Nothing sparks controversy and debate in the digital world as a Google Core Update. As a website owner, you may find yourself helpless against these overwhelming changes. You’ve seen your projects go from flourishing to floundering overnight.
Google’s John Mueller, a Search Analyst, gives his perspective on this issue. He responds to a distressed site owner who saw their site take a nosedive after the September 2023 core update. Despite employing SEO experts, no improvement was recorded. Mueller’s advice? It might be time to move on to something new.
Perhaps you’ve had a good run, and it’s time to leverage what you’ve learned and apply it to a fresh project. This might sound harsh, but sometimes, acknowledging the end of a chapter can pave the way for a better one.
John goes on to explain that the quick fixes won’t solve the issue. Dialing back ads, disavowing or purchasing a few links, speed your website, or switching to a new SEO plugin won’t cut it. It’s time to reassess your site’s strategy entirely.
It could be that some business models do not work well with changes, as in the example of spending minimum resources on autogenerated content. If you find your business stuck in this “doesn’t make sense anymore” camp, it could be time to consider cutting your losses and moving forward.
Related: The Impact of Google’s Algorithm Updates on Small Businesses
Remember, while it may feel like a loss initially, the knowledge you’ve gained on how to create, optimize, monitor, and debug technically proficient sites is invaluable. This expertise doesn’t vanish with a project but can be carried forward to future endeavors or even professional work with clients.
This situation is reminiscent of Glenn Gabe’s kitchen sink approach – a state when a site’s issues with Google positioning can’t be pinpointed to a single problem. This rings true for the site hit by the September 2023 helpful content update, which hasn’t recorded any recoveries yet.
In conclusion, facing a Google Core Update head-on can be a daunting task. However, it doesn’t necessarily spell the end of your career or project. Instead, it provides an opportunity to learn, evolve, and invent. It may be challenging to let go of a project you have invested time and resources into but understanding the bigger picture often requires taking a step back.
The major issue remains that we still don’t know how to fix things, and there are no reliable resources providing an example for recovery. However, it’s not all doom and gloom. As Mueller suggests, sometimes a fresh start is necessary to move forward successfully.
So, what can you do to survive a Google Core Update? Here are some tips that may help:
- Stay informed: Stay informed with the latest news and developments in the digital world by following reputable sources like the Google Webmaster Central Blog, Search Engine Roundtable, and Search Engine Land. These platforms will keep you abreast of any potential changes or updates, ensuring you’re always on top of your game.
- Diversify your traffic sources: Don’t depend solely on organic search traffic. Instead, explore diverse avenues like social media marketing, email campaigns, and paid advertising to boost your site’s traffic..
- Focus on quality content: As cliche as it may sound, content is still king. Make sure your website offers high-quality, valuable content that resonates with your target audience.
- Keep an eye on technical issues: Regularly monitor and fix any technical issues on your site, such as broken links, slow loading speed, and mobile responsiveness. These can impact your search engine rankings and overall user experience.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How often do Google Core Updates occur?
There is no set schedule for Google Core Updates, as they are rolled out periodically throughout the year. However, Google does announce when a core update is happening, so it’s essential to stay informed and adjust your strategies accordingly.
Will a Google Core Update affect all websites?
Yes, Google Core Updates have the potential to impact all websites, regardless of their industry or niche. However, some industries may be more heavily affected due to changes in user search behavior and intent.
Can I recover from a Google Core Update?
It’s uncertain whether a full recovery from a Google Core Update is achievable. However, by adhering to the above-mentioned tips and continuously refining your strategies, you can enhance your chances of maintaining or even boosting your search engine rankings post-update.
What should I do if my website is hit by a Google Core Update?
If your website experiences a drop in rankings after a Google Core Update, it’s essential to review your content, site structure, and overall strategy. It may also be helpful to seek advice from SEO experts or consult with Google’s official webmaster forums for support. Always remember that a drop in rankings does not necessarily mean failure, but rather an opportunity for growth and improvement.
Recovering from a Google Core Update is challenging, with no clear guidelines on how to achieve it. Keeping an open mind and being prepared to adapt are crucial to surviving these updates. Alternatively, waiting for new algorithm updates might provide additional insights.
Are you ready to take on the challenge? Remember, every end is a new beginning.
