In the world of university online marketing, keeping up-to-date with search engine developments is vital. Google’s introduction of feature snippets in search results is a significant development. This article explores how universities can leverage this tool to improve their online course visibility.
Google’s Feature Snippets: A Closer Look
Google has been refining its search results to assist users better in finding relevant content. The introduction of feature snippets is a step in this direction. These snippets aim to bring the right visitors to the right content, aligning with the ethos prevalent in the field of online marketing: delivering relevant information to users efficiently and effectively.
What’s Happening with Google’s Feature Snippets?
Google has developed a ‘Course List’ to present course-related content in a more accessible manner. This feature allows users to dive deeper into a site directly from the search results, particularly useful for pages offering multiple courses and training options. The idea is to streamline the user’s journey, making it more straightforward and less click-intensive.
How Google showcases the Course List
What it looks like in the wild:
How is the Course List Populated?
The content of the Course List is determined primarily by the information provided on the university’s page. To be effective, a page should feature at least three links to different courses. Google then uses data it collects, including previous user search behavior, to populate the list in a data-driven manner.
The Impact of Enhanced Content Formatting
By clearly communicating the details of our course offerings on your web pages, you provide a more user-friendly experience right from the search results page, effectively serving as your digital front door.
Conclusion
Understanding and utilizing Google’s feature snippets is crucial for universities looking to improve their online course visibility. By focusing on clear, detailed, and user-oriented content, universities can leverage these features to enhance their online presence and attract the right audience more effectively.