Does Your Website Pass Google’s Test?

If you’ve ever searched for anything, you’ve likely used Google to do it. In ranking search engines, Google is king, but no the only one. Lucky for us, most search engines utilize similar algorithms so what’s good on one is good on another. If you’re not showing up, there are reasons why. However, there are also things you can do to improve the chances of being shown.

Key Elements Google Looks For

Google’s algorithm is ever-changing, however, there are a few key elements that Google expects in every website.

1. SSL Certificate – Google wants every website to have an SSL certificate now, even if you’re not selling goods or services on your site. You can tell that you have one if your website says https: before your URL. This is a recent change.
2. Mobile Responsive – If your website can’t be easily read on a mobile device, they won’t show it in mobile search results which account for close to 75% of searches across all industries.
3. Schema – Schema is the data embedded in your website that tells Google where you are located. Because much of search is location based, you want Google to know where you are and show you in the appropriate locations.
4. New & Relevant Content – If you don’t add content to your site regularly, you are missing a signal the search engines consider in their rankings.

Unless you have some experience in web design, you’ll likely need the help of a web design company to help with those items.

Secondary Elements

Google also looks for your website to be found in the local directories, have well written relevant information that continuously updated, and reviews about your business on sites other than yours. For the most part, you can make sure that you have these. Claim your Google listing as well as those on other search sites. You can pay a data aggregator to submit you to other directories.

A blog is a great way to add content to your site a few times a month. Your blogs can be about your products, services, interesting information your customers should know, or just about anything else related to your business. They should be at least 350 words in length and if you want to maximize their benefit, post a link on your social media sites.

As for reviews, ask your customers either in person or via email after you’ve done business with them. If you email them, include a link to make it as easy as possible for them to get to your Google plus page or Yelp listing. If you need help with your website, blogging or directory listings, we can help. Just reach out to us at (629) 777-6410 or fill out our contact form.