Google has Rolls Out August 2024 Core Update: Key Points, Impact, and Recommendations

• Rollout Timeline:

  The August 2024 Core Update started rolling out in August (August 15, 2024) and is expected to be fully completed within about a month (September, 2024).

• Purpose of the Update:

  This update is all about prioritizing content that people find truly useful and to reduce the visibility of content that seems created just to perform well in search results.

• First Major Update Since March:

  This is the first core update since the one in March 2024, which happened about 163 days ago.

• Good News for Small and Independent Sites:

  John Mueller from Google mentioned that this update is designed to help users find high-quality content from a variety of sources, including smaller and independent sites that offer original and valuable information.

• Creator Feedback Incorporated:

  Google has listened to feedback from content creators and others to shape this update, making sure it addresses their concerns.

• Recognition of Site Improvements for Better Ranking:

  This update aims to better recognize and reward websites that have made improvements, ensuring that the best content continues to shine on the web. If your site has been working on improving your content and making your content more helpful and valuable since the March 2024 update, you might see these efforts rewarded with improved search rankings.

Insights from Google: Search Central Blog and Official X Account Updates

Here’s what Google shared on the Google Search Central blog:

Thursday, August 15, 2024

Today, we launched our August 2024 core update to Google Search. This update is designed to continue our work to improve the quality of our search results by showing more content that people find genuinely useful and less content that feels like it was made just to perform well on Search.

This latest update takes into account the feedback we’ve heard from some creators and others over the past few months. As always, we aim to connect people with a range of high quality sites, including small or independent sites that are creating useful, original content, when relevant to users searches. This is an area we’ll continue to address in future updates. This update also aims to better capture improvements that sites may have made, so we can continue to show the best of the web.

We’ve also updated our help page about core updates, which includes more in-depth guidance for those who may see changes after an update.

Posted by John Mueller, Search Advocate, Google Switzerland

Here’s what Google shared on its Official X Account @googlesearchc:

Impact on Search Results:

The August 2024 Core Update will likely change how websites appear in search results:

1. Ranking Changes:

   Some sites will see their rankings shift. High-quality, original content might boost visibility, while sites focused mainly on SEO may drop.

2. Tougher Competition:

   As Google emphasizes content quality and user experience, competing for top spots will be harder. Adapting to these changes can help improve your rankings.

3. Increased Authority:

   Websites showing strong expertise and credibility are expected to gain better visibility. Building trust with users and search engines will be key.

4. Traffic Fluctuations:

   Rankings changes may affect website traffic. Improved rankings can lead to more visitors, while lower rankings might decrease traffic.

5. Support for Smaller Sites:

   This update could favor smaller and independent sites that provide valuable and original content, giving them a better chance to shine alongside larger, high-authority sites.

Recommendations for Website Owners

To navigate the August 2024 Core Update effectively, website owners should focus on the following strategies:

1) Focus on Helpful Content, Not Just Rankings

To align with the August 2024 Core Update, focus on creating content that truly helps and engages your audience, rather than just aiming for high search rankings. Google suggests there’s no need for drastic changes if you’ve been prioritizing user-focused content. If your rankings aren’t improving, check out Google’s guide on making content that’s genuinely useful and reliable.

2) Avoid Purely AI Generated Content

Review and improve your existing content to ensure it meets the highest standards of expertise and authority. Avoid using only AI Generated Content. Invest in creating human written + AI assistant comprehensive, well-researched, and up-to-date content that adds real value for users.

3) Optimize User Experience

Audit your website for user experience issues. Ensure fast load times, mobile optimization, and intuitive navigation. Tools like Google PageSpeed Insights can help identify areas for improvement.

4) Build and Demonstrate Authority

Work on building your site’s authority through quality backlinks, expert guest posts, and collaborations with industry influencers. Demonstrating your expertise and credibility can positively impact your search rankings.

5) Monitor and Adapt

Keep a close eye on your site’s performance metrics and search rankings. Use tools like Google Search Console and analytics platforms to track changes and adapt your strategies as needed.

Conclusion

The August 2024 Core Update represents another step in Google’s ongoing effort to refine search results and enhance user experience. By focusing on high-quality content, improving user experience, and building site authority, you can better position your website to thrive amidst these changes. Staying informed and proactive will be key to navigating the impact of this update and continuing to achieve success in the competitive world of search engine optimization.

Need personalized advice or assistance adapting to this update? Contact us today—we’re here to help you optimize your strategies and achieve continued success. Share your experiences and strategies in the comments below, and let’s navigate these changes together!