Search blocks can be reconsidered

Written by Matt Jones

With search engines updating their algorithms on a constant basis, it is little surprise that sites thinking all is well with their SEO strategy become blocked. However, whilst many of these sites using black hat techniques get what they deserve, there are those unfairly targeted.

It is possible for the site to be reconsidered in the SERPS though.

It is not necessarily an easy and straight forward path, but it is possible. Ahead of anything else, it is essential that webmasters and online marketers ensure they are not breaking any rules in marketing the site.

Location, location, location

One aspect which has tripped up a great many number of websites is content duplication.

There are few things a search engine likes less than copied pages cropping up throughout the internet. However, this can be incredibly hard for online marketers to keep a track of.

Protecting pages can reduce the instances of copying by nefarious means, but somewhat takes away from the user experience. If possible though, being able to prove no culpability for the duplication will ensure such instances are not considered when ranking a site.

Paying the price

When asking for a reconsideration, it is also important to prove that no ill-reputed practices are being used. Again, certain elements of poor search engine optimisation such as paid for links no longer get any credence with the search engines.

Often, sites being placed further down the SERPS or disregarded altogether find that poor links are the reason. Working instead on attracting high quality links, in high numbers, through producing good content, great UX and a winning service are what is necessary. As Google search engineer Matt Cutts explained in a recent video:

“The more we can suss out and try to assess that you’re not of the mindset, that you’re not going to do a fly-by-night trick…the easier it is for Google to say ‘ok, it looks like things are in pretty good shape. Let’s go ahead and grant that reconsideration request.’”