Author Rank
Author Rank is a concept in SEO where the reputation and authority of an article’s author are taken into account by search engines as a ranking factor. It suggests that content created by authors with a strong online presence and high credibility may be given preferential treatment in search results.
Importance in SEO
While Author Rank is not yet a confirmed ranking factor in mainstream search engine algorithms, it has been discussed as a potential future direction.
If implemented, it could significantly impact content marketing and SEO strategies, emphasizing the importance of building a personal brand and establishing oneself as an authority in a specific niche.
Example
In the early days of Google’s search algorithm, the company experimented with Author Rank through its Google+ platform, which allowed authors to claim their content and attach their profiles to articles.
However, this initiative was later discontinued. Despite this, the idea of Author Rank remains a topic of interest among SEO professionals.
Do
- Encourage authors to build their personal brand and online presence.
- Ensure that authorship information is accurately attributed to content.
- Cultivate a community of authors who are respected authorities in their field.
- Monitor industry developments for any signs of Author Rank implementation.
- Consider using platforms that allow for clear authorship attribution.
Don’t
- Over-optimize for Author Rank, as it is not currently a confirmed ranking factor.
- Rely solely on Author Rank as a strategy, as the concept is still speculative.
- Compromise on content quality in the pursuit of establishing author authority.
- Engage in link schemes or other manipulative tactics to game Author Rank (if it were to exist).
- Assume that Author Rank will significantly impact SEO without further evidence.