How to Build a SEO Strategy That Survives Google Algorithm Updates

Major Updates Over the Past 15 Years

Google's major core updates over the past few years include:

• Panda – 2011 – targeting low quality and duplicate content 
• Penguin – 2012 – targets manipulative link building, along with over-optimisation
• Hummingbird – 2013 – focuses on understand search intent 
• RankBrain – 2015 – introduced machine learning, improving relevance in search results
• BERT – 2019 – natural language improvements and query context 
• Helpful Content Update – 2022 – rewards content that is created for users and not created for search engines
• March 2024 Core Updates – focuses on content quality, while strengthening anti-spam measures

Tips to Create a SEO Strategy That Survives Google Algorithm Updates

There is no way to guarantee your website performance in search results, but you can take steps to minimise the risk a Google algorithm update can cause, ensuring your site continues to achieve long-term results:

Build Your Brand

In order to improve your ranking in search results, resonating with your target audience, you need to become a go-to source for information in your industry. This involves using branded keywords, boosting your authority in your niche. You will also want to be active, engaging with your audience on social media, along with acquiring high quality backlinks.

Focus on E-E-A-T

E-E-A-T are four elements Google wants to see on your website, this includes Experience, Expertise, Authority, and Trust. You can demonstrate this by creating high quality and valuable content, demonstrating your expertise, and building authoritative links.

Offer a Great User Experience (UX)

Google's updates are all designed to provide the same purpose, improving user experience (UX). To stay aligned with SEO best practices, you will want to ensure you adjust your SEO strategy to ensure you prioritise user experience. This includes creating high quality content that adds value, providing easy navigation, along with fast loading web pages.

Stay Updated with Algorithm Updates

It's essential to stay updated with the latest algorithm updates, identifying their purpose. As updates roll out, identify what Google is looking to achieve. You can use Google's Search Status Dashboard for identifying any relevant changes you need to know. 

Conduct Regular Audits

Conduct content audits to ensure that your content remains relevant and does well in search results. Google Search Console is a valuable resource where you can compare impressions, clicks, and other metrics.

Conclusion

Google algorithm updates impact how search engines index and rank content. These updates can range from minor changes to major concerns. Once an update has rolled out, you may notice changes in your website performance. If you want to build a SEO strategy that survives Google algorithm updates, get in touch with Genie Crawl today.