How to Become a Trusted Source (E-E-A-T) for Search Engines & AI
Google and AI models (like ChatGPT) prioritize E-E-A-T – Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness – when ranking content. Here’s how to establish your website as a trusted source:
1. Demonstrate EXPERIENCE
Search engines favor content created by those with first-hand experience.
How to Showcase Experience:
✔ Share personal case studies (“How I achieved X in 6 months”).
✔ Use original data (surveys, experiments, before/after results).
✔ Include real-world examples (photos, videos, testimonials).
✔ Write in the first person (“I tested this strategy and found…”).
Example:
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❌ “Meditation reduces stress.”
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✅ “After 30 days of meditation, my stress levels dropped by 40% (see my sleep tracker data).”
2. Prove EXPERTISE
Google looks for credentials, qualifications, and deep knowledge.
How to Establish Expertise:
✔ Highlight author credentials (e.g., “Written by Dr. Sarah, PhD in Nutrition”).
✔ Cite reputable sources (studies, government websites, industry leaders).
✔ Use technical terms correctly (avoid oversimplifying complex topics).
✔ Get published on authoritative sites (Forbes, Healthline, academic journals).
Example:
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❌ “Keto diets help with weight loss.”
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✅ “A 2023 NIH study confirms keto diets reduce visceral fat by 12% in 3 months (Source: National Institutes of Health).”
3. Build AUTHORITATIVENESS
Your site must be seen as a go-to resource in your niche.
How to Boost Authority:
✔ Earn backlinks from trusted sites (.gov, .edu, Forbes, Wikipedia).
✔ Get mentioned in industry reports (interviews, expert roundups).
✔ Win awards or certifications (e.g., “FDA-approved,” “Ranked #1 by TIME”).
✔ Collaborate with influencers/experts (guest posts, podcasts).
Example:
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❌ “We sell the best skincare products.”
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✅ “Recommended by dermatologists (see Dr. Lee’s testimonial) and featured in Vogue.”
4. Ensure TRUSTWORTHINESS
Users (and Google) must trust your content.
How to Build Trust:
✔ Display clear authorship (real names, bios, LinkedIn links).
✔ Use secure HTTPS (no “Not Secure” warnings).
✔ Add contact info (address, phone, verified social media).
✔ Fix errors (broken links, outdated info, typos).
✔ Avoid shady tactics (clickbait, fake reviews, plagiarized content).
Example:
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❌ “Lose 20kg in a week!” (Untrustworthy claim)
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✅ “Science-backed weight loss tips (with clinical study references).”
5. Bonus: AI & GEO Trust Signals
Since AI tools (like ChatGPT) pull from trusted sources:
✔ Get cited in AI answers (optimize for Generative Engine Optimization).
✔ Use structured data (FAQ, HowTo, and Article schema markup).
✔ Update content regularly (AI prefers fresh, accurate info).
E-E-A-T Checklist for Your Website
| Factor | Action Items |
|---|---|
| Experience | Add case studies, original data, personal stories |
| Expertise | Show credentials, cite experts, avoid fluff |
| Authoritativeness | Get backlinks, media features, collaborations |
| Trustworthiness | Secure site, transparency, no misinformation |
Final Tip:
Google’s “Search Quality Rater Guidelines” emphasize E-E-A-T for YMYL (Your Money Your Life) topics—health, finance, legal, etc. If your site covers these, double down on trust signals.
By implementing E-E-A-T, you’ll rank higher in Google + AI answers (like ChatGPT, Gemini).
Need help auditing your site? Let us know! 🚀