When Google rolls out a Google Core Update, it sends waves of change across the SEO world.
Understanding how these updates affect your site’s ranking can make all the difference in maintaining your visibility.
In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Google Core Updates and how you can adapt your strategy to stay ahead of the game.
What is a Google Core Update?
A Google Core Update is a broad update to Google’s search algorithm.
These changes are meant to better the quality of the search results provided through alterations of ranks by Google.
The change is mostly intended to encourage relevant, high-quality information and demote websites that have been over-optimized or even spam websites.
Unlike the other smaller scale updates on the algorithm which are embedded in one particular area within the SEO (e.g. Penguin or Panda updates).
A core update has a lot more influence at once targeting all the factors in each segment there is.
It is applied broadly to various websites and is capable of affecting your positions within different sections of your website.
For example, if you make a blog on healthy eating and your website was ranking high for the keywords that incorporate weight loss.
After a core update, your page may fall in the search results without actually modifying the content.
This is because Google might have shifted the way they rank to prefer sites that have better content on health and food.
How Does a Google Core Update Affect SEO Ranking?
Alterations to the core algorithm can sometimes cause search engine rankings to swing, and may influence the performance of certain websites for good or harm.
In case Google finds the content delivery of your website as that which is rather enhanced or of more value or of a higher authority post an update, you will experience
a rise in the search rankings.
In a few cases however, when the content of your website does not meet the stipulated requirements for ranking on the SERP after the update, then there may be a
reduction in the rankings.
One other crucial thing to keep in mind is that on most occasions Google doesnot provide precise information concerning the various factors within the core ranking
algorithm that get tweaked with a core update.
Consequently, one must engage their reasoning in most cases should be based on their objectives, their own assessment of their website’s efficacy, and what other SEO authorities are discussing.
For instance, a site that has outdated material and bad SEO practices might see it’s rankings slide.
It’s quite the reverse for a website that provides what the user expects and does it more than once.
When Do Google Core Updates Get Released?
Google releases core updates several times a year, but the exact dates aren’t always predictable.
The search engine giant usually announces the release of core updates on its Twitter account or through a blog post on the official Google Search Central blog.
When Google rolls out a new core update, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks for the full impact to be felt across the web.
You may notice fluctuations in your site’s performance, especially if your site was heavily impacted by a previous update.
Core updates are rolled out globally, and their effects are visible in multiple languages.
However, these updates don’t affect local searches or international searches in the same way—they are intended to be as broad and inclusive as possible.
What Are Google Core Updates Based On?
Google’s core updates are based on several factors, all designed to refine how Google delivers relevant search results.
Although the company doesn’t reveal the exact changes in its algorithm, there are some key elements to consider:
- Content Quality: Google is constantly looking to reward high-quality content.
Websites that have authoritative, well-researched, and helpful content will generally see better rankings. - User Experience (UX): Google values user-friendly websites that are easy to navigate.
Websites that load quickly, are mobile-friendly, and provide a good overall experience are more likely to benefit from core updates. - E-A-T (Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness): These are key factors in determining whether your content is credible.
Google rewards websites that can demonstrate these qualities, particularly for topics related to health, finance, and legal advice. - Backlink Profile: Having high-quality backlinks is another critical ranking factor.
Websites that gain links from reputable sources are likely to see a boost in rankings after a core update. - Relevancy: Google wants to connect users with the most relevant and useful results.
If your content has become outdated or no longer answers user queries, you might see a drop in rankings.
How Do We Know About a Google Core Update?
Google typically announces a core update through its official channels, such as Twitter or the Google Search Central Blog.
When these updates are released, many SEO experts and websites track changes in their traffic and rankings to assess the impact.
Additionally, you can monitor fluctuations using tools like Google Search Console or third-party services like Moz and SEMrush.
These tools provide valuable insights into keyword performance, organic traffic, and the overall health of your site.
One of the most common indicators of a core update’s impact is the sudden drop or increase in organic search traffic.
You may also notice shifts in your website’s rankings across various pages.
If you experience a significant drop, it’s important to look for patterns in the update and investigate which parts of your content might need improving.
How Do We Adapt to Google Core Updates?
Adapting to a core update requires a strategy centered around high-quality content, technical SEO, and consistent optimization.
Here are a few steps you can take to ensure that your website aligns with Google’s evolving expectations:
- Focus on Content Quality: Google rewards valuable content that answers user queries.
Regularly update your content to ensure it’s relevant, accurate, and helpful. - Improve User Experience: Make sure your website is mobile-friendly, fast-loading, and easy to navigate.
A positive user experience can lead to improved rankings. - E-A-T Principles: Work on establishing your site as an authority in your niche.
Build trust by showcasing credentials, earning high-quality backlinks, and using testimonials and expert opinions. - Track Your Progress: After a core update, track changes in your traffic and rankings.
If you’ve been impacted negatively, analyze which pages need improvement and whether the content needs to be more authoritative or comprehensive. - Stay Informed: Stay updated on the latest SEO trends and Google’s official announcements.
SEO is always evolving, and it’s crucial to adapt to these changes proactively.
Tips for Monitoring and Acting After a Core Update
After every core update, monitoring your site’s performance is key to understanding how the changes impact your rankings.
Here’s how you can stay on top of things:
- Use Google Search Console: Regularly monitor your site’s performance metrics.
Look at the number of clicks, impressions, and your average rankings for targeted keywords. - Track Your Rankings: Use third-party SEO tools like Ahrefs, SEMrush, or Moz to keep track of how your rankings shift.
This will help you identify which pages were most impacted. - Update Outdated Content: Review and update old content to ensure it meets Google’s standards.
If certain pages were impacted, you may need to add more depth or enhance the expertise behind the content. - Check Site Speed and Mobile Usability: Ensure your website is mobile-responsive and loads quickly.
User experience is a ranking factor, and improvements here can boost your site’s performance. - Check for Spammy Practices: If you’ve engaged in any questionable SEO tactics, such as keyword stuffing or link schemes, it’s best to clean up your site.
These practices can hurt your rankings in the long run, especially after a core update.
When Did Google First Use Core Updates?
Google’s first use of a core update can be traced back to 2018.
Before this, Google made smaller adjustments to its search algorithm, but the introduction of core updates marked a new era of broader, more impactful changes.
The rollout of core updates aimed to make search results more relevant and comprehensive, providing users with the best possible content.
This shift marked a significant departure from earlier updates, such as Panda and Penguin, which targeted specific aspects of websites (like content quality or link schemes).
Core updates, however, cover a wide range of factors and are meant to continually refine how Google ranks and rewards sites across the board.
Conclusion
Google’s core updates are a reminder of how constantly evolving search algorithms shape the digital landscape.
These updates push websites to maintain high standards of quality, relevance, and user experience.
While Google doesn’t reveal all the specifics of its updates, staying proactive with your SEO efforts—focusing
on quality content, improving user experience,
and staying informed—can help you weather the impact of each update.
Monitor your website’s performance, adjust strategies as necessary, and keep refining your SEO approach.
By staying adaptive and responsive, you can continue to thrive in the ever-changing world of search rankings.
