Understanding Google's September 2023 helpful content update

Google announced its September 2023 Helpful Content Update, which contains two important changes to how sites are ranked

This update aims to improve the quality of search results by enhancing the classifier and considering subdomain content.

The update was released on September 14, 2023, and is expected to take about two weeks to complete.

Understanding the implications of this update can help website owners and SEO professionals adapt their strategies to maintain or improve their search rankings. The first change in the September 2023 update is an improved classifier. Google's classifier is a system that helps determine the relevance and quality of web pages for specific search queries

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The updated classifier is expected to provide more accurate and helpful search results, benefiting users and website owners who prioritize high-quality content. The second change is the inclusion of subdomain content in the Helpful Content System classifier

Subdomains are separate sections of a website that can be used to organize content or target specific audiences. Previously, Google's algorithm treated subdomains as separate entities, but this update suggests that subdomain content will now be considered when ranking a website's overall quality and relevance.

Website owners and SEO professionals should consider the following strategies to adapt to Google's September 2023 Helpful Content Update:

• Focus on high-quality content

  With the improved classifier, Google is likely to prioritize websites that offer valuable and relevant information to users. Creating well-researched, informative, and engaging content can help improve your website's search rankings and growth.
  

• Optimize subdomain content

  If your website utilizes subdomains, ensure that each subdomain offers unique and valuable content. This update suggests that subdomain content will now be considered when ranking a website's overall quality and relevance. Therefore, optimizing your subdomains can help improve your website's search visibility.
  

• Monitor and analyze your website's performance

  Keep track of your website's search rankings, organic traffic, and user engagement metrics to identify any potential impacts from the September 2023 update. Tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console can provide valuable insights into your website's performance.
  

• Stay updated with Google's algorithm changes

  Google regularly updates its algorithm to provide better search results. Staying informed about these updates can help you adapt your client's SEO strategies and maintain or improve your website's search rankings.

While the exact impact of the September 2023 update on search rankings may vary for each website, understanding the changes and implementing appropriate strategies can help website owners and SEO professionals navigate these updates and maintain a strong online presence.