How to Improve Google Ranking

Understanding what it means to be number one on Google and ranking factors

What is the top result on Google search?

The first position on Google search is what everyone desires. It is the URL that best meets the criteria of relevance, authority, and trust according to Google's algorithm. Such a result provides the most accurate and helpful answer to the query or search intent.

CTR (click-through rate) is a key indicator that reflects how the position in results affects user clicks. Often, the first result receives a CTR of 27.6%, meaning over a quarter of users click on that link first.

How Google evaluates pages and what is indexed

Google uses sophisticated algorithms that assess the content, links, and technical structure of web pages. Signals like content, backlinks, and user experience influence ranking. Structured data and rich snippets play a crucial role in highlighting pages in search results, making it easier for Google to understand content and context.

Indexed pages are those recognized and stored by Google's bots in their database. To have a page indexed and ranked, it is important to maintain clean code, properly structured data, and follow SEO best practices, including generating sitemap.xml files and correctly setting up robots.txt files.

Key ranking factors in SEO 2026

Content and quality

• Relevant and in-depth content that solves specific user problems.
• The use of keywords must be natural, fluent, and aligned with search intent, avoiding keyword stuffing.

In 2026, content quality is more important than ever. Google favors pages that deliver real value, use clearly structured information, and encourage user engagement such as sharing and comments.

Authority and backlinks

• Backlinks from relevant local and international sources increase page authority.
• Natural and organically acquired links are the most effective in boosting rankings in the long term.

Analyses show that pages with high domain authority and a large number of quality backlinks dominate the TOP 10 results. For the Serbian market, this involves collaboration with local portals, industry authorities, and creating share-worthy content.

Technical SEO and site speed

• Mobile responsiveness is a mandatory requirement. Google uses mobile-first indexing, meaning it primarily evaluates the mobile version of the site.
• Loading speed, Core Web Vitals, and site security, especially HTTPS protocol, directly affect ranking.

Pay attention to image optimization, code minimization, and hosting. Also, regularly check Google Search Console for warnings and issues that might affect speed or indexing.

User experience and search intent

• RankBrain and AI systems increasingly understand searchers' intent and query context.
• Good UX, clearly structured content, and quick response times are crucial for retaining users and improving rankings.

When optimizing, focus on providing the right answer at the right moment, using FAQ sections, tables, and quick introductions that reduce bounce rates and increase CTR.

How much time is needed to achieve high ranking on Google

Factors influencing ranking dynamics

• The age of the site, competition, and content quality are important overall factors in ranking dynamics.
• Optimization of technical SEO and link profile significantly shortens the time to reach high positions.

A new or less optimized website can rank on the first page within 3 to 6 months, but stable ranking requires ongoing effort and reducing technical issues.

Expected timelines and realistic goals

• In most cases, 3 to 6 months are needed for visible changes, and up to a year for stable positions.
• Realistic goals include increasing organic traffic by 20–50% in the first year of SEO work.

Continuous improvement of content, technical optimization, and strengthening of link profiles bring long-term results. Patience is key, as skipping steps can delay progress.

Practical steps to better Google ranking

On-page optimization

• Keywords should be placed in titles, meta descriptions, URLs, and within content, in as natural a way as possible.
• Internal linking through relevant links guides users and search engines to the most important pages.

Practical example: a restaurant page in Belgrade that uses keywords like “best restaurant Belgrade” in the title, meta description, and H1, achieves better rankings for local queries in the long run.

Technical SEO and site speed

• Responsive design and mobile optimization are mandatory.
• Implement SSL certificates and minimize CSS and JS files.

Regular audits with tools like Google PageSpeed Insights or Lighthouse help identify and fix issues.

Local SEO and optimization for Serbia

• Fill out and regularly update your Google Business Profile with accurate data, photos, and posts.
• Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews and respond to them, especially on Google.

For local businesses, these techniques can increase contacts and sales by 30–100% in a relatively short period.

Link building and external signals

• Create linkable content: studies, guides, tools relevant to your local or industry segment.
• Other methods include collaboration with partners, guest posting, and content exchange, following Google guidelines.

Avoid buying links or using PBN networks, as this can lead to penalties.

Tools for monitoring and improving positions in SERPs

Google Search Console and analytics

• Use it to track positions, CTR, indexing issues, and keyword performance.
• Analyze the most important selected keywords and pages generating the most traffic.

SEO tools and platforms

• Tools like Ahrefs, SEMrush, and Moz assist in backlink analysis, competitor research, and keyword discovery.
• PageSpeed Insights and Lighthouse are indispensable for technical site optimization.

Frequently Asked Questions (People Also Ask)

How to improve Google ranking?

Create high-quality, relevant content, build authority through backlinks, and ensure technical functionality of the site.

How long does it take for a page to rank on Google?

Typically, 3 to 6 months for new sites, up to a year for competitive niches, with continuous SEO efforts.

How to reach the first position on Google without paid ads?

Focus on content optimization, technical SEO, backlinks, and local signals, which enable organic growth.

What are the most important SEO factors for ranking?

Content quality, backlinks, technical speed, site security, and user experience are key to success.