Exploring the Impact of the Latest Google Core Update on Search Rankings
The March 2023 Google broad core update, which rolled out between March 15 and March 28, 2023, has created significant ranking volatility across various verticals in the search results. In this blog post, we’ll delve into how this core update compares to previous Google core updates, based on data from Semrush and RankRanger.
March 2023 Core Update: Differing Perspectives from Semrush and RankRanger
Semrush and RankRanger, two data providers, offer slightly different takes on the March 2023 core update. Semrush suggests that this update was more volatile than the September 2022 core update, while RankRanger argues that it was about as volatile as the previous core update.
Semrush’s Take
Semrush data reveals that the March 2023 core update reached a peak of 8 in terms of Semrush Sensor data volatility, while the September 2022 core update only reached about 5. According to Mordy Oberstein from Semrush, the volatility increases observed during the March 2023 Core Update were 74% higher than those recorded in September. Furthermore, Semrush data shows that the March 2023 update was significantly more impactful than the September 2022 update across various verticals.
RankRanger’s Perspective
RankRanger’s data, on the other hand, suggests a different story. Although the RankRanger Rank Risk Index showed significant volatility the day after the update began rolling out, the March 2023 core update seemed to match the intensity of the September 2022 core update when comparing average fluctuations. According to Darrell Mordecai from RankRanger, the March update was one of the biggest updates, topped only by the June 2021 update. Interestingly, RankRanger’s data showed lower rank volatility in the top 5 positions for the March 2023 update compared to the September 2022 update.
Community Response and Recovery Advice
Community feedback indicates that the March 2023 core update was indeed significant. Google has previously offered advice on what to consider if a core update negatively impacts your site. Rather than taking specific actions to recover, it’s recommended to review a list of questions provided by Google and focus on improving your site’s overall quality. Recovery may be observed between core updates, but the most significant changes are likely to occur following another core update.
The March 2023 Google core update has caused notable ranking volatility, and while data providers Semrush and RankRanger offer differing perspectives on the update’s impact, it’s clear that this update was substantial. If your site was affected, it’s crucial to take a holistic approach to improving your website’s overall quality. Keep an eye on future core updates to gauge the effectiveness of any changes you make, and stay informed about best practices for optimizing your site’s performance in the ever-evolving world of search.