Dofollow Digest #35: What actually worked in Google's June update

Hey, it's Eric 👋

Google's June 2025 core update just wrapped up after 16+ days of rollout, and the results might surprise you. While some sites saw big swings, the winners had one thing in common that validates everything we've been saying about sustainable SEO.

I've been analyzing the data since July 17th, and there's a clear pattern emerging that SaaS companies need to understand. It's not about avoiding AI or programmatic content; it's about building the right foundation from day one.

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🔍 DEEP DIVE: What Actually Worked in Google's June Update

Google's June 2025 core update finished rolling out this week after 16+ days. Barry Schwartz reported some partial recoveries from the September 2023 helpful content update, with heavy volatility between July 11-14.

When you look at which sites gained ground versus which lost it, a few patterns emerge.

Content That Actually Helps Users

Sites that gained visibility had content that solved real problems. Integration pages with actual setup instructions, industry guides that addressed compliance concerns, feature comparisons based on real product capabilities.

Many of these winning pages used AI and automation in their creation. They just used it to scale genuine value rather than keyword targeting. Google doesn't care how content is created—they care whether it helps users accomplish their goals.

Authority Through Expertise

Sites that maintained stability had built genuine authority over time. Not just through content volume, but by demonstrating real expertise. Customer success stories, detailed product knowledge, and industry-specific insights that only come from actually serving these markets.

This matters for SaaS companies. Your product data, customer examples, and implementation experience create content advantages that competitors can't easily replicate. When you leverage these assets systematically, you build authority that weathers algorithm changes.

Technical Basics Still Matter

Sites with poor technical foundations got hit harder, regardless of content quality. Fast loading times, mobile optimization, and clean site architecture weren't special—they were required for maintaining visibility.

What This Means

This update shows Google's getting better at identifying content that genuinely serves users versus content that exists primarily for search rankings.

For SaaS companies, this is good news. While others worry about algorithm changes, you can focus on what you do best: solving customer problems and demonstrating product value. When that expertise is incorporated into your content strategy, you're building sustainable, organic growth.

🔗 LINK ROUNDUP

• Share of Search: How to Calculate, Use, And Improve It

• 34 Inbound Link Building Strategies to Help Your Site Rank Higher

• Google Says It Is 20 Times Better At Catching Scams In Google Search

• ChatGPT Search Ranking Products & Merchants

Til next time,

Eric