Discover the latest strategies for improving your content’s ranking on Google’s first page, getting featured in Google Discover, and following SEO techniques that work in 2024
Google Discover has become a significant traffic source for many websites in 2024. Content creators and SEO experts are increasingly focused on optimizing their articles to get featured on this platform. Google’s latest updates emphasize quality content, user intent, and adherence to its guidelines. Understanding how to rank on Google’s first page and gain visibility on Google Discover is now more important than ever.
Google Discover, a content recommendation feed, curates articles based on user preferences, search history, and engagement. Unlike traditional search, it is more about personalized content, meaning the platform is tailored to what users are likely to engage with rather than relying purely on search queries. Let’s dive into some of the key strategies and SEO techniques that can help your content perform better.
1. Create High-Quality, Relevant Content
The first step to ranking on Google Discover is to focus on high-quality content. Google evaluates content quality based on expertise, experience, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness (EEAT). Articles that demonstrate knowledge, offer reliable information, and have proper citations are more likely to be featured.
Use a conversational tone to engage readers. Avoid complex jargon or unnecessary fluff. The more clearly you can explain the topic, the better your chances of being selected by Google Discover.
2. Use Engaging and Click-Worthy Headlines
Headlines matter for both traditional search rankings and Discover. A headline should be informative and intriguing without being clickbait. Try to use numbers, questions, or actionable phrases to grab the reader’s attention. For example, a headline like “5 Proven Ways to Rank Higher in Google Search” is direct and promises actionable advice.
Avoid misleading or exaggerated titles. Google is increasingly penalizing sites for clickbait, so make sure your headline reflects the actual content.
3. Optimize for Mobile Devices
More than 70% of users access Google Discover on mobile. If your content isn’t optimized for mobile, it may never make it onto Discover’s radar. Ensure that your site is mobile-friendly with fast loading times and responsive design. This includes using properly sized images, readable font sizes, and simple layouts that adjust based on screen size.
Google’s Core Web Vitals—which focus on page speed, interactivity, and layout shifts—are now an important ranking factor, especially for mobile content. Improving your mobile performance will enhance your overall SEO.
4. Utilize Visuals and Videos
Google Discover loves visual content. Articles with eye-catching images, infographics, and embedded videos perform better on the platform. You don’t need to rely on stock images; original, high-quality images or graphics that are relevant to your content are preferred.
For videos, try to embed relevant YouTube content or short clips directly in your article. Google Discover often highlights articles with multimedia content as they provide a more engaging experience for users.
5. Pay Attention to EEAT Principles
As mentioned, Expertise, Experience, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness (EEAT) are core factors for content that ranks high on Google’s platforms, including Discover. Google is especially cautious about misinformation or low-quality content, so make sure your articles are well-researched and up-to-date.
Cite authoritative sources, use accurate data, and maintain a balanced tone. If possible, add author bios that highlight relevant experience in the field to boost the credibility of your content.
6. Leverage Trending Topics
Google Discover frequently promotes articles related to trending topics. Stay on top of industry news or recent events and publish content that taps into current discussions. Tools like Google Trends can help you identify rising topics that match your niche. Writing about trending topics, when done well, gives you a better chance of being featured.
However, your content still needs to be evergreen. While trends attract initial traffic, providing timeless value ensures that your article remains relevant even after the trend fades.
7. Use Structured Data and Meta Tags
Structured data helps Google understand your content better. By adding schema markup to your articles, you improve the likelihood of your content being featured in Discover. For example, structured data like Article, Breadcrumb, and ImageObject schema improves how your article appears visually in search results and Discover feeds.
Optimize your meta tags, including meta descriptions and image alt text. While meta descriptions do not directly impact rankings, they influence click-through rates. Make sure to keep your descriptions concise, accurate, and appealing to readers.
Conclusion (Optional Section If Needed) – The Importance of SEO and Content Strategies in 2024
SEO strategies are constantly evolving with Google’s algorithms, and understanding how to rank on the first page and get featured on Google Discover in 2024 requires a mix of technical and creative approaches. By prioritizing quality, using visuals, and following mobile optimization best practices, content creators can improve their chances of success. Whether you’re writing blog posts, news articles, or long-form content, Google’s guidelines favor those who focus on EEAT and user intent.