In 2018, Google will be implementing major changes to their algorithms. You need to understand what these changes are and how they will impact your business, to ensure that your SEO strategies continue to get results. If you want to get onto the first page of Google search results, here are the changes you need to know about.
What is mobile-first indexing and how does it affect me?
Smartphones have transformed the way we search and access information and have become the dominant platform for online searches. To accommodate this change, Google will be prioritising mobile websites over the standard desktop format. If you only have a desktop website, Google will still index you, but it will mean your ranking will be de-prioritised. This means you will be ranked lower than competitors with effective and responsive mobile websites.
Optimising the mobile version of your site will be extremely beneficial for your business, especially once these changes are implemented. Your mobile website should be just as responsive as the desktop version. We need to ensure that all your content, including your images are optimised properly for mobile users and that page loading speed is under three seconds. It’s important that we make these changes ahead of the Google updates slated for mid this year.
What is search intent and how can I use it to improve my rankings?
Search intent is about the reason why a person makes a search. For example, if someone searches turf supplies, are they after a supplier of turf, or are they looking for supplies to maintain their lawns? Google wants to provide the most relevant search results and they are looking to match it with their search intent.
What this means for business owners, is that content must be optimised both key phrases AND the search intent of your audience. We need to identify who is typing in your key phrases and what are they looking for? If we can provide them with a landing page to respond to their search intentions, then we can also offer information that will convince them to order your product or to enquire about your service.
What is user experience and how will it improve my website?
The user experience is about how the website feels (for example, how fast is it and how easy is it to use?), how it leads the user to their intended action (such as ordering and paying for a product) and how meaningful and engaging the content is. It’s about the overall experience of the person using your website.
Google favours websites that are fast, easy-to-use and engaging for users, in other words, you need to eliminate any possible reason for a customer to leave your website. By creating a practical, simple to use and efficient site with clearly written and engaging content, Google award your website higher rankings over competitors who don’t.
At FX Web Studio, we understand that these changes will have a considerable impact on many businesses. To ensure your website is ready for the changes ahead, call us on 1300 090 401 to find out we can optimise your website and help you stay ahead of the competition!
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