The „Helpful Content Update“ is one of Google’s latest initiatives, launched in September 2023. It was designed to change the way content is evaluated in terms of its usefulness to the user. Google wants to ensure that content created for people and providing them with added value is ranked higher in search results, while content primarily optimized for search engines is devalued.
What does the Google Update: Helpful Content (Helpful Content System) mean for websites and online shops?
The main changes of the update in detail:
- Adjustments for machine-generated content:
- In the past, Google had a clear preference for human-created content. Machine-generated content was often considered less valuable or even spam.
- With the new update, this perspective has changed. Google now recognizes that AI-generated content can also be valuable and informative. The updated guidelines reflect this change and make them more consistent with other advice on creating content that is helpful to the user.
- Rules for Hosting Third-Party Content:
- Before the update, it was common practice to host third-party content on one’s own website, whether on the main domain or a subdomain.
- However, the update has highlighted potential problems with this practice. If the hosted third-party content is not directly related to the main purpose of the website or was created without direct oversight, this can now have negative effects on ranking. Google recommends excluding such content from indexing.
- Updated Self-Assessment Guidelines:
- Google has not only updated content guidelines but also provided advice for webmasters on how to evaluate their own content. A particular focus is on the review process. Google warns against simply updating pages to appear „fresh“ and emphasizes the importance of genuine, valuable updates.
FAQ – Questions & Answers
- 1. Question: What is the main goal of the „Helpful Content Update“?
Answer: The main goal of the update is to promote high-quality content that offers real value to the user. At the same time, content primarily optimized for search engines and not for the user should be devalued.
- 2. Question: How does Google view machine-generated content after the update?Answer: With the update, Google has changed its stance on machine-generated content. While previously often viewed skeptically, Google now recognizes that, when done correctly, it can be just as valuable as human-created content.
- 3. Question: What should webmasters consider when hosting third-party content?Answer: Third-party content should only be hosted if it is directly relevant to the main purpose of the website and was created under direct supervision. Otherwise, Google recommends excluding it from indexing.
- 4. Question: How can webmasters determine if their website is affected by the update?Answer: Webmasters should monitor their traffic data and rankings, especially after the update’s rollout. A sudden decline could be an indicator. Additionally, Google provides updated self-assessment guidelines that can help webmasters evaluate their content and determine if it meets the new standards.
- 5. Question: What can webmasters do if they find their website has been negatively affected by the update?Answer: Google advises webmasters affected by the update to identify and either remove or replace unhelpful content on their website. It is important to focus on high-quality, user-relevant content and ensure that the content complies with the updated guidelines.
Conclusion on the Google Update from August + September 2023 for helpful content
The September 2023 „Helpful Content Update“ is a crucial step in Google’s continuous efforts to improve the quality of search results. It emphasizes the importance of high-quality, user-relevant content and urges webmasters to adjust their strategies accordingly.
Florian Ibe
CEO & Marketing Consultant
Your contact person: Florian Ibe
DE
