Google's 2017 Crack Down on Interstitials and Its Impact on Businesses - Des Moines SEO
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Introduction
As an industry-leading SEO service provider in the Business and Consumer Services sector, Des Moines SEO is committed to ensuring businesses stay informed about the latest updates that influence their online presence. In this article, we delve into Google's 2017 crack down on interstitials and how it affects your website's visibility in search engine rankings.
Understanding Interstitials
An interstitial is a web page that displays before or after the expected content, often in the form of pop-ups, overlays, or full-screen ads. While interstitials may serve various purposes like promoting special offers, gathering email subscriptions, or providing additional information, they can also disrupt user experience and hinder access to desired content.
Google's Rationale
Recognizing the importance of user experience, Google has taken decisive measures to penalize websites that employ intrusive interstitials. With its crack down in 2017, Google aims to prioritize websites that offer high-quality and accessible content, ensuring a positive user experience across all devices. By demoting sites with obstructive interstitials, Google encourages webmasters to adopt more user-friendly alternatives and improve overall website functionality.
Implications for SEO
The crack down on interstitials has significant implications for SEO strategies. Websites utilizing obtrusive interstitials risk a drop in search engine rankings, resulting in reduced organic traffic and potential loss of customers. Therefore, it is crucial for businesses to adapt their web design and user engagement techniques to comply with Google's guidelines and maintain a competitive online presence.
Best Practices
1. Responsive Design
Embracing responsive design is a fundamental step in complying with Google's interstitial policy. Ensure your website is mobile-friendly, with content that adjusts seamlessly across various devices and screen sizes. This approach enhances user experience and encourages longer engagement, ultimately positively impacting your search rankings.
2. Engaging Alternatives
Instead of using disruptive interstitials, explore alternative methods to engage users without obstructing access to desired content. Implement strategies such as prominent on-page call-to-actions, slide-in forms, or overlays that only appear at appropriate times during the user journey. By providing a smooth browsing experience, you can enhance customer satisfaction and boost your website's performance.
3. Penalty-Free Interstitials
While Google discourages the use of intrusive interstitials, certain types are exempt from penalties. Examples include login dialogs, cookie notifications, and age verification pop-ups. It is essential to understand these exceptions and ensure compliance when implementing such interstitials on your website.
4. Offering Value
Focus on creating valuable content that addresses user needs and encourages them to stay on your website. Publishing informative articles, insightful blog posts, and engaging multimedia content not only attracts organic traffic but also keeps visitors engaged, reducing the need for aggressive interstitials.
Conclusion
In the ever-evolving landscape of SEO, staying ahead of the competition requires staying abreast of the latest industry updates. Google's 2017 crack down on interstitials emphasizes the significance of prioritizing user experience. By adopting user-friendly alternatives and nurturing valuable content, businesses in the Business and Consumer Services industry can effectively navigate these changes and maintain their online visibility. Partner with Des Moines SEO today and leverage our expertise to optimize your website for long-term success.
