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What Is A Google Core Update and How to Keep Your Website Ranking Well

Search engine optimization (SEO) is a tricky game. With tons of searches happening every day, search engines are super important for helping people find what they need. Google is the most used search engine, and they’re always updating how they work to make sure we get the best search results. A big part of this is the Google Core Update.

What is a Google Core Update?

A Google Core Update is a big change to how Google’s search engine decides what websites show up first in search results. The goal is to make sure the results are better and more helpful for everyone. These updates are different from the small changes Google usually makes because they’re bigger and can really change which websites get to the top of the search list.

How Do Core Updates Work?

Google uses complex algorithms to figure out how good and relevant a webpage is. Core updates refine these algorithms, introducing changes that can influence how Google perceives and ranks content. Factors such as content relevance, quality, user experience, and website authority are often reassessed and weighted differently after a core update.

How Does a Core Update Impact Search Rankings? 

Core updates can lead to fluctuations in website rankings. A page that was once ranked high might experience a drop, while others may see an improvement. These changes are a result of Google’s attempt to provide users with the most accurate and up-to-date information. 

November 2023 Google Core Update

Google announced the November 2023 Core Update on November 2, 2023, and it’s still rolling out as of November 17, 2023. It was a significant update that was expected to have a major impact on search rankings. The update focused on content depth and expertise, and it was designed to reward websites that provide high-quality, informative content that provides value to users. 

Key Changes:

Rewarding in-depth content: Google started favoring sites that really dug deep into their topics. This means if your content was just skimming the surface or wasn’t detailed, it might have lost some visibility in search results. Google also bolstered authenticity as a ranking metric. This means that reviews from actual customers are more important than ever. 

Recognizing expertise: Google gave more weight to websites authored by experts in their respective fields. This meant that content written by qualified professionals or individuals with substantial experience in the subject matter was favored.

Balancing technical SEO and user experience: While content depth and expertise were the primary factors, Google still considered overall website quality. Technical SEO aspects like page loading speed and mobile-friendliness remained crucial, along with factors that contribute to a positive user experience, such as clear navigation and easy-to-read content.

Implications

With the latest changes Google has made, it’s even more important for anyone running a website to make sure their content and SEO strategies are aligned with Google’s standards. Google values authenticity along with high-quality content that provides real value to users. And now that Google’s updating things more often and without much warning, it’s really key to always stick to good SEO practices that Google likes if you want to stay visible in searches.

Actions to Take After the November 2023 Core Update

To prepare for future Google Core Updates and improve your website’s chances of ranking well, consider these actions:

Publish high-quality content. 

Content quality is incredibly important in Google’s core updates. Google aims to reward websites that provide valuable, authoritative, and well-presented content. If your site’s content aligns with these criteria, you’re likely to see positive impacts on your rankings.

Post-core update, ensure your content is accurate, comprehensive, and adds value to your audience. Invest in in-depth articles, multimedia content, and authoritative resources.

Prioritize user experience. 

Core updates often emphasize the significance of a positive user experience. Websites that load quickly, are mobile-friendly and offer a seamless navigation experience tend to fare better in search rankings. 

Build authority, authenticity, and trust.

Google values websites that are seen as trustworthy and authoritative sources of information. Establish and build upon your website’s authority by citing reputable sources, obtaining backlinks from credible sites, and creating content that positions you as an expert in your field.

Stay updated and adapt.

Google Core Updates may introduce new algorithms or adjust existing ones. For instance, there might be changes in how the search engine interprets and values certain types of content, links, or user signals.

As a website owner or manager, it’s crucial to stay informed about upcoming core updates. Regularly check official announcements from Google and reputable SEO sources. This awareness allows you to adapt your content strategy to align with Google’s evolving criteria.

What to Do If Your Website Is Hit 

Google has stated that there is nothing you can do to “fix” your site if it experiences a decline in rankings after a core update. The company instead recommends that you focus on creating high-quality, original content that provides value to your users. Google has provided a detailed Q&A to help you evaluate your content and ensure that it meets their standards.

Wrapping Up

  • • Google November 2023 Core Updates are significant changes to the search engine’s algorithm that aim to improve the quality and relevance of search results. 
  • • To prepare for future Google Core Updates, focus on creating high-quality, authentic content. 
  • • Prioritize user experience by making sure your website is fast, mobile-friendly, and easy to navigate. 
  • • Build authority and trust by citing reputable sources and obtaining backlinks from high-quality sites.
  • • If your website is hit by a core update, don’t panic. Google has stated that there is no quick fix, but you can improve your chances of recovering by focusing on the long-term goal of creating excellent content.

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