On November 1, 2024, Google announced a new core update, stating:
“Today we released the November 2024 core update to Google Search. This update is designed to continue our work to improve the quality of our search results by showing more content that people find genuinely useful and less content that feels like it was made just to perform well on Search.”
This latest update is part of Google’s ongoing effort to refine search results to surface genuinely valuable content, emphasizing quality over tactics that prioritize ranking over user experience. As with most core updates, this change will roll out over the next two weeks, and website owners should monitor their rankings during this period.
So, what does this update mean for SEO strategy? Below, we’ll look at the trends this update may reinforce, its potential impacts, and effective ways to adapt.
Key Takeaways from the November 2024 Core Update
While Google has yet to release specific details on the technical changes, SEO analysts are observing some early trends linked to this update, which could influence rankings:
- Greater Emphasis on Genuine Topical Authority
Sites demonstrating true expertise and depth in specific subjects are gaining visibility, especially those that offer well-researched, comprehensive content. Google’s emphasis on genuinely useful content means pages focused on providing true value to users are likely to see an advantage. - Increased Weight on User Experience Signals
User experience continues to play a critical role in rankings, with Google increasingly factoring in usability indicators like load speed, navigation quality, and bounce rates. Pages that prioritize user-friendliness alongside high-quality content may benefit from this update. - Prioritization of Content Freshness and Relevance
Google seems to be more sensitive to the timeliness of content. Regularly updated articles that reflect current information will likely fare well, particularly in niches that are fast-changing or trend-sensitive. - Amplified Focus on E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness)
Google is further promoting E-E-A-T principles, rewarding sites that demonstrate expertise, authority, and trustworthiness, especially in sensitive topics like health, finance, and news. Websites should aim to establish credibility and authenticity, adding author bios and sourcing reputable information to meet this standard. - Value of Visual and Interactive Content
Interactive and multimedia-rich content is performing well, as it often provides a more engaging and helpful user experience. Embedding high-quality images, infographics, and videos that enhance user understanding could help maintain relevance in search results.
SEO Strategies to Succeed Post-Update
- Invest in Depth and Quality in Content Creation
With Google’s focus on surfacing genuinely useful content, it’s vital to adopt a focused content strategy that builds depth in specific areas. Identify core topics, and produce high-value articles that demonstrate authority and insight. - Optimize for User Experience and Core Web Vitals
Fast load times, clean navigation, and overall accessibility are essential. Core Web Vitals, including page load speed and visual stability, should remain a priority. Use Google’s PageSpeed Insights and Search Console to evaluate and improve these metrics. - Embrace E-E-A-T Principles to Build Trust
Ensure that your site demonstrates a high level of expertise and authority, especially in YMYL (Your Money or Your Life) niches. Highlight author credentials, provide transparent information about your sources, and focus on building user trust. - Update Content Regularly for Relevance
Review and refresh your older content to keep it aligned with current information and user interests. Adding the latest statistics, insights, and data helps maintain content relevancy and can boost rankings under the new update. - Engage with Visual and Interactive Media
Engage your users with videos, interactive elements, and high-quality visuals. These features not only improve user experience but also increase time-on-page, which can signal a positive experience to Google.
What Are Google Core Updates?
Core updates are Google’s way of enhancing the search experience, targeting improved relevance, and refining its assessment of website content quality and authority. Unlike smaller algorithm tweaks, core updates tend to significantly impact how sites are ranked, often based on Google’s evolving understanding of user intent and search satisfaction. These updates are part of Google’s commitment to serving up the most relevant, authoritative, and useful content possible.
As Google’s core update continues to roll out over the next two weeks, expect gradual fluctuations in rankings. With this update, Google’s message is clear: prioritize content that genuinely serves users over content created merely to rank. By focusing on content quality, authority, and user experience, you’ll be better positioned to thrive in the evolving SEO landscape. Keep an eye on your site’s performance, and consider updating or optimizing content that may fall short of Google’s increasing standards for quality and relevance.