Mobile First Indexing and Voice Searching: Is Your Business Ready?

Historically businesses have focused primarily on the desktop version of their website. The desktop version was considered the primary version by Google and other search engines; it was the fullest, most complete version of your site. The desktop website had the highest quality video and graphics and the most comprehensive and detailed information. However, the times, as they say, are a-changin’. Google has recently announced that it is in the process of making the mobile website version the primary version for search and indexing purposes. The shift to mobile-first indexing is still in its early stages but ultimately it is going to have a profound impact, and as a small business owner you need to be aware of these changes and what it means for your presence on the Web.

Phone Experience First But The Need For Quality Is Still There

Now it is important to realize that some things will not be changing, the shift to emphasizing the mobile website doesn’t change the need for good web design or for you to have a secure site that uses the HTTPS protocol and so much more. Ease of use will still be critical whether we are talking about a mobile or desktop site. Nevertheless, the way your site interacts with the end user from a phone will now be the primary consideration that Google will use to determine search rankings.

Mobile-First Indexing Means Mobile Matters First

If you don’t have a mobile version of your website, it will still appear in search results, but it may be moved down toward the bottom of the results list, costing you in exposure and ultimately having a negative impact on your bottom line! Important factors to consider in the design of your mobile site include; accessibility, load times, image rendering and content layout. Your mobile site will need to include and reflect 100% of the content that is on your desktop site since the mobile version will now be indexed first.

Voice Search is Dominating Be Aware

Another change that is in the offing is the growing importance of voice-based searching from your phone or other mobile devices. Google home and Alexa are having an impact in this area, so it becomes more critical than ever that your SEO will pick up on these voice commands. For example, if someone says, “Best Thai Food Near Me” you want to make sure that your site is designed properly to pick up on that command and let the search engine know you are the right choice. Keywords will need to use more of a “long-tailed” approach rather than just focusing on one particular business topic. You need to have a strong SEO optimized for your local geography, including your name, phone number, and address. After all, you want to make it as easy as possible for potential customers to find you when they are using voice commands. Finally, keep in mind that you are not alone! CTI is here to help you navigate the ever-changing and evolving online marketplace. Let us help ensure you are mobile friendly and get your business off to a strong start in 2018.