How To Thrive During (and After!) the March Google Update
Google has recently unveiled their March Algorithm update, which is set to be a major release. This update is anticipated to take a month to complete due to its extensive scope. In addition to evaluating and re-ranking sites, three new spam policies are being introduced: expired domain abuse, scaled content abuse, and site reputation abuse.
In light of these changes, these are the top 7 things we advise sites to stop doing immediately:
Posting Thin and Low-Quality Content in Abundance
In March 2024 part of Google’s update is specifically targeting “sites abusing scaled content”.
Instead: focus on creating high-quality content that is valuable and informative for users. Google has consistently emphasized that content should be crafted by people for people. Since the Helpful Content update, this has become even more crucial. For example, using AI to generate entire articles, rather than as a mere tool, is discouraged. Posting a single outstanding article created by humans will yield better results than publishing numerous low-quality pieces.
Reposting Old Content with Minimal Alterations
Instead, thoroughly review your content. Remove outdated or superficial material and refresh older posts with substantial updates. Avoid reposting these as new or updated articles unless meaningful changes have been made.
Over-Optimizing Posts
Do not repeat optimized phrases over and over again to hit a certain number. Keywords do not need to be overused in h2 tags.
Instead: Focus on writing for users and not for search engines. Investing in high-quality writing and editorial will have a larger impact than simply reusing the exact phrases and keywords for target numbers.
Swap Infinite Scroll for Something Cleaner
Though this used to be a tactic to keep users on the page longer, it is now being viewed in a similar light to MFA.
Instead, organize content into categories and maintain cleaner pages to improve user experience. Content landing pages can break down niches into well-defined segments that are easy to navigate and understand. This approach will create a more cohesive site experience and make it easier for Google to crawl and index your site.
Being a Jack of All Trades
Attempting to cover too many topics or verticals can dilute your site’s focus and authority.
Instead of attempting to cater to everyone, concentrate on establishing your site as the authority in a specific area! By specializing in particular niches or verticals, you can deliver more detailed and valuable content that appeals to your target audience. This approach not only helps differentiate you from competitors but also makes it easier for search engines to comprehend and categorize your site’s content, ultimately enhancing your visibility and rankings in relevant search results.
Creating Content Solely for Reach
Instead of pursuing viral content that may offer short-term traffic spikes and fleeting attention, focus on producing evergreen content that delivers lasting value. Rather than chasing trends and fads, create content that addresses your audience's needs, answers their questions, and provides solutions to their problems. By concentrating on helpful, informative content, you build trust and credibility with your audience, leading to sustained traffic and engagement over the long term.
Manipulating Search Rankings with Spammy Third-Party Content
it may be tempting to enhance rankings by sourcing cheap content from various places to gain an advantage, but Google has clearly indicated that this practice will be penalized. This strategy, known as "parasite SEO," started being targeted on March 5th, 2024, and can lead to pages being completely removed from search rankings.
Instead: Sites that appropriately utilize third-party pages need to have them not indexed to avoid penalties.
In essence, there are no shortcuts or tricks that ensure success with Google’s updates. Being user-centric is crucial for all search engines, highlighting the importance of quality content. Focusing on high-quality content benefits both search engines and users, and helps position your site favorably in the ever-changing technological landscape.
Want to partner with us and connect with our Audience Development team? Contact Admonetize through our contact form or email us at advertiser@admonetize.net. Our industry experts are ready to help elevate your business.