5 Ways to Boost Mobile Search Rankings

Well over half of all searches these days take place on mobile. In my latest column for Target Marketing magazine, I talk Google's algorithm changes, changing consumer behaviors, and what you can do to make sure you're ranking. Read the full article—plus tips for how to address each challenge—here, or read on for the highlights.

Mobile-First Index

Moving forward, Google's algorithms will primarily use the mobile version of a site’s content to rank it in search results. Those with responsive sites, where the content and markup is the same across mobile and desktop, will have the advantage. Read more.

Interstitial Ads

For 2017, Google made it clear that mobile sites that show intrusive interstitials—pop-ups that cover the main content, making it inaccessible to the user—could see their search rankings drop. Read more.

HTTP vs. HTTPS

To increase the security and privacy of all its searchers, Google has recommended that every site use HTTPS, the more secure protocol. Today, it uses it as a minor ranking factor signal, which means your ranking could get a bump if you have it. Read more.

Local Search

Because a good chunk of mobile searches have local intent, it’s even more important to claim—and optimize—your Google My Business and other business pages. As “near me” search inquiries increase, retailers and companies that provide local services stand a much better chance of making it on the search result map. Read more.

Rich Snippets

While there’s no guarantee your site’s information will show up in a rich snippet (those bite-sized bits of information that show up directly within search results), you can increase your odds by incorporating structured data markup into your site. It makes it easier for search engines to crawl, parse, and display page content. Read more.

Implement these tips to ensure your site is getting the exposure it deserves, mobile or otherwise.