Three takeaways from the Google algorithm leak

In May 2024 one of Google’s internal engineering documents was leaked, exposing how its search algorithm works. The leak has some juicy details that confirm many of the things we have been telling customers for years. If you want to dig into the technical specifics, here is the original post about the leak. Below are three key takeaways and some simple action steps you can take this week to improve your SEO.

Google uses clicks and click through rate in its algorithm

Google has a system called NavBoost which tracks click data such as clicks from the search results. For years in our SEO audits we have talked about CTR (click through rate) being part of the SEO algorithm, and this confirms it.

Here is a roughly 10 minute training video where we share our CTR optimisation tactics: How to write a meta description.

Google uses Chrome user data in its algorithm

Google tracks Chrome visits across the web to determine user behaviour. We knew this already because Core Web Vitals speed data is pulled directly from Chrome based browsers, so it makes sense that other data like user engagement on a page would be pulled too.

Two techniques we teach customers, Inverted Pyramid Writing and Early Close, both improve user engagement on a page and goal completion. We cover both in how to write better content.

Domain registration and renewal dates are tracked by Google

Google does look at domain registration, renewal and expiry dates. One recommendation we include in both our SEO Audits and Site Speed Consults is to renew your domain name for as long as your registrar allows, often 10 years. We covered this in SEO is simple, not obvious.

Regardless of whether Google likes this or not, your entire SEO and online marketing strategy runs on top of your domain name, and because domain renewals are so cheap there is really no reason not to do this.

None of these three items are complicated. Tighten up your meta descriptions for clicks, structure your content so people engage with it, and renew your domain for the maximum term. If you are looking for help with your site speed, Core Web Vitals or SEO, request a free site review and we will look at your site and tell you how we can help.

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