In this episode of SEO 101, we explore Google’s upcoming search ranking update and the frustrations voiced by content creators affected by the Helpful Content Update. We discuss a recent Google Search Console bug that caused panic among site owners and provide insights into the evolving landscape of SEO best practices.
Show Notes:
NON-SEO NEWS
SEO The Board Game
- New strategic board game for 2-4 players created by Gareth Hoyle.
- Sponsored by AHrefs, POP, Kasra Dash, and others.
- Priced at $79 plus shipping.
- Some skepticism about market interest; potential appeal to SEO professionals.
Google Fined by Russian Court
- Fined over $25 decillion for blocking Russian news channels on YouTube.
- Fine initiated at $1,025 per day, doubling weekly.
- Amount exceeds 1000x the annual GDP of Earth.
- Google states ongoing legal matters won’t have a significant adverse effect.
SEO NEWS
Upcoming Google Search Ranking Update
- Discussion with content creators affected by the Helpful Content Update (HCU).
- Many attendees advised to shift focus away from Google for traffic.
- Concerns about Google’s inability to address algorithmic issues impacting businesses.
Content Demotion in Search
- Google confirmed demoting content that is starkly different from main site content.
- Recent drops in site performance not linked to site reputation abuse algorithms.
Google Search Console Bug
- Performance report showed almost no traffic on Oct 28, causing panic among site owners.
- John Mueller confirmed it was a bug and advised checking Google Analytics for accuracy.
Updated URL Structure Best Practices
- Google recommends using ampersands (&) and equal signs (=) for URL parameters.
- Advises against using colons, brackets, commas, or double commas.
AI NEWS
ChatGPT Search Launch
- OpenAI launched ChatGPT Search for select users on Oct 31.
- Available to ChatGPT Plus and Team users; free access coming soon.
- Chrome extension available to set ChatGPT as the default search engine.
Google Expands AI Overviews
- AI Overviews to be available in over 100 countries.
- Rollout includes extended language support for over 1 billion users.
Meta’s AI Search Development
- Meta developing a search index to replace Google for their AI offerings.
- Currently still utilizing Google’s search index for the Meta AI chatbot.
Sources:
SEO The Board Game – Announcement of a new strategic SEO board game for 2-4 players created by Gareth Hoyle, backed by various sponsors.
Google Fined By Russian Court – Details about a Russian court’s staggering fine against Google for blocking local news channels on YouTube, reaching $25 decillion.
Search Ranking Update Coming Soon – Coverage of Google’s upcoming search ranking update and insights from content creators affected by the Helpful Content Update.
Content Demotion in Search – Confirmation from Google about demoting content that significantly differs from the main content of a site.
Google Search Console Bug – Report on a bug in Google Search Console that showed nearly zero traffic, causing concern among site owners.
URL Structure Best Practices Update – Update from Google regarding best practices for URL structure, including recommendations for parameter separation.
ChatGPT Search Launch – Announcement of the official launch of ChatGPT Search for select users and future rollout plans.
Google Expands AI Overviews – Information on the expansion of Google’s AI Overviews to over 100 countries, enhancing language support.
Meta’s AI Search Development – Insights into Meta’s efforts to create its own search index, reducing reliance on Google for its AI chatbot.
