How To Rank Higher On Google: John Mueller’s Advice On Content-Length

The 1,447-word minimum to rank well on Google Search is now debunked.

Forget chasing word counts. Apparently, the 1,447-word minimum article length to rank well on Google Search is now debunked. In a recent insightful discussion on LinkedIn, written by Roger Montti and published by Search Engine Journal, Google’s John Mueller himself dispelled the myth of an ‘ideal’ content length for SEO success. He urged us to shift our focus from arbitrary metrics to genuine value, sparking a fascinating debate about what truly makes online content shine.

Who is John Mueller? Well, after checking Google’s website, John’s role basically is to coordinate Google Search Relations efforts as a Search advocate. He and his team connect the Google-internal world of Search engineering, to those who create and optimise public websites.

It all started with a common question: what’s the right length for a piece of content to rank well in Google? John’s response was refreshingly direct: prioritise unique value over simply adding words.

This seemingly simple answer challenged the deeply ingrained SEO obsession with formulas and checklists. He argued that valuable content isn’t defined by its length, images, or graphs, but by its relevance and usefulness to the audience.

Of course, this sparked further questions. How can creators consistently deliver this “unique value” when Google’s algorithms seem to favour user-generated platforms like Reddit and Quora? And how can smaller publishers compete with established giants in providing this elusive value?

John countered these concerns with a powerful analogy. He compared successful online content to thriving brick-and-mortar businesses. Just as physical stores succeed by offering products and services that customers genuinely need and want, websites should focus on serving their audience, not just appeasing search engine algorithms.

He emphasised that obsessing over keywords, entities, and internal links is misguided. Instead, creators should step back and consider what their audience truly wants. By understanding their needs and providing relevant, engaging content, websites can organically attract visitors and build a loyal following.

John’s insights offer a much-needed reality check for the SEO community. In the past, gaming the system with keyword stuffing and link schemes might have worked. But in today’s evolving digital landscape, genuine value reigns supreme.

The key takeaway? Forget hitting a magic word count. Instead, focus on creating content that truly resonates with your audience. By prioritising their needs and providing authentic value, you’ll not only improve your website’s performance but also build a stronger, more engaged community.