Introduction to Keyword Cannibalization
Google’s John Mueller addressed a question about multiple pages ranking for the same search queries, emphasizing the importance of reducing unnecessary duplication while downplaying keyword cannibalization. This concept is often misunderstood in the SEO community, leading to confusion about its impact on website rankings.
What is Keyword Cannibalization?
Keyword cannibalization refers to the idea that multiple web pages competing for the same keyword phrases can harm a website’s ranking. However, this concept is often misapplied and can be misleading. It’s related to the fear of duplicate content, but it doesn’t identify specific issues with the content. Instead, it’s a catchall phrase used to describe low-ranking pages on similar topics.
SEO Confusion and Misunderstandings
A recent change in Google’s search results parameter has led to confusion among SEOs. The change affects rank trackers’ ability to scrape search results, but it doesn’t impact Google Search Console. Some rank trackers may only show ranking data for the top 20 search results, leading to misconceptions about the visibility of pages beyond the top 20. However, Search Console still shows impressions from all search results, not just the top 20.
Understanding the Question
The question posed to John Mueller was based on a misunderstanding of how Search Console works. The SEO asked if not seeing data from Search Console for positions 20 and over meant that pages weren’t ranking beyond those places. They also wondered how to avoid cannibalization if only the top 20 positions are visible. However, Mueller didn’t address this question directly, as it was based on a false assumption.
Different Pages Ranking for the Same Query
According to John Mueller, having multiple pages rank for the same search query is not a problem. In fact, it can be a good thing. Mueller explained that Search Console shows data for pages that are actually shown in search results, not theoretical rankings. He emphasized that having multiple pages appear in the same search results isn’t problematic, as long as each page provides unique value to users.
Actual SEO Problems
Rather than worrying about keyword cannibalization, SEOs should focus on real issues that can affect page rankings. These include:
- Pages that are too long and unfocused
- Pages with off-topic passages
- Insufficient internal linking
- Thin content
- Virtually duplicate pages
Takeaway
The debate over keyword cannibalization reveals more about the SEO community’s willingness to accept ideas without questioning their basis. Rather than relying on convenient labels, SEOs should look closer at their web pages and identify real issues that can be improved. By focusing on user experience, internal linking, and content quality, SEOs can create better content that meets users’ needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, keyword cannibalization is a misunderstood concept that can lead to confusion and misdiagnosis of ranking issues. By understanding how Search Console works and focusing on real SEO problems, website owners can improve their content and rankings. Rather than chasing the idea of keyword cannibalization, SEOs should prioritize creating high-quality, user-focused content that provides unique value to their audience.