E-E-A-T<\/a> might have played a crucial factor.<\/p>\nThe broad range of topics these sites covered indicates a lack of deep topical knowledge – experience and expertise – which Google prioritizes when ranking websites.<\/p>\n
4. Outdated, error-filled sites are vulnerable<\/h2>\n Speaking of E-E-A-T, look at how Google has now added another factor when considering content to be untrustworthy and with the lowest E-E-A-T:<\/p>\n
Content is generated by AI, it’s outdated and it’s not error-free.<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/figure>\nThese are surefire ways to get de-ranked!<\/p>\n
5. Even small AI content sites were affected <\/h2>\n An interesting development is how small AI content sites have come under scrutiny. Google’s ability to detect AI-generated content has become more refined, resulting in penalties even for smaller players in this field.<\/p>\n
Craig Griffiths thinks the biggest indicator of an AI website is the frequency with which it publishes content.<\/p>\n <\/figure>\nBut that is not the case here:<\/p>\n <\/figure>\nDigging further into this conversation reveals more specific signals that Google might be looking for:<\/p>\n <\/figure>\n <\/figure>\nLet’s get one thing straight: Google is not going after AI content. What Google wants to clean up from its search results is useless, repetitive, unoriginal content, whether it’s written by humans or AI or both.<\/p>\n
The latest update aims to remove bad websites that do nothing for people while bringing good websites with valuable content to the surface. <\/p>\n
This is a wake-up call for website owners who thought their legacy would keep them safe. It proves again that adaptation is key to survival in the digital world.<\/p>\n
If you’re managing one of these older, smaller domains, don’t panic yet. Start by conducting a comprehensive site audit and fix these issues immediately.<\/p>\n
Takeaway: Quality trumps quantity<\/h2>\n Google’s emphasis has always been on originality, depth and value for the reader. Websites that were removed and deindexed often relied heavily on thin or duplicated content without providing unique insights or perspectives.<\/p>\n
To combat this issue head-on, improving E-E-A-T becomes essential. E-E-A-T principles show Google – and, more importantly, your readers – that you’re an authority worth listening to. This includes citing reputable sources within your niche and showcasing author expertise clearly on your site.<\/p>\n
User experience also takes center stage with the latest algorithm changes. Your site should look good and be easy and intuitive for visitors. Websites focusing solely on keyword optimization instead of holistic UX design principles will be penalized.<\/p>\n
Paying attention to page speed, mobile-friendliness and clear calls to action will help keep users engaged longer, sending positive signals back up the SEO food chain. <\/p>\n
Remember, by making these adjustments, you’re not just playing nice with search engines; you’re building a better online space for everyone who visits.<\/p>\n
Adapt or fall behind<\/h2>\n The sheer number of de-indexed websites reported by the search marketing community confirms Google’s plan to implement a major shakeup in their ranking systems.<\/p>\n
It is prudent to study the patterns of websites affected by algorithmic events to spot common trends so you can uncover your websites’ own weaknesses and recalibrate your strategies.<\/p>\n
\nFocus on content quality. <\/li>\n Enhance user experience.<\/li>\n Start auditing your site and make changes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\nThe road ahead might seem daunting, but remember, every step toward improvement is a step away from Google hell.<\/p>\n
\nContributing authors are invited to create content for Search Engine Land and are chosen for their expertise and contribution to the search community. Our contributors work under the oversight of the editorial staff<\/a> and contributions are checked for quality and relevance to our readers. The opinions they express are their own.<\/em><\/p>\n \n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Google’s March 2024 core update is bringing a seismic shift to the SEO industry. This major update might sweep the web the same way the Panda and Penguin updates did. Its impact is enormous and widespread and every seasoned marketer I’ve talked to agrees that this update is a big deal. Has your website been […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":579,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[17],"tags":[18],"class_list":{"0":"post-579","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-seo","8":"tag-seo"},"yoast_head":"\n
Google's March 2024 core update: 5 things you need to know - SEO<\/title>\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n\t \n\t \n\t \n