Google’s March 2025 Core Update: What You Need to Know

Content Marketing, Marketing, SEO

Google has officially begun rolling out its March 2025 Core Update, marking the first major algorithm adjustment of the year. As with previous core updates, this rollout is expected to impact search rankings significantly, and website owners, SEO professionals, and digital marketers should pay close attention to any changes in their site’s performance.

What Is a Google Core Update?

Core updates are broad changes to Google’s search algorithm designed to improve the relevance and quality of search results. Unlike smaller updates that target specific issues such as spam or page experience, core updates can lead to noticeable ranking fluctuations across a wide range of websites. These changes aim to ensure that Google continues to surface high-quality, helpful, and relevant content for users.

What We Know About the March 2025 Core Update

Google announced the March 2025 Core Update on March 13, 2025, stating that it would take up to two weeks to fully roll out. The company emphasized that the update is part of its ongoing effort to enhance search quality by promoting relevant and satisfying content from a diverse array of sources.

Although Google has not provided specific details about what this update targets, past core updates have typically focused on improving:

  • Content relevance and quality
  • E-A-T (Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness)
  • User experience and engagement signals
  • Spam and low-quality content removal

Expected Impact on Search Rankings

As with previous core updates, some websites will see ranking gains, while others may experience declines. Sites that produce high-quality, authoritative, and user-focused content are likely to benefit, whereas those with thin, outdated, or low-value content could see a drop in visibility.

Key areas where site owners might notice ranking shifts include:

  1. Content Quality: Sites with well-researched, informative, and original content may rank higher.
  2. User Intent Alignment: Pages that better match what users are searching for could see improvements.
  3. Backlink Quality: Websites with a strong backlink profile from authoritative sources may be rewarded.
  4. Technical SEO Factors: Slow, poorly optimized, or hard-to-navigate sites may struggle.

How to Adapt to the March 2025 Core Update

If you notice ranking changes on your website, don’t panic. Google’s guidance on core updates remains the same: focus on quality content and a great user experience. Here are some steps you can take to adapt:

1. Review Your Content Quality

Google rewards websites that provide valuable, accurate, and in-depth content. Ask yourself:

  • Is my content original and insightful?
  • Does it provide a better answer than competitors?
  • Is it written by an expert in the field?

Consider updating old content, expanding on topics, and ensuring that all information is current and well-supported by credible sources.

2. Improve E-A-T Signals

Google’s emphasis on Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness (E-A-T) continues to grow. You can enhance your site’s credibility by:

  • Clearly displaying author bios and credentials
  • Citing authoritative sources
  • Earning backlinks from reputable websites
  • Strengthening your brand presence online

3. Enhance User Experience (UX)

A smooth, fast, and mobile-friendly site can positively influence rankings. Ensure your website:

  • Loads quickly
  • Is easy to navigate
  • Provides a seamless mobile experience
  • Offers clear, well-structured content

4. Monitor Performance Metrics

Use Google Search Console, Google Analytics, and third-party tools to track changes in traffic, rankings, and engagement. Look for patterns in:

  • Pages that lost rankings
  • Keywords that dropped or gained traction
  • User behavior changes (bounce rate, time on page, etc.)

5. Stay Updated with Google Announcements

Google often provides additional insights after a core update rolls out. Stay informed by following:

  • Google’s Search Central Blog
  • Industry news sources like Search Engine Journal and SEMrush
  • SEO communities and discussions

What to Do If Your Rankings Drop

If your website experiences a decline in rankings after the March 2025 Core Update, it’s essential to take a strategic approach rather than making knee-jerk changes. Here’s what you can do:

  1. Analyze What Changed – Identify which pages and keywords were affected.
  2. Compare Against Competitors – See what top-ranking sites are doing differently.
  3. Audit Content and SEO – Ensure your content is up to date, well-structured, and optimized.
  4. Seek Professional Insights – Consulting with SEO experts can help diagnose potential issues and opportunities.

Previous core updates. The first core update of 2024 – the March 2024 core update – was the largest core update ever, according to Google. It started March 5 and completed 45 days later on April 19.

Here’s a timeline and our coverage of recent core updates:

Final Thoughts

Google’s March 2025 Core Update is another step in the company’s ongoing mission to improve search quality. While ranking shifts can be concerning, the key to long-term SEO success remains the same: create high-quality, user-centric content and ensure a great website experience.

If you’ve been focusing on SEO best practices, this update may even work in your favor. However, if your rankings drop, take the time to assess and improve your content strategy rather than chasing quick fixes. Staying informed and adapting to changes will help you maintain strong visibility in search results moving forward.

As this update continues to roll out, monitor your site’s performance and be prepared to make data-driven adjustments. SEO is an evolving landscape, and those who prioritize quality and relevance will always have the upper hand.