Get Right to the Point

Google’s recent algorithm update is a significant change that could impact your online reputation. The bottom line is that your website traffic might decrease significantly. This article explores the implications for businesses and offers solutions.

What is the Recent Google Update?

You might have noticed a decline in website traffic. This is likely due to the Helpful Content Update (HCU), which Google concluded in late September 2023 (the March 2024 Update is mostly a continuation. This update aims to prioritize high-quality content that genuinely informs and assists users. Websites with content solely focused on search engine ranking are probably going to be penalized.

How Does HCU Impact Your Online Reputation?

HCU can negatively affect your online reputation in several ways. Reduced website traffic means fewer people see your brand or services, potentially leading to decreased sales and a suppressed online presence. This makes you vulnerable to negative articles with minimal positive links. CEOs and those managing SEO or online reputation need to address this right away.

What is HCU?

Complete in late September 2023, Google’s HCU prioritizes high-quality, informative content that genuinely assists users. It rewards websites that create content with a user-centric approach, rather than solely focusing on search engine ranking.

What Should You Do?

Focusing solely on blog posts for traffic and sales is no longer effective. Here are some solutions:

• Utilize Forums: Google prioritizes user-generated content. Actively participate on forums like Reddit and Quora. Some of these rank higher than Forbes and related media sites.
• Create branded accounts: Establish accounts for your name and brand on relevant forums, including StackExchange, DigitalPoint, etc.
• Engage in discussions: Be active on subreddits and threads related to your business. Provide valuable insights and answer user queries genuinely. Avoid spamming or overt sales tactics; doing so could result in further reputation damage.
• Expand your reach: Consider platforms like Medium, LinkedIn Articles, and even Tumblr.
• Focus on quality: Write informative, well-written content free from spam and sales pitches.
• Target specific topics: Address specific issues relevant to your target audience.
• Prioritize user value: Rewrite website content with the goal of providing genuine value to users, not just attracting clicks.
• Focus on user intent: Conduct competitor research and identify unique approaches.
• Target long-tail keywords: Use long-tail search terms based on user queries.
• Be authentic: Don’t shy away from expressing your opinions (excluding highly political topics) to build trust and relatability.
• Avoid unethical practices: Never buy links or overly use poor AI-written content.
• Engage with others: Actively read, like, share, and leave genuine comments on others’ content.
• Go local: Build a local presence on Patch and other sites.
• Optimize Google Business Profile: Ensure your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is complete. Consider Bing Places as well.
• Engage with local communities: Utilize platforms like Yelp to leave reviews for other businesses and encourage genuine reviews for yours.

The Bottom Line

In the current search and reputation landscape, focusing solely on manipulation tactics can damage your online reputation. CEOs must prioritize providing genuine information, building trust through authentic engagement, and actively participating in online communities to maintain a positive online presence.