Līve Ambitions

I see a lot of articles on how to optimize for a specific search engine, such as Google, Yahoo or Bing. But, I wonder why anyone would do such a thing. SEO takes a lot of work and manhours, especially if the site is new or if you manage more than 1 website. Who has time for it? Yes, there are some differences in the algorithms, but for the most part, search engines like the same basic characteristics in websites. Take your thoughts to grassroots level. It’ll simplify your job and also provide the best user experience.

To understand why the search engines are so similar you simply have to look at their business model. Their business model is based around providing the best experience for their users. They are not in business to make website owners money. They are in business not because of webmasters, but mainly because end-users find their service to be useful. Without practicality, usability or relevancy, search engines would be worthless to users. Without user traffic there is no money, and without money, there is no business.

You should think the same when developing a website. Build for the user, not for yourself or the search engines. Of course, if you don’t care about visitors or making money, then feel free to make your site as hideous as you’d like.

The search engines had the users in mind when they 1st developed their search engine algorithm, and it is still the users today that influence the factors of search engine algorithms.

So, let’s get down to the very basics. Why do people visit Google or Bing?

• To find an answer
• To learn about something
• To search for something
• To buy something

What is the best possible way for a search engine to provide a solution for its users?

• Provide relevant results
• Provide answers
• Eliminate clutter and spam
• Give speedy results
• Help protect the public

As you already know, algorithms are what determines how search engines show results. And, we know that Google and Bing care about the same things despite having separate algorithms. 

Here are the key factors that search engines agree are most important:

• Strong / quality backlinks
• On-site factors, such as keywords, meta tags, titles, alt tags, etc.
• Site architecture, such as coding, URLs and link structure
• Age and authority of website
• Unique content

Everything else is small potatoes. Optimizing for all search engines is not only efficient, but also helps you stay focused on what is important. Wouldn’t you rather receive organic traffic from all the search engines and not just one?