A Guide for Online Businesses Navigating the August 2024 Google Core Update

Google’s August 2024 Core Update Completes Rollout on September 3, 2024

With the August 2024 Google Core Update rollout completed in September 3rd, your online business needs to be ready to pivot quickly.

Algorithm updates can feel like sudden earthquakes shaking up the digital landscape—leaving you wondering if your hard-earned rankings will hold steady or take a dive.

But don’t panic! We’re here to walk you through what’s happening right now, and how you can protect your rankings during this critical time.

Let’s dive into the key shifts in Google’s ranking factors, what you should be monitoring, and how to stay adaptable in this ever-evolving SEO world.

What’s New in the August 2024 Google Core Algorithm Update?

As we’ve seen with previous updates, Google’s Algorithm Updates goal is always to improve the quality of its search results for users. The August 2024 Core Update has no exceptions. The focus this time around seems to be heavily on user experience, content relevance, and E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness).

These are the pillars of ranking success in this new environment.

Here are some of the key changes you need to know:

• Greater Emphasis on E-E-A-T: Google is doubling down on its commitment to delivering search results from sources that are not just credible but also demonstrate deep expertise and trustworthiness. If your content doesn’t reflect real authority in your niche, it could be in trouble.
• Enhanced User Experience Factors: The update places a bigger emphasis on user experience (UX). Factors like page speed, mobile responsiveness, core web vitals, and overall site usability are playing an increasingly critical role in how Google determines rankings.

Google representatives are not saying directly that these factors are considered in the equation of ranking factors, but there are many other factors we as SEO experts have to use our experience and knowledge to understand that they matter.

• Content Freshness and Relevance: As always, quality content reigns supreme. But now, Google is paying even closer attention to how fresh, relevant, and useful your content is to users. Old, outdated content could be hurting your rankings more than ever.

Immediate Action Steps for Your Online Businesses

Now that we know what’s shifting, let’s talk about how you can respond effectively. You don’t want to be caught off guard—so here’s what you need to do right now to stay competitive:

1. Monitor Performance in Google Search Console

First things first: keep a close eye on your site’s performance in Google Search Console. This tool is your best friend during any algorithm rollout. As the August 2024 core update rollout was completed on September 3rd, you’ll see already if your search traffic and rankings are affected.

Watch for significant drops or spikes. These are indicators of how the update has been impacting your site.

Check metrics like:

• Search traffic trends: Are you seeing a sudden dip in traffic?
• Click-through rates: Are fewer people clicking on your links?
• Keyword rankings: Have any of your key search terms dropped off the map?

If you notice dramatic changes, don’t panic. Stay calm, track the data, and start planning an in-depth on-page and off-page SEO audit.

2. Audit Your Content for Relevance and Quality

Next, it’s time for a content audit. Review your existing content with a critical eye, ensuring that everything on your site is relevant, up-to-date, and demonstrates strong expertise.

Ask yourself:

• Does this content meet current user intent?
• Is it factually accurate and supported by credible sources?
• Does it address the latest trends, developments, and needs in my industry?

If any of your content feels outdated or shallow, consider refreshing it with updated information or adding more depth. Focus on high-quality, evergreen content that will stand the test of time.

3. Enhance E-E-A-T Signals on Your Site

Google wants to see that your site has real expertise and authority behind it. Here’s how you can show that:

• Include Author Bios: Make sure every article or blog post has a byline with an author bio that highlights their expertise. Are they a subject matter expert? Do they have industry experience? Let Google (and your readers) know.
• Showcase Trust Signals: Make it clear that your business is trustworthy. This can include things like customer testimonials, case studies, awards, or certifications.
• Update About Us and Contact Pages: These pages help establish the credibility and transparency of your business. Ensure that they clearly communicate who you are, what you do, and how users can get in touch with you.

4. Optimize User Experience Across Your Website

This update puts even more weight on user experience factors, so now is the perfect time to make sure your site is firing on all cylinders.

• Check Mobile Responsiveness: If your site isn’t mobile-friendly by now, you’re seriously behind. Ensure that every page looks great and functions well on mobile devices.
• Boost Site Speed: Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights to measure your site’s load times and identify areas for improvement. Faster sites perform better in rankings and provide a better user experience.
• Core Web Vitals: Core Web Vitals measure things like page load time, interactivity, and visual stability. Make sure your site is meeting or exceeding Google’s thresholds in these areas to avoid penalties.

Long-Term Strategies to Thrive Beyond the Update

While responding quickly to the August 2024 update is crucial, you also want to set your business up for long-term success. Here are some strategies that can help you future-proof your SEO efforts:

Focus on Continuous Content Improvement

Google is always hungry for fresh, valuable content. Don’t wait for the next algorithm update to start making changes. Create a content calendar and commit to regularly publishing new blog posts, articles, videos, or infographics that add real value to your audience. Keep a pulse on the trends in your industry so you can be one of the first to provide solutions when things change.

Prioritize User Intent

More than ever, Google’s algorithms are trying to match search results to what users actually want. Make sure every piece of content you create is solving a specific problem or answering a question your target audience has. Stay focused on user intent—not just keyword density.

Stay Agile and Adaptable

Finally, keep in mind that Google’s core updates aren’t a one-and-done event. They happen multiple times a year and are always shifting in scope and focus. Being adaptable and agile in your SEO strategy is key. Keep learning, stay informed about new updates, and be willing to pivot when needed.

Google Core Algorithm Updates – FAQs

1. What is a Google Core Algorithm Update?

   A Google Core Algorithm Update refers to significant, broad changes Google makes to its search ranking algorithms. These updates impact how websites are evaluated and ranked in search results, with the goal of improving the overall relevance and quality of the results provided to users.

2. How often does Google release Core Algorithm updates?

   Google typically releases core updates a few times a year, though the frequency can vary. These updates are large-scale and affect many websites, unlike smaller, more frequent tweaks Google makes to its algorithm throughout the year.

3. Why does Google implement Core Algorithm updates?

   Google implements Core Algorithm updates to improve the user experience by ensuring that search results are more relevant, accurate, and helpful. These updates reflect changes in user behavior, advances in technology, and Google’s evolving understanding of what constitutes high-quality content.

4. How can I know if a Core Algorithm update has impacted my website?

   You can determine if a core update has impacted your site by monitoring organic traffic and search rankings through tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console. Sudden drops or increases in traffic around the time of a core update are a key indicator.

5. What are the typical signs that a website has been affected by a Core Algorithm update?

   Common signs include a sudden drop or increase in search traffic, shifts in keyword rankings, changes in click-through rates, and fluctuations in user engagement metrics, like bounce rate or time on site.

6. What should I do if my website is negatively impacted by a Core Algorithm update?

   If your site is negatively impacted, begin by analyzing the content, structure, and user experience of your site. Focus on improving content quality, aligning with user intent, optimizing for mobile, and ensuring your site meets Google’s E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) guidelines.

7. What is the difference between a Core Algorithm update and a smaller algorithm update?

   A Core Algorithm update is broad and affects all search queries globally, potentially impacting rankings across various industries and sectors. Smaller algorithm updates are more focused and often target specific issues, such as spam, mobile usability, or specific types of content.

8. How long does it take for rankings to stabilize after a Core Algorithm update?

   It typically takes several weeks for rankings to stabilize after a Core Algorithm update. During this time, fluctuations are normal as Google continues to reprocess and evaluate websites according to its updated criteria.

9. Can I recover my rankings if my website is negatively impacted by a Core Algorithm update?

   Yes, recovery is possible, but it usually requires a thorough evaluation and improvements to your website’s content, user experience, and technical SEO. Recovery can take time, depending on how effectively you address the issues that led to a drop in rankings.

10. What role does content quality play in Core Algorithm updates?

    Content quality plays a significant role in Core Algorithm updates. Google aims to rank content that is relevant, authoritative, and helpful to users. Thin, outdated, or irrelevant content is often negatively impacted, while high-quality, well-researched, and comprehensive content tends to perform better after updates.

11. How do Core Algorithm updates relate to E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness)?

    Core Algorithm updates often place a stronger emphasis on E-E-A-T, which Google uses to assess the quality and reliability of content. Websites that demonstrate expertise, authority in their field, and trustworthiness are more likely to maintain or improve rankings during and after core updates.

12. Are all websites affected equally by Core Algorithm updates?

    No, not all websites are affected equally. The impact of a Core Algorithm update depends on how well a site aligns with Google’s updated ranking criteria. Websites with low-quality content, poor user experience, or lacking in E-E-A-T are more likely to be affected negatively, while those with strong performance in these areas may see improvements.

13. Should I make immediate changes to my website during a Core Algorithm update?

    It’s best not to make knee-jerk changes during the initial rollout of a Core Algorithm update. Instead, monitor your site’s performance, identify potential areas of improvement, and focus on making thoughtful, long-term enhancements that align with Google’s ranking priorities.

14. How can I prevent my website from being negatively affected by future Core Algorithm updates?

    To safeguard your site, focus on consistently improving content quality, enhancing user experience, and staying aligned with E-E-A-T principles. Regularly update old content, ensure your site is technically sound, and stay informed about SEO best practices to keep pace with evolving Google guidelines.

15. Is there any way to predict what future Core Algorithm updates will focus on?

    While it’s difficult to predict exactly what future updates will focus on, recent trends suggest an ongoing emphasis on content quality, user experience, mobile usability, and the credibility of websites. Staying proactive by prioritizing these factors will help you remain competitive, regardless of the specifics of future updates.

16. How do Core Algorithm updates work, and what is their primary goal?

    Core Algorithm updates are broad changes that Google makes to its search ranking systems to ensure that search results continue to be helpful and reliable for users. The updates don’t target specific sites or pages but instead reassess the ranking of content across the web as a whole, taking into account changes in the online landscape. The goal is to improve the overall relevance and quality of search results.

17. If my site drops in rankings after a Core Algorithm update, does that mean my site is “bad”?

    Not necessarily. A drop in rankings doesn’t automatically mean your site or content is bad. Think of it like updating a list of recommendations—some sites may move down not because they’ve gotten worse, but because other sites are now ranking higher based on newer factors or improved user experiences. The focus should be on how your content compares to others in terms of providing value, relevance, and user satisfaction.

18. How do I determine if my traffic drop is related to a Core Algorithm update?

    If you notice a traffic drop, check Google Search Console to identify when the decline began. Compare this data with the timing of a Core Algorithm update by using Google’s Search Status Dashboard to see the start and end dates of the rollout. After the update has fully rolled out, wait a week and then compare your current data with data from before the update to determine if the change is related.

19. What should I do if my site experiences a large drop in rankings after a Core Algorithm update?

    If your site experiences a significant drop (e.g., from position 4 to 29), conduct a deeper self-assessment of your site as a whole, not just individual pages. Evaluate whether your content is helpful, reliable, and focused on users first. Compare your pages with others that may be ranking higher, and focus on long-term improvements rather than quick fixes, such as enhancing content quality, relevance, and user experience.

20. How long does it take to see improvements after making changes in response to a Core Algorithm update?

    After making improvements, it may take time to see an effect on your search rankings. Some changes could take effect within a few days, but more significant, long-term improvements may take several months for Google’s systems to fully recognize. In some cases, you may need to wait until the next Core Algorithm update before seeing substantial improvements in your rankings.

About the Author:

With over 14 years of seasoned expertise in Technical SEO consulting, Eugen Platon SEO Expert stands at the forefront of the evolving digital marketing landscape. His approach to Technical SEO (search engine optimization) is both comprehensive and bespoke, ensuring that each technical SEO project he undertakes is finely tuned to its unique requirements and goals. He excels in elevating website visibility, bolstering user engagement, and navigating the ever-changing currents of SEO. Under his guidance, your online presence is transformed into a dynamic digital force, adeptly meeting and surpassing set objectives. Eugen combines time-tested SEO strategies with cutting-edge AI powered SEO techniques, dedicating himself to transforming your digital footprint into a magnet for both search engines and your target audience. Embark on a journey with him to unlock the full SEO potential of your online presence.