Unless you’ve been sleeping this week you probably already heard.
The SEO world was recently rocked by a major leak: thousands of pages detailing Google’s internal search algorithm documentation. With over 6,000 potential ranking factors revealed, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But should law firms (or SEO’s) be worried?
After crying myself to sleep last night I asked myself the same question (Just kidding). We credit the leak to Rand Fishkin along with Mike King who first published the findings.
The Leak and What We Learned
The leaked documents reveal a complex system, confirming some long-held SEO suspicions while contradicting others.
- Site authority matters: Google does consider the overall authority of a website.
- Clicks play a role: User behavior, including clicks, does influence rankings.
- Freshness is important: Google tracks the dates on your pages.
However, much of this information simply validates what many experienced marketers already knew. Google has always emphasized quality content, user experience, and relevant backlinks.
Thats not to say that Google isn’t or hasn’t just been gaslighting us forever. They have been (see below images)
Example: What Google says about links is below… yet it’s mentioned 190 times in the leak…
See their job is to make money on their ads, but you have to admit things started going downhill for Google in terms of search quality results sometime after “Don’t Be Evil” disappeared from their code of conduct.
Some of My Personal Takeaways
These are just some of my initial takeaways based on what I originally posted on X. 90% of the things I have seen so far (and the ones I think I understand) I am shaking my head Yes to already.
- Quality Links Trump Quantity: While backlinks remain important, Google emphasizes relevance and trustworthiness. Focus on building relationships with reputable sources in the legal field, rather than chasing after high volumes of low-quality links.
- Font Size Matters (But Don’t Go Crazy): While emphasizing key terms with larger fonts can subtly signal relevance, resist the urge to overdo it. Prioritize user experience and readability.
- Front-Load Your Content: Get to the point quickly. Google’s algorithm analyzes a limited number of words, so ensure your most important content appears early in your documents and web pages.
- Title Precision is Key: Craft page titles that closely match common user queries. Think like your potential clients and optimize for the terms they’re actually searching for.
- Freshness Isn’t Just About Dates: Regularly updating your content with new information and insights is far more valuable than simply changing the date. Google values relevant, timely content.
- Domain Details Matter: Especially for new or recently transferred domains, ensure your registration details are accurate and up-to-date. This builds trust with Google.
- Real Engagement Wins: Genuine user interaction is a powerful signal for Google. Focus on creating content that resonates with your audience and encourages meaningful engagement.
- Slow and Steady Wins the Link Race: Avoid sudden spikes in link acquisition, as this can trigger spam filters. Build links organically and consistently.
- User Experience is Non-Negotiable: Prioritize easy navigation and a seamless user experience. A frustrated visitor is unlikely to become a client.
- Stay on Topic (Even If It’s Fun): Maintain a consistent focus on your practice areas across your website. This helps establish your authority and expertise.
- Don’t Be Fooled by SEO Gimmicks: Avoid outdated tactics like excessive keyword stuffing and mismatched anchor text. Focus on creating valuable content and building genuine relationships.
- Google’s “Twiddlers” Are at Play: Remember, Google’s algorithm is constantly evolving. While you can optimize for known factors, factors like user behavior and content freshness can also influence your rankings in real-time.
What It Means for Law Firms
First it probably means don’t trust Google mouth pieces. But at the end of the day real results aren’t only about manipulating Google. It’s about making sure your firm is doing real marketing.
Like actually trying to stand out in your market to your ideal clients. (RMS – Real Marketing Shit)
If your law firm is already getting results with a well-rounded marketing strategy, there’s no need to panic. This leak doesn’t change the fundamentals of effective legal marketing:
- Prioritize high-quality content: Informative, relevant content that answers your audience’s questions remains crucial.
- Focus on user experience: A well-designed, easy-to-navigate website is essential for both users and search engines.
- Earn / Build / Don’t? Buy authoritative backlinks: Earn links from reputable sources within your industry.
Diversify Your Marketing Channels
And if you haven’t noticed, Google has been moving free clicks down the page. Our clients who are getting the best results long term year over year do real marketing. And hint: it’s not just one channel and praying for inbound leads.
It’s that + staying top of mind, building a brand, etc.
Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. While organic search is important, it’s wise to diversify your marketing efforts. Consider:
- Paid advertising: Target specific keywords and demographics to reach potential clients.
- Social media: Build relationships and engage with your audience on platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook.
- Email marketing: Nurture leads and stay top-of-mind with your existing network.
- Content marketing: Create valuable content (like blog posts, videos, or podcasts) that establishes your expertise.
- Niche-specific strategies: For personal injury attorneys, a well-maintained accident blog can be a powerful tool for attracting clients.
The Bottom Line
While the Google leak provides valuable insights, it doesn’t change the fact that effective marketing is about connecting with your audience and providing value.
If you’re ready to take your law firm’s marketing to the next level and sign more cases, let’s talk.
We specialize in helping law firms achieve measurable results. Contact us for a free consultation.
