Chapter 12 - Understanding Google Panda

Hello Everybody,

In this chapter we cover the end of black-hat over-optimization tactics and new
requirements for high search engine rankings.

The End of Black-Hat Over-Optimization Tactics
Unethical methods designed to outwit Google's ranking algorithms face steep setbacks.

• Backlinks Revamped
  Google is combating spamdexing more vigorously than ever. Google's link-based algorithm's will no longer give credit to any form of spam and unnecessary links. 
• Paid Editorial Links
  If you have been paid to post an editorial, review, article, or any other content, you must disclose this fact to your readers. An unnatural spike in inbound links over a short period suggests you're purchasing linking and will be dropped in rankings (except when going viral).
• Exact Match Anchor Text Keywords
  Spam tactics involving the use of automated software to randomly place hyperlinked "exact match anchor text" keywords with nonsensical comments on other people's sites is heavily discouraged.

New Requirements for High Search Engine Rankings

• Good Content
  Google now rewards websites that provide regular, high-quality, useful, and targeted content to its readers. Show signs of growth.
• Social Proof
  Google wants your content to be engaging enough that it gets disseminated across social media platforms.
• Author Rank
  It shows whether a person is or isn't an authority on a subject matter. If your name or website is frequently referred to in a particular area of specialization, Google will determine that your website carries more authority over the rest of the other websites in the same niche and rewards you with higher search engine rankings.
• Internal Links
  Link spam isn't effective. Over-optimization of key words and meta-descriptions will cripple your site's ranking. Internal links need to point to other pages within your website that are equally rich in content.
• HTTPS as a new Ranking Factor
  Increased focus on security; encrypted connections  lead to better surfing experiences for Google's end users.

That's all that I have for you on the SEO chapters, so until next time
-Caitlin Campbell