![\"Google\u2019s](\"https:\/\/www.bruceclay.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/05\/products-800.jpg\")
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On April 8, 2021, Google announced<\/a> a ranking algorithm update aimed at webpages with product reviews. On April 22, Google completed the rollout of the update (though there still could be some lingering effects). Here\u2019s what you need to know.<\/p>\n Google\u2019s product review update rewards webpages with better rankings in its search results that provide useful content on products. Google explains in its announcement:<\/p>\n \u2026 we know people appreciate product reviews that share in-depth research, rather than thin content that simply summarizes a bunch of products. That\u2019s why we\u2019re sharing an improvement to our ranking systems, which we call the product reviews update, that\u2019s designed to better reward such content.<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n Google goes on to say that:<\/p>\n Although this is separate from our regular core updates, the advice that we provide about producing quality content for those is also relevant here. The overall focus is on providing users with content that provides insightful analysis and original research, and is written by experts or enthusiasts who know the topic well.<\/em><\/p><\/blockquote>\n Google\u2019s search liaison, Danny Sullivan, clarified on Twitter what type of product reviews it will impact, including single reviews and roundups:<\/p>\n It looks to improve for all types of product reviews, single reviews or round-ups.<\/em><\/p>\n \u2013Danny Sullivan (@dannysullivan) April 8, 2021<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n Sullivan clarified another question on Twitter as well: Will the update impact service reviews, too? The answer could be yes.<\/p>\n While the focus is on products, service reviews may also benefit from this update.<\/em><\/p>\n \u2013Danny Sullivan (@dannysullivan) April 8, 2021<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n For now, the update only impacts English language reviews, but as with any update, that can change in the future. Sullivan again clarified in a tweet:<\/p>\n There’s no specific timeframe but I imagine when it does, we’d provide guidance about that.<\/em><\/p>\n \u2013Danny Sullivan (@dannysullivan) April 9, 2021<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n Practically speaking, this update will most likely impact product affiliates since most product reviews contain some type of affiliate links. Webpages with \u201cthin content\u201d product reviews will be the most impacted negatively, while product reviews that provide in-depth information will be rewarded.<\/p>\n Search Engine Land published a report<\/a> that showed that while the product review update had a big impact on many, it was not as big of an impact, per se, as a core algorithm update would be. That report has all sorts of interesting charts and data related to who was impacted the most, the ranking outcomes, and more. It is worth a read.<\/p>\n There have been many core algorithm updates but fewer updates specific to a feature or market segment.<\/p>\n I sense that this product review update is designed to discourage affiliate sites that simply state the specifications, add a pretty picture, throw on a few comments from users, and call themselves a review site.<\/p>\n Taken further, thin content could even apply to many of the so-called \u201cbest of\u201d websites.\u00a0Obviously, that would change a lot of things for SEOs. How far the update could go is vague at this time.<\/p>\n While some firms spend a ton (as in millions of dollars) writing reviews of products (such as Edmunds.com and TrailCamPro.com \u2014 neither a current client of ours), they invest heavily and so deserve their rankings.<\/p>\n Personally, I would appreciate seeing thin, slap-it-together content sites vanishing.<\/p>\n My advice is to not rely on user-generated content and weakly acquired review links as your business model.<\/p>\n Google says that the same general advice it gives here<\/a> on content applies to webpages with product reviews as well. That advice includes tips on how to assess quality, expertise, and presentation.<\/p>\n It\u2019s not a bad idea to better understand how to create quality content for \u201cyour money or your life\u201d webpages, too, since products would fall under that category. You can read more about that starting in Section 2.3 of Google\u2019s Search Quality Evaluator Guidelines<\/a>.<\/p>\n In its announcement, Google also linked to a help file on providing better product information for shoppers<\/a> and a list of questions<\/a> to consider when creating your product review content.<\/p>\n So product affiliates beware: If you are going to list product reviews on your website, make sure they are crafted with expertise and quality and are extra helpful in assisting potential customers to make an informed decision.<\/p>\n Need assistance in understanding how to rank in Google? We provide a variety of SEO consulting and services to meet each client\u2019s specific needs. Contact us<\/a> for a free consultation.<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n Google’s recent Product Review Algorithm Update has sparked curiosity among digital marketers and website owners. Google’s algorithms have been enhanced to more accurately assess product reviews appearing in search results, providing users with more reliable and precise information. This update should improve the relevance and quality of product reviews appearing in search results.<\/p>\n Examine its key elements carefully to fully grasp how this update will alter product review search results. The update prioritizes in-depth and insightful content over shallow or promotional reviews. This means that product review articles that offer comprehensive information, such as hands-on experiences, detailed comparisons, and unbiased analysis, are more likely to secure higher rankings.<\/p>\n Furthermore, the update emphasizes the importance of expert authorship and credibility. Product review articles authored by recognized experts or enthusiasts with a history of delivering reliable content are favored. Google’s algorithms now consider the reputation of the content creator, adding a layer of authenticity to the evaluation process.<\/p>\n Website owners and content creators can leverage this algorithm update by focusing on several key strategies. First, crafting in-depth and experiential product reviews that provide value beyond what can be found on manufacturer websites is essential. Incorporating real-world usage scenarios, highlighting pros and cons, and including original images or videos can significantly enhance content quality.<\/p>\n Second, emphasizing the author’s expertise through clear author profiles and relevant credentials can boost a review’s credibility. Building a reputation as a trustworthy source within a specific niche can positively impact search result rankings.<\/p>\n Google’s Product Review Algorithm Update shifts toward more informative and reliable product review content in search results. By adapting to the update’s criteria and aligning with user intent, businesses can strengthen their online presence and establish themselves as authorities in their respective domains.<\/p>\n Step-by-Step Procedure: Navigating the Impact of Google’s Product Review Algorithm Update on Search Result Rankings<\/strong><\/p>\n On April 22, Google completed a ranking algorithm update aimed at webpages with product reviews. Learn how this impacts search results and what you need to know to get rewarded with better rankings.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":35,"featured_media":96726,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"content-type":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[1748,1695,1750,1749,1232],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n
<\/a>Product Review Algorithm Update: What Is It?<\/h2>\n
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<\/a>Product Review Algorithm Update: Who Does It Impact?<\/h2>\n
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Product Review Algorithm Update: My Opinion<\/h2>\n
<\/a>Google: Creating Better Product Review Content<\/h2>\n
<\/a>FAQ: How does the Product Review Algorithm Update by Google impact search result rankings for product reviews?<\/h3>\n
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