We frequently discuss the impact of algorithms and the impact they have on search rankings. Google confirmed on 3 December 2021 that they would be rolling out their latest Core Algorithm Update the following day.

Google Search Liason Twitter Confirmation of the Core Algorithm Update

“Later today, we are releasing a broad core algorithm update, as we do several times per year. It is called the December 2020 Core Update. Our guidance about such updates remains as we’ve covered before. Please see this blog post for more about that”

As is mentioned and linked to in the tweet regarding the update, the newest core algorithm protocol will follow their document, “What webmasters should know about Google’s core updates.”

Googles Thoughts on the Core Algorithm Updates:

“Several times a year, we make significant, broad changes to our search algorithms and systems. We refer to these as “core updates.” They’re designed to ensure that, overall, we’re delivering on our mission to present relevant and authoritative content to searchers. These core updates may also affect Google Discover.”

Expectations from the 4 December Update to the Algorithm

While in such early stages, we cannot be sure what type of impact the update will have. Twitter is alive with speculation and people preparing for the worst, with some reporting extensive drops across their websites already.

It is reported by Google that states that more of the same should be expected when it comes to content on websites being affected. This update has been designed for low-quality content to be weeded out and rewarding those delivering valuable content.

Preparation for the December 2020 Update: What Can You Do?

For webmasters to improve on organic visibility, there are a few things you can do:

• Meet user expectations with valuable content.
• Offer information beyond what competing sites are delivering.
• Having content that covers in-depth topics and answers questions.
• Have content beyond the obvious, so you stand out.
• Ensure relevant heading tags and metadata.
• Don’t over optimise pages to mislead users but use the information to reflect precisely what will be found on the page.
• Use content that is worth sharing and talking about and create resources you want links to.
• Ensure you are meeting user expectations.
• Address your topic effectively.
• Ensure content is readable and well proofread.
• Google will reward you for having enriching tools and content that enhance the user experience and is reflected in the relevancy of search results. The closer these results match, the more likely you are to see an improvement in Google rankings.

Will the Core Algorithm Update be Bad for SEO?

It’s not often the SEO community responds positively to Google’s Core Algorithm updates. While it can be easy to assume the worst because SEO doesn’t like change, it’s not likely the update will be bad for everyone.

The group of people who update their content and work hard towards creating great user experiences will find this is the update they’re waiting for. The reason being that history shows Google updates benefit websites delivering the best on-page experiences.

For those who experience negative impact need to work out where they are falling short. It doesn’t mean they are stuck in this new position; this is a valuable opportunity to review their current content and work towards a positive experience for their consumers.

How Noticeable Will the Latest Update Be?

Depending on how effectively your website is working will be the difference between a positive or negative impact from the current update.

Where to From Here?

In circumstances of update, your most effective tool is not to panic. These updates will be most noticeable in the first two days. Then, as users respond to it, Google will make changes and learn from the experience. So the best advice we can give you is to hang tight and see where it goes before making any significant changes.

If you feel that you must do something, then review your website content. Make sure it is effective and what users would expect from your pages. Delivering the most valuable user experience is the way to move forward. Still not sure? Talk to our SEO team for a free SEO audit of your website.