Google Helpful Content Update September 2023

The Google Helpful Content Update in September shows far-reaching effects on the visibility and ranking of websites in search results. The update aimed to improve the quality of search results for users by penalising websites with low-quality content and excessive advertising.

A key focus is the quality rating of content. Websites that provide content of high quality and relevance are ranked higher in search results. This reflects Google’s efforts to provide users with trustworthy information and to curb the spread of misleading or low-quality content.

Key factors (E-E-A-T) that are considered when ranking content include:

• Experience: the Experience factor is an important aspect of content evaluation that has gained importance in recent years in improving search results. This factor refers to the user experience that a website offers its visitors. A positive user experience is crucial as it directly influences user satisfaction and interaction with a website.
• Expertise: Google evaluates the expertise of the authors and the website as a whole. This means that websites that are run by experts in their respective fields or employ qualified writers have a better chance of ranking higher in search results. The quality and accuracy of the information is crucial.
• Authoritativeness: Websites that are recognised as authoritative sources in their industry or subject area receive preferential treatment. Authoritativeness is often determined by backlinks from other reputable websites and a strong presence in the online community. The more other trusted sources link to a website, the higher its authority is rated.
• Trustworthiness: The trustworthiness of a website is of great importance. Google expects websites to make clear claims about the origin of their information and to use sources that are considered trustworthy and reliable. This serves to limit the spread of misinformation or misleading content and to provide users with reliable information.

Website operators should be aware that the quality of content and the user experience are becoming increasingly important in order to be successful in search results. With this update, Google is once again setting an example for high-quality and informative content in the digital space. 💡