Google Page Experience Update: SEO Impact and Preparation

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some basics on the upcoming Google page experience update. First announced in May of 2020, this update is targeted directly at prioritizing sites and pages with great user experience, from loading speed to several other areas.

At SEO Werkz, we offer a wide range of white hat SEO services, including on-site optimization areas that are often heavily impacted by Google updates and changes to their algorithm – areas our pros are highly experienced in, and in which we stand out from the competition in several ways. Today’s part two of our series will go over how we expect this upcoming update to impact SEO efforts, plus how online marketers should be preparing themselves.

Impact on SEO

For many in the SEO world, this update is being met with great relief. Many have long had issues with the way current page speed and related metrics are factored into overall Google metrics, including issues with how Google even tracks speed to begin with.

The page experience update, at least from what’s known about it so far, should change much of this. In part one, we mentioned Largest Contentful Point as one of the top metrics within Core Web Vitals – early indications are that this metric is far more useful than the previous First Contentful Point metric that Google used. The same goes for the other Core Web Vitals that are being infused into this update, each of which provides upgrades from previous page experience metrics that Google used. From click delays to loading speed and several other issues, expect your page experience capabilities to increase significantly in both scope and efficiency.

Factors to Prioritize

Like with any other Google update, you should respond appropriately – but not go over the top. Some areas to keep an eye on, which are similar to those you should always have in mind:

• Relevance: Is your site’s content useful and helpful to your target audience?
• Usability: Is the site completely operational and welcoming to both visitors and various search engines?
• Authority: Does your site have a good backlink profile and optimization centered around its key topics?

Not the End-All

Finally, while we’ve spent this series going over all the facets of this upcoming update, it’s vital to realize that it’s not the only relevant metric. Google will still prioritize many of the same factors it always has, including quality content and other site optimization themes – these are not going anywhere. While you should definitely pay close attention to page experience metrics that will take on greater importance, do not do this at the expense of other qualities of your site.

For more on how to prepare for Google’s page experience update, or to learn about any of our SEO, PPC or other services, speak to the staff at SEO Werkz today.