Google’s core updates are always a hot topic in the SEO community. With each update, website rankings can shift dramatically, causing anxiety for webmasters and digital marketers alike. The August 2024 core update is no exception. As we’ve monitored its rollout, we’re beginning to see some patterns and trends emerge. This blog post will dive into what we’re seeing so far, what might be causing these changes, and how you can adapt your SEO strategy.

1. Initial Observations: A Focus on E-A-T

One of the most noticeable trends from the August 2024 core update is Google’s continued emphasis on E-A-T (Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness). Websites that have strong E-A-T signals, particularly in the health, finance, and YMYL (Your Money or Your Life) niches, are seeing positive movement in the SERPs.

• Why E-A-T Matters: Google’s algorithm aims to deliver the most reliable and trustworthy content to users. For websites dealing with sensitive topics like health or finance, ensuring the content is written by experts and backed by credible sources is crucial.
• Actionable Tip: Review your website’s content for E-A-T. Make sure your authors are experts in their field, your content is well-researched, and your site has robust security measures like HTTPS.

2. Content Quality Over Quantity

The August 2024 update seems to be rewarding websites that focus on delivering high-quality content rather than pumping out large volumes of mediocre content. Google’s algorithms are becoming increasingly sophisticated at understanding user intent and the quality of content.

• What We’re Seeing: Websites with fewer, but more in-depth, well-researched articles are outperforming those that publish more frequently but with less substance.
• Actionable Tip: Prioritize content that provides real value to your audience. Long-form content that answers user queries in detail and offers comprehensive solutions is likely to perform better.

3. User Experience is Critical

Google’s push towards improving user experience (UX) has been evident for several years, and the August 2024 core update reinforces this trend. Sites that offer a seamless, fast, and user-friendly experience are gaining visibility in the search results.

• Key UX Factors: Page load speed, mobile-friendliness, intuitive navigation, and minimal intrusive ads are all factors contributing to better rankings.
• Actionable Tip: Conduct a UX audit of your site. Use tools like Google’s PageSpeed Insights to identify areas for improvement and ensure your site is mobile-friendly.

4. SERP Volatility: Winners and Losers

As with any major core update, there are always winners and losers. Some sites have seen significant gains in traffic, while others have experienced steep drops. It’s important to note that volatility is normal during the rollout of a core update, and it may take several weeks for the dust to settle.

• Winners: Websites with strong E-A-T, high-quality content, and excellent UX are generally seeing positive movement.
• Losers: Sites with thin content, slow loading times, or poor mobile experiences have been negatively impacted.
• Actionable Tip: If you’ve been negatively affected, don’t panic. Focus on improving content quality, boosting E-A-T signals, and enhancing UX. Recovery is possible with the right adjustments.

5. The Role of AI-Generated Content

AI-generated content has been a hot topic in SEO circles, and the August 2024 core update appears to have taken a stance on this. Google is increasingly able to detect AI-generated content and is likely prioritizing content created by humans, especially in niches that require a high level of expertise.

• What We’re Seeing: Sites relying heavily on AI-generated content, particularly in YMYL niches, may be seeing declines in rankings.
• Actionable Tip: If you use AI tools for content creation, ensure that the final product is reviewed and edited by a human expert. Add a personal touch to AI-generated content to enhance its value.

6. Adapting to the Update: What You Should Do

So, what should you do if your site has been impacted by the August 2024 core update? Here are some steps to take:

1. Audit Your Content: Review your site’s content to ensure it meets Google’s quality standards. Focus on creating content that is informative, well-researched, and aligned with user intent.
2. Enhance E-A-T: Boost your site’s E-A-T by showcasing the expertise of your content creators, using credible sources, and improving site security.
3. Improve User Experience: Ensure your site is fast, mobile-friendly, and easy to navigate. A positive user experience can make a significant difference in your rankings.
4. Monitor the Impact: Use tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console to monitor how your site is performing. Track changes in traffic, rankings, and user engagement to identify areas for improvement.

Conclusion

The August 2024 core update is a reminder that SEO is an ever-evolving field. While it’s important to stay informed about algorithm changes, the key to long-term success is adaptability. Focus on delivering high-quality content, enhancing user experience, and staying aligned with Google’s best practices. By doing so, you’ll be well-positioned to weather this and future updates.

As the update continues to roll out, keep an eye on your site’s performance and be prepared to make adjustments as needed. Remember, SEO is a marathon, not a sprint, and staying agile is the best way to maintain and improve your search rankings over time.