Google has finally started to make moves on their Mobile First Index. But what does this mean for your website? We explore what you should do to prepare.
What is Google’s Mobile Index?
The Mobile Index First is a change in the way Google will rank the content on your website in search results.
Currently Google uses the desktop version of your website to know where to rank it in search results and applies that to search results on mobile devices. The new Mobile Index will look at the mobile version of your website and use that as its primary search index.
Why are Google doing this?
Google say they’re making the change to be able to provide mobile users with better quality content and experience when searching for information on mobile versions of a website.
With some studies suggesting up to 55 percent of all traffic is coming from a mobile device, it makes perfect sense for Google to concentrate their attention on this.
How will it affect your website?
If your website isn’t optimised for mobile, doesn’t display the same content on desktop as mobile or doesn’t function very well on mobile then you’re likely to see changes in your search engine rankings on both mobile and desktop.
What can you do to prepare for it?
It’s very important your website is responsive and ready to be Mobile Index First friendly. This requires optimisation and for older websites, major updating to the structure and layout of how your website works.
When is this change going to take place?
All we know is it will be soon. Google are known for not giving dates for any new releases or changes to their algorithms. Therefore, it’s recommended your website is mobile friendly as soon as possible to help minimise any drop in search rankings.
How will you know it’s happening?
Your SEO company should actively report on your search results positioning on the keywords you’re looking to rank. Fluctuations are always expected when these types of changes go through, and your SEO company should be able to highlight these to you as well as proactively prepare your website.
Additionally, you may also notice less referrals or leads coming through via your website, a strong indication your rankings have changed.
Do you not have an SEO company looking after your website? Do you want to be Mobile First Index ready? Get in touch with Team Organic today and we’ll get you set up and ready!
