Slow page speed
Slow-loading websites are off-putting for visitors and Google search bots alike. If your site doesn’t load quickly, there’s a strong chance that users will head elsewhere.
Studies have repeatedly shown that the majority of users will wait no longer than three seconds before moving off. Google reflects this by prioritising sites that load quickly and are not prone to any delays. If your site is taking some time to load, then it may be overlooked.
You can use Google PageSpeed Insights to detect any specific speed problems and you should check both mobile and desktop loading times. Speed site issues may have a variety of solutions, ranging from the simple to rectify to more complex issues that may require technical support.
Some of the more common site speed solutions might include image compression/optimisation, server response time improvement, JavaScript minifying, and browser caching improvement.
Multiple versions of your site
Google may be indexing multiple URL versions of your site. This can make accessing your site more convenient, but it can also result in your site’s visibility in search results becoming diluted.
To fix the issue, begin by checking if different versions of your URL successfully flow to a standard URL. This might include HTTPS and HTTP versions. Check arange of possible combinations. If you discover multiple indexed versions, you’ll then need to set up 301 redirects.
You should also set your canonical domain in Google Search Console.
Duplicate content
With an explosion of dynamically created websites and content management systems, the issue of duplicate content is an increasing problem for websites. The same can apply to websites where content has been cut and pasted across pages, creating what looks to search engine crawlers as duplicate content. This can lead to the search engine crawlers becoming confused and preventing the correct content being accessed by your target audience.
Duplicate content might occur for a number of reasons. For example, e-commerce site store items might appear across multiple versions of the same URL. Printer-only web pages can repeat content on the main page. If you have an international site, the same content may appear in different languages.
Fixing each of these problems will require an individual approach, including the correct use of tags and proper configuration.
Google’s Support Page offers advice about how to deal with duplicate content effectively, and how to avoid creating it in the first place.
Professional support for your technical SEO
Good technical SEO provides a platform for your content SEO strategy to shine. Both work in tandem to deliver results.
Technical SEO can be time-consuming and complex to get right. With that in mind, most businesses will choose professional support when it comes to fixing technical SEO issues.
Aqueous Digital can ensure that your website’s technical SEO isn’t letting you down.
Take a look at the SEO Services we offer and get in touch on 0800 285 1424 or email agency@aqueous-digital.co.uk for an initial discussion and a free consultation.
Further reading on SEO
Aqueous Digital’s Guide to the Top 501 SEO and Digital Marketing Terms
Aqueous Digital’s Beginners Guide to SEO
How out carry out an in-depth Technical SEO Audit
SEO best practice
Aqueous Digital’s Ultimate Guide to the cost of SEO in the UK
How long does SEO take to work?
What is Technical SEO?
What is Local SEO?
SEO vs PPC
Link building and outreach
What are the most important SEO ranking factors?