You’re not the only one seeing lower website traffic after a core update from Google — it’s a common challenge. These broad algorithm updates often shift rankings, especially for sites that contain low-quality or unhelpful content. But don’t panic — the best approach is to understand what Google is aiming for and how you can create original, relevant content that meets both user expectations and search engine standards.
In this blog, we’ll break down what the recent Google Search updates mean and share simple, effective ways to improve your SEO strategy and strengthen every content piece you create.
What Is a Google Core Update?
A Google core update involves changes to how the search engine assesses websites to deliver users more relevant and valuable results. These updates focus on content quality, trustworthiness, and meeting user intent.
Google doesn’t always penalize your site when your rankings drop — sometimes, Google simply rewards other high-quality content that it finds more useful. Fortunately, there’s a path to recovery through better content creation.
Why Google Prefers “People-First” Content
Google has clarified that content should be written for people first, not just for algorithms. Here’s what that looks like:
- Solve real problems for real users
- Someone with real-world expertise and a credible understanding of the topic should create it.
- Provide original content instead of paraphrasing others.
- Offer complete answers that align with search intent.
Example: If someone searches “how to fix a leaky tap,” they expect clear, step-by-step instructions—not just a vague blog post saying, “call a plumber.” Addressing user intent increases the value of your blog content and helps lower bounce rates.
1. Focus on One Clear Purpose Per Page
Each page should have a distinct and well-defined focus to remain relevant and valuable. Combining unrelated topics can create confusion for both visitors and search engines.
Example: A post about “home loan options” should not drift into unrelated areas like kitchen upgrades or Google Trends. Keep it focused.
💡 Pro tip: Use clear headings, proper structure, and formatting to enhance user experience and help Google understand your content piece better.
2. Show Your Experience and Knowledge
Google values creators who provide authentic insights from real-life experience, aligning with the E-E-A-T framework’s “Experience” and “Expertise” principles.
Example: Instead of writing, “There are many mortgage options,” try:
“We’ve helped over 50 families select the right mortgage based on their plans and income.”
This personal touch boosts credibility and meets rising SEO trends around human authority.
Additional Read: SEO Tips For 2026: What You Can Do—And When To Bring In The Pros
3. Be Original and Add Real Value
Repeating what’s already out there won’t cut it. Duplicate content offers little benefit and can negatively impact your search rankings.
- Sharing new insights or data
- Explaining topics in a more useful or accessible way
- Answering the follow-up questions users might have after visiting the competing pages.
Use examples, personal stories, or visuals to increase engagement and lower bounce rates.
Write for People, Not Just for Google
Over-optimising with keyword stuffing will hurt more than it will help. Instead:
- Use natural, conversational language
- Write in short, readable paragraphs.
- Break content into lists where it helps.s
- Include your target keywords only where they naturally fit.
Bad example:
“Our mortgage services are the best in Chicago for those needing mortgage services.”
Better:
“Looking for a mortgage in Chicago? We help families find simple, affordable solutions tailored to their needs.”
Additional Read: Grow Your Business with Our Content Marketing Services
Include Author Information Where It Matters
When your content creation involves finance, health, or legal topics — anything that affects someone’s life or money — include a byline.
- Add a short author bio with credentials.
- Link to an “About the Author” page
- Mention your real-world experience naturally within the content.
It builds trustworthiness and reinforces your site’s human authority.
Think About the “Why” of Your Content
Before writing any blog content, ask yourself why you’re creating it. Avoid writing just because:
- A keyword is trending
- You need to fill a publishing calendar.
- You want to chase a viral topic.
Create content that aligns with your SEO goals while genuinely addressing what your audience is looking for.
Give Readers a Complete Experience
A user should feel satisfied after reading your post, not left with more questions. Your content should:
- Fully answer the searcher’s query
- Offer context, examples, or steps.
- Reduce the need to go back to Google Search for more answers.
Building trust helps improve how Google evaluates your site during algorithm updates.
Don’t Rely Too Much on AI or Automation
Using tools like AI-generated content to get started is fine, but never publish it without reviewing and enhancing it.
To avoid the pitfalls of low-quality content:
- Use AI to kickstart your ideas, but depend on human insight to polish and complete the content.
- Add your voice, perspective, and personal experience.
- Edit heavily to match your tone and ensure content for people.
Mass-produced, thin AI content often lacks originality and fails to meet Google’s quality standards.
Review Your Entire Website’s Content Quality
Sometimes, a few bad pages can significantly affect your website’s overall efficacy. Audit your content and remove anything that no longer reflects your best work.
- Improve or delete outdated posts
- Combine related articles to provide more thorough and impactful content.
- Make it a priority to provide fresh, relevant content to your audience.
Instead of five average weekly posts, aim for one standout post that delivers on its promise.
Understand E-E-A-T and Apply It Wisely
The E-E-A-T model from Google focuses on creating content that earns user trust through genuine experience and credibility.
- Experience: Have you lived through it?
- Expertise: Do you know what you’re talking about?
- Authoritativeness: Are you seen as a reliable source?
- Trustworthiness: Does your content feel credible and safe?
Effective content marketing always takes E-E-A-T into account to build authority and trust.
Help People First, Rankings Will Follow
Every Google core update is a push toward a better web. Rather than trying to game the algorithm, concentrate on creating content that aligns with user intent and offers genuine value.
Remember:
- Prioritise user experience.
- Share original content with personal insight.
- Avoid keyword stuffing and filler.
- Create types of content your audience needs.
Write your blog content like you’re helping a friend, not trying to game a system. The rankings will follow.
Let’s Turn Google’s Updates Into Growth Opportunities
The latest broad core algorithm update is a reminder that helpful, reliable content always wins. At Your Growth Story, we specialise in creating high-quality content that connects with users, meets Google’s standards, and supports long-term success.
From content strategy to SEO-focused content creation, we help your website stay ahead of the curve — with purpose, clarity, and relevance.
Looking to improve your website and content performance in search rankings? Let’s talk about what your next content move should be.
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