With Google’s new algorithm Hummingbird having been introduced recently, the way we now approach SEO has changed a little. It doesn’t mean that things have completely changed and all that hard work pre-Hummingbird is going to waste, it just means that mobile is no longer simply a channel of your SEO strategy. Mobile has become a central focus of SEO strategy, making website owners and operators ask whether their site is up to scratch in terms of quality of content, design and the overall usability of the site. If you currently manage your own website and social networking profile, perhaps now is the time to consult an online marketing company like Optimising to help you navigate these new changes and developments in the world of Google and SEO.
We talk about mobile sites because this mode of viewing content is becoming more and more common for people’s media consumption. Over half of Americans own a smart phone, meaning their access to media is almost always through that little screen or even tablet. A well-designed website says to Google that you are a legitimate business. To achieve your full potential on mobile, you need to offer your customers full features in a limited space. The best way to do this is to concentrate on how you organise your content. There are various design considerations that need to be taken into account to produce a high functioning mobile site, like the length of posts, white space, use of visuals and the ability to share on social media.
The debate around the kind of content continues over each change of Google’s algorithms. Longer content is obviously great for SEO but it isn’t exactly what customers want. They want specific and succinct answers to their questions that are answered in around a paragraph or more. Seeing as how the modern trend is writing posts around 1000 words long, this doesn’t satisfy the taste of those looking for a quick response, especially on mobile. An alternative is to create short introductions to your articles that are placed at the start of your long form articles, but only use the extended, descriptive introduction on your mobile sites where users are more likely to only want that information.
One of the most important pieces of information not to forget is the importance of engaging in social media with your customer and client base. If you are sharing your content and other things through a social networking platform, be prepared to engage with those who engage with you. Don’t just put it out there and wait for the likes to roll in. Respond to questions and give the people what they want!
Ivy Delfin works in online marketing, specialising in enhancing mobile internet sites. You can find her on her google plus page here.
