A reconsideration request is a formal appeal submitted to Google (or other search engines) asking them to review and reconsider penalties or actions taken against a website. This typically happens when a website violates Google’s Webmaster Guidelines, such as using spammy tactics or engaging in practices that manipulate search rankings. If a site is penalized, it may lose visibility in search results, and a reconsideration request is a way to ask Google to reevaluate the site after the issues have been fixed.
Key Features of a Reconsideration Request:
- Formal Appeal: It is a written request submitted through Google Search Console.
- Penalty Resolution: It is used to address manual actions (penalties) imposed by Google.
- Problem-Solving: It requires identifying and fixing the issues that caused the penalty before submitting the request.
Why Is a Reconsideration Request Important?
- Restores Rankings: If successful, it can help a website regain its position in search results.
- Fixes Violations: It forces website owners to address issues like spammy links, thin content, or other guideline violations.
- Improves Site Health: Resolving penalties often leads to a cleaner, more user-friendly website.
When Should You Submit a Reconsideration Request?
- Manual Penalty: When Google has notified you of a manual action in Google Search Console.
- Fixing Issues: After you have identified and resolved the problems that caused the penalty.
- No Automatic Recovery: If your site hasn’t recovered automatically after fixing the issues.
How to Submit a Reconsideration Request
- Identify the Problem: Check Google Search Console for details about the manual action and the specific issues.
- Fix the Issues: Address all violations, such as removing spammy backlinks, improving content, or fixing technical errors.
- Document Your Efforts: Keep a record of the steps you took to resolve the issues.
- Write the Request: In Google Search Console, go to the “Manual Actions” section and submit a detailed request explaining:
- What issues were found.
- How you fixed them.
- Why your site now complies with Google’s guidelines.
- Submit and Wait: After submitting, wait for Google’s response, which can take days or weeks.
Tips for a Successful Reconsideration Request
- Be Honest: Clearly explain the issues and how you resolved them.
- Be Thorough: Fix all problems before submitting the request.
- Provide Evidence: Include screenshots, logs, or other proof of your efforts.
- Avoid Spammy Tactics: Ensure your site no longer engages in practices that violate Google’s guidelines.
Summary
- Definition: A reconsideration request is a formal appeal to Google to review and lift a penalty imposed on a website.
- Purpose: It helps restore search rankings by addressing violations of Google’s Webmaster Guidelines.
- When to Submit: After identifying and fixing the issues that caused the penalty.
- How to Submit: Through Google Search Console, with a detailed explanation of the fixes.