In March 2024, Google shook things up for everyone trying to get their website noticed. With its latest core and spam updates, Google is making it clear: it wants content that’s real, helpful, and original. It’s saying no to content that just fills space without adding value. This guide will walk you through what Google’s changes mean and how you can adjust your strategy to keep up and even get ahead in the SEO game.
What Google Wants Now
Google’s message is straightforward: write content that’s fresh and genuinely useful. This isn’t really new, but Google is getting serious about pushing back against the flood of content that just repeats what’s already out there, especially with AI getting better at churning out articles.
To get this right, it’s about looking at what’s already out there and asking, “What’s missing?” For example, if you’re looking at what the best CMS for SEO is, don’t just echo what everyone else says. Maybe you can do your own research or analysis to bring new insights to the table. This approach not only makes your content stand out but also lines up with what Google is looking for.
Key Strategies for Creating Great Content
Here’s how to make sure your content meets Google’s latest standards:
- Be Original: Don’t just rehash what’s already been said. Use the top search results to find gaps in the information that you can fill with your own research, insights, or analysis.
- Use Real Data: If you can, include original research, case studies, or data analysis in your content. This not only makes your content more interesting but also more likely to be seen as valuable.
- Be Smart with AI: Using AI isn’t off the table, but remember, the best content reflects real human experience and insights. You can start with AI, but make sure to add your own voice and insights to make it truly yours.
- Answer Real Questions: Google likes content that fully answers people’s questions. If you can provide clear, helpful solutions or information that isn’t just the same as what’s already out there, your content will stand out.
A Real-World Example
Take the website BlackHatGalaxy SEO, which found a smart way to stand out with the keyword “SEO job, in New York.” They used AI to help with the heavy lifting of data analysis but then added their own insights and information that you couldn’t find anywhere else. This shows how combining AI with human creativity can produce content that’s both helpful and unique.
Google’s latest updates are really just asking for what we should be doing anyway: creating content that’s truly useful and interesting. By focusing on being original, using data wisely, making smart use of AI, and really answering people’s questions, you can create content that not only meets Google’s standards but is also genuinely valuable to your readers. Remember, the aim is to contribute something real to the conversation, not just to avoid getting penalized.
