Google has released its August 2024 core update, which aims to improve the quality of search results by prioritizing genuinely useful content and reducing the visibility of content that is designed solely to perform well on search engines. This update takes into account feedback received since the September 2023 helpful content update, which had a negative impact on many small and independent publishers.
According to John Mueller, a Search Advocate at Google, this update specifically aims to promote useful content from small and independent publishers. Google recognizes the importance of connecting people with high-quality sites, including those that create original and relevant content. Mueller states that this is an area that Google will continue to address in future updates.
Google has also updated its guidance for core updates, providing more in-depth information for those who may experience changes after an update. The company acknowledges that there may be volatility in search rankings without any confirmation of a core update. It is advised to focus on creating helpful and reliable content for people rather than solely focusing on ranking in search engines.
In terms of recovery from a negative impact caused by a core update, Google does not provide specific actions to take. It states that a drop in rankings does not necessarily indicate any issues with the pages. However, Google offers a list of questions to consider if a site is hit by a core update. It is mentioned that some recovery may be seen between core updates, but the biggest changes are expected after another core update.
The previous core update, named the March 2024 core update, was the largest update according to Google. It lasted for 45 days and was followed by the June 2024 spam update which took 7 days to roll out. Many sites that were negatively impacted by the September 2023 helpful content update have been eagerly awaiting improvements with subsequent core updates, but have not seen significant recoveries thus far.
With the release of the August 2024 core update, these sites will be closely monitoring their rankings over the next few weeks, hoping to see signs of recovery. Google emphasizes the importance of creating satisfying content for people and encourages creators to read the help page on creating helpful, reliable, people-first content.
Overall, the August 2024 core update from Google aims to improve search results by promoting useful content from small and independent publishers. While there is no specific recovery strategy provided, the focus remains on creating high-quality content for users rather than solely optimizing for search engine rankings.
