Search algorithms matter when you want your website to rank. The August 2024 Google update is live. It brings changes aimed at improving the quality of search results. It’s great news for brands and content creators focused on quality, but it might mean rethinking your strategy and making sustainable changes across your pages.
The New Algorithm Puts Users First
Google aims for its new algorithm to rank pages based on quality with a user-first approach.
The most crucial change is in how Google search now analyzes content. The algorithm will look for pages that share naturally flowing content rich in information relevant to the topic. It means every page you publish needs to have high-quality, tightly focused, and relevant information. It should flow naturally and provide context through organic language, not shoehorned keywords. Most importantly, it should inform and educate.
Content creators and site owners who have relied on keyword-based content will see a negative impact with the latest update. If you’ve created pages to appeal to a search engine instead of a human, you must change some things.
Sustainable Changes Over Quick Fixes
Google has warned content creators and site owners against quick fixes. Instead, focus on meaningful and sustainable changes, make decisions that enhance the user experience, and try rewriting content to make it easier to read and navigate. Also, don’t delete content unless you think it’s unsalvageable.
You can consider some questions as you evaluate content on your sites.
- Does your content offer original information, research, or in-depth analysis? The best content provides unique information and fresh perspectives that users can’t find elsewhere.
- Does the information garner trust? There are various strategies to achieve this, depending on your niche and unique voice. The tone of the writing can influence trust. Comprehensive content is more trustworthy than vague content or pages that lack information and context. Inspire confidence with your content, and people and search engines will respond positively.
- Does your site have a strong focus? Publishing content about too many disparate niches and concepts can reduce the site’s overall credibility and value. Narrow the focus so it’s relevant to your goals, niche, brand, etc. If you feel a site is trying to do too much across broad topics, revisiting your strategy to segment content across unique pages and domains is worth it.
Consider how someone would feel after visiting your site and reading your content. Would a visitor have a satisfying experience and take value with them? Does the content engage them, teach them something they didn’t know, and compel them to act?
These concepts aren’t unique to Google’s August 2024 update. Writing for the reader and not the search engines has been the ideal strategy since search engines matured and looked beyond keywords for natural language context. Sites that focus primarily on SEO strategies to appeal to search engines won’t rank like they used to. The user experience is the focus. Quality is crucial. Create authority and provide value to visitors, and you will see the benefits in ranking and traffic.
The Best Way to Monitor Site Performance
Google Search Console is an invaluable tool. Its performance monitoring lets you track your site’s search traffic, impressions, clicks, and average search ranking. It can monitor your page performance to see how the latest algorithm changes may affect traffic and ranking in the coming days and weeks.
You can also use your existing traffic tools through your content management system, call tracking, or any other monitoring you have set up to track interaction points.
A/B testing new pages is recommended as you develop new pages and content. You can compare different approaches to see what works and guide your strategy.
A Marketing Partner That Makes Every Piece of Content Matter
The most successful brands, personalities, and sites have shifted their strategies to work with professional marketing teams. Google’s frequent algorithm updates are challenging to keep up with. Working with experienced professionals to develop your content, build your site, and manage your online presence can save you time and money.
If you’re concerned about your recent search performance or simply want the best strategy to grow a new brand or project, you can begin your consultation with Captive Web Media. We are a marketing agency covering all your needs, from local business marketing to web design and content creation. Stay ahead of Google’s search updates and deliver the best experience to your audience.
