Google’s John Mueller said that in the future there may be Google search ranking algorithms where links are less important across algorithms than they are today. He also hinted that links aren’t heavily weighted in the history of Google ranking algorithms.
what was said. When asked about the link, John Mueller said at the 13:52 mark of the recording:
“Well, one imagines the weight of links over time. At some point, you’re going to get a little down because you don’t understand a little better how content fits within the context of the whole web. Links are always a concern because you have to find a page in a way.How do you find it without referencing the page on the web?”
“But my guess is that over time it won’t be as big of a factor as it is today. Already, I think it’s something that’s changed quite a bit.”
Links aren’t that important. Not only did John mention that in the future Google Search’s overall ranking algorithm might weight less links, but that this has already been changed “a lot” in the algorithm. So even today, links are not as heavily weighted in overall ranking algorithms as they used to be.
let me know This is an embedded recording from YouTube. I recommend rewinding to the 13:06 minute mark to hear how the question was phrased.
not new? Yes, Google’s former spam leader Matt Cutts made a similar message in this video he posted a few years ago.
Research shows that links are still very important for Google rankings. And years ago, Google said Link was in the top three ranking factors, but Google later said Link wasn’t number one.
why you care. In short, stop obsessing over links and focus on your content. The trend is about better content and truth being told, and generally better content generates links without asking for them or making any real link-building effort.
As a ranking factor, links are not dead. Link never dies. However, as Google’s ability to understand content improves, it can become less dependent on links.
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About the author
Barry Schwartz is a contributing editor for Search Engine Land and a member of the programming team for SMX events. He owns his RustyBrick, his New York-based web consulting firm. He also runs the Search Engine Roundtable, a popular search blog on highly advanced He SEM topics.You can follow Barry Twitter is here.
