Launched in March 2024, this was the second broad core algorithm update of the year, aimed at further refining the quality and relevance of search results. As with previous core updates, it was designed to reassess how Google evaluates content and ranks websites across all niches.
Fallouts and Highlights from the Update
The March 2024 Core Update caused significant ranking fluctuations across various industries, with some websites experiencing dramatic changes in their search visibility.
One of the most notable impacts was on sites in the health and wellness sectors. Several large health information websites and wellness platforms reported substantial traffic changes, with some experiencing gains while others saw significant losses.
For instance, a popular mental health resource site reportedly gained over 50% in organic visibility following the update, while a well-established fitness blog saw a drop of around 35%.
The update also had a significant impact on news and media sites, particularly those covering scientific and medical topics. Some news outlets saw improvements in their visibility for complex, research-based queries, suggesting that the update may have refined Google’s ability to assess the scientific accuracy and credibility of content.
Google’s Search Liaison, Danny Sullivan, confirmed the update on Twitter, reiterating the company’s standard advice that there’s no specific “fix” for sites negatively impacted by core updates. He emphasised that webmasters should focus on providing high-quality, scientifically accurate content that demonstrates expertise and meets user needs.
The SEO community’s reaction was mixed, with many noting the increased focus on scientific accuracy and credibility. This led to discussions about the growing importance of expert validation and peer review in content creation, particularly for YMYL (Your Money or Your Life) topics.
Strategy Evolution
The March 2024 Core Update necessitated several shifts in SEO strategy:
- Increased focus on scientific accuracy and credibility, particularly for health and wellness content
- Greater emphasis on expert authorship and credentials
- More attention to citing reputable sources and including recent research
- Development of strategies to improve content depth and technical accuracy
- Renewed importance of E-E-A-T, with a particular focus on the ‘Experience’ aspect
This update underscored the importance of a scientifically rigorous, expert-driven approach to content creation, especially in YMYL sectors. It encouraged SEO professionals to work more closely with subject matter experts and to prioritise content that could withstand scientific scrutiny.
For many websites, this meant implementing more robust fact-checking and expert review processes. There was a greater focus on creating content that not only provided information but also explained the underlying scientific principles and cited current research.
The update also led to an increased emphasis on demonstrating real-world experience and practical expertise. Many sites began to showcase case studies, expert testimonials, and practical applications of knowledge to reinforce their authority and trustworthiness.
Overall, the March 2024 Core Update pushed the SEO industry towards more scientifically rigorous, expertise-driven practices. It highlighted the need for SEO strategies that could effectively balance accessibility and user-friendliness with deep, expert-level content, particularly in fields where accuracy and credibility are paramount.
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