Expertise, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness (E-A-T) are important to Google. This is inarguable.
In fact, E-A-T is such an essential element in how Google perceives web content that it’s mentioned 135 times in Google’s 167-page Search Quality Evaluator Guidelines.
But is it an algorithmic ranking factor?
Let’s put this one through the paces.
The Claim: E-A-T As A Ranking Factor
I like to start each one of the evaluations with a Google search. Chances are if you’re Joe or Jane SEO looking for ammo to back an idea you’re about to pitch the boss or explain something to a client, that’s what you’re going to do.
And if you search Google today for evidence that E-A-T is a ranking factor, you’re going to find a lot of compelling results that would make the case for your boss or client:
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The Evidence For E-A-T As A Ranking Factor
I’m only linking the last article above, as the first is flat-out hyperbolic and the second implies E-A-T is a single factor with a measurable score.