With the release of Google’s December 2024 Core Update, one message rings loud and clear: create content for people, not just for search engines. This update emphasizes a shift away from outdated, manipulative SEO tactics, urging website owners and marketers to focus on meaningful, user-centered content.
As digital marketers, this means moving toward a “people-first” strategy and consciously avoiding “search engine-first” practices. Let’s dive into what this means and how you can adapt to the latest update.
What Is People-First Content, and Why Does It Matter?
People-first content is created with the user’s needs, interests, and search intent at its core. It prioritizes delivering real value, solving problems, and building trust with the audience.
On the other hand, “search engine-first content” refers to content crafted primarily to manipulate rankings, often at the expense of quality. Tactics like keyword stuffing, thin content, or overly optimized articles fall into this category—and Google’s latest update is cracking down on such practices.
By avoiding search engine-first strategies and embracing people-first principles, you align with Google’s mission to make search results more useful and relevant for users.
Why Is People-First Content Crucial Post-Update?
- Google’s Evolving Algorithm
Google’s algorithm is increasingly capable of distinguishing content that serves users from content designed to game the system. Search engine-first practices will no longer provide the short-term wins they once did. - Higher Engagement and Loyalty
People-first content resonates with readers, encouraging them to stay on your site longer and engage more deeply. This improves metrics like time-on-page and reduces bounce rates—key indicators of quality in Google’s eyes. - Avoiding Penalties
Sites employing search engine-first tactics risk seeing significant drops in rankings. With the December 2024 update, Google continues to reward genuine, user-focused efforts while penalizing manipulative strategies.
How to Avoid Creating Search Engine-First Content
- Don’t Over-Optimize Keywords
◦ Avoid repetitive or awkward keyword placement that disrupts the flow of your writing.
◦ Use keywords naturally and contextually, letting them complement the content rather than dominate it. - Steer Clear of Clickbait
◦ Misleading titles and meta descriptions designed purely to attract clicks may result in high bounce rates and lower trust. Deliver on the promise of your headline with valuable, relevant content. - Say No to Thin Content
◦ Pages with minimal value, duplicate information, or shallow insights are less likely to rank well. Instead, prioritize creating original, comprehensive content that provides real solutions. - Avoid Overloading with SEO Tricks
◦ Practices like hiding text, stuffing links, or creating overly dense anchor texts can harm your rankings. Instead, focus on readability and user experience.
How to Create People-First Content
- Understand Your Audience
◦ Research your audience’s needs and pain points using tools like Google Analytics and Search Console.
◦ Create content that directly addresses their questions and solves their problems. - Write Naturally and Authentically
◦ Let your content reflect a conversational, human tone rather than robotic SEO writing.
◦ Focus on storytelling and real-world examples to connect with your audience. - Offer Comprehensive Value
◦ Don’t just scratch the surface; provide in-depth answers and actionable insights.
◦ Include visuals, charts, or videos to make your content more engaging and easier to understand. - Update and Optimize Regularly
◦ Refresh outdated content with new information, ensuring it remains accurate and relevant.
◦ Optimize without compromising on quality—always put user intent first.
How the December 2024 Update Aligns with People-First Content
The December 2024 Core Update is a clear push toward a more user-centric web. Websites that put users first—delivering quality, unique, and engaging content—are more likely to thrive in this new SEO landscape.
This update penalizes manipulative tactics associated with search engine-first content, reinforcing the importance of ethical, long-term strategies that prioritize trust and authenticity.
The December 2024 Core Update is a reminder to all digital marketers: SEO is about people first, algorithms second. By avoiding search engine-first practices and focusing on genuine, user-centered content, you not only align with Google’s evolving standards but also build a loyal, engaged audience.
If you’re ready to future-proof your SEO strategy and create content that truly resonates, our team at Kwell.co is here to help. Let’s work together to craft content that delivers value, builds trust, and achieves sustainable success.
