Ah, another Google core update. Just what you needed, right? You were probably sitting around thinking, “Wow, my website has been performing too consistently. I sure hope Google shakes things up so I can spend the next few weeks scrambling to figure out what happened.” Well, congratulations—your wish has been granted.
Google rolled out its March 2025 core update on March 13, and if history has taught us anything, it’s that things are about to get interesting. This update, like all core updates, is designed to improve search quality by making sure users get the best possible results. That’s great in theory—unless you happen to be on the receiving end of a rankings nosedive.
So, What’s Changing?
As always, Google is being super transparent (read: frustratingly vague) about what’s actually happening behind the curtain. Here’s what we do know:
- AI is playing a bigger role. Google is doubling down on AI-generated answers in search results with its new ‘AI Mode’ and expanded AI Overviews. So, if your strategy was to regurgitate the same tired SEO blog content everyone else has, you might want to rethink that.
- User experience still matters (but what that means keeps shifting). If your site is slow, filled with pop-ups, or otherwise annoying to navigate, Google isn’t going to do you any favors. But hey, they weren’t going to anyway.
- Fluctuations are normal. Some sites are seeing massive ranking changes, while others barely notice anything. If you’ve taken a hit, don’t immediately assume it’s time to fire your SEO team (unless they told you buying 10,000 backlinks from a Russian bot farm was a good idea—then, yeah, maybe fire them).
What Should You Do Now?
Before you go full meltdown mode, take a deep breath. This update is still rolling out, and rankings tend to stabilize after a few weeks. Here’s what you should do:
- Check your analytics – See how your traffic is trending and which pages are most affected.
- Focus on quality content – I know, I know, Google says this every time, but it’s still true. Make sure your content is actually useful and not just keyword soup.
- Improve user experience – Faster load times, mobile optimization, and fewer obnoxious pop-ups never hurt anyone.
- Stay calm – Algorithm updates are a part of the game. If your rankings dip, use it as an opportunity to improve.
Final Thoughts
Google’s updates will never stop coming, and they’ll never stop being a little bit cryptic. But if you focus on creating valuable content and a good user experience, you’ll be in a much better position when the next inevitable shake-up happens. And if all else fails, well… there’s always paid ads.
Need help navigating these search engine rollercoasters? Weldwood Marketing has your back. Let’s talk about making your website algorithm-proof (or at least less of a punching bag).