Understanding Google's 2020 Core Update: What You Need to Know

Google is constantly evolving its search algorithms to provide users with the most relevant and useful information. One of the significant updates that came with the start of 2020 is the core update. This article will delve into the details of what the core update entails, how it affects search results, and what changes you should consider implementing to ensure your website remains competitive.

What is a Core Update?

January 2020 brought about a major core update to Google's search algorithm. This update is a crucial change in how Google evaluates and ranks websites. Unlike incremental changes, a core update typically includes a broad set of algorithmic adjustments that aim to improve the overall quality of search results. These updates affect not just one or two aspects of the algorithm but the entire way Google processes and presents search results.

Understanding the Search Engine Result Page (SERP) Changes

It's important to note that the recent changes in the look of search engine result pages (SERPs), such as the appearance of site names and favicons at the top of a result, are a separate entity. While these visual changes occurred around the same time as the core update, they are not part of the official core update. These changes are more about providing a better user experience by making it easier for users to identify and navigate to the intended website.

What Does the Core Update Mean for Small Business Owners?

As a small business owner, staying informed about these updates is crucial to maintaining a strong online presence. Here’s what you need to know:

E.A.T (Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness): One of the key factors in the 2020 core update is the emphasis on E.A.T. This means that Google is now placing greater importance on content that is written by credible experts. If you are a small business, every piece of content you publish should reflect the expertise of your team. This includes the quality of the writing, the depth of the insights, and the overall authority of the information presented. Quality Content: Google has always favored high-quality, original content. The core update reinforces this stance by giving preference to content that is well-researched, informative, and adds value to the user. This means you need to focus on creating unique, useful, and up-to-date content that addresses the needs of your target audience. Mobile Optimization: Google continues to favor mobile-friendly websites. With more people accessing the internet through their smartphones, it's crucial that your website is optimized for a mobile experience. This includes fast loading times, responsive design, and accessible navigation. User Experience (UX): The user experience is a critical component of the core update. Google now considers the overall usability and engagement of a website. This includes how easy it is to navigate, the speed of the site, and the overall satisfaction of the user.

How to Make Your Website SEO-Friendly

Here are some actionable steps you can take to ensure your website remains SEO-friendly after the core update:

Optimize Your Content: Regularly update your content with fresh, relevant information. Use keywords strategically without overusing them. Focus on providing value to your audience. Improve Mobile Performance: Ensure your website is mobile-friendly. Test your website's mobile performance using tools like Google's Mobile-Friendly Test. Streamline Navigation: Make your website easy to navigate. Users should be able to find what they are looking for quickly and easily. Use clear and concise navigation menus. Enhance User Engagement: Keep your audience engaged by providing interactive content, like quizzes, videos, and infographics. Encourage user interaction by adding comments sections and social sharing buttons. Update Technical SEO: Ensure your website has proper meta tags, alt text, and structured data. These elements help search engines understand your content better and improve your site's visibility.

Stay Informed About Future Updates

Staying informed about changes in the Google algorithm is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge. Follow official Google announcements, attend webinars, and engage with SEO experts to ensure you are always up-to-date.

Conclusion:

The January 2020 core update marked a significant shift in how Google ranks websites. For small business owners and content creators, there are clear implications for how you need to approach SEO. By focusing on E.A.T., providing high-quality, mobile-friendly content, and ensuring a positive user experience, you can adapt to these changes effectively and continue to thrive in the digital landscape.