You have likely heard the term ‘Google Core Update’ before, but what does it mean and why does it matter? Let's look at the most recent core update and how it is impacting your business via your website ranking.
Google updates its algorithm very frequently, sometimes two or three times a day! But these are often very minor changes that don't have any significant bearing on your site.
But the core algorithm gets updated every few months and often sees much larger changes that can greatly alter your website's ranking position on search engine results pages (SERPs) such as Google. The updates aim to refine the user experience ensuring that the best content gets served first.
With the rise of generative AI content, Google has been rolling out core updates far more frequently than before. In 2022, there were two core updates, but by the end of 2023, there were four in as many months!
This is not cause for concern though, but simply a sign that the times are changing and so is what Google considers “good content”.
While most Google core updates last two or three weeks, the most recent update took place through most of March, beginning on the 5th and continuing into April. The main focus of this update was to emphasise the importance of page quality.
For website owners, this may look like big changes to your search rankings as Google reevaluates your content and site. Sometimes, this looks like a drop in performance, but otherwise, your site can benefit from the update. Google will be looking to push down pages that offer little value to users and instead prioritise pages that offer a beneficial user experience and clearly demonstrate Google’s E-E-A-T factors.
We have spoken before about what E-A-T is, but Google has recently introduced a second “E” which stands for “Experience’’. It is now so important for websites to demonstrate their experience with the topics they are discussing, one of the many things that low-quality or generative AI content struggles to provide.
For those of you who have already partnered with us and are benefiting from our SEO service, rest assured we are ahead of the curve and following our own advice as outlined below. For those of you who aren’t working with us (we think you should be!), here are some tips on navigating the update smoothly.
As these updates are rolled out, you should look to align your content strategies with Google’s quality guidelines, as these will be vital to your website's visibility and credibility in the search results.
At Fingo, our SEO experts stay ahead of the latest updates and closely monitor these changes. Our clients benefit from our specialist-tailored content that clearly demonstrates Google's E-E-A-T factors, ensuring their brand maintains visibility and competitiveness.
However, if you don't work with us but are concerned about these changes, we would be happy to take a look at how we can help.
Email us at marketing@fingo.co.uk, and we will help guide you through any necessary changes.