3 Things to Know About Google’s “Mobile May” Update

First, there was Mobilegeddon, now there’s Mobile May. If you aren’t already familiar, that’s the nickname that has become attached to Google’s latest algorithm update, which will further incorporate mobile compatibility into search results.

Or, to put it another way, it’s yet another wake-up call that you can’t afford to ignore the growing majority of mobile web users if you plan to be even remotely competitive in Internet marketing.

To look at things in a little bit more detail, here are three things every business owner or marketer should know about Google’s Mobile May update…

#1 It’s a Next Step, Not a New Thing

While some marketers are reacting to Google’s latest mobile-friendly shift as an unexpected development, the fact of the matter is that the move was telegraphed again and again many times. From the search engine’s first mobile-centered algorithm shift last April to every announcement since, they’ve made it clear they want businesses to catch up with the times.

Google isn’t just likely to stick to their guns, but to continue this trend for a while. That’s because smartphones and tablets are flying off the shelves, meaning a growing number of searchers want mobile compatibility when they go online. Google is in the business of giving users what they need in a fast, convenient way, so don’t expect the mobile search trend to die down anytime soon.

#2 Mobile Compatibility is Just One Search Result Indicator

To be clear, mobile compatibility will be more important than ever in determining search visibility. So, if you want customers to visit your website, it’s a good idea to upgrade to a responsive web design (which changes its appearance based on screen size) if you haven’t already. It’s a relatively painless and inexpensive process, and one that could do great things for your bottom line.

That being said, other search factors – like unique content, inbound links, and page loading times – still factor into the mix. And, we are seen Google place more emphasis on trust, authority, and social indicators. So, even if you’ve already made the move to a responsive web design, don’t neglect the other parts of your search engine optimization and Internet marketing campaigns.

#3 Mobile Devices are Changing Search in Other, Bigger Ways

Even if Google weren’t prioritizing mobile compatibility in its search algorithms, it would be obvious that smart phones and tablets are changing the way users look for information in a profound way. In addition to mobile functionality, factors like location and social activity are being factored in, as well, because so many people conduct searches from their phones.

At the same time, voice search apps are leading users to adopt longer, more natural search strings. Instead of typing the first thing that comes to mind, in a few choppy keywords, or settling for auto-completed results, searchers are telling Google exactly what they want to find. That’s making the traditional focus on keywords less important than it used to be.

If you aren’t 100% sure that your website is mobile-friendly, then contact us today to see how we can help bring you up to speed.