Hi Marc,
The fluctuations in organic traffic you're observing on your client's website can indeed be perplexing, and it's important to investigate the possible causes. I've seen your attached screenshot, I can provide some insights into potential reasons for such patterns.
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Algorithm Updates: Google frequently updates its search algorithms, and these updates can have a significant impact on organic traffic. It's possible that your client's website was affected by an algorithm update that led to the initial drop in traffic. Subsequent recoveries may be due to adjustments made to the site's content or SEO strategy to align better with the new algorithm's requirements.
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Seasonal Trends: Some industries and websites experience seasonal fluctuations in traffic. For example, e-commerce sites often see increased traffic during the holiday season. If your client's website is in an industry with seasonal trends, this could explain the recurring patterns you're observing.
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Technical Issues: It's crucial to rule out any technical issues with the website, such as server downtime, broken links, or changes in the site's structure that might have occurred coincidentally. These technical issues can cause temporary drops in traffic.
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Competitive Factors: Changes in the competitive landscape can also impact organic traffic. If competitors have made significant SEO improvements or launched marketing campaigns, it could affect your client's rankings and traffic.
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Data Anomalies: While less common, data glitches or reporting errors can occur in analytics tools. It's essential to ensure that the data you're analysing is accurate. Verify if other analytics platforms or sources show similar trends.
To determine the cause of these traffic fluctuations, I recommend conducting a thorough SEO audit, including:
- Reviewing the website's technical health.
- Analyzing changes in content and backlinks.
- Monitoring Google Search Console for any messages or warnings.
- Checking for any recent algorithm updates from Google.
Additionally, consider tracking specific keyword rankings and engagement metrics to identify which pages or keywords may be affected the most.
In many cases, traffic fluctuations are part of the dynamic nature of SEO, and recovery can be achieved through strategic adjustments to your SEO approach. If the issue persists, it might be beneficial to consult with an experienced SEO professional who can provide tailored guidance based on a deeper analysis of your client's website and industry.
Remember that SEO is an ongoing process, and staying vigilant and adaptable to changes is essential for long-term success.
Best regards,
Rehman K.