The SEO Wars: Navigating Google's Fall 2023 Algorithm Updates

Hello there! Buckle into your starfighter and prepare for a journey through the galaxies of Google's recent algorithm updates, as we draw inspiration from the epic saga of Star Wars.

The autumn of 2023 brought about some changes to Google's algorithmic landscape, and as your trusty digital capital ship, Be Found Online is here to guide you through these recent changes and their impact on your rankings. So, hang on as tight as humanly (or, as we'll see later, robotically) possible, and let's work through all of this together.

Google's Refined Helpful Content System

A New Hope for Rankings

Our chronicle begins on September 14, 2023, when Google decided to fine-tune its Helpful Content System. This system, designed to rank websites based on the quality and usefulness of their content, received a makeover focusing on guidelines for AI content and third-party content hosting.

For those of you creating top-notch, quality content, consider this update as a pat on the back from Google. The algorithm was aimed to reward sites like yours, making it rain with favorable rankings. Cheers to helpfulness!

What to Do:

1. Keep Doing What You're Doing: If you're producing helpful, quality content, that is as reliable as the Millennium Falcon making the Kessel Run, you're on the right track. The algorithm is designed to appreciate and boost sites like yours.

2. Follow Google's Guidelines: Google loves those who follow the rules, much like a disciplined Padawan.  Check out their guidelines for traffic recovery after a helpful content update and make sure your content aligns with their "people-first" approach.

3. Manual Assessment: If your site takes a hit, channel your inner Jedi detective. Assess your content, weed out anything unhelpful, and, if need be, remove anything associated with a third party. Your ship will be navigating smoothly through the digital galaxy in no time.

Google's Language Evolution

Rise of the AI Empire

In a plot twist worthy of a Sith Lord's scheming, Google decided to quietly retire the phrase "helpful content written by people, for people" from its vocabulary.

The new mantra is "helpful content created for people," signaling a shift from human-centric content to a more inclusive approach that embraces the rise of artificial intelligence (beep boop beep).

What to Do:

1. Embrace the AI Revolution: While not as dramatic as Darth Vader's reveal, this wording change is a nod to the growing influence of AI in content creation. Embrace the future and explore ways to optimize AI on your platform.

2. AI Tools Are Your Friends: It's time to form an alliance with AI tools. Google is clearly expanding its horizons, and so should you. Integrate relevant AI tools into your strategy and watch your ship ride the crest of the wave.

October & November Core Algorithm Update

The Empire Strikes Back

The winds of change continued to blow through October and November, with two core algorithm updates causing ripples in the digital Force. Rankings fluctuated like lightsabers in a duel, first from October 5th to October 19th, and then from November 2nd to the 28th.

What to Do:

1. Stay Vigilant: This update comes hot on the heels of the November core update and spam cleanup. Keep a watchful eye on your website, noting any rank changes, positive or negative. It's like having a lookout on the crow's nest – always scanning the horizon for potential challenges.

Conclusion

Navigating the Galactic Changes

As we navigate the flurry of Google's algorithm updates, let's remember that change is the only constant. Embrace it, adapt to it, and let your digital spaceship sail confidently into future galaxies. With a sprinkle of optimism and a dash of determination, you'll not only weather the virtual storms but also discover new planets of opportunity.

So, fellow digital beings (we're including our AI droids here), set your course, adjust your thrusters, punch your hyperdrive, and may your online adventures be filled with favorable rankings and smooth navigating.

May the force be with you!

More Google Questions? Chat with the team!