The Google core update we’ve been waiting for (somewhat keenly) has now landed in August 2024. These updates are broad algorithm changes designed to improve the overall quality of search results.

This particular update seems to place a stronger emphasis on original, high-quality content. While the exact details of the algorithm adjustments remain a secret, it’s clear that Google is aiming to reward websites that provide valuable and informative content to users.

What is a core update?

“Core updates are designed to ensure that overall, we’re delivering on our mission to present helpful and reliable results for searchers. These changes are broad in nature, and don’t target specific sites or individual web pages. As content on the web changes, we assess and update our systems to keep pace, as a whole.” 

A direct quote from Google for you. To explain even more plainly: this makes it less likely for you to find a top 10 book stores article from 2018 when you’re looking for the best book shops in a given area

August Google Core Update: What does this mean for website owners?

Prioritise quality over quantity

Focus on creating content that is informative, engaging, and helpful to your target audience.

Avoid keyword stuffing and other black-hat SEO tactics

Google is getting smarter at detecting these practices, and they can harm your rankings.

Monitor your search performance:

Use tools like Google Search Console to track your website’s performance and identify any potential issues.

Roll out lead time and impact

It’s important to remember that core updates can take several weeks to fully roll out, and the impact on individual websites can vary. While some sites may see improvements, others might experience temporary declines in traffic. Google recommends focusing on creating great content over trying to outsmart the algorithm.

To be honest, that’s music to our ears. It makes the content creation that much more enjoyable!

Google are saying that ultimately, a website that provides value to users is more likely to succeed. That won’t be reassuring to all you data nerds out there, but while you’re refreshing your Google Search Console every 5 minutes try to remember that not all fluctuations are caused by updates: Seasonal trends, competitors’ actions, and other factors can also affect performance.

Would you like to learn more about specific SEO strategies or how to analyse your website’s performance after a core update?