The Internet is constantly going through changes and advancements. While it is still Google’s intent to show users the best possible results, the methods employed have evolved over time. One of the most recent browsing developments is the way the results are indexed for mobile devices. Here are some of the effects mobile-first index may have on SEO.
The algorithm of the mobile-first index is subtly different.
It is not a good idea to make generalizations regarding the type of content that works best for a mobile-first index. One should instead focus on the search query since it is what triggers the retrieval and ranking process. There are different types of queries that will lead to different results.
It would be misguided to say things like Google prioritizes shorter content since that is now how the algorithm works. It is best to prioritize the preferences of mobile users since most people perform searches with the use of their mobile devices. The next step would be to identify the problem every search query is trying to answer so that one can determine the best solution that will address the worries of the majority.
The top results may differ depending on certain factors. When Google made the announcement for the mobile-first index, they also said that some queries are more appropriate for the desktop version of computers. Don’t fail to keep these in mind when working on your SEO strategy.
It can satisfy most users.
Identifying the queries users have can lead to more than just a single answer. When you check the search engine result pages (SERPs), you will notice that there are all kinds of sites on the list. There are government sites, review databases, and even blogs. The variety of websites can be an indicator that there are a lot of problems which users are trying to address. Google will likely arrange the SERPs according to the user intent or the result that has proven to be the most helpful to users.
SERPs can help you determine what kind of answer you should provide in your website. Try clicking on the top results to get an idea of what works. Most internet-users access search engines from their smartphones and sometimes this means that short-form content is most effective. However, there are also users choose that prefer comprehensive, in-depth content.
There is no need for you to worry about the mobile index. It does not really cause any drastic changes. It is more of a reinforcement to better understand the content that mobile, desktop, or laptop users want.
Time can influence the user intent.
Search queries call for different results because each user has their own motivations. The index adds another layer of intent. The user intent changes due to the passage of time and the accompanying technological developments. The way people use their devices has likewise changed. The specific time a query was made may influence the device a person is using, which then reveals certain things about the needs of the user.
This demonstrates the way the mobile-first index adds a layer of relevance. It is no longer just about the keywords being relevant. A new thing to consider is the relevance of your website to a user at a particular time of the day. You also need to identify how to respond to the most popular queries within that time frame.
Google looks at different signals when calculating SERPs. The device used can be a signal in itself. Even the time of the day can also count as one because both the usage level and user intent fluctuate throughout the day.
Ending notes
These are only a handful of the changes that came with the update. All in all, mobile-first index is a great advancement for search engines. It may require you to update your SEO methods to remain on top of your game, but remember that it pays off. After all, the mobile-first index can ultimately bring more traffic to your website when you can utilize it correctly.
