On September 27th, 2013 Google announced the Google Hummingbird algorithm. Designed to optimize search queries, Google’s Hummingbird will make finding information over the Internet smarter and easier for web surfers. Although the new algorithm does come with major changes, the search engine giant has not shifted its focus from giving prominence to unique and custom content. Also a relevant and high quality link is just as important even now.

Will Google’s Hummingbird Impact your Veterinary Practice Website?

Google has been looking at different ways in which it can improve user experience. While the Penguin updates penalized websites with low quality links, Hummingbird will not focus on targeting negative link building; rather its main aim is to reinforce quality- based and unique content. What this means is that veterinary practices don’t have to scramble to adjust their link building and SEO strategy; the focus instead should on providing the end user with quality content all the way.

The release of the Hummingbird algorithm should not be taken as a signal to introduce major changes or to completely revamp your marketing strategies; veterinary practices should instead channelize their efforts in areas that need improvement. If you haven’t got started with Google+, do it now. Spread your content; don’t just focus all your creativity in one area. In addition to blogs and articles, use online videos and get more active over social media platforms. It might be necessary to improve your online reputation management and local search strategies; the goal is to make your veterinary practice website more appealing to your clients and target audience by delivering high quality content.

Here are a few things to keep in mind in wake of the Hummingbird algorithm update release-

• Provide your clients with quality content – educate clients about pertinent issues and address popular areas of concern;

• Include long-tail within your SEO strategy – expand the scope of the keywords you’re targeting, and include terms such as “what” and “how long” in your keywords;

• Increase your visibility within relevant online communities – start getting active on forums within your niche or area of specialization;

• Encourage your clients to leave comments and get proactive about sharing your content;

• Google Authorship is more important now than ever – focus on building circles within Google+ to increase visibility and credibility;

• Develop quality online videos addressing relevant issues and important topics and share them