Introduction

In the ever-evolving world of search engine optimization (SEO), staying up-to-date with Google’s algorithm updates is crucial. One such update that recently concluded is Google’s September 2023 Helpful Content Update. This update brings several significant changes to Google’s Helpful Content System, which aims to promote people-first content and demote content created solely for search engines. In this article, we will explore the key changes introduced by Google’s September 2023 update and how they impact content optimization strategies.

Google’s Helpful Content System: An Overview

Before diving into the specifics of the September 2023 update, let’s briefly understand what Google’s Helpful Content System entails. This system works in conjunction with other algorithms to rank websites based on the quality and usefulness of their content. It emphasizes prioritizing content that provides value to users while penalizing content that is solely optimized for search engines.

Adjustments to Machine-Generated Content Guidelines

One of the significant changes brought about by the September 2023 update is the adjusted guidance on machine-generated content. Previously, Google had a preference for human-created content, but the updated guidelines indicate a shift in their attitude towards AI-generated content. The updated guidelines now encourage website owners to focus on creating helpful and valuable content, regardless of whether it is generated by humans or AI.

Revised Rules for Hosting Third-Party Content

The September 2023 update also introduced revised rules for hosting third-party content on websites. While some website owners believed that hosting third-party content on their primary domain or subdomain could boost their ranking power, Google now advises caution. Websites that extensively host unrelated third-party content without direct oversight may face negative consequences in terms of ranking. Google recommends blocking such third-party content from being indexed if it does not align with the main site’s purpose or lacks direct oversight.

Traffic Recovery Strategies after a Helpful Content Update

If a website experiences a significant traffic loss following a Helpful Content Update, it can be a cause for concern. However, Google now provides new guidance on how to recover from such a situation. The first step is to identify unhelpful content on the website and either remove or replace it with valuable and relevant content. It is essential to conduct a thorough review and avoid making false updates or adding/removing content solely to appear “fresh” in search rankings.

Insights from Google’s Gary Illyes

Gary Illyes, a prominent figure at Google, shed light on the reasoning behind the September 2023 update. He highlighted the issue of micro-sites, which are third-party sites hosted on subdomains or subdirectories without proper oversight. Such sites often manipulate search results rather than providing genuine and valuable content. Illyes clarified that different signals operate at various levels, including URL, pattern, host, and domain, emphasizing the need for websites to maintain a holistic approach to optimization.

Conclusion

Google’s September 2023 Helpful Content Update brings significant changes to the way websites are ranked in search results. By prioritizing people-first content and discouraging the manipulation of search algorithms, Google aims to provide users with the most relevant and helpful information. As website owners and SEO experts, it is crucial to adapt to these changes and focus on creating valuable content that meets users’ needs. By following Google’s guidelines and staying up-to-date with future updates, we can optimize our content effectively and ensure its visibility in search engine rankings.