What happens if our SEO rankings drop suddenly — how do I fix that?

If your SEO rankings drop suddenly, it’s crucial to first identify the cause by analysing recent changes in your website, content, and Google’s algorithm updates. Once you pinpoint the issue, you can take corrective measures like updating content, improving technical SEO, or addressing any penalties. Regular monitoring and adjustments can help restore and even improve your rankings.

Why SEO Rankings Matter

SEO rankings are like your website’s heartbeat. When they drop suddenly, it’s a sign that something’s off. For a B2B or SAAS company, a drop in rankings can mean fewer leads and a dip in revenue. Imagine you’ve been ranking on the first page for a key industry term, and suddenly you’re on the third page. Potential clients won’t find you, and your competitors will scoop up those leads.

Your rankings impact visibility, credibility, and ultimately, your bottom line. It’s not just about being seen; it’s about being seen by the right people. When your rankings drop, it’s like losing your spot in the shop window. Customers might not even know you exist anymore.

Steps to Diagnose and Fix the Problem

First, don’t panic. A sudden drop doesn’t mean the end of your online presence. Here’s a straightforward approach to tackle the issue:

• Check for Algorithm Updates: Google rolls out updates regularly. See if your drop coincided with one. This might mean you need to tweak your strategy to align with new rules.

• Analyse Recent Changes: Did you make any changes to your site recently? A new plugin, a redesign, or even a small tweak in your content can impact rankings.

• Review Your Content: Ensure your content is still relevant and valuable. Outdated or thin content can hurt your rankings. Freshen things up if needed.

• Technical SEO Audit: Check for technical issues like broken links, slow page load times, or mobile usability problems. These can all affect your rankings.

• Look for Penalties: Google can penalise sites for various reasons, including spammy backlinks or keyword stuffing. Use Google Search Console to check for any manual actions.

Once you’ve identified the cause, take action. Update your content, fix technical issues, or reconsider your link-building strategy. If things still seem off, consider consulting with an seo optimisation expert to get a fresh perspective.

Keep Your Cool and Stay Proactive

SEO isn’t a set-and-forget game. It’s like gardening. Regular care and attention are needed. Rankings can drop for many reasons, some out of your control. The key is to stay informed and adaptable.

Sometimes, it’s about playing the long game. Quick fixes aren’t always the best solutions. Focus on creating valuable content, building genuine relationships for backlinks, and maintaining a technically sound website. These are the foundations of good SEO.

Remember, even the best sites experience fluctuations. It’s part of the digital landscape. Keep your cool, stay proactive, and you’ll navigate through it. Your rankings will thank you.