The November 2023 Core Update by Google had a big impact on search engine optimization (SEO). Webmasters and marketers had to quickly understand the implications of this update. In this article, we will explore the main aspects of the update, its impact on website quality, and provide insights on how to handle the challenges it brings.
Google’s core updates always aim to address quality issues, and the November update was no different. It lasted around 26 days and ended on November 28th, affecting search engine result pages (SERPs) significantly. What makes this update stand out is the major changes in rankings, with an average shift of 4.43 positions across the SERPs.
Compared to the October 2023 Core Update, the November update was more volatile. Tools like SimilarWeb’s SERP Seismometer rated it 71 out of 100 on November 7th, showing how websites experienced turbulence during this period. Interestingly, the retail niche saw the most volatility, while the health niche remained stable.
It’s important to note that drops in rankings don’t necessarily mean specific pages have issues. Google advises looking at the overall website to find areas for improvement. Recovery from a core update can happen between updates, but the most significant changes often occur after another core update.
Dealing with the impact of core updates requires a comprehensive approach to improving websites. Google suggests considering factors like site structure, content quality, user experience, and technical aspects. Reversing algorithmic hits can be challenging, as it’s complicated to pinpoint the necessary actions. However, understanding core updates and their impact can help create effective recovery strategies.
An interesting aspect of the November 2023 Core Update is its overlap with a reviews update. This emphasizes the importance of monitoring and managing online reviews to maintain a positive reputation.
There are several tools available to track Google search ranking volatility, providing insights into the impact of core updates. Webmasters and marketers rely on tools like Semrush, SERPmetrics, Advanced Web Rankings, Accuranker, Mozcast, Cognitive SEO, Algoroo, SimilarWeb, SERPstat, Wincher, and Mangools to monitor and analyze ranking fluctuations. These tools offer a comprehensive view of core update impact and help create effective improvement strategies.
In conclusion, Google’s November 2023 Core Update had a significant impact on the SEO industry, showing the volatility and broad nature of core updates. With its extended rollout and impact on website quality, webmasters and marketers had to adapt to changing SERPs. By taking a comprehensive approach, considering various aspects of website improvement, and using tracking tools, it’s possible to navigate core update complexities and recover from algorithmic hits. Understanding and adapting to these updates will remain crucial for online success as the SEO landscape evolves.
