Is Google punishing duplicate content on my website?
Duplicate content is often misunderstood both in what it actually is and how it affects a website’s performance. Let’s jump to the simple answer and then unpack this a little. When addressing duplicate content, Google states clearly:
“Duplicate content on a site is not grounds for action on that site unless it appears that the intent of the duplicate content is to be deceptive and manipulate search engine results.”
Therefore there is no “punishment” for having duplicate content on your website.
The trick is if you are trying to deceive someone, including Google, then you might get into trouble. At BxB Media, we have seen circumstances where Google has “punished” a company for having multiple sites (microsites) trying to rank for the same content in the same market. This is a tactic we are adamantly against. You can learn more in our article about why microsites are bad.
Is syndicated copy duplicate content?
Syndicated copy is where the same or similar content is used on multiple sites. This is technically another type of duplicate content, but when used correctly it can be a useful tool. There are many situations where syndication will occur and Google expects this and will show the user the most relevant result for their search.
What about local search results and duplicate content?
On a local level, we have seen sites with syndicated content outranking ones with entirely original content. This is a great example of how there is much more to a website’s SERPs (search engine result pages) than just the content on the site.
Local searches are trying to satisfy a user’s desire for a local result, and that means your version of the content may be the best result in that market. Therefore, when you are trying to rank on a local level, syndicated content can be an effective tool. However, if your goal is to rank nationally, you want to avoid syndicated content and stick to original content created only for your website.
How does BxB handle all of this?
At BxB, we use both original and syndicated content—we have systems in place to track where all of our syndicated content resides. This way we are sure to never use that exact content in the same local market.
Our sites’ SEO (search engine optimization) is of top priority and something our team is continually researching and investigating to guarantee we bring our clients the most current information and technology. We even took a group of BxB team members to MozCon in Seattle this year to ensure we are staying up to date.
Can I grow my HVAC company with SEO and first-page organic Google results?
Of course growing an HVAC, plumbing, electrical, or other home services company takes a lot more than just good Google organic results. This is why BxB offers holistic marketing programs designed to help our clients build great brands and grow. If you would like to learn more about what BxB has to offer heating and cooling, plumbing, and electrical companies, you can set an appointment here.