Google's Helpful Content Update: How it Affects Rankings

There is an evergreen rule in SEO: Content is king. With Google's Helpful Content algorithm update, this is truer than ever. In the early days of search engines, the exploitation of simple algorithms was the driving factor behind spammy results. These dark times were ended by Google's commitment to making sure the most useful content would be returned to those searching on its platform. The 2012 Penguin algorithm update was a turning point in the battle against black hat SEO tactics. It incentivized marketers, content creators, and business owners to create quality web content and punished poor backlink practices, which in turn improved user experience. The benefits to its users have a clear overlap with its earnings. The more frequently people use and trust Google for getting the information they seek, the more they earn through advertising. The Helpful Content update continues the trend of increasing quality content that is easily accessible online. While it's unlikely this update will increase Google's revenue in any meaningful way, it should enhance Google's dominance in the search market by further distancing itself from its competitors. By maintaining its reputation as the number 1 search engine, Google is protecting its future. With all of this said, the question remains: How will the Helpful Content Update affect site rankings?

In this week's Digital Marketing Mondays, Hans and Devin discuss Google's latest core search algorithm update and who should be concerned with the potential of their sites dropping out of top positions in SERP.