Google December 2024 Core Update: Key Takeaways

Thought you could take a breath after Google’s November 2024 Core Update? Think again.

On 12 December, Google officially began rolling out its December 2024 Core Update, an adjustment designed to improve search results by refining how content is evaluated and ranked. As with all core updates, this one is expected to introduce notable shifts in search rankings, creating challenges and opportunities for websites.

This update follows November’s chunky update, which saw many websites observe significant drops in traffic. Just a few days in, sites are already reporting even further drops.

So, what can we expect from the fourth (and final) Google Core Update of 2024? Let’s dive in.

Why is Google rolling this update out – especially so close to November’s?

Google performs several core updates every year. This is a regular part of Google’s efforts to enhance the user experience by prioritising high-quality, relevant, and authoritative content – think E-E-A-T. This update continues to tackle issues like outdated or spammy content dominating search results. This is a continuing trend from previous updates, while also incorporating user feedback to fine-tune its algorithm.

Google aims to reward websites that provide authentic value to users and penalise those optimised solely for search rankings without delivering meaningful content.

What to expect from Google’s December 2024 Core Update

As the latest core update rolls out over the next two weeks, businesses and SEO professionals are already observing its effects on search rankings and organic traffic. This update, like its predecessors, aims to enhance search quality by rewarding user-focused, authoritative content while addressing issues like spam and irrelevant results.

The ripple effects of this change will likely be felt for weeks, affecting a wide range of industries. Below are the key areas to watch during this transition:

• Increased search volatility – Early reports indicate significant fluctuations in keyword rankings and organic traffic across various industries. This level of volatility could continue for weeks as the update is rolled out and its effects stabilise.
• Focus on user-centric content – Websites with high-quality, relevant, and user-focused content are expected to benefit the most from this update. On the other hand, sites relying on AI-generated or mass-produced content for SEO purposes might experience significant declines in traffic.
• Impact across vertical markets – Businesses, including e-commerce and informational sites, have already reported noticeable changes in rankings. This update emphasises shifting search results to prioritise relevance over quantity.

How to adapt and thrive

Google has given us ample warning that search will change dramatically in 2025. While Google relies heavily on AI to rank listings, it expects websites not to rely on it to produce content.

Going forward, creating content with original thought from subject matter experts is going to be the way forward. To ensure your SEO success as we move into even more volatile times, here are a few things you can do to adapt to change rapidly:

• Audit your existing content: Revisit your website’s pages to ensure they are engaging, accurate, and created with users in mind. Google’s core updates reward originality and expertise.
• Analyse performance trends: During this rollout, monitor metrics like traffic patterns and keyword performance. This will help you identify what’s working and where adjustments are needed.
• Remain patient: Recovery from core updates often takes time. If your rankings drop, focus on long-term strategies such as improving site quality and maintaining consistency in content updates.

It’s important to stay on top of Google updates. We suggest bookmarking Google’s Core Update Documentation.

Be prepared for the future with Team Bamboo

PPC operates on an auction system where you bid for ad The December 2024 Core Update highlights the evolving nature of Google’s search algorithm and its relentless pursuit of delivering high-quality, relevant content to users.

This means businesses must stay proactive, ensuring their digital strategies align with Google’s latest standards. For those navigating ranking volatility or looking to enhance their online visibility, this update is a call to refine content strategies and adopt user-centric approaches.

Team Bamboo has its finger on the pulse of SEO changes. We specialise in digital marketing strategies that adapt to algorithm changes while keeping your business goals in focus. From comprehensive SEO audits to creating impactful, user-driven, human-cultivated content, our team can help you maintain your competitive edge in a tumultuous search landscape.

Contact us today to ensure your brand thrives in the face of digital challenges.