Blog

7 Things You Should Know about Google’s Latest Content Update

On 25th August 2022, Google confirmed rolling out its helpful update, which will take around two weeks for completion. The helpful content algorithm update is meant to reward people-first content while undervaluing content created for search engines.

Google will use several ways to check whether your published content will qualify as ‘people-first.’

If you’re looking for additional context in regard to the latest content update, we are here to enlighten you with seven things that you must keep in mind to create people-first content, according to the guidelines laid by Google.

The Do’s –

1. Demonstrating First-Hand Experience – Google implies that people should write about things they’ve personally experienced. When creators write content for search engines, they include products and services they haven’t used first-hand. The content usually includes affiliate links that earn commissions. Because the author has zero first-hand experience, the content won’t be as helpful as expected. Therefore, pick topics where you have first-hand experience and showcase that by uploading original insights and photos.
2. Providing Sufficient Answers to Queries of Searchers – Google mentions that helpful content should be able to teach people something or help them complete a task. Because content created for search engines involves writing information that isn’t much of value, the latest update will give preference to content that can help answer questions or resolve concerns that led the reader to the site in the first place.
3. Following Google’s Suggestions for Other Significant Updates – The guidance offered by Google regarding product review updates and core updates will apply to the latest helpful content update. By staying up-to-date with Google’s advice on other updates, you will be able to position your site well for the upcoming helpful content update.

The Don’ts –

4. Avoid Straying Too Far from the Main Subject – Google is trying to stay that you must stick to your area of expertise instead of publishing content out of your niche. Don’t venture into a different niche, deviating from your main topic, just to capitalize on a high-volume keyword. The content could be useful, but it’s unlikely to be useful to those who visit your website expecting something different.
5. Avoid Coming Several Topics in One Website – Google wants websites to specialize in a niche. It cannot meet all needs and preferences of all individuals. It makes it confusing for search engines as well as visitors. Therefore, sites must be built around one area of expertise. It’s possible to build multiple websites to cater to different topics.
6. Avoid Neglecting Overall Reader Experience – When creating content, you must take the overall reading experience into account. While you may meet all the necessary criteria, you might not offer a satisfying experience. For instance, a product review with adequate first-hand experience but no videos or photos. While textual content is well-appreciated, it should include visual demonstrations to complete the experience.
7. Avoid Answering Questions with No Confirmed Answer – Google cautions websites not to make claims that aren’t based on fact. You must make it clear to readers when you’re writing about something that’s supposedly inconclusive or rumored. Besides complying with the helpful content update, following this advice also helps establish and maintain trust within your community.

Closing Thoughts

It’ll take only a couple of days for Google’s helpful content update to finish rolling out. Give time to understand the update and its impact on your content.

The update is expected to affect English searches in English across the globe and will soon be expanded to other languages.

It’s important to note that Google will continue to refine content to detect and disincentivize unhelpful content. So, you can expect more updates to be released in the near future.