — Every Google search engine result page (SERP) starts with a query. This is a keyword or phrase that is inserted into Google’s search box – after this, the magic begins…
Within fractions of a second Google’s complex system of algorithms get to work. Most Google search engine result pages are comprised of paid advertisements (Google AdWords) and naturally selected results that are chosen based on their relevancy and authority.
Let’s get started…
Google AdWords (Paid Ads – Refer to Section A on graphic)
Google AdWords is Google’s #1 advertising platform. Advertisers can create ads related to their business and bid on keywords that fit their products and/or services.
How does Google AdWords work? Every time a search engine user clicks on an ad, the advertiser is charged, which is where the term ‘Pay-Per-Click’ comes from.
The next time you click on an ad it will likely cost the advertiser a good chunk of change. Some clicks can cost in excess of several hundred dollars.
Google My Business (Refer to Section B on graphic)
Google MyBusiness is a free service of Google, you can sign-up here. Keep in mind, just because you have an account doesn’t mean you’ll show up on the map. Google’s ‘My Business’ algorithm will only show the top 3 business listings. Google My Business profiles that are deemed credible can include ‘citations’ or references from other reputable websites, great reviews, a relevant local address, completed profile and more.
Google’s Naturally Selected Results (Refer to Section C on graphic)
Google’s naturally selected results are an example of Google’s purest listings. Some say that Google has 200 or so on-site factors alone that will determine whether or not a website should be shown favorably within their search engine result pages. This process is referred to as search engine optimization. Search Engine Optimization Experts are individuals and/or businesses who help button-up websites to make sure they are in compliance with many of these requirements.
Here’s a few things Google looks for:
- Does the website have a descriptive title tag that accurately describes the page content?
- Does the website have a descriptive meta description that accurately describes the page content?
- Does the website load up quickly?
- Is the website mobile friendly?
- Is the website adhering to Google’s Webmaster Guidelines, or is it trying ‘trick’ Google into thinking it’s a quality website?
Now that you’ve got an idea on how search engine result pages work – you can run a free scan on your website by clicking here to see how you can improve your search engine visibility.
*** This article was published on CRCO’s ‘Expert’s Corner.’ Your resource and guide to finding expert advice on many topics. ***
