In August 2024, Google released a new core update to its search algorithm, continuing its efforts to refine the way content is ranked in search results. Core updates like these are significant because they can cause noticeable shifts in how websites perform in Google Search, which ultimately impacts traffic, visibility, and business outcomes.
So, what’s different about the August core update, and how should you adjust your SEO strategies moving forward? Here’s a deep dive into the changes and key takeaways.
What is a Google Core Update?
Before diving into specifics, it’s important to understand that core updates are broad changes to Google’s search algorithm. Unlike smaller, more targeted updates that might affect specific types of content or address particular issues (such as spam or local search), core updates involve fundamental adjustments to how Google interprets and ranks content across the web. These updates can have far-reaching implications, as they often reshape how the search engine views authority, relevance, and quality in content.
Key Highlights of the August 2024 Core Update
- Content Relevance and Freshness: Google continues to prioritize fresh and relevant content, with a heightened focus on recent information in this update. Websites that regularly update their content, especially in rapidly evolving fields, are more likely to see a positive impact on their rankings. This means that keeping your content up-to-date and ensuring it reflects the latest information is more crucial than ever.
- Authority and Expertise: Authority and expertise have long been cornerstones of Google’s ranking signals. With this update, the search engine seems to be doubling down on prioritizing content created by verified experts in their respective fields. Websites that feature content written by subject matter experts are likely to benefit from this renewed focus on authority. It’s also worth noting that Google has been placing more emphasis on “E-E-A-T” (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness). Demonstrating that your content meets these criteria is essential for improved rankings.
- User Experience (UX) is Even More Important: User experience is now an even bigger factor in ranking. Google has been pushing UX elements such as mobile-friendliness, page speed, and ease of navigation for years. With the August core update, sites that offer a seamless and intuitive user experience may see a boost in rankings. On the other hand, sites with frustrating or slow user experiences might experience declines.
- AI-Generated Content Scrutiny: As AI-generated content becomes more prevalent, Google is improving its ability to discern between human-written content and machine-generated material. While AI can be a powerful tool for content creation, Google’s update suggests that it’s favoring content that displays clear human oversight, creativity, and depth. If you’re using AI to create content, ensure it’s well-curated and supplemented with human expertise to avoid potential ranking penalties.
- Increased Focus on Multimedia Content: The August update also signals Google’s ongoing push toward more diverse content types. Websites that effectively integrate multimedia elements such as images, videos, infographics, and interactive content may see enhanced performance. The search engine appears to be valuing content that appeals to various types of users and their preferences, whether it be visual learners or those who prefer reading text.
How to Adapt Your SEO Strategy
If you’ve noticed significant changes in your website’s traffic or ranking since the update, here are some steps you can take to align with Google’s new priorities:
- Update Your Content Regularly: Audit your website’s existing content and ensure that everything is up-to-date. Regularly updating blog posts, articles, and landing pages with fresh information can signal to Google that your site remains relevant in its niche. Many publishers have old and outdated information. This could be content that his causing a penalty.
- Invest in Expertise: If possible, include content written by or reviewed by SME’s and masters in the industry. Use author bios to showcase the qualifications of your contributors. This will help boost your site’s perceived authority and trustworthiness.
- Enhance User Experience: Take a closer look at your website’s performance metrics, such as load times and mobile usability. Prioritize improving these aspects of your site to enhance user experience. Conduct UX audits and test your site on different devices to ensure a smooth experience for all users.
- Diversify Content Formats: Explore ways to incorporate more multimedia into your site. This can range from creating educational videos, interactive infographics, or even podcasts to engage users in different ways. Google seems to favor sites that can offer a richer, more diverse content experience.
Final Thoughts
Google’s August 2024 core update emphasizes the ongoing evolution of search engine algorithms, which now weigh expertise, content freshness, user experience, and multimedia integration more heavily than before. By staying informed about these updates and proactively adjusting your SEO strategy, you can maintain and even improve your site’s search performance.
Remember, core updates are often broad and not aimed at specific sites or industries. If your rankings have been impacted, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re doing something wrong—it may simply mean that Google’s algorithm has shifted its priorities. The key is to stay adaptive, focusing on delivering the best possible content and user experience for your audience.
A proactive approach is best to avoid penalties that could compromise your website traffic and subsequently require more comprehensive recovery from poor site performance and diminishing online business. Routine site reviews and audits are a sound practice to evaluate your website’s current compliance and identify potential opportunities to ensure your site is performing optimally and not negatively impacted by Google’s updates.
Get a Complementary Site Audit
The Brandography team of Subject Matter Experts (SME) is available to conduct an audit of your website (at no charge) to evaluate key performance criteria and assess its overall health and performance rating. Reach out at info@brandography.com or 612-460-0016 to retain confidence in your online impact.
