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By now, you may have heard "Mobilegeddon" mentioned once or twice in mainstream media and wondering how, if at all Google's new algorithm favoring mobile-friendly websites is something you need to worry about. If you have a website, it is.
I covered "Mobilegeddon" in a recent podcast, but wanted to share my tips here too. So, what did Google do? And why does it matter?
Google launched an algorithm favoring mobile-friendly websites because it wants consumers to "find content that's not only relevant and timely, but also easy to read and interact with on smaller mobile screens."
Essentially, consumer behavior trends are all pivoting toward a preference for search via mobile device. Google's tapped into that behavior and so the search giant is pivoting too. This matters because Google has 65% of the marketshare. Everybody uses Google and businesses both big and small rely on its search traffic. So we need to follow their mandate.
According to USA TODAY, “'Mobilegeddon' could be bad news for 40% of top websites.” Which means the average Joe and Jane business owner better take steps too. Here's how:
1. If you have one, call your web team. They'll tell you whether or not you need to worry about this and necessary steps to take if you do.
2. Test your site using Google's free mobile-friendly testing tool. If you pass, you're done. If you don't pass, follow the steps on the diagnostic they give you.
3. Call your platform customer service number (or Tweet them for a faster response) and have them point you to platform-specific step-by-step solutions. They may already have something on their website. I'm talking about web platforms like Wordpress or Weebly, for example.
4. Be prepared to upgrade or flip a few switches. If you have a website that was built more than a year ago, chances are you'll either need to upgrade to a new template/design or service. You would have addressed this already with your web team (see step 1) but if you're no longer using that team or ready for a jump, consider exploring mobile-friendly, user-friendly platforms like the two I mentioned above. Wix is another great web platform. Most "pro" versions rely on a monthly subscription for a nominal fee and offer templates with mobile optimization built right in.
5. If you don't have experience in this area, consider a consultant who can point you in the right direction so you don't lose traffic. Consider this a wake up all to that outdated website you've been shoving under the bed. It's time to optimize.
This should get your website on its way to mobile optimization. The good news is reviews on places like Yelp and Trip Advisor are also incredibly powerful - Yelp, especially, and Google will continue to recognize them. Social media too. Thank goodness.
Note: The algorithm won't impact desktop-related searches.
Jessica Payne is the founder of STRATEGY FOR IMPACT LLC, a brand strategy, digital marketing and coaching advisory in Los Angeles. Visitwww.strategyforimpact.com for ways to elevate your business and personal brand.
Image: sodahead.org
