If you noticed a change recently in your website's search engine ranking or the traffic you are getting, a recent algorithm update from Google is possibly the reason.
On March 12th, Google launched its "March 2019 Core Algorithm Update". As with all algorithm updates, the changes will have an effect on the SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) of most websites.
Google regularly updates its algorithm often without announcing it or indeed stating what has changed. SEO experts usually notice the algorithm updates when they notice a significant shift that is impacting websites. We have noticed substantial shifts within the past few weeks.
Most small business owners would not be aware of these updates. Unless you regularly check your website analytics and site visitors, your search ranking could be suffering without you being aware.
What can you do?
Diagnosing why a website has dropped in the rankings because of the March 2019 update begins with trying to figure out where the disconnect is between your website content and the search terms and phrases that the web user is using to search. Keep adding new content to your website so that the content matches your target audience and what they are actually searching for. Google's algorithms are programmed and designed to find content that matches the queries of web users. This places an huge emphasis on producing relevant content for your website.
Google can be a mystery for many business owners and marketers alike, however, core search results should still focus on quality content and good design. Particularly when it comes to User Experience on a mobile device.
You'll never get it perfect and don't forget - if there are 20 websites with highly optimised SEO in your area promoting the same product or service, they can't all be on Page 1 of Google. But it's worth trying to be in that top 10!
And yes Google are at it again - they are rolling out the Google June 2019 Core Update - more on this soon when we have had a chance to analyse the likely effects.