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How to Optimize Your Content for Semantic SEO – ReadWrite

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2 years ago

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How to Optimize Your Content for Semantic SEO - ReadWrite


Google’s progress over the last 20 years is mind-blowing when you think about it. Not long ago, users were impartial to the likes of Yahoo, Bing or even Ask Jeeves. Those names have since faded into the periphery while Google has gotten better at serving up relevant answers in record time – even if we’ve entered incoherent phrases littered with typos. Basically, Google gets us. And it keeps getting better at it.

The ever-evolving game of SEO has been largely dependent on the smarts of the Google Algorithm, and it’s changed a lot over the years. The latest development? Semantic SEO. But what is it? And how do you optimize your content in a way that keeps the Google robots happy? Let’s take a closer look.

Where did semantic SEO come from?

To understand how to optimize for Google, it helps to understand a bit of its history.

Initially, SEO relied on singular keyword-focused algorithms. Then came some pretty catalytic jumps, namely with ‘Knowledge Graph,’ ‘Hummingbird,’ ‘RankBrain,’ and ‘BERT’ between 2012 – 2021.

Knowledge Graph was revolutionary in creating a mindmap for Google to see the links between words. And Hummingbird made it possible for Google to understand a search queries’ full meaning rather than just as a string of individual keywords. It was also able to interpret a webpage’s overall topic, rather than just scan for certain words – a big reason that nefarious black-hat SEO technique keyword-stuffing fell out of favor.

With a priority in understanding users’ search intent better, the context of these search terms is also judged against existing search histories, considering their relevance within local and global parameters. Or in other words, it added context.

So say, for example, you typed ‘corona’ into your search bar. Currently, Google will predict that you’re more likely interested in the COVID-19 situation affecting your city, rather than the beer. So the first results you see will be related to just that. Semantic SEO is a step forward in the world of Google contextualizing.

What is semantic SEO?

To get to grips with semantic SEO, it’s helpful to unpack the word semantic.

According to the Oxford English Dictionary, semantics is “the branch of linguistics and logic concerned with meaning. The two main areas are logical semantics, concerned with matters such as sense and reference and presupposition and implication, and lexical semantics, concerned with the analysis of word meanings and relations between them.”

Semantic SEO is based on lexical semantics – so how the words relate to one another.

1. How to optimize your content for semantic SEO

Google aims to respond to users’ questions with articles containing the most valuable information and predictively answer follow-up questions. It knows humans are curious creatures, after all. So we will teach you how to optimize your content for quality AND be picked up favorably by Google’s radar.

First, you need to understand the intent of your article. Or in other words, which of the reader’s needs are you answering? Intent falls into 3 categories – and it’s crucial to know which of these your piece falls into if you’re going to keep readers happy. Users are browsing on the internet to either –

  1. Learn something;
  2. Buy something; or
  3. Find something specific (e.g., a shop their friend has just mentioned).

The breakdown of this intent falls roughly into 80%, 10% and 10%, respectively. Most users are on the internet with specific questions that they want answers to. So it’s important to understand the questions your article is trying to answer — otherwise, your website won’t convert, your bounce rate will be sky-high, and Google will penalize you for not being what your readers want.

2. Create quality content (not pieces jammed with keywords)

Most users don’t jump on Google to open a digital encyclopedia and sift through information. Remember that. They want the specifics, and the worst thing you can try to do is provide a short, surface-level general overview of the subject. Google Knowledge Panels and Wikipedia already exist for this exact reason.

Knowledge panels are snippets of ‘general info’ pinned to the top of search results. So really, your general info article is getting into the ring with Google, and you can guess who we’d place our bets on.

Once you have the question your article is trying to answer, really unpack the value in that. Ensure your piece is thorough. You can even go as far as answering other questions related to that route of curiosity.

Top tip: According to recent web design statistics, content you wrote years ago can still work to boost your SEO and organic Google traffic. Google bots actively crawl every page of your website to find relevant matches to users’ search queries. Maintaining an active blog increases your chance of multiple pages being picked up and shown on the first page of Google.

At the end of the day, your piece should be chock-full of long-tail keywords connected to the topic of interest. Google will pick up on the quantity and quality of the semantically connected phrases peppered through your article and increase the relevance score of your article.

A quick example…

Say you’re writing an analytical piece about Harry Potter. Your semantically connected phrases could include ‘seventh Harry Potter book,’ ‘The Boy Who Lived Next Door,’ ‘Harry Potter,’ ‘Neville Longbottom’, and ‘understanding the prophecy.’

Google would crawl this article and understand it is suited for readers who want to understand the relationship between Potter and Longbottom. In contrast, semantically connected phrases for an entertainment piece about the cast could include ‘child actors,’ ‘cast of Harry Potter,’ and ‘film journey.’

Ten years ago, the SEO strategy for both articles would have been to stuff the keyword “Harry Potter” in as many times as sanely possible. Thankfully, Google’s comprehension skills have improved, so we can focus more on writing richer pieces of content, without repeating ourselves unnecessarily.

3. Long-form content is better than short

It is difficult to cover a topic well in less than 300 words. So don’t waste the precious chance with a case of cat-got-your-tongue when people arrive at your show.

Google doesn’t want its users to have to hop through various pages to get the answers – that would be a bit like phoning up a customer service helpline that kept redirecting you to a different department member for every question you had (oh wait…been there). Frustrating!

No one’s limiting your time on stage, so go long. Instead, write pieces of 2,000-2,500 words that cover more ground and cast a wider safety net in answering a multitude of questions.

These longer articles can really help boost your lead conversion and drive organic traffic to your site. They also provide you with more opportunities to add semantically linked phrases – and when it comes to optimizing your site for semantic SEO, that’s definitely a good thing.

4. Increase the relevance of your article by reverse-fitting it to Google

Look at what comes up in the Google dropdown search bar. This will give you ideas for semantically related phrases you can tie into your article. It’ll also give you a better understanding of your user’s interests.

Google’s dropdown list will help you understand your user’s interests.

Additionally, you can scroll down to the end of the search results page, and record the small list of ‘Related Keywords’ displayed here.

Collectively these can guide what you cover in your piece, give you a mindmap of LSI keywords (aka long-tail keywords) and the kinds of medium-tail keywords you can use. Incorporating more of both of these is preferable. It means you’ll cast a wider net for your article because Google will automatically include you for the longer-tail keywords.

5. Rank well for informational queries to earn a ‘Featured Snippet’

Everyone used to covet the Position 1 spot on a Google search results page. But now, people are aiming for Position 0. Why? Because you’re not only first, but Google additionally shows an open sliver of your content. It’s really like getting a foot into the door of attention, increasing traffic to your page from the users who’d like to read more.

You can aim to be chosen for these ‘featured snippets’ through structuring your content with question headlines, followed by bullet point answers or scannable content. Incorporating various headlines with popular questions and relevant answers will improve your chance to rank better for the overall topic. Instead of just reeling in people based on one keyword, you can catch people who asked various kinds of questions to do with your topic.

If you don’t get the Position 0 spot, don’t fret: aim for another highly-placed spot instead. You will recognize Google shows an accordion-style FAQ of follow-up questions underneath the ‘featured snippet.’ When clicked on, a snippet of the answer opens up, so it’s a very respectable runner-up prize.

6. Use structured markup and semantic tags in your code

Not seen by users, this backend advanced SEO technique helps the Google machinery understand the organization of your article. Using semantic HTML elements enhances the accessibility and searchability of your article. It also improves your chances of achieving the coveted Google 0 position.

Using semantic tags tells the browser a little more about the meaning and the hierarchy of the content. Instead of seeing <div> and <span> for differing blocks of content — use semantic tags like <header> <nav> <article> <footer> to organize your content. And within content blocks, use element heading tags (h1, h2, h3, h4, h5 and paragraph). These break up the text and order your copy according to importance.

Final thoughts

There’s an opportunity to delve deeper into topics to rank well as a specialist article covering a niche topic. You can also feature it as an informational snippet in Position 0. Now Google has caught up in leaps and bounds; you can worry less about gaming the system with keyword-stuffing — and instead, challenge yourself to write even more meaningful content.

Image Credit: freeboilergrants; pexels; thank you!

Irwin Hau

Irwin Hau is a private business consultant and Founder of Chromatix, a multi-award-winning web design and conversion agency based in Melbourne, Australia. Since opening shop in 2009, he’s gone on to amass over 70 awards and mentions for work in web design and digital solutions.

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The Benefits of Standing Desks for Office Workers

Published

18 hours ago

on

03/25/2023

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The Benefits of Standing Desks for Office Workers


Standing desks have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason.

In this article, I’ll discuss the benefits of standing desks for office workers.

The Dangers of Prolonged Sitting

Sitting for extended periods can be harmful to your health.

Prolonged sitting has been linked to various health problems, including obesity, cardiovascular disease, and type 2 diabetes.

It can also increase the risk of certain types of cancer, such as colon and endometrial cancer.

The Benefits of Standing Desks

Standing desks offer a range of benefits that can improve the health of office workers.

This is not to say that you have to stand the entire day — but forcing oneself to stand several times during the workday will significantly improve your health.

Improved posture

One of the most significant benefits of standing desks is that they can improve posture. Sitting for long periods can lead to slouching, which can cause neck and back pain.

By standing at a desk, you can maintain a more upright posture, which can reduce the risk of neck and back pain.

Tips for a Good Posture

  • Stand with your feet hip-width apart.
  • Ensure your feet are flat on the floor and your shoulders are relaxed.
  • Keep your head straight, eyes looking forward, and chin parallel to the floor.
  • Keep your arms loosely at your sides, with your elbows bent at 90 degrees.
  • Take regular breaks to move around, stretch, and relax your back, neck, and shoulders.

Increased energy levels

Standing desks can also increase energy levels, helping you to stay alert and focused throughout the day.

It’s because standing desks can improve blood circulation, which helps to deliver more oxygen and nutrients to the brain.

Improves Mood

Standing desks can also improve mood, helping to reduce stress and increase feelings of well-being.

Having a good mood in the office can have a significant impact on the productivity and overall morale of the workplace.

A good mood has been linked to improved performance, higher levels of engagement, and even better physical health for office workers.

Increased Focus and Productivity

Standing desks have also been shown to increase focus and productivity. When we sit for long periods, our bodies tend to become sluggish, and our minds start to wander.

It can lead to a decrease in focus and productivity.

In contrast, standing desks keep us alert and focused, as they require us to maintain an upright position for a while — and maintain a constant state of movement.

Here are some tips to maximize your productivity while at a standing desk:

  • Listen to Music.
  • Take Breaks.
  • Use a Footrest.
  • Keep it Clean.

Reduced Risk of Health Problems

Another benefit of standing desks is the reduced risk of health problems. Sitting for long periods has been linked to a range of health problems, including obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.

By using a standing desk, office workers can reduce their risk of these problems and maintain a healthy weight.

Additionally, standing desks have been shown to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, including colon cancer and breast cancer.

Promotes Weight Loss

Weight loss is a benefit (from bestdesksgeek dot com) of standing desks that often goes unnoticed. Standing desks offer a great way to burn extra calories while working.

Studies suggest that standing at a desk can burn up to 50-110 extra calories per hour compared to sitting. This can add up over time and contribute to weight loss.

Better Sleep

Finally, standing desks can also help improve the quality of sleep. Sitting for long periods has been linked to poor sleep quality, as it can cause discomfort and stress.

On the other hand, standing desks promote good posture and reduce stress, which can lead to better sleep quality.

Additionally, standing desks have been shown to reduce the risk of sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea.

Cost-Benefit Analysis of Implementing Standing Desks in the Workplace

While the benefits of standing desks are numerous, they do come with a cost.

Below is a cost-benefit analysis of standing desks:

Cost of Implementation

While the benefits of standing desks are numerous, they do come with a cost.

The cost of implementation can vary depending on the type of standing desk you choose and the number of employees you need to accommodate.

It’s important to consider the cost of the desks themselves, as well as the cost of any necessary modifications to the work environment, such as electrical and plumbing upgrades.

Return on Investment (ROI)

Despite the upfront cost of implementing standing desks in the workplace, the return on investment can be substantial. Improved employee health, increased productivity, and reduced absenteeism can all lead to improved bottom-line performance.

How Incorrect Posture Can Lead To Health Issues While Using a Standing Desk?

If you work at a standing desk, it’s important to be aware of the potential health risks associated with incorrect posture.

Poor posture can lead to several health issues, including musculoskeletal problems, headaches, and fatigue.

One of the most common problems associated with incorrect posture is a pain in the neck, shoulders, and back.

This is often caused by slouching or hunching over, which puts unnecessary strain on the spine. Poor posture can also lead to tension headaches and migraines.

Fatigue is another common problem caused by incorrect posture. When you stand for long periods, it’s important to maintain good posture to avoid fatiguing your muscles.

If you slouch or hunch over, you’ll likely start to feel tired more quickly.

Incorrect posture can also cause problems with circulation. When you stand, your blood flow should be directed downwards towards your feet.

However, if you slouch or hunch over, your blood flow can be restricted, leading to dizziness, lightheadedness, and even fainting.

FAQs

Are standing desks more comfortable than traditional seated desks?

Yes, standing desks are more comfortable than traditional seated desks. Standing desks offer several comfort benefits, including reduced risk of pressure injuries and improved focus and motivation.

How often should I use my standing desk?

It’s also important to use your standing desk regularly to get the most benefit from it.

Is a mat necessary when using a standing desk?

No, a mat is not hundred percent necessary, but for standing for long periods — it provides a non-slip surface for added safety.

Conclusion

Standing desks offer a range of benefits for office workers, including improved posture, increased focus and productivity, reduced risk of health problems, increased energy levels, and better sleep quality.

With so many benefits, it is no wonder that standing desks are becoming a popular choice for office workers around the world.

In this article, I’ve discussed the benefits of standing desks for office workers.

What benefits have you seen from your standing desk? Let us know!

Featured Image Credit: Provided by the Author; Unsplash; Thank you!

William Lowery

William is a furniture enthusiast who loves nothing more than spending his free time combing through antique stores and online auction sites in search of the perfect piece.
He is the lead author at Desks Geek, he helps others by writing “how-to guides” and “best recommendations” about desks.

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What is a Divorce from Bed and Board?

Published

1 day ago

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03/25/2023

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What is a divorce from bed and board?


If you are considering filing for a divorce from bed and board, it is important to understand what it entails. Commonly known as a “legal separation,” this type of dissolution of a marriage involves much more than just the two parties not living together anymore; instead, it may include property division and child custody rights, among other things.

In some cases, obtaining a bed and board divorce can even be difficult to obtain in certain states due to the laws related to separations. Regardless of your motive behind wanting or needing one, knowing all that goes into such an arrangement can help you make informed decisions regarding your future.

Overview of divorce from bed and board

A divorce from bed and board is a type of divorce that involves two parties legally separating but never actually getting divorced. It’s not uncommon for couples who want to pursue divorce proceedings to first consider this option, as it allows them to maintain the legal benefits of being married without having to endure the heartache and stress associated with an actual divorce.

What are the benefits of divorce from bed and board?

The main benefit of divorce from bed and board is that it allows couples to divide assets, establish custody rights, and make arrangements pertaining to support payments in a way that’s agreeable to both parties. This means they can move on with their lives while still enjoying many of the benefits of marriage, including being able to file jointly for taxes and having access to health insurance.

Are there downsides to divorce from bed and board?

Though divorce, from bed and board, may seem like the perfect solution for some couples, it is important to understand that it can be difficult or even impossible to obtain in certain states due to the legal definition of divorce. Additionally, some couples may find themselves stuck in a limbo-like situation if they remain legally married but live separately.

Couples should also be aware that divorce from bed and board does not dissolve a marriage — meaning the two parties are still technically married and can’t remarry without getting an actual divorce.

Filing for divorce from bed and board is a serious decision that should not be taken lightly. It’s important to consult a lawyer experienced in family law before deciding if this option is right for you. With the right guidance, you can decide what’s best for your situation and move forward with confidence.

What is a divorce from bed and board?

What are the grounds for a divorce from bed and board?

In order to file for divorce from bed and board, you must have a valid reason, such as:

  1. Adultery – Adultery is one of the most valid grounds for divorce from bed and board. It is voluntary sexual intercourse between two married people, one of whom is not the other’s legal spouse. But in many states — the judges don’t care either way.
  2. Abandonment – Abandonment involves one spouse leaving the marital home without any intention to return or provide support for at least one year.
  3. Cruelty – Cruelty can be defined as any physical or mental abuse suffered by either spouse.
  4. Separation – Separation occurs when spouses have lived apart for at least a year due to disagreements or other factors.
  5. Habitual Intemperance – Habitual intemperance is the excessive use of drugs or alcohol by one spouse.
  6. Excessive Spending – This involves one spouse spending money in a way that is detrimental to the other spouse’s financial interests.

Understanding divorce from bed and board can help you make an informed decision when considering your legal options. Before making any decisions, it’s important to consult a lawyer to ensure this is the right choice for you. With the right guidance, you can move forward with confidence.

What are the consequences of a divorce from bed and board?

The consequences of divorce from bed and board depend on the agreement reached between the two parties. Additionally, they may have difficulty remarrying in the future without obtaining an actual divorce.

Overall, this type of divorce can be a viable option for couples who are looking to divorce but wish to maintain some of the benefits of marriage. It is important to understand all of the legal implications before making any decisions, so it’s always best to consult an experienced family law attorney. With the right guidance, you can make informed decisions that are in your best interests.

How can a divorce attorney help you with this?

A divorce attorney can provide invaluable assistance, especially in cases where you’re going through a divorce from bed and board (garrettandwalker dot com, same title). They will advise you on the best course of action and ensure that all legal requirements are met. They will also work with you to create a divorce agreement and represent your interests in court if needed.

With the right guidance, you can make informed decisions that are in your best interests. If this is the right option for you, a divorce lawyer can help you to understand all the legal aspects. With a divorce attorney by your side, you can move forward with confidence.

Conclusion

Divorce from bed and board is a viable option for couples who wish to divorce but remain married. It can provide some of the benefits of marriage without many disadvantages. Before making any decisions, it’s important to understand all of the legal implications and consult an experienced lawyer. With the right legal guidance, you can make informed decisions that are in your best interests.

Inner Image Credit: Photos by cottonbro studio; Thank you!

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Lucas Vitale

Lucas is the Co-Founder & CEO at SEO Assistance. With a decade of experience in SEO, he has used his skillset to help grow thousands of businesses around the world.

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The Top 7 AI Podcasts You Need To Hear Now

Published

1 day ago

on

03/24/2023

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The Top 7 AI Podcasts You Need To Hear Now


With artificial intelligence now being used to write everything from college homework to Congressional speeches, it’s more important than ever to stay on top of the latest advances in machine learning, natural language processing, and all things AI. 

We’ve brought together a list of seven of the top podcasts that track and explain the newest developments. They look behind the scenes at the technology behind the platforms, and they discuss how artificial intelligence is already upending business, marketing, data analysis, and more.

The TWIML AI Podcast 

The TWIML AI Podcast used to be known as This Week in Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence. The new name is shorter and snappier, but the content is just as deep and complex. Hosted by Sam Charrington, the podcast has produced more than 630 weekly episodes featuring interviews with a host of guests — usually technicians and scientists—working in the field of AI. The subjects of the discussions are often fairly complex. If you want to understand the human thinking behind artificial thinking, the show is essential listening.

 The Bad AI Show 

If interviews with Stanford professors aren’t your thing, try the Bad AI Show. Hosted by Joel Comm and Travis Wright of the Bad Crypto Podcast. The pair take a fun, laidback approach to new technology, explaining clearly — and wittily — the latest developments in artificial intelligence and its practical effects. Think of the TWIML AI podcast as a Stanford lecture and the Bad AI Show as the lounge next door. It’s a fun, relaxed chat with smart people about AI topics that get everyone thinking. The show is released as both an audio and video version.

The AI Podcast

One of the biggest challenges that a discussion of AI generates is how the new technology will be applied in the real world. Noah Kravitz’s The AI Podcast has already generated almost 200 answers. Each episode features an interview with experts using artificial intelligence to further their work. They’ve included a wildlife biologist tracking endangered rhinos, an astrophysicist analyzing starlight, and language learners grappling with Arabic pronunciation and even the delivery of sports highlights. 

Data Skeptic

As you listen to those interviews with people applying AI to such a broad range of fields, it’s worth asking about the effectiveness of AI in solving those problems and whether they couldn’t be solved in an easier way. Claims for the benefits of artificial intelligence will grow, so make sure you’re also listening to Kyle Polich’s Data Skeptic. The podcast has already produced more than 470 episodes with interviews that take down the hype and take a realistic view of what AI can and can’t do.

 

The AI in Business Podcast 

One area where both the hype and the expectation will be highest is in business applications of artificial intelligence. Each week, on the AI in Business Podcast, Daniel Faggella, the CEO of Emerj Artificial Intelligence Research, interviews AI executives from leading firms and startups to explore how business is adapting AI and exploring the opportunities the new technology offers.

 

 

The Marketing AI Show

Business is a broad topic. The Marketing AI Show tries to narrow things down with a focus specifically on the way marketers are using artificial intelligence to improve sales. The podcast is created by the Marketing AI Institute and the Marketing AI Conference (MAICON), and it’s essential listening for anyone wondering how the new technology can help their business identify leads and improve conversions.

 

 

Eye on AI

Finally, Eye on A.I. takes a broader, more journalistic approach to the developments of artificial intelligence. Out every two weeks and hosted by New York Times correspondent Craig S. Smith, each episode features an interview with a leader pushing AI into new ground. Episodes have discussed AI in supply chain optimization and finance but they’ve also delved behind the scenes to look at issues surrounding privacy and the future of AI itself.

 

Featured Image Credit: Photo by Jean Balzan; Pexels; Thank you!

Brad Anderson

Editor In Chief at ReadWrite

Brad is the editor overseeing contributed content at ReadWrite.com. He previously worked as an editor at PayPal and Crunchbase. You can reach him at brad at readwrite.com.

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