GV Explains Page Loading Speeds and SEO Rankings


Why Does a Website’s Page Load Speed Actually Matter?

While the famous A.D. Aliwat quote, “The brain is attracted to fast-moving objects” can apply to many facets of life, it is especially applicable when discussing the relationship between people and the internet. Now, more than ever, web-users expect immediate gratification when they conduct a Google search or navigate to their favorite webpage.

With that being said, it is important to understand the profound effects of page load speed on your conversion rates and marketing strategies. While lightning-fast load speeds cannot make up for subpar content, sluggish load times can certainly hinder even the most Herculean marketing efforts.

By understanding the importance of acceptable website load speeds, you can take steps to improve SEO and the user experience. Doing so will help you to build your brand, generate more site traffic, and improve conversion rates.

What is Page Load Speed?

Simply put, page load speed refers to the amount of time it takes to display all content on your site. It can alternatively be defined as the amount of time that it takes for a browser to receive the first batch of information from the transmitting server.

Every aspect of a page will influence page speed. This includes the HTML code, JavaScript files, videos, and any other content. As you might expect, dynamic pages that facilitate user interaction often have slower load speeds than static pages.

Why Does Page Speed Matter?

As a marketing director, business owner, or team leader, one of the worst mistakes you can make is to believe that page loading speed does not matter. It has an immense impact on the effectiveness of your marketing strategies and the overall user experience.

Page Speed Influences UX

As mentioned above, the average web user expects immediate gratification when it comes to browsing and accessing your site. Delayed page loading speeds can lead to a user that leaves the site without ever seeing your content.

For example, if your page takes more than a few seconds to populate into their browser, a visitor may simply move on to the next result on their list. Since this will very likely be a competitor within your industry, slow load speed would cost you a potential sale. Even if the user stuck it out and waited out the prolonged load time, they may already have a negative perception of your company or page.

Page Load Speed Affects Your SEO Rankings

Starting in 2010, page load speed has been one of Google’s ranking factors for their search algorithm. This preference for rapid load speeds has only increased since then. In 2017, Google announced an update to their algorithm and stated that page speed would receive even heavier consideration. Specifically, mobile site speed would play a larger role in search rankings.

Website load speed can easily offset the benefits of optimal keyword usage, bumping your page down in the rankings. The preferential analysis of load speeds will become even more significant in May 2021, which is when Google is implementing its Core Web Vitals metrics.

Improve Your Page Load Speed

Don’t let poor page load speeds derail your site traffic or conversion rates. Instead, partner with the experienced team at GetVisible. For over 15 years, we have helped our clients to get noticed online, improving their site traffic. Book a strategy call online using our simple contact form and let us optimize your page load speed. #GV #GVExplains

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