Google Spring Cleaning: March 2024 Core Update Targets Low-Quality Content

Great news for content creators like you and me who rely on accurate information! Google rolled out a significant update in March 2024 to shake things up in search results. Their focus? Wiping out low-quality content and prioritising websites that offer genuine value to users.

This update brings a two-pronged approach:

• Boosting Quality Ranking: Google is revamping its core ranking algorithms to ensure the most helpful and informative content surfaces first. This means less unoriginal content cluttering your search results, making it much easier to find the trustworthy sources you rely on for your research.
• Cracking Down on Spam: New and improved spam policies are being implemented to keep the absolute worst out of search entirely. Think expired websites repurposed for spam and obituary spam – they're getting the boot!

But how exactly will Google determine "low-quality" content? Here's what we know:

• Unhelpful & Poor User Experience: Google wants to identify content that doesn't provide value or offers a frustrating user experience.
• Content for Search Engines, Not People: Websites primarily built to match specific search queries rather than offering genuine information might be flagged.

Overall, the March 2024 core update is a breath of fresh air for content creators like us. It signifies Google's continued commitment to providing users with the best possible search experience, which inherently means prioritising truthful and informative content. This means less time wading through irrelevant content and more time finding the high-quality sources you need to create valuable content yourself.

What can you do?

If you're a website owner, this update is a nudge to focus on quality content creation. Here are some tips:

• Prioritise User Experience: Make sure your website is easy to navigate and offers a positive user experience.
• Focus on Value: Create informative and helpful content that adds value to your audience's lives.
• Avoid Keyword Stuffing: Focus on natural language and avoid cramming keywords into your content.

"Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value." - Albert Einstein

By following these principles, you can ensure that your website remains visible in the ever-evolving search landscape and that your content continues to benefit from a more trustworthy online environment.