Experience a key factor during Google algorithm updates, analysis finds

I just came across a really interesting correlation study from Zyppy SEO that I think you’ll find really fascinating. It analyzed the impact of various website features on Google algorithm updates, and the results were quite eye-opening.

According to the study, websites that used first-person pronouns, demonstrated first-hand experience, and displayed a cookie consent banner were more likely to see positive visibility gains during Google updates. On the flip side, features like fixed footer ads and fixed video ads were found to have a negative impact on websites.

So, why does this matter? Well, credibility and experience are increasingly important in the world of SEO. As the analysis pointed out, “everything in SEO connects to everything else.” This doesn’t mean you’ll always win for every keyword you want, but having strong credibility and experience will definitely increase the odds in your favor.

The study also highlighted specific website features that had a strong correlation with winning or losing during Google algorithm updates. For instance, having contact information in the footer, using first-person pronouns, and demonstrating first-hand experience were all correlated with positive results. On the other hand, features like fixed ads, stock imagery, and push notifications were correlated with negative outcomes.

So what do all of these correlations have in common? They all come back to the idea of experience and credibility. Google wants to reward sites that excel in both of these areas, and the study’s findings seem to support that.

Of course, it’s important to keep in mind that this is just a correlation study based on a small sample size and during a specific time period of Google updates. Correlation is not causation, and these website features are not being labeled as direct ranking factors or signals.

If you’re interested in diving deeper into the study, you can check it out here: https://zyppy.com/seo/google-update-case-study/

It’s always fascinating to see how various website features can impact SEO, and this study definitely provides some valuable insights to consider. Let me know what you think about these findings!