On March 5th, Google announced their release of the March 2024 Core Update along with multiple spam updates as well. On top of that, Google’s helpful content system has been incorporated into its overall core ranking system.
In addition, Google announced several new and updated spam policies that it will begin enforcing through automated algorithms and manual actions.
Today we announced the March 2024 core update & new spam policies that, in combination, are designed to show less content made to attract clicks and more content that people find useful. Learn more: https://t.co/wQVZ8mExRB
— Google Search Central (@googlesearchc) March 5, 2024
This is the first algorithm update of the year and may take as long as a month for the March 2024 core update to roll out. Multiple systems will be updated and released during the update.
Unlike certain past core updates, this latest update brings improvements to various elements within the core system. March’s core update comprises multiple enhancements, addressing several components. Google plans to roll out updates to these specific systems in the upcoming weeks as a result of this comprehensive core update.
Google has improved its core ranking systems to display more useful results by incorporating innovative signals and approaches. Due to the ongoing updates across multiple core systems, there will be increased fluctuations in rankings compared to a typical core update, as various systems undergo complete updates and mutually reinforce each other.
Google said this update has tweaked how it processes and understands which webpages are “unhelpful, have a poor user experience or feel like they were created for search engines instead of people.” This “could include sites created primarily to match very specific search queries,” Google added.
Here are a list of key areas to focus on with this new update:
- Content Relevance and Quality: The update really elevates the importance of content relevance and quality. Sites that deliver well-researched, informative, and engaging content are set to gain a boost in rankings. But watch out for keyword stuffing and churning out low-quality content – Google will not appreciate this. It’s all about keeping it real and valuable.
- New Spam Policies: Google introduced new spam policies, focusing on things like stopping mass-produced, not-so-great content across different websites, getting rid of any attempts to manipulate website reputation with tricky backlinks or reviews, and putting a halt to the misuse of expired domains for spammy purposes.
- User Experience (UX): If your site offers a hassle-free, intuitive browsing experience, quick loading times, and is mobile-friendly, you’re in for high, positive rankings.
- E-E-A-T (Expertise, Experience, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness): The March 2024 Core Update reinforces Google’s commitment to E-E-A-T principles. Websites showcasing expertise in their field, experience, authoritative content, and trustworthiness will be favoured amongst the long list of sites.
- Algorithmic Changes: Google’s algorithms was updated to better understand natural language and context. If your site talks naturally, with conversational language and serves up relevant info, you’re on their good side!
- Local SEO and Personalization: Google’s increasing focus on delivering personalized search results shows the need for businesses to optimize their online presence specifically for local searches.
This all means that authenticity and user focus are the main points of focus here. Here are a few areas that we will need to adapt:
- Technical Audits and Tactical Tweaks: Make sure you’ve got an up-to-date technical audit to ensure your website aligns with the spam criteria. Dive into the backend, fix those issues, and keep your site well-maintained.
- Strategic UX: Optimize for page speed, enhancing mobile responsiveness, and refining the overall user journey. A slick, user-friendly website is a necessity in Google’s world.
- Link Building: Fortify your link-building, use authoritative sources, create meaningful collaborations, and secure backlinks. Your E-E-A-T score will thank you.
- Content Repurposing and Expansion: Dust off your content strategy and give it an update. Optimize existing content, experiment with new formats, and keep your audience engaged with fresh, relevant material.
- Data-Driven Iterations: Keep a watchful eye on analytics. Analyse the performance of your strategies, stay updated on industry trends, and be ready to pivot your approach based on data.
The March 2024 Core Update is a gentle nudge from Google to up your SEO game and deliver the best possible experience to your audience. Stay on your game and keep creating content that leaves a lasting impression to ensure your website and content remain visible and valuable in the ever-evolving world of Google.
If you’re in need of assistance, tools like the Free Website Analysis from Boostability can come in handy for SEO algorithm updates like these.
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