Perhaps, you are aiming to get your content indexed in Google News, targeting millions of users who will actively search for new content and news. It is not just used to promote already popular news sites only! However, there are concrete steps that have to be observed to properly enhance a given content for Google News SEO. This guide, provided by NivilSEO, SEO expert Dubai, will reveal those secrets and arm you with 7 potent strategies that are going to get your content featured in those ‘Top Stories’ sections.
What is Google News and Where Does it Show Up?
Think of the latest articles published in different sources in a newsstand. That’s essentially Google News! On the one hand, it collects and shares articles through different channels; on the other – it is a treasure of readers and maybe the starting point for content distribution. Here’s the catch: Google News is not only limited to the application named as Google News and its official webpage on the Internet. Your content can also be seen in these powerful locations:Your content can also be seen in these powerful locations:
- Google Search: Target users where they are likely to be searching for any related topic. Often there would be a link like “News” or “Top Stories” next to the regular search results.
- Google Discover: A pipeline of articles specially filtered according to the reader’s preferences and that can include news.
- Google Trends: Such topics may comprise related current affairs stories.
- YouTube: Google News content is used in the “breaking news” and “top news” sections.
- Google Assistant: Your virtual assistant can go so far as to read news articles to you!
How Does Google News Locate Your Stories?
Several factors are considered in the selection of news articles to present to the users by Google News although reliability of the news source is of paramount importance. Here’s a breakdown:
- Algorithms: Sophisticated software regulates the content to see if it is relevant to the search.
- Human Expertise: To ensure the quality of the papers the works are reviewed by a team of reviewers.
- Publishers: The key conclusion hence made concerning the impact of established news sources is that they have greater impact.
Google News values Fresh, Quality, Original stories that are relevant and Have to be unique and abide by Google News’ policies.
7 Google News SEO Tactics to Help You Rise in the Rankings
Now that you understand the playing field, let’s delve into the actionable tactics that will help your content rise in Google News rankings:
1. Join the Google Publisher Center (Optional but Beneficial):
While not mandatory, setting up a Google Publisher Center (a free and easy process) offers several advantages:
- Direct Submission: Share your content directly with Google News instead of waiting for it to be discovered during a crawl.
- Control & Branding: Maintain control over how your content and publication appear in Google News.
- Monetization: Utilize paywalls to earn revenue through “Subscribe with Google.”
- Newsstand: Become eligible to appear in the Google News app’s dedicated Newsstand section.
- Google’s Seal of Approval: Enhance your credibility through the application review process.
Here’s how to submit your site:
- Visit the Publisher Center and click “Add a publication.”
- Enter your website URL and choose a publication name and location.
- Verify your site ownership through Google Search Console.
- Once approved, you can submit content directly using RSS feeds, website URLs, or even videos.
2. Technical SEO: Make Your Site Google News Friendly
Technical SEO involves optimizing your website’s structure and functionality for search engines. A well-functioning site tells Google it’s trustworthy and easy to navigate, increasing your chances of appearing in Google News. Here are some key technical SEO tactics:
- Follow Google’s Guidelines: These cover aspects like using a single language per article.
- News-Specific Structured Data: Provide extra code (schema markup) to help Google understand your content as a news article.
- Fast Loading Speeds: Optimize images and ensure your site loads quickly on all devices.
- Avoid Duplicate Content: Don’t copy content from other sources or rewrite it without adding value.
- Mobile-Friendly Design: Make sure your site displays flawlessly on smartphones and tablets.
- HTTPS Security: Protect user data with a secure connection (indicated by a lock symbol in the address bar).
Confused by structured data? Think of it like extra information hidden within your article’s code, telling Google exactly what your content is about. This helps Google display it prominently in “Top Stories” or “Picks for you.”
3. Find Trending Topics and Answer Burning Questions
People crave fresh information! Leverage a combination of Google Trends and keyword research tools like Semrush’s Keyword Magic Tool to identify trending topics and questions that your content can address.
- Google Trends: See if there’s a surge in searches related to your niche. For example, a trending celebrity divorce or a tech company’s system outage could be an opportunity to create
4. Craft Original, High-Quality Content with Captivating Headlines
Here’s where your content truly shines! Google News prioritizes fresh, informative, and well-written content. But how do you make it stand out from the crowd?
- Captivating Headlines: Write headlines that are clear, concise, and grab the reader’s attention. Aim for around 110 characters to ensure it displays fully in Google News.
- Example (Intriguing): “Is Burning Man a Playground for the Wealthy? A Look Behind the Scenes” (Original CNN article)
- Example (Clear & Concise): “Rebellion Research: Why Stock Prices Could Fall Soon” (Investment firm’s Google News article)
- Avoid Clickbait: Promise what you deliver! Don’t mislead readers with sensational headlines that don’t reflect the content.
- E-E-A-T for Trustworthiness: Google prioritizes content that demonstrates Expertise, Experience, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness (E-E-A-T).
- Expertise: Showcase the writer’s knowledge and credentials on the topic.
- Experience: Prove the insights and reporting are authentic.
- Authoritativeness: Establish the writer as an influencer or expert with a good reputation (ideally with backlinks from other reputable sources).
- Trustworthiness: Ensure the content is accurate, unbiased, and secure.
- Newsworthy Content: Focus on timely information that readers can use right away. Avoid evergreen content or “how-to” guides – these aren’t ideal for Google News.
Think: Original reporting, analysis of current events, or in-depth exploration of trending topics.
5. Freshness is King (or Queen!)
Google News heavily favors fresh content. Aim to publish newsworthy stories regularly. Think weekly, or even more frequently for fast-paced industries. Here’s an example:
- The Verge (Tech News): Regularly publishes several articles daily, keeping their content fresh and relevant in Google News.
But what about older content? Don’t worry! You can refresh existing content to keep it valuable:
- Research & Update Information: Add new facts, figures, and insights.
- Expand on Thin Sections: Add more depth to areas lacking detail.
- New Angle or Viewpoint: Offer a fresh perspective on the topic.
- Expert Quotes: Include insights from industry specialists.
By refreshing content meaningfully, you show Google (and readers) that it’s still valuable and relevant.
6. Build Your Reputation as a Trusted Source and Master Social Media
Google News prioritizes established news sources. While a massive social media following isn’t essential, it helps build brand awareness, trust, and credibility. Here’s how:
- Social Media Presence: Be active on platforms your target audience frequents (X, Instagram, etc.).
- Engage with Followers: Respond to comments, questions, and discussions.
- Discover Content Preferences: Learn what content resonates most with your audience to inform future content creation.
- Personalized Feeds: A strong social media presence can increase the chances of your content appearing in personalized feeds like Google Discover.
- News Aggregators: Regularly posting on X (formerly Twitter) can lead to your content being included in “From X” sections within Google News reports.
Focus on quality over quantity. It’s better to be active on a few platforms you can manage effectively than spread yourself thin across multiple platforms.
7. Tighten Up the Details: Small Tweaks, Big Impact
Even minor details can impact your Google News ranking. Here are some easy wins:
- “About Us” Page: Create a transparent and informative “About Us” page with your contact information. This builds agree with and establishes your expertise.
- Author Bylines: Add author names to your content and create dedicated author pages. This showcases expertise and authoritativeness.
- Clear Dates & Times: Ensure articles have clear publication dates and times (ideally displayed between the headline and the text). Google prioritizes fresh content, and hours can be more relevant than just days.
Structured Data: Use structured data to specify the “datePublished” or “dateModified” fields with the correct time zone.
Conclusion
By following these 7 Google News SEO tactics and creating high-quality, newsworthy content, you can increase your chances of appearing in Google News and reaching a wider audience. Remember, a well-optimized website, fresh content, and a touch of social media magic can go a long way!
- Google Publisher Center (Optional but Beneficial): Submit your content directly to Google News for increased visibility.
- Technical SEO: Make your website user-friendly and search engine friendly.
- Trending Topics & Burning Questions: Find what people are curious about and answer those questions with your content.
- Captivating Headlines & Trustworthy Content: Craft headlines that grab attention and content that adheres to Google’s E-E-A-T guidelines.
- Freshness is Key: Regularly publish newsworthy stories to stay relevant. Refresh older content to keep it valuable.
- Build Your Reputation & Social Media Savvy: Establish yourself as a trusted source and leverage social media to connect with your audience.
- Don’t Forget the Details: Small tweaks like clear dates and author information can make a big difference.
Bonus Tip: Utilize tools like Semrush’s Site Audit and Keyword Magic Tool to identify technical SEO issues and trending topics to optimize your content strategy.
