Navigating the March 2025 Google Core Update: What You Need to Know

Google’s March 2025 Broad Core Algorithm Update is here, and with it comes another shift in how websites are ranked.

As with most core updates, this one focuses on refining Google’s ability to deliver high-quality, reliable search results. If you’ve noticed a decline in rankings and traffic, it’s likely not due to technical errors. Instead, it’s probably because SEO tactics that once worked effectively no longer have the same impact.

So, what should life science companies and marketing teams know about this latest update? Let’s break it down.

If you missed it, check out our blog on the November 2024 Broad Core Update

What’s Behind the Update?

Core updates often adjust Google’s core ranking systems, improving how the search engine assesses content relevance and trustworthiness. This update appears to be influenced by the latest changes to Google’s Quality Rater Guidelines (QRG). When the QRG is updated, Google’s machine learning models learn from the new guidelines and fine-tune how they evaluate search results.

Following recent QRG updates, we’re likely to see algorithmic changes that address:

• Filler Content Penalties: Sites with excessive filler content before the main content may see a drop in rankings. Google is prioritizing pages that provide immediate, high-value information.

• Scaled Content Fatigue: Mass-producing content at scale, especially with limited value, is becoming less effective.

• AI-Generated Content Impact: AI content generated at scale without sufficient human oversight may be deprioritized.

• Expired Domains for SEO Gains: Sites using expired domains purely for SEO advantages may see diminished results.

• Site Reputation Abuse Enforcement: Google may take stronger action against sites exploiting their domain authority by hosting low-quality content.

How to Adapt and Protect Your Rankings

If you’re seeing declines in rankings or traffic, now is the time to evaluate and refine your content strategy. Here are some actionable steps to stay competitive:

1. Prioritize High-Quality, Original Content

Focus on creating content that offers real value to your target audience. Avoid relying too heavily on AI-generated content, and ensure that human oversight enhances quality and context.

2. Get to the Point Faster

Avoid excessive introductions or filler content before addressing the user’s query. Structure your content to provide answers quickly while maintaining depth and relevance.

3. Limit Scaled Content and Focus on Intent

Producing high volumes of content might not drive results if it lacks depth or authority. Shift your strategy to creating targeted, high-impact content aligned with user intent.

4. Review and Refine AI-Generated Content

If you’re leveraging AI for content creation, ensure the content is reviewed and refined to meet high editorial standards. Add unique insights or perspectives to make it more valuable.

5. Audit Your Domain Strategy

If you’ve acquired expired domains for SEO purposes, reassess whether they’re adding real value. Google’s updated systems may penalize sites using this tactic solely for ranking advantages.

6. Protect Your Site’s Reputation

Ensure that all hosted content aligns with your brand’s authority and expertise. Avoid tactics that exploit your site’s domain strength by publishing low-value content.

Stay Ahead of Algorithm Changes

As always, core updates are a reminder that SEO is a moving target. Keeping pace with algorithm shifts means continuously refining your content strategy and aligning it with Google’s evolving quality standards.

Need help navigating SEO changes? Our team at Forma specializes in helping life science companies stay competitive in an ever-changing digital landscape. Get in touch to explore how we can optimize your content and strengthen your rankings.