How to Optimize Websites for Google’s Mobile-First Index Update

Written By

True Digital Communications

In 2017, mobile internet usage crossed 50% in more than 60 countries for the first time in history. In response to the growth of mobile, Google is changing the way it indexes and ranks web pages through its mobile-first index update. Now, Google rewards websites that are optimized for mobile user experience.

Following the update, pages failing to pass Google’s mobile-friendly test are weighted and ranked lower – meaning that the pages will appear lower in the search engine results. True Digital Communications, a Worldcom partner, offers five tips to prepare for the Google mobile-first index:

Think Mobile-First

Google is getting better and better at understanding the human experience. For people accessing pages on mobile devices with smaller screens, every element of design and user experience will count. Good user experience (UX) is marked by faster page load time, simplified navigation and a site that draws users to convert.

Improve Page Load Times

As noted, good user experience is enhanced by short page load times. If a mobile site doesn’t render quickly, users move on – and Google takes note. In fact, Google cautions that a mobile site shouldn’t take more than three seconds to load.

Google is has a technology called AMP Pages (accelerated mobile pages) that improve page speed and user experience. Most advertisers use AMP for Adwords. However, the project indicates it’s imperative to proactively make efforts to improve mobile site rendering.

Verify and Test with Google

While simple navigation and easy-to-use interfaces will improve your page scoring, you may be missing other details that Google is considering in its algorithm. You can check whether your mobile site is verified as a separate property in the Google Search Console with the Google Mobile Testing tool. The tool will verify and check your website and offer insights for improvement.

Gain more insights on the Google mobile-first index update on how to improve your website from True Digital Communications.

True Digital Communications is a digital marketing firm founded in 2011 with a team of senior marketing professionals. Located in Bedford Heights, Ohio, outside of Cleveland, True focuses on data-driven strategies to produce results, effectively connecting your world online and off. True starts with business goals and uses tools like social media, online advertising, website experience and optimization to effectively reach and engage audiences and produce measurable results.