Google’s updates to its core algorithm are crucial moments for SEO. These updates reshape ranking and force marketers to adapt. From the Google core update May 2020 to the upcoming core update August 2024, changes prioritize user centricity, context, and quality. Experience, expertise, and authoritativeness are the cornerstones of this evolution. This framework is now what determines whether content will be successful. When combined with the unpredictable volatility of Google’s algorithm, SEOs have a difficult task to meet: maintaining Google quality standards while also stabilizing rankings.
This book explains the best ways to cope with Google’s algorithmic updates.
What are Google Core updates?
Google core upgrades make large changes to Google’s search systems and algorithms to improve their relevance and quality. Core updates do not affect niches (e.g., Product Reviews Update), but all content types and regions. Recent examples include:
- March 2019 Core Update is targeted, AI-generated, and low-quality content with manipulative backlinks.
- November Update: Mobile indexing and page experience are emphasized.
- August, 2024 Core (coming): It is expected that E-E.A.T. will be refined to give priority to first-hand user experience.
Google Core Updates: What you need to know
Google refines its algorithms regularly to improve the quality of result. The core updates are designed to reward pages with high-quality content and reduce the ranking of those that don’t meet Google standards.
The following are some common effects of core upgrades:
- Fluctuating rankings across different industries.
- Shifts of organic traffic — some websites see significant growth, while others experience a decline.
- Enhance focus on E.E.A.T when assessing the credibility of content.
Why Do Core Upgrades Cause Algorithmic Volatility?
Algorithmic volatility is the term used to describe significant changes in ranking following an update. A number of factors can be responsible for this.
Explore our guides Hummingbird, RankBrain, and MUM for more information about Google algorithm updates.
- Google may weight E-A t over backlinks.
- Content quality Reassessments is a re-evaluation of the previously overlooked thin content.
- Market Gaps. New opportunities open up as competitors drop.
The May 2020 Core Upgrade had a major impact on industries like finance and healthcare by penalizing unverified statements, while the March Core Update 2024 affected sites with aggressive marketing.
E-E-A-T
E-E-A-T has been introduced as part of Google’s Search Quality Rater Guidelines. It evaluates content reliability. Here’s how it works:
1. Experience
- What does that mean? means content that has been created using first-hand knowledge or experiences.
- An AI-generated list of generic recipes is outperformed by a blog written and maintained by a pro chef.
- 2024 Shift: Google’s August 2024 Core Update may prioritize experiential content in YMYL (Your Money, Your Life) niches.
2. Expertise
- Demonstrated Understanding of Topic
- How to showcase author bios with qualifications. Citations from reputable resources. Peer reviewed data.
3. Authoritativeness
- Meaning your site’s position in the niche.
- How to build: Earn backlinks through media mentions and well-established websites (e.g.,.edu/.gov domains).
4. Trustworthiness
- – What does it mean?: secure, transparent, accurate content.
- Critical Steps, HTTPS encryption.
After the February 2024 Core update, those sites that rely on E-E.A.T. content with human oversight experienced a decrease in volatility.
Algorithmic Volatility, Strategies to Stabilize Rankings
1. Audit Content For E-E.A.T. Gaps
- Remove or rewrite all articles that lack expert knowledge (e.g., advice on “health” given by non-doctors).
- Add author credentials, including dates of publication.
- Clearscope, MarketMuse, or other tools can help you determine the depth and quality of your top-ranking material.
2. Diversify the traffic sources
- Building email lists or online communities can help you reduce your dependence on Google.
- Investing in video (YouTube) and podcasting will capture audiences that are not text-based.
3. Monitor SERRP Features
- After the October Core Update, featured snippets (also known as “People Also Ask”) and “People Also Ask Boxes” became critical to visibility.
- Structure content with clear headings (H2/H3) as well as concise answers for common questions.
4. Prepare to Future Updates
- Google Search Central’s blog lets you keep up with the latest trends.
- The August 2019 Core Update will include stricter experience tests. Include case studies, user testimonials, or other examples.
Case Study Surviving The March 2024 Core update
The March 2020 Core Update caused a drop of 40% in traffic for a finance blog. Recovery includes:
- Add “About Authors Sections” with CFA Certifications.
- Removing 30 thin Affiliate Pages
- Interviews were conducted with industry professionals. Within 3 months, traffic recovered by 25%. E-E.A.T. alignment was higher.
FAQs regarding Google Core Updates
1. What is the frequency of Google’s core updates?
Google releases its core updates at least twice a year. March as well as 2024 Core Updates will be the two major updates in 2024. Browse our Google Algorithms History.
2. How much time does it take for a core update to have an impact?
Volatility persists for two to four weeks. E-E-A-T is needed to improve recovery. Learn more with our Optimization Guide.
3. Am I able to recover from a Core Update?
Yes! Audit content. Enhance expertise. Remove pages with low quality. Core Update Recovery Strategies provides a step-by-step guide.
4. Do E-E-A t affect all niches equally?
No. YMYL niches (health, finance) face stricter scrutiny. Our YMYL SEO Guide explains compliance.
5. What’s the difference in core and minor updates?
Major updates impact the entire system; minor updates improve existing features. Updates are available via the Google Algo Algorithm Update Tracker.
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