Google is constantly updating its algorithm to improve its user experience. In fact, the internet behemoth admits that it makes one or more updates a day to its algorithm. Trying to keep up with them all is practically impossible.
That’s why most businesses focus on the big changes. Every few months, the company releases a large batch of updates that impact how websites rank in search results.
Google algorithm update 2018 is the latest of these, and its one every business needs to pay attention to, both for search engine ranking and marketing purposes.
What to Expect with Google Algorithm Update 2018
The major update this year rolled out in April 2018, and its called a broad core update. These updates are implemented several times over the course of the year.
Some of the major changes for this year include:
- Search engine snippets nearly doubling its size to 300 characters
- Favor being shown to mobile-friendly websites
- Favor being shown to sites with credibility, such as quality content and valid backlinks
- An increase in the use of structured data
Overall, the latest broad update focuses on relevance.
Some websites may find major spikes or drops in their website rankings as a result of these changes. If your site already fits the algorithm’s expectations, then this may not be a reflection of your own site so much as the fluctuation of other websites who were either ranking too high or too low before.
The main thing to keep in mind is this: Does your website provide quality content to the user’s inquiry that is easy and safe to navigate?
How to Prepare Your Site
Unlike some updates, the steps to prepare for this update are fairly straightforward. Most of it is geared toward makings your website easier to browse on mobile devices.
This includes:
- Make sure your website is mobile-friendly
- Increase your site’s loading speed
- Ensure your site’s security with an SSL
Today, almost 60 percent of Google searches are conducted on a mobile device, making it the dominant search method. To maintain a high level of useful results, Google is adapting its algorithm to favor websites that are safe and easy to use through these devices.
Making sure your website loads quickly, is easy to navigate on a small touchscreen, and protects users’ safety with an SSL certificate will put you in a favorable light with Google’s algorithm.
However, it’s important to note that it takes more than an efficient site design to rank in Google. Quality content that answers the needs behind key search phrases is also essential.
Pairing these methods together will help your target audience find you online.
Turn Your Website into a Conversion Tool
Google algorithm update 2018 isn’t the only change to pay attention to as you unfurl your digital strategy. Your website is a powerful conversion tool when you use it properly.
The question is whether you’re getting the most out of yours? Talk to us about how you can take the reins on your marketing campaign and improve your conversions.