SEO in late 2024 isn’t just about Google anymore – it’s about showing up wherever your audience is searching.
While the acronym still stands for “Search Engine Optimization,” today’s SEO is better described as “Search Everywhere Optimization.”
This reflects how important it is to be present across multiple channels, from traditional search engines to social media, AI tools, and voice searches.
“As of 2024, 64% of Gen Z (those born after 1996) and 49% of millennials (born between 1981-1996) are turning to TikTok as a search tool.” – Search Engine Journal
What is SEO?
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the process of improving a website’s visibility in search engine results pages (SERPs) to attract more organic traffic.
The first important step in SEO is keyword research, which involves identifying the words and phrases that potential customers are using to search for products, services, or information.
By targeting the right keywords, businesses can optimize their content to match user intent, increasing the chances of ranking higher in search results.
SEO also involves technical and on-page optimization to ensure a website performs well across search engines.
Why Keyword Research is Still Crucial (But Different)
Keyword research is still the foundation of SEO, but now you need to apply it across different platforms and content types. In 2024, this means optimizing for:
Omnichannel Searches
People aren’t just searching on traditional search engines anymore. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube have become their own search engines. Make sure your keywords are tailored for these platforms’ algorithms, helping your content appear in their search results.
Images & Graphics
Visual content needs keywords too. This includes image alt text, file names, and even the text within images. Optimizing visuals with relevant keywords improves discoverability in image search results and helps in social media algorithms.
Videos & Closed Captioning
Video content is essential in 2024, but it’s not just about posting a great video. Your titles, descriptions, and closed captions are important places to insert keywords. This helps search engines understand your content and makes it easier for users to find your videos.
AI Tools & Chatbots
AI-driven tools like ChatGPT are being used to answer questions instantly. Optimizing for AI search requires creating content that answers common questions directly and clearly. Structured data and natural language keywords can help AI tools pull your content as a useful resource.
Voice Searches
With the rise of voice assistants like Alexa and Siri, search has become more conversational. Voice searches tend to be longer and more natural, so your keywords should reflect how people actually speak. Use phrases and questions that mimic everyday language.
Understanding User Intent
Matching your keywords to user intent is at the core of effective SEO. There are different types of user intent, and understanding them is key to creating content that delivers exactly what people are looking for. Here are the main types of intent to consider:
Informational Intent
People with informational intent are looking for knowledge or answers. They want to learn something new. For example, someone searching “how to care for succulents” is likely looking for advice or instructions. Optimizing for this means creating detailed, helpful content like blog posts, guides, or FAQs.
Navigational Intent
Users with navigational intent are trying to find a specific website or page. If someone searches “YouTube login,” they simply want to get to the right website. Ensuring your brand or site is easy to find is important for this type of intent.
Transactional Intent
When users have transactional intent, they are ready to make a purchase or take action. These users are searching for product information, reviews, or shopping options. Keywords like “buy,” “best price,” or “discount” help target these users. You should create content that makes the buying process easy and direct.
Commercial Investigation
Users with this intent are researching before they make a purchase. They’re comparing options and looking for the best fit. Keywords like “top-rated,” “best,” or “comparison” are effective. Content like product reviews, comparison guides, and lists of best options work well for these users.
Optimize for Intent Across Channels
In 2024, SEO success means aligning your keywords with user intent, no matter where the search is happening. Whether someone is typing a question into Google, asking an AI tool for advice, or browsing Instagram for recommendations, your content needs to meet their needs.
Providing Value Based on User Needs
It’s all about providing value. Whether the user is asking a question or looking to make a purchase, your content should solve their problem or answer their query directly.
Aligning Keywords with User Intent on Multiple Platforms
Make sure your keywords match the user’s intent across all platforms. Whether they’re searching on YouTube, through voice assistants, or on social media, your content needs to be optimized to show up where they’re looking.
By understanding and optimizing for different types of user intent, and applying keywords across all relevant platforms, you’ll be well on your way to mastering SEO in 2024. The future of search is everywhere – make sure your content is too!
Creative Solutions that Drive Results
At Redideo Studio, we bring your vision to life with creative digital marketing, SEO-driven strategies, video production, and website design that captivates and converts.
We’ve helped clients successfully implement this modern SEO strategy, boosting their search rankings and driving real results.
Let’s craft a strategy that works for you – whether it’s for your next big campaign, improving your search visibility, or launching a sleek new website.
About The Author
With 20+ years in digital media and marketing, Daniel Travers is the visionary of Redideo Studio, a San Diego-based creative agency. His expertise spans digital marketing, website design, video production, social media, and creative services.
Daniel’s collaborative work includes renowned brands such as iHeartMedia, Disney, Hyundai, KIA, and more.
He holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photo New Media from the Kansas City Art Institute, along with an Associate of Applied Science in Graphic Communications from St. Louis Community College.
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