Google search volatility graph shown on a laptop.

Lily Ray Discusses Google’s Helpful Content Update: Key Insights and SEO Implications

TL;DR: The Easy Summary

  • Impact of Recent Updates: Reddit and Quora’s prominence in search results has increased, complicating searches for relevant content. Challenges persist in recovering from the Helpful Content Update, with real-world recovery cases scarce.
  • Adaptation Strategies: Emphasizing adaptability in SEO strategies and business models. Integration of e-commerce or services can help maintain visibility.
  • E-A-T Importance: Highlighting the role of Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness, which may be tied to domain authority.
  • AI and Search: AI-driven features like the Search Generative Experience are reshaping user interaction with search engines, raising concerns about content authenticity.
  • Action Steps for SEO:
    • Focus on creating authentic, high-quality content that genuinely serves user needs.
    • Diversify traffic sources by leveraging platforms like Google Discover and YouTube, and engaging on social media.
    • Develop a robust brand that resonates with firsthand experiences and authenticity.
    • Stay flexible and ready to adapt to ongoing changes in search engine algorithms and user behaviors.

Understanding the Impact of Google’s March 2024 Core Update

In a recent discussion, Gael Breton and SEO expert Lily Ray delved into the implications of Google’s March 2024 core update. The conversation revolved around the changes in Google’s search landscape and how to navigate the impact of the update.

As we’re coming to the tail end of the March 2024 core update, many things have changed in Google’s landscape in the past months.

Gael Breton, Co-Founder at Authority Hacker

One of the key points raised was the user experience and visibility changes. Lily Ray expressed her dissatisfaction with the increasing dominance of sites like Reddit and Quora in search results, making it harder to find relevant information. They also noted that tools like Ahrefs and Systrix might not fully capture the impact of SERP features and layout changes on website traffic.

I’m sure a lot of people think I’m naive, but I wasn’t expecting Reddit and Quora to continue to grow at the same rate that they were.

Lily Ray, Senior Director at Amsive

Navigating the Challenges of the Helpful Content Update (HCU)

The conversation then shifted to the Helpful Content Update (HCU) and the recovery challenges it presents. Drawing parallels to previous algorithm updates like Panda and Penguin, the participants expressed doubt about Google’s claims of recovery within a few weeks, citing a lack of real-world recovery cases.

The Role of Business Models in Website Visibility

The potential impact of business models on website visibility was also discussed. Lily Ray pointed out that sites offering products or services tend to maintain better rankings compared to pure content sites. This led to a discussion on the motivations behind some sites introducing services or e-commerce components to adapt to the changing search landscape.

I tend to tell people that the way to solve the SEO problem is to stop thinking about SEO a little bit and do something else.

Gael Breton, Co-Founder at Authority Hacker

Deciphering the Importance of E-A-T in SEO

The concept of Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness (E-A-T) was also explored. The participants questioned how Google measures these factors and whether E-A-T is a significant factor or more closely tied to domain authority.

The Rise of AI-Powered Search: Exploring the Search Generative Experience (SGE)

The emerging Search Generative Experience (SGE) and the potential impact of AI-powered search on the industry and user behavior was another key point of discussion. Concerns were raised about the reliability of AI-generated content and the potential for SGE to reduce traffic to websites.

Throughout the discussion, the importance of adapting to algorithm changes and diversifying traffic sources was emphasized. The participants suggested focusing on creating authentic, high-quality content that resonates with users and exploring other channels like YouTube, social media, and email marketing to drive traffic and engagement. The dynamic nature of SEO was highlighted, stressing the need for webmasters and content creators to stay agile and innovative.

Adapting to the Ever-Changing SEO Landscape: Strategies for Success

  • Stop following the same marketing advice as everyone else, strive to be unique and innovative.
  • Prioritize writing about topics you are knowledgeable and passionate about before conducting keyword research or planning your editorial calendar.
  • Diversify your traffic sources, don’t rely solely on organic search. Explore platforms like Google Discover, YouTube, and various social media channels.
  • Concentrate on building a strong brand and producing content that reflects your firsthand experiences and authenticity.
  • Think about expanding your offerings beyond just content. Consider introducing products or services to adapt to the changing search landscape.
  • Remain flexible and innovative as search landscapes and algorithms evolve. Always be ready to adapt your strategies accordingly.
Screenshot of YouTube Video: March Core Update Analysis with Lily Ray by Authority Hacker.
Watch: March Core Update Analysis with Lily Ray by Authority Hacker on YouTube

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