It’s that time of year again where there’s another Google algorithm update. Perhaps you haven’t yet recovered from the last update, or maybe you’re still sailing high on your site authority boost. However, it’s essential to prepare for the upcoming updates, which will begin rolling out in May 2021.
For Google to rank pages, they use different metrics, of which are somewhat controllable to determine the position of your site and individual pages. However, the new Google algorithm update will introduce the three core web vitals, all of which contribute to page experience – something Google focuses heavily on.
Firstly, before we discuss the vitals, we must address page experience and the pillars which influence this. These are as follows:
- The loading performance of a page (including the speed)
- Virtual stability (does your site remain stable while scrolling, moving, and interacting with the page?)
- Responsiveness – is there any input delay?
These pillars are now measured using the new core web vitals, which will be discussed below:
LCP
Largest contentful paint (LCP) measures the time and point in which the largest element appears on the screen. Generally, this is text or a contact form – the quicker the LCP loads, the more impressions will be turned into customers.
FIS
First input delay (FIS) refers to the amount of time an action takes to fully input, such as clicking a contact button or re-directing to another page. The slower the FIS, the more frustrated your audience will become, perhaps clicking off your site and visiting your competitors instead.
To work on FIS, you should focus on reducing input delay, ensuring all actions are succinct.
CLS
Third and final, we have cumulative layout shift (CLS). This is your website’s visual stability, mainly concerning whether or not any elements move around on the screen. Once again, the lower this score and the more moving elements, the more impatient a user is likely to become, consequently increasing bounce rates and missing out on potential sales.
Prepare NOW to see results and improve your rankings
Although the new algorithm update does not roll out until May 2021, it’s essential to start preparing early. Failure to adhere to the new pillars and scoring poorly on the new web vital system will more than likely result in less traffic being sent your way. These new vitals are a great way to measure user and page experience and are definitely something you should be focusing your attention on.
So, to get ahead of the curve before the next update rolls out, get in touch today and ensure your site exceeds the new three core web vitals.
