SEO trends for 2024

Keeping up with SEO is a challenging task. We are getting closer and closer to 2024, and the game has evolved. 

Let’s look at the role AI will—or should—have in SEO, Core Web Vitals, and the continued importance of content quality and search intent. Then, I’ll share five actionable tips for SEO in 2024.

AI’s role in SEO in 2024

AI will have a huge impact on SEO in 2024. Even looking back at 2023, it’s already begun playing a significant role.

But beware, it’s not time to hand over the SEO reins to AI just yet. While AI can handle a good portion of SEO chores, entrusting it with the entire operation—or even full tasks—isn’t wise.

I like to think of AI as a really good intern, maybe the best you’ve ever had. It’s fast, it’s smart, but at the end of the day, it’s still an intern.

For tasks like blog writing, AI could knock out the middle 60-80% of the job. However, the crucial initial 10-20% and the crucial final 10-20%? Those need the human touch of an SEO-savvy individual.

Don’t hand all your SEO off to the intern, or you’ll get intern-level results!

Core Web Vitals continue to be important

I can’t stress enough that Core Web Vitals in SEO will remain one of the most important aspects—if not the most important—of technical SEO. These metrics, introduced by Google to measure website user experiences, are here to stay.

Never heard of Core Web Vitals? Without going into all the technical details, they are several elements that Google looks at to measure how quickly your website loads and is ready to use.

Why are Core Web Vitals crucial in 2024 and beyond? It all boils down to a good user experience. Google will prioritize websites that provide a positive user experience. A slow, clunky, or visually unstable website frustrates users and sends them scrambling back to the search results.

That’s what Google wants to avoid!

Quality content + search intent

Don’t be distracted by all the tactics and complex strategies out there. Quality content and context are still the most important factors for SEO. Google has even said they don’t care if you use AI or not as long as the content is high-quality.

Search intent, also known as user intent, refers to the purpose behind a user’s online search query. It defines why a user is searching for specific information, products, or services on the internet.

For example, have you ever mistyped something in Google, and it suggested the correct spelling? That’s one simple example of search intent. As it turns out, behind the scenes, Google is constantly trying to figure out what you’re really looking for, regardless of what you typed in.

This means you need to publish quality content that people are really looking for, even if it doesn’t match the exact search terms they’re entering.

Five actionable SEO tips for 2024

1. Engage AI but keep the reins: Utilize AI for routine tasks but maintain human control for strategic decisions, content finetuning, and to double-check research.
2. Don’t skimp on Core Web Vitals: Ensure your site is up to snuff on loading speed, responsiveness, and visual stability to keep both users and Google happy.
3. Content quality is non-negotiable: Consistently deliver high-quality, relevant content that addresses the search intent of your audience. In 2024, the primary content format will continue to be blog articles, but don’t be afraid to use other formats as well.
4. Dabble in video marketing: Speaking of other formats, incorporate videos to provide engaging content and optimize them for SEO to enhance your visibility on platforms like YouTube.
5. Mobile optimization is a must: In June 2024, we’ll hit 17 years since the first iPhone was released. If your website isn’t easily usable on a phone using responsive design, you’re way behind the curve. It’s time for a new, responsive website.

Get started

If you’re concerned about how and where you show up in search engines like Google, now’s the time to take action!

If you need professional help, I’d be happy to talk. I’ve been demystifying SEO for clients for most of the 20 years I’ve been in business. Reach out, and we can discuss whether my team and I would be a good fit for you.