Google’s August 2024 core update is here, and it promises significant changes to search engine results. Whether you’re an independent publisher or running a large website, understanding the update is crucial to maintaining or improving your rankings.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you need to know, including practical tips to help you stay ahead of the game.
1. What is the August 2024 Core Update?
The August 2024 core update focuses on leveling the playing field between smaller independent websites and authoritative, larger sites. Google’s main goal is to enhance the relevancy and quality of search results by promoting useful, original content, regardless of the site’s size.
In simpler terms, this update intends to:
- Prioritize useful content: Sites with helpful, original content will perform better, no matter their size.
- Reduce reliance on authority sites: Smaller sites that are genuinely helpful and relevant to search queries can rank alongside larger competitors.
2. How is This Update Different?
One major difference with the August 2024 core update is the inclusion of changes specifically designed to assist sites previously impacted by prior core updates. Google acknowledges that some small and independent sites lost rankings unfairly in past updates, and this update aims to rectify that.
3. What is the Immediate Impact?
- Traffic Recovery for Some Sites: Glenn Gabe of G-Squared Interactive reported that 18% of the sites negatively impacted by the previous core updates have seen improvements.
- Traffic Drops for Others: Some websites, however, continue to experience drops in traffic. If this happens to you, it may indicate the need for a content overhaul or a user experience audit.
4. Key Changes Google Made
A close comparison between Google’s help pages from July and August 2024 reveals notable revisions:
- Revised Content Guidelines: The focus is now more on creating content that is helpful and less on policy violations. Sites that fail to meet the helpful content criteria will see declines.
- New Section in Search Console: Google has added a section guiding website owners on how to check for traffic drops related to core updates. This helps ensure you’re addressing the right issue.
5. Practical Steps to Take If You See Traffic Drops
If your site experiences a significant drop in rankings or traffic following the update, here’s what you can do:
- Check Google Search Console: Use Search Console to diagnose any changes in traffic patterns.
- Review Content Quality: Make sure your content serves user needs. If some content is outdated or irrelevant, revise it instead of deleting it.
- Reassess Search Intent: Changes in user search intent could affect your ranking. Make sure your content aligns with current trends.
6. Don’t Expect Quick Fixes
Google has modified its guidance on how long it takes to recover from a core update. Previously, the advice was to wait for the next core update for recovery. Now, Google suggests that some changes might take effect within days, though it could still take time for rankings to improve.
7. Key Takeaways from the August 2024 Update
- Independent Websites Have a Chance: If you run a small or independent site, this update could work in your favor, provided you focus on creating genuinely helpful content.
- Revisions Lead to Recovery: Websites affected by previous updates might see improvement, but only if positive changes were made, such as content enhancement or improving user experience.
- Ongoing Content Optimization: The update places an even greater emphasis on high-quality, user-first content. Regular content audits and improvements are crucial for maintaining rankings.
8. How to Improve Your Website Post-Update
- Avoid Minor Tweaks: Google recommends avoiding minor or superficial changes. Focus on revising the content deeply for user relevance.
- Optimize for User Experience: Speed up your site, reduce intrusive ads, and ensure a seamless user journey.
- Maintain Useful Content: If some of your older content is still valuable, update it rather than removing it entirely.
9. Final Thoughts on Google’s August 2024 Core Update
The August 2024 core update is a breath of fresh air for smaller websites that have struggled under past updates. However, the fundamental rule remains the same: quality content that addresses user needs is king. If you haven’t already, this is the time to revisit your content strategy, focusing on depth, originality, and user experience.
By focusing on these areas, your site can not only recover but thrive in the new SERP landscape.