Faster website page speed skyrocketed last week to essential with Google’s recent mobile-first announcement. Page speed is how fast content on your website page loads. Fast sites are “mobile friendly” and Google gives them the search action.
The Internet search giant is transitioning its search algorithm to mobile-first to meet the needs of the growing number of mobile device searches. Top search position will be based on mobile content and page load time—even for desktop users. What does this mean for how you appear in search results?
Most Sites Require Mobile-First Indexing Analysis
Mobile speed is a major SEO signal in Google’s mobile-first algorithm. Google says it has started indexing contenton your mobile site first. If you don’t have a mobile site or one with limited content, the algorithm will assess your desktop site. Some of the factors that affect site load time are:
- The overall content size of the site
- Programming language
- Number and complexity of programming plugins
- Type and amount of site content
- Media files such as videos and podcasts
- Uncompressed images on pages
- Server speed where the website resides
Experts also expect Google’s algorithm to continue to look at page redirects, page URLs and website content. Content will continue to be matched to keywords as Google strives to enhance user experience in search results.
Is Your Website Affected by Google’s Mobile-First?
Step one… have your site speed tested today!
Some of the vital content for cosmetic specialists and other doctors can negatively affect page speed. Key marketing page content such as videos, before & after photos, pictures, etc. slow your site. Slow load times translate to a poor experience for users. In addition, it can demote your position in Google search results.
Most cosmetic specialists and medical spa websites will require programming the site to improve or even maintain a good speed index for the best search positions in Google’s mobile-first indexing. Have you seen any of the following issues?
- Have you noticed that you’re losing position in Google search results?
- Has the volume of Internet leads dropped this year vs. last year?
- Do reports from your SEO provider show higher bounce rates for some of your website pages?
If you answered yes to any of the above questions, ask PUMC for a free speed test analysis of your website and top 10 search positions that you specify.
Regardless of how you measure your website’s results, faster page load speed is essential. And, it’s critical in Google’s mobile-first indexing. If your website speed doesn’t measure up to competition, find out where you really stand.