While browsing internet on mobiles some of us might be feeling difficult to navigate through the screen. As more and more people are browsing internet from mobile Google has recently changed its algorithm to make sure that proper websites having content accessible to be visible on Google search results page. These website found via the Google results will be easy to read also.
If a website is not loading properly on a mobile visitors usually close the window or go back to the previous page. And Google has confirmed that users who have abandoned such websites used to visit mobile friendly websites.
Google has earlier warned webmasters to create websites that are easy to read on different mobile devices and easy to navigate. Earlier this year there were badges coming up on search engine results page to show that the website will be mobile friendly. And last month a major update came from Google which gave emphasis to mobile friendly websites while people search on internet.
While there are many other signals Google value while taking into consideration of ranking results mobile friendliness has become the primary criteria for getting high rank for websites. It has also been said about mobile friendly websites that the bounce rates are much lower for such websites.
There is a tool provided by Google to check the mobile friendliness which can be used by webmasters for checking the ranking factors. Even if the website is not ranking high after redesign process to make it mobile friendly can increase the ranking on Google.
Here are some best practices to follow to optimize your website for mobile devices:
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Responsive Web Design
Ensure your website is mobile-friendly and responsive. This means it adapts and displays properly on various screen sizes and devices. Responsive design helps provide a consistent user experience across different mobile devices.
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Mobile Page Speed
Optimize your website’s loading speed for mobile devices. Mobile users have less patience for slow-loading pages, so consider minimizing file sizes, optimizing images, leveraging browser caching, and reducing server response time to improve mobile page speed.
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Mobile-Friendly Navigation
Make sure your website’s navigation is user-friendly on mobile devices. Use a simple and intuitive menu structure that is easy to navigate with a touch interface. Avoid complex dropdown menus or tiny links that are difficult to tap accurately.
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Optimize Content for Mobile
Format your content to be easily readable on mobile devices. Use legible font sizes, proper line spacing, and clear headings. Break up long paragraphs into smaller sections, and consider using bullet points or lists to improve readability.
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Accelerated Mobile Pages (AMP)
Consider implementing Accelerated Mobile Pages, which are lightweight versions of web pages designed for fast loading on mobile devices. AMP can significantly improve mobile page speed and may receive preferential treatment in mobile search results.
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Mobile-Friendly Pop-ups
If you use pop-ups or interstitials on your website, ensure they are mobile-friendly. Google penalizes intrusive pop-ups that hinder the user experience on mobile devices. Use smaller and less obtrusive formats or ensure they are easily dismissible.
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Optimize Metadata and Titles
Write concise and compelling meta descriptions and page titles that are optimized for mobile search. Keep in mind that mobile search results have limited space, so make your titles and descriptions concise yet informative.
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Mobile-Specific Keywords
Research and target mobile-specific keywords that users are likely to search for on their mobile devices. Mobile search behavior can differ from desktop search, so optimize your content to align with mobile users’ intent and queries.
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Local SEO for Mobile
If your website serves a local audience, optimize it for local mobile search. Include your business address, phone number, and other relevant local information. Utilize Google My Business and other local directories to enhance your local mobile presence.
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Mobile Usability Testing
Regularly test your website on various mobile devices and screen sizes to identify any usability issues. User experience is crucial for mobile ranking, so gather feedback and make improvements to ensure a smooth and user-friendly mobile experience.
By implementing these mobile optimization strategies, you can improve your website’s visibility and ranking on mobile devices in Google search results.