For the first time in over a year, Google has officially confirmed the latest Penguin update– Penguin 3.0, which was expected later this month. Google confirmed the release of the new update on the Penguin filter last Friday. John Mueller announced the new algorithm rollout was completed as of Monday, October 20th. The Penguin algorithm specifically targets websites that violate Google’s guidelines for links. The new update will further strengthen Google’s mission to weed out spammy websites.
Although Google has yet to release the full details pertaining to the latest version of the algorithm, website owners are already seeing the results of probably the most anticipated algorithm update. According to Strange Data, website owners are reporting drastic increases or decreases in ranking, while others are seeing no change at all. However, one thing is for certain, this Penguin update is very different than it’s predecessors. It appears Penguin 3.0 may be eluding SEO volatility tools.
Google Penguin 3 Update
Surviving Penguin 3.0
With the full details yet to be released, the algorithm update is guaranteed to be more sophisticated at eliminating and penalizing unnatural links when compared to the previous Penguin updates. As Google confirms the release will cause a bit of turbulence, it remains unknown just how extensive the shake up will be.
So far, it’s speculated only those who are serious algorithm offenders will be penalized by the new update; therefore, if you weren’t hit by Penguin 1.0 or 2.0, you shouldn’t have much to worry about. However, keep any eye on your organic search traffic to monitor for any changes. If you’ve noticed a large decrease in ranking over the past weekend, you’ve probably been hit by the update.
Recovering from Penguin 3.0
If you’ve spotted a decrease in ranking, you need to start taking the necessary steps to recover from the algorithm update, but recovery won’t happen overnight. To begin the process, identify the bad links on your website with Google Webmaster Tools. These bad links can include: links on article directories, link farms, direct paid links, irrelevant forum links, unspecific industry links, and spammy anchor texts.
After you’ve identified the bad links, begin removing them by reaching out to the links’ webmasters or use Google’s Disavow Tool if the webmasters don‘t respond. If you receive a manual penalty from Google, you’ll also need to file a reconsideration request with Google.
Finally, reassess your strategy to prevent any future penalties and to rebuild your credibility with Google. This involves spending more time focusing on a quality website to attract good links and not focusing as much on building links. Think of your website like a magnet and what you can do to attract quality links naturally.
Many don’t believe to see a long drawn out penalty process. Instead, it’s expected to be quick. If you haven’t noticed any change already and continue not to notice a change over the next several days, you’re probably safe from any aftermath of the new update. However, take the necessary steps to continue to maintain a solid and positive link profile to prepare for future updates.
Work Cited
- Google Releases Penguin 3.0 — First Penguin Update In Over A Year. Barry Schwartz, SEL. Oct 19, 2014
- Google Confirms Penguin 3.0 Update, Here’s The Reaction So Far. Matt Southern, SEJ.
