Every now and then, Google will release a new update to its algorithm that will affect search engine optimization. People have yet to see how the latest one, released in September 2022, will affect their score. More on the Google core algorithm update below.
Looking at the Google Core Algorithm Update 2022
Google search is arguably the most widely used search engine today. As such, it makes sense for websites to want to rank high on Google’s search engine results page (SERP). The SERP landscape is a competitive one, though, with different websites competing for the highest slot for different keywords.
Recently, a Google algorithm update began rolling out. Known as the Google September 2022 Broad Core Update, the update launched on September 12, 2022, at approximately 11:25 p.m. ET. According to Google, the update will take about 1 to 2 weeks to roll out completely. The change will also affect all regions and all languages, making it a global update.
The Google September 2022 algorithm update is not a penalty. Rather, it rewards web pages that the search engine deems great. It is currently unclear how many queries or searches have been affected by the update thus far. However, it looks to be a usual core update that impacts a wide range of queries or searches. Additionally, the effect is expected to be quick.
Some websites have already started noticing the effects of the update. There are some that have noted drops in their traffic, with their ranking remaining the same. Others are experiencing gains. However, Google assures that pages that perform less well after the update have not necessarily breached their webmaster guidelines.
Prior to this, Google released a helpful content update that finished rolling out on September 9, 2022. This Google recent update to its core algorithm, while not directly related to the previous update, can greatly affect some pages if they have issues with both.
Google Algorithm Changes: What Websites Can Do
It is currently unknown how the Google September 2022 core algorithm update will impact websites on a wider scale. As such, it is best to review your content and see what you can improve, especially if you were affected by the update.
With this update, Google continues to aim to “present relevant and authoritative content to searchers.” Websites should bear this in mind and aim for the same goal — to remain on top or improve their rank.
Quality content refers to content that is original and provides information that isn’t obvious. While content can draw on other sources, Google prefers content that adds value instead of just outright copied or rewritten. Go for headlines and page titles that describe the content perfectly. Nothing exaggerated or resembling clickbait.
Beyond the actual content, Google also considers presentation. That means making sure your content does not contain any stylistic issues or spelling errors. It also means ensuring readers can view the content on mobile devices without problems. Additionally, Google does not like it when the content has too many ads, as these can deflect from the actual content.
Past Core Algorithm Updates
This is not the first release of a Google core algorithm update this year. There was also a May 2022 core update that finished rolling out on June 9, 2022. Google also released other updates throughout the year, but not for the core algorithm. Apart from the helpful content update, other updates include:
- A July 2022 product reviews update that finished rolling out on August 2, 2022. This update affected only English-language product reviews.
- Another product review update that released in March 2022.
- A page experience update that was released in February 2022. This update completed its rollout on March 3, 2022.
Last year, Google released a total of three core updates to its algorithm. The first one was a June 2021 core update that finished rolling out on June 12, 2021. The second came in July 2021. This core update finished rolling out on July 12, 2021. The third and final core update of that year rolled out in November. It completed its rollout on November 30, 2022.
The Best Practice
As you can see, it is not uncommon for the search giant to update its algorithm. The Google core algorithm update is designed to improve the search engine’s functionality and provide only the best content to searchers. Websites should remain vigilant and stay up-to-date on all the changes. In doing so, they can retain and even improve their positions.
Tanner Grey provides expert web design and digital marketing services, including search engine optimization. Call us today at 844.500.1339 or contact us online to learn more about how we can help you.
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