In a world that’s constantly on the move, technology has revolutionized the way we access information and services. Today, people demand instant gratification and seamless experiences, whether they’re on a smartphone, tablet, or desktop computer.
As a business, it’s essential to offer your customers mobile friendly websites. Such a website not only enhances your brand’s image and drives sales but also plays a pivotal role in your search engine ranking. Back in 2015, Google shook things up by giving preference to mobile-optimized pages in mobile search results. This guide is your ticket to creating a mobile-friendly website that will win the hearts of both search engines and users.
Mobile Friendly Websites, How to Do It Right
If your website isn’t geared up for mobile-first indexing by search engines like Google, you’re in for a bumpy ride in the rankings. No matter how visually stunning your website is, it won’t make much of an impact if it’s not optimized for mobile devices. So, how do you make your website mobile-friendly?
1. Use The Correct Template
When picking a website template or theme, opt for one labeled as “mobile-responsive.” E-commerce website builders like Squarespace and Wix offer easy-to-customize mobile-responsive themes. You can also find such themes for WordPress through the platform itself or with a quick Google search. Take a look at these website builders and design services to choose your ideal template.
2. Streamline Your Home Page
Once your site is mobile-friendly, it’s time to declutter your main page (and subsequent ones) by removing excessive content. For instance, if you run a salon, your mobile main page should focus on a simplified appointment form. Other details like services, prices, and gallery photos should have dedicated pages to keep the main page uncluttered.
While a desktop page might handle multiple elements well, too much information on a mobile device can deter visitors. A simplified main page should highlight the most important call to action to drive conversions.
3. Look at Your Page Load Speeds
A speedy website is non-negotiable for mobile friendly websites. Host videos on third-party platforms, compress images, and minimize custom CSS code. Sluggish websites tend to rank lower in search engine results, potentially giving your competitors the upper hand.
4. Consider Touchscreens
On mobile devices, users rely on touchscreens to navigate. This presents unique challenges in designing a mobile-friendly website. Here are some valuable tips and best practices:
- Ensure clickable buttons are generously sized and located in user-friendly areas.
- Avoid animated flash elements, as many mobile devices don’t support them.
- Space out links to prevent accidental clicks.
- Ditch pop-ups, as they can hinder the user experience.
- Include a clickable phone number for easy calls.
- If relevant, add a map with GPS functionality.
- Offer a keypad for number fields on mobile forms to streamline the purchase process.
Regularly test your mobile-friendly website to ensure it’s performing as expected. A/B testing and Google’s free mobile site tester can help you stay ahead of the competition.
Deciphering Mobile Friendly Websites
A mobile-friendly website, also known as a “responsive” or “mobile-compatible” site, seamlessly adapts to different devices, providing users with a smooth and intuitive experience. With the increasing reliance on smartphones and tablets for web browsing, users favor websites that adapt to touch controls and varying screen sizes.
A responsive, mobile friendly website guarantees a consistent user experience while adjusting the layout to suit the reader’s device. It shares the same content as the desktop version but optimizes the display for mobile devices, ensuring a seamless user journey.
Benefits of Embracing a Mobile Friendly Website
Investing in a mobile friendly website can lead to increased e-commerce sales and brand expansion. In recent years, U.S. mobile retail commerce sales have skyrocketed, with a substantial increase from 2019 to 2022. Changing consumer behavior, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, has seen a surge in mobile shopping, with over 30% of e-commerce consumers making weekly mobile purchases.
Mobile-friendly websites offer responsive, effortless, and user-friendly shopping experiences, encouraging repeat purchases and longer time spent on your site. When users find your site easy to navigate on mobile devices, they’re more likely to recommend your company to friends and family.
Why Mobile Optimization Matters
Optimizing your website for mobile isn’t just about user experience—it’s about SEO and other crucial factors:
Mobile Usage: Mobile devices have become the primary platform for internet use, making mobile optimization essential for reaching your audience.
Increased Research: Mobile users tend to engage in more research when shopping, potentially leading to more significant investments in your products or services.
Brand Image: A slow or non-functional mobile site can harm your brand’s credibility and lead to lost sales and reputational damage.
Checking Your Mobile Friendly Status
Google offers valuable tools to assess your website’s mobile-friendliness. Google Search Console provides a free Mobile Usability report to evaluate your site, and the Mobile-Friendly Test tool helps you gauge how user-friendly your site is on mobile devices.
Mobile Friendly Websites vs. Mobile Apps
A mobile friendly website is a collection of webpages accessible through a browser, adapting to the user’s device. In contrast, a mobile app is custom software available for download from platforms like iOS and Android. Both options have their advantages and drawbacks.
Pros and Cons of Mobile Friendly Websites
Pros:
- Cost-effective in design and maintenance
- Better compatibility
- No installation required
- Instant updates
- SEO friendly
Cons:
- Less interactive
- No offline access
Pros and Cons of Mobile Apps
Pros:
- Offline access
- Enhanced user experience and interactivity
- Engaging notifications
- Advanced functionalities
Cons:
- Complex approval process on app stores
- Continuous maintenance and updates
Not every business necessitates a mobile app alongside a mobile friendly website. However, ensuring your website is mobile friendly is critical for modern business growth and sustainability.
Mobile Friendly Websites Benefit Everyone
Google’s move toward mobile-first indexing benefits all parties involved: webmasters, users, and marketers. Optimizing your website for mobile streamlines the process and enhances user satisfaction. An updated, mobile friendly website removes friction and leads to higher conversions and profits. It’s a win-win for all.
