Google’s March 2024 core update has sent shockwaves through the SEO industry, leaving website owners scrambling to understand its impact. This major update, likened to the iconic Panda and Penguin updates, has significant implications for search engine rankings and website visibility. In order to navigate these changes and avoid penalties, there are five key things that website owners need to know.
Firstly, Google is taking a strong stance against low-quality websites by completely deindexing them. The goal of this update is to reduce unhelpful, irrelevant, and unoriginal content from search results. Websites that violate Google’s guidelines or employ questionable SEO tactics will not only be penalized but completely removed from the search results and index. This has caused a significant upheaval in the SEO world, as many websites have disappeared overnight.
Secondly, the penalties associated with this update are swift and severe. Site owners have been left scrambling for answers as their websites are deindexed. To check if your site has been impacted, you can search for your website in Google using the “site:website.com” command and see if it appears in the search results. It’s important to note that affected sites will not receive notifications of ranking declines through Google Search Console’s manual action viewer.
Thirdly, even websites that have survived previous updates are not immune to the consequences of the March 2024 core update. Older websites that have previously dodged penalties now face potential repercussions. While some view this as a positive move to remove low-quality sites that have manipulated the system, others are left confused as to why their entire network of sites has vanished. The update seems to prioritize deep topical knowledge and expertise when ranking websites.
Fourthly, outdated and error-filled sites are particularly vulnerable to penalties. Google has added another factor to consider when assessing content trustworthiness and E-A-T (Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) score – content generated by AI, outdated content, and content with errors. Websites that fail to meet these standards will be de-ranked.
Lastly, even small AI content sites have been affected by this update. Google’s ability to detect AI-generated content has become more refined, resulting in penalties for smaller players in this field. The frequency of content publication is a potential indicator of an AI website. However, it’s important to note that Google is not specifically targeting AI content but rather useless, repetitive, and unoriginal content in general.
In order to navigate these changes and maintain a good standing in search results, website owners must prioritize quality over quantity. Google has always emphasized originality, depth, and value for the reader. Websites that were deindexed often relied on thin or duplicated content without providing unique insights or perspectives. Improving E-A-T becomes essential, which includes citing reputable sources within your niche and showcasing author expertise clearly on your site.
User experience is also a crucial factor in the latest algorithm changes. Websites that focus solely on keyword optimization without considering holistic UX design principles will be penalized. Paying attention to page speed, mobile-friendliness, and clear calls to action will help keep users engaged longer, sending positive signals to search engines.
While the road ahead may seem daunting, it’s important to adapt and make necessary changes to thrive in the digital world. Conducting a comprehensive site audit and making improvements based on the findings is a crucial step. By prioritizing content quality and enhancing user experience, website owners can build a better online space for their visitors.
In conclusion, Google’s March 2024 core update has had a seismic impact on the SEO industry. Website owners must be aware of the penalties associated with this update and take proactive measures to avoid being penalized. Prioritizing content quality, improving user experience, and conducting site audits are key steps to maintaining a good standing in search results. Adapting to these changes is essential for survival in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
