Blog Post

Google's August 2023 Core Update: What You Need to Know

Amber Blevins • September 1, 2023

If there’s one certainty in the digital marketing world, it’s this: Don’t get too comfortable. When you think you have Google all figured out—you don’t.

Just as you've adapted to the intricacies of search engine algorithms, Google has once again raised the bar with its August 2023 Core Update. For local business owners, this update brings both challenges and opportunities that demand attention.

Let’s look at the key changes introduced by Google's latest update and explore actionable strategies for your business. First though, let’s remember that Google releases minor updates fairly regularly and broad core updates—like this one—a couple of times a year. In other words, this isn’t unforeseen and there’s no reason to panic.

Now, let’s dive in!

What is Google's August 2023 Core Update?

Released on August 22nd, 2023, Google's August 2023 Core Update is the second broad core algorithm update of the year. This update aims to improve the quality of search results by prioritizing pages that provide more value compared to those currently ranking.

The Potential Impact on Your Local Businesses

The new algorithm update may lead to changes (some say significant changes) in your website's traffic, rankings, and search visibility. Here's why:

Traffic and Rankings

If your website's content isn't providing substantial value or is deemed less relevant by Google's new algorithm, you might experience a drop in your website's traffic and rankings.

Search Visibility

Your visibility on search engine result pages (SERP’s) could also be affected. The algorithm update is designed to promote high-value content, so if your content isn't up to par with Google's standards, your SERP visibility might decrease.

Factors Influencing Website Ranking and Actionable Solutions

Several factors could influence your website's ranking post-update. Here are some actionable solutions to prepare your business:

Quality Content

Google's update is set to prioritize the ranking of pages that provide more value. Therefore, focus on creating high-quality, valuable content that answers user queries effectively.

User Experience

Google values user experience. Ensure your website is easy to navigate, loads quickly, and is mobile-friendly.

Backlinks

Having strong backlinks from reputable websites can boost your website's credibility and improve your rankings.

Successful Strategies Post-Update

Looking at real-world examples, businesses that have successfully navigated previous updates have focused on improving their website's overall quality and relevance. They've invested in creating original, user-centric content and optimizing their site's technical aspects for a better user experience.

Concluding Thoughts

Adapting to Google's updates is crucial for maintaining and improving your website's online presence. Remember, these updates aim to enhance the user experience by providing the most relevant and high-quality results. By focusing on creating valuable content and optimizing your website, you can ensure that your local business thrives in this digital age.

Remember, consistency is key. Regularly updating and improving your website will help you avoid negative penalties and keep your website in line with Google's updates. Stay informed, stay adaptable, and your business will continue to grow online.

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