Are you falling for the SEO myths that can hurt your rankings?

Search engine optimization (SEO) is far from a "set it and forget it" strategy. Google and other search engines are constantly updating their algorithms, and as a website owner or marketer, it's important to keep up with them to keep your content relevant. But persistent myths can make it difficult to know what really matters. In this post, we act as MythBusters and review 7 of the most common SEO myths still being spread in 2024.

#1: SEO is just about repeating keywords

Many people believe that keyword optimization is just about finding the right keyword and then frequently repeating it throughout the text.

This is not true. Search algorithms are much more sophisticated. They understand both synonyms and context. Overusing keywords, also known as 'keyword stuffing', is more likely to be seen as spam and can hurt a site's ranking. Focus on creating quality content that provides value to users and include relevant search phrases in a natural way.

#2: Longer texts are always rewarded in search results

Perhaps one of the most persistent myths is that the number of words counts when it comes to reaching a top position in search results. Several self-proclaimed experts even give advice on minimum word counts.

This is also false. John Mueller, Senior Webmaster Trends Analyst and Search Relations team lead at Google, has repeatedly denied the importance of text length.

"From our point of view the number of words on a page is not a quality factor, not a ranking factor.

So just blindly adding more and more text to a page doesn't make it better."

What really counts is quality and relevance. A shorter, well-written article that appeals to the user can be far more relevant than a longer, more comprehensive version. Put the energy into understanding the user's intent of the search and shape your content to match it.

#3: Duplicate content is harmful

Copying the same content on multiple pages is not a good strategy and can actually be harmful from an SEO perspective.

True, but fear not. Some types of duplicate content are hard to avoid, such as product descriptions on e-commerce sites. Google is smart enough to understand that.

#4: Low search volume keywords are not worth investing in

High-volume keywords are attractive, but also involve higher competition. In contrast, longer search phrases, known as long-tail keywords, have lower competition but also lower search volume and are therefore more often rejected.

False. The idea that low search volume is worse from an SEO perspective is not true. According to an article on Search Engine Land, 70% of all online searches are made with long-tail keywords. This is where the bulk of all search traffic is found, so the majority of search phrases you should optimize for should be in this category.

#5: Website design does not affect SEO

It is a common misconception that "as long as your content is good, the design doesn't matter much".

False. A well-designed website with intuitive navigation, fast loading times and mobile-friendliness tickles the algorithms in the right way and will definitely influence search result rankings.

#6: More backlinks mean better rankings

Collecting a large number of links from different websites was once a popular strategy to improve rankings. Some still believe it has an effect.

False. Today, quality is more important than quantity. Getting links from trustworthy and relevant websites is crucial for an effective SEO strategy.

#7: Get it right and you'll see results fast

Setting an SEO strategy and optimizing web pages takes a lot of work, so you want the effect of it. But those who promise quick results are on thin ice.

False, unfortunately. Search engine optimization is a long-term process and it's common for it to take several months before you start seeing measurable results. But don't give up! Keep filling your website with relevant content that helps your intended visitors.

Bubblers: Social media has no effect on SEO

Social media engagement does not affect Google's ranking algorithm.

True, but... It can indirectly affect your SEO by strengthening the brand and building authority within the industry. In addition, social signals are said to have an impact on Bing SEO.

Need someone to chat with?

As you can imagine, it's not easy to know what to do or who to listen to when it comes to search engine optimization. There are many reliable experts on the subject, but just as many thinkers and pundits. And not everything is black and white either.

At Navigator, we have extensive experience in SEO for B2B. Whether you want a sounding board, an analysis of how your website is performing today, or help with creating content that strengthens your ranking, we are here.