Google has recently launched the March 2023 core update – the first of its kind this year. Following a six-month gap since the previous update in September 2022, website owners and digital marketers should be prepared for potential changes in search rankings. Since Google announced this change on Twitter and updated its search updates page, it is crucial to keep an eye on your site’s analytics and rankings over the next fortnight.
The rollout process for the update may span up to two weeks. During this time, it is natural for some sites to experience fluctuations in their search rankings. Although being negatively impacted by a core update may cause concern, it does not necessarily indicate any issues with your web pages.
To address potential ranking drops, Google has provided a list of questions for website owners to consider. By evaluating your site against these criteria, you can identify areas for improvement and adopt best practices. It is worth noting that while some recovery can occur between core updates, the most substantial changes typically follow subsequent updates.
Understanding the significance of Google’s search ranking algorithm updates is vital for maintaining your website’s performance. By staying informed of these changes, you can better identify whether fluctuations in your site’s search results are due to alterations you’ve made or changes in Google’s ranking algorithm.
As a reminder, the February 2023 product reviews update concluded recently, having run from February 21st to March 7th. This update was particularly significant and may have already affected your site’s search performance.
Prior core updates have varied in their impact and duration. The September 2022 broad core update was less substantial compared to others, while the May 2022 update was both significant and rapid. Other notable updates include those from November 2021, July 2021, June 2021, December 2020, May 2020, January 2020, and September 2019.
To gain a deeper understanding of the effects of past Google updates, it is helpful to explore available resources and learn from the experiences of other website owners and SEO professionals. By doing so, you can better anticipate the potential consequences of future updates and develop strategies to safeguard your site’s search rankings. If you’re concerned about your site’s rankings, don’t hesitate to contact us for more information.
In summary, the March 2023 broad core update marks a crucial development in Google’s search ranking algorithm. By adopting an objective, evidence-based approach and prioritising clear, persuasive language, website owners can successfully navigate the potential challenges and opportunities presented by this update. It is essential to stay informed, adapt to changes and continuously strive for improvement to ensure the ongoing success of your website in an ever-evolving digital landscape.