The SEO landscape constantly evolves, but the August 2024 Core Update has left many site owners, SEO professionals, and digital marketers dealing with an ongoing rollercoaster of ranking changes. What seemed like small wins in search rankings for some quickly turned into confusion when rankings reversed in September. Let’s dive into what’s happening with this major update and how to navigate this unpredictable terrain.
August 2024 Core Replace
Current core algorithm updates have centered on enhancing the standard of search outcomes by prioritizing useful, user-centered content material and demoting low-quality spam content material. The August 2022 Useful Content material Replace aimed to reward content material that gives real worth to customers, emphasizing authentic, people-first content material over materials created solely for search engine rankings. Previous core updates like the September 2022 Core Update, October 2022 Spam Update, and March 2023 Core Update continued this trend by refining search algorithms better to assess content relevance, quality, and trustworthiness. These updates underscore the importance of creating valuable, high-quality content that meets users’ needs and aligns with Google’s emphasis on a positive user experience.
As many of you know, the August 2024 core update shook things up and created major shifts in rankings. And for some of you, that made modest gains in your rankings. But just as you started to feel comfortable, you saw a reverse in September. So, what happened? Was it just a reversal or part of the usual unpredictability of core updates?
Key dates like September 6th, 10th, 14th, and 18th saw significant fluctuations. However, the volatility didn’t stop there. It’s like an ongoing rollercoaster that left many people scratching their heads trying to make sense of it all. Tracking tools, such as SEMrush and Google Grump, show volatility has been going on for over a month, with Google Grump labeling the period as “furious” since September 10th.
Google Search Ranking Volatility Since August
The continued rank volatility has affected many websites that initially benefited from the core update. It seems like Google can’t make up its mind. Many sites are gaining rankings during this core update, and then others have seen a dip and some of those who did see gains are seeing all of their gains wiped out. This volatility is frustrating for businesses and marketers alike, who are left with no clear explanation from Google.
Even seasoned SEO experts are feeling the heat. Glenn Gabe from G-Squared Interactive has shared his thoughts on these reversals, mentioning how some of these recovery signs were short-lived and how quickly the gains vanished for some sites. In this environment, many business owners are left to wonder how long this turmoil will last.
The Effect of the Core Update
For businesses relying on organic traffic, these ranking fluctuations are more than just numbers on a page—they’re the lifeblood of online visibility. Now, businesses rely on the search results to stay afloat. Small businesses, in particular, are feeling the pinch. Improvements in rankings bring hope, but weeks later, it’s just all gone.
On top of this, businesses must also contend with the rise of generative AI and new SERP features that make ranking even more challenging. We also have to compete with turbulence day in and day out. And the worst part is Google has been completely silent.
SERP Volatility: What Can You Do?
So, how can you adapt to these changes? While SERP volatility is unpredictable, there are proactive steps you can take:
1. Track Rankings Closely
You need to actively monitor your rankings, focusing on key queries that matter most to your business rather than broad visibility. By tracking specific high-performing queries, you can better gauge how your site is affected by Google’s updates and understand which areas need adjustment. Tools like Google Search Console or third-party platforms like SEMrush and Ahrefs can be invaluable in providing granular insight into these changes.
2. Audit Your Content
Regularly reviewing your content ensures it remains helpful and people-focused. Make sure blog posts align with both Google’s guidelines and user intent. This means offering value beyond SEO tactics—authentic, informative, and well-researched content will likely withstand fluctuations better than those purely optimized for search engines. Auditing also involves pruning outdated or low-quality content that may harm your rankings.
3. Monitor Key Dates
Watching for patterns during known volatility periods (such as September 6th, 10th, and 14th) is essential. Keep track of when Google rolls out core updates and how your rankings respond afterward. This can offer critical insight into potential trends or adjustments needed to keep your content in line with evolving algorithm requirements.
4. Be Patient
Keep your head up. Fluctuations are common during and after core updates as Google refines its algorithms. Some drops in rankings may only be temporary, so it’s crucial to avoid panic-driven reactions. Instead, take the time to analyze performance, refine your approach, and trust that consistency in high-quality content and best SEO practices will ultimately pay off. Remember, SEO is a long game.
Navigating Google search volatility can feel overwhelming, but staying proactive with your SEO strategy is crucial. As Google’s algorithm continues to evolve, staying ahead of future updates requires constant vigilance and expertise.
Partnering with an SEO agency can help ensure that your site remains aligned with best practices and is agile enough to navigate fluctuations in search rankings. An experienced SEO partner can monitor ranking shifts, audit your content to meet Google’s evolving quality guidelines, and provide strategic insights to improve site performance. With the complexity and frequency of algorithm changes, having a trusted SEO partner is key to maintaining long-term search success and keeping your business competitive.