SERP Volatility of Google Core March Update

Dwight Zahringer

March 28, 2024

March 2024 Google Core Update Unraveled

One month following Google’s March 2024 Core Update, the digital landscape has experienced significant SERP (Search Engine Results Page) volatility. This article provides a general overview of the fluctuations over the past 30 days and identifies which sectors have been impacted.

SERP volatility

Search Engine Results Page (SERP) volatility refers to fluctuations in search engine rankings over time. These changes are influenced by various factors, including search engine algorithm updates, modifications in SEO strategies by webmasters, or shifts in user behavior.

The graphic above (courtesy of SEMRush data from 3/28/24) shows a SERP volatility index for various industries over the last 30 days. This index is a metric that indicates how much rankings have changed within that time frame. A higher number suggests greater fluctuation and, possibly, more aggressive algorithmic recalibration by search engines or significant SEO activity within an industry. With Google stating at the start that there are a few updates to roll out due to be completed by May 5th, we should all wait to see results before making responsive or drastic changes.

The graph shows a volatility score for all categories, marked by the line graph, which peaks and troughs over the last month. Certain industries, such as arts & entertainment and food & beverages, have experienced higher volatility, indicated by their higher scores. This implies that websites in these categories have seen more significant movement in their search engine rankings, potentially due to intense competition or frequent content updates, which are common in these dynamic sectors.

In contrast, real estate and health industries have lower scores, suggesting their SERP positions have been relatively stable. This stability could result in less frequent content updates or more consistent user search behavior. Interesting, right?

The SERP Volatility graphic also includes a “SERP Features Occurrence” chart, represented by the orange dots, showing the percentage of SERPs where features like featured snippets appear in the top 20 results. This chart provides insight into how often enhanced search elements are displayed, which can dramatically affect click-through rates and user engagement.

There are some clear winners and losers so far; however, to what extent of the “why” aside from spam red cards, that story is yet to be told with more definition and clarity. As we navigate these changes, businesses and content creators must adapt their strategies to maintain and enhance online visibility.

When in doubt and thinking you got hit, it’s best to complete your own SEO Audit to see where the level playing field should be.

Going local: Where to remain relevant

Balancing “needs vs wants” when communicating with your web development or SEO agency is essential to remain relevant in these algorithm updates. This approach ensures that your digital efforts are practical and aligned with your long-term goals.

In our example specifically detailed in the podcast episode, for those in the wedding DJ industry looking to differentiate themselves for SEO success and consumer lead generation, here are some targeted recommendations:

Local SEO optimization: Focus on local search queries and keywords. Ensure your business is listed accurately on Google My Business and other local directories. Post frequently with useful data and answers to questions your audience could or should be asking.
Content strategy: Develop unique, high-quality content that addresses the specific needs of your target audience. Include testimonials, FAQs, and detailed service descriptions to enhance relevance and engagement. Playlists, specific styles, wedding-related dances, and songs that should go with them or considered and why. Monthly popularity charts and clips of songs to select and build your playlist. Ideas galore.
Mobile optimization: With mobile searches dominating the landscape, ensure your website is responsive and fast-loading across all devices.
Social proof: Leverage reviews and social media to build trust and authority. Engaging with your community through these platforms can also boost your online presence.
Content calendar: Through ongoing research, you’ll learn trends in what people are searching for, asking, and wanting to know. Build reputable, honest, and genuine content around these topics. Look at how these can be released in a calendar schedule and how each outlet’s message will be posted and delivered. Think about continuity in a campaign and how it will be tracked for leads and accolades that lead to rankings (or their lack of them).

Jump to Spotify podcasts to learn about more business Local SEO tips. Interested in Perfect Afternoon performing the audit on your behalf?