In recent weeks there’s been speculation in our industry over a possible Google search algorithm update being implemented. Google confirmed via Twitter they have indeed applied a “broad core algorithm update” which impacted the appearance and rankings of some websites in search results.
Technically the update was released on March 7th however predominantly noticed on March 8th & 9th. And site owners are still noticing it. We sometimes see core updates such as this take weeks to fully roll out as Google tweaks it based on feedback and results.
Google confirmed as we know that it pushes these types of updates “several times per year” and there is nothing a site can do specifically to “fix” their ranking after a core update runs. “Some sites may note drops or gains,” Google explained and said if a page drops, it doesn’t necessarily mean there is something wrong with that page, it is just how Google changed their ranking models that now benefits “pages that were previously under-rewarded.”
Here’s Google’s statement on Twitter:
“Each day, Google usually releases one or more changes designed to improve our results. Some are focused around specific improvements. Some are broad changes. Last week, we released a broad core algorithm update. We do these routinely several times per year.
As with any update, some sites may note drops or gains. There’s nothing wrong with pages that may now perform less well. Instead, it’s that changes to our systems are benefiting pages that were previously under-rewarded.
There’s no “fix” for pages that may perform less well other than to remain focused on building great content. Over time, it may be that your content may rise relative to other pages.