If you’ve recently experienced a sudden dip in traffic or rankings, you’re not alone. Google’s core algorithm updates have long sent shockwaves through the search engine results pages (SERPs) and the latest March 2025 update is no exception.
At eCommerce Expert, we work with ambitious online brands every day and one of the most common pain points we’re hearing right now is: “Why has my organic traffic dropped and how do I get it back?”
The truth is, Google’s core updates aren’t penalties. They’re refinements, adjustments to improve how search results are ranked and how helpful content is surfaced. If your site is affected, it likely means that other content is now seen as more relevant or valuable.
Here’s our no-nonsense recovery guide tailored specifically for eCommerce businesses who want to bounce back, stronger and smarter.
1. Understand the Purpose Behind Google’s Core Updates
Each core update refines how Google evaluates content quality, trustworthiness and relevance. While not directly targeting your site, these updates can cause significant fluctuations.
What this means for eCommerce sites:
If your product pages, blogs, or service landing pages have taken a hit, it’s likely because Google now sees other content as more helpful or aligned with user intent.
Takeaway: Don’t panic. Reframe the situation as a nudge to review and improve your content.
2. Review Your Site Through the Lens of “Helpful Content”
Google’s Helpful Content System prioritises content that is:
– Written by people, for people
– Demonstrably trustworthy
– Expert-led and insightful
– Clearly answers user intent
For eCommerce sites, this means:
– Product descriptions should be unique and informative, not copied from suppliers
– Blogs should offer real advice, insight, or buying guides, not AI spun fluff
– About Us, FAQs, and customer service content should be up to date and genuinely useful
Ask yourself
Does my site demonstrate first-hand experience with the products?
Am I offering expertise that builds confidence and trust?
Is my content clearly tailored to human visitors, not just Google bots?
3. Audit Content Quality and Improve Existing Assets
In the wake of a ranking drop, many rush to publish new content. But unless that content is better than what’s already out there, you’re just adding noise.
Start with a content audit;
– Identify underperforming pages
– Compare them against competitors now ranking higher
– Assess depth, originality, E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trust)
Then make smart decisions:
– Update or expand thin content
– Combine overlapping or weak pages
– Remove outdated content that’s dragging your overall quality score down
4. Focus on Topical Authority and User Experience
Google is increasingly rewarding niche expertise and cohesive site structures. A site that’s clearly focused on a topic and demonstrates knowledge across multiple angles performs better.
For example, if you sell luxury candles:
– Blog about scent psychology, home decor trends, and candle care
– Include customer reviews, video demos, and usage tips on product pages
– Build internal links between collections, blogs, and support pages
Also, review UX factors:
– Fast load speeds
– Mobile responsiveness
– Clean design and intuitive navigation
– Fewer intrusive popups or ad clutter
5. Avoid Black-Hat Tactics and Expired Domain Tricks
Google’s algorithm is smarter than ever. If you’ve been relying on
– Private blog networks (PBNs)
– Spammy backlinks
– Expired domains repurposed for SEO gains
…those tactics are more likely to hurt than help you post update.
Instead, invest in long term strategies
– Digital PR
– Collaborations with influencers
– Guest posts on relevant industry blogs
– Genuinely useful and shareable content
6. Monitor, Refine, and Be Patient
Recovery from a core update doesn’t happen overnight. Google typically rolls out adjustments over several weeks.
Keep an eye on:
– Google Search Console
– Keyword movement via tools like Semrush or Ahrefs
– Engagement metrics such as bounce rate, dwell time and conversions
Keep refining, improving and most importantly keep creating value for your users
Final Thoughts from Myk
Recovering from a Google core update can feel like a daunting task but it’s also an opportunity. It’s a signal to re-focus your digital strategy, strengthen your brand, and deliver the kind of eCommerce experience that both users and Google love.
At eCommerce Expert, we work with online retailers and service providers who are serious about growth. Whether you’re looking to improve your SEO, audit your content, or future-proof your website, we’re here to help.Book a free consultation today with Myk or one of the team on 01325 939 838 and let’s get your rankings and revenue back on track.
The post How to Recover from a Google Core Update: A Guide for eCommerce Websites appeared first on eCommerce Expert.
