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Mobile-First Indexing

Mobile-First Indexing Explained: What this means for Accomodation Managers

Google has consistently been at the forefront of revolutionising the way we search, discover, and connect with information. A significant shift that has taken place in recent years is Google’s transition from desktop-first indexing to mobile-first indexing, reshaping the way websites are indexed and ranked. In this article, we’ll delve into the mechanics of this transition, the importance of mobile-responsive websites for accommodation businesses, and how GuestPoint’s services can help you take advantage of these changes.

Google Search on Mobile

Google officially announced its shift to mobile-first indexing on March 26, 2018. This marked a significant change in how Google’s search engine indexes and ranks websites, prioritising the mobile version of a site’s content over its desktop version. The change was made to reflect the increasing use of mobile devices for internet browsing and to ensure that users receive relevant search results. 

The Evolution of Google's Indexing: A Brief Overview

Before the advent of mobile-first indexing, Google primarily used desktop versions of websites for indexing and ranking. This meant that when someone performed a search, Google would analyse the desktop content to determine its relevance and position in search results. However, with the surge in mobile device usage and the growing trend of on-the-go searches, Google recognised the need to adapt its approach.

What is Mobile-First Indexing

Enter mobile-first indexing – a game-changing approach that places mobile content at the forefront. Google now crawls and indexes the mobile version of websites as its primary source of information. This shift highlights Google’s commitment to providing users with results that are tailored to their preferred device, ensuring a seamless and user-friendly experience.

Mobile-First Indexing Diagram

But how does Google now rank websites under this new algorithm? It’s simpler than you might think. The ranking process revolves around the mobile version of a site, considering factors like mobile-friendliness, page speed, and overall mobile user experience. Websites that are optimised for mobile devices are more likely to earn favourable rankings, translating to increased visibility and engagement.

Why Mobile-Responsive Websites Matter:

Now, you might be wondering: Why should accommodation businesses, like yours, prioritise mobile-responsive websites? The answer lies in the numbers:

  • Mobile Dominance: According to recent data, mobile devices account for over 50% of all web traffic worldwide. 
  • User Expectations: Studies reveal that users expect websites to load on mobile devices as quickly as they do on desktops. If a site takes more than three seconds to load, about 53% of users will abandon it. Mobile-responsive design directly addresses this expectation, ensuring swift and seamless access to your offerings.
  • Conversion Impact: About 45% of travellers now utilise mobile apps to book their accommodations and tours from their preferred mobile devices.

GuestPoint's Solution: WebPoint - Building Your Mobile-Responsive Website

Has your website been updated since 2018? This is where GuestPoint’s Website Building services step in.

Websites built by GuestPoint, that are Mobile-first index

GuestPoint alleviates the stress and time associated with website construction by crafting professional, mobile-responsive websites that perfectly match your accommodation business. Armed with the latest insights into Google’s ranking system, GuestPoint websites are designed to serve your best interests, increasing your likelihood of securing a high ranking on Google’s first page.

With GuestPoint, you’ll receive:

  • Up to 12 expertly designed pages
  • Carefully edited and optimised images
  • Seamless placement of all images and content
  • Enhanced SEO to boost your property’s discoverability
  • Integration of your secure online booking engine

And the best part? The website remains under your complete ownership, granting you the freedom to make updates whenever you wish. Alternatively, our dedicated team members are readily available to assist you with any modifications you may require.

What to find out more? Give our number a call or send us an email:

1300 110 449
info@guestpoint.com

Summary

Google’s transition from desktop-first indexing to mobile-first indexing signifies a shift in the digital landscape. The importance of a mobile-responsive website cannot be ignored, as it directly impacts user experience, engagement, and conversions. With GuestPoint’s WebPoint service, you can embrace this transition confidently, knowing that your online presence is optimised for success in the mobile-centric world.

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