We’ve all been aware of the consistent huge increases in the use of mobile devices. With Google’s biggest ranking change ever coming April 21st (see Google’s Biggest Ranking Change Ever article), Google is basically telling us to make our websites responsive. And that includes moi – ya know, it’s like the shoemaker’s children who need new shoes… Yes, my two main sites are not responsive, but you can rest assured they will be in the near future!

The good thing about this big change is that Google has given us notice. You have the better part of a month to test your site, make sure its mobile-friendly, and make any necessary changes so that your site is not negatively impacted by this algorithm change.

Google has created a complete guide to mobile-friendly sites and there’s a mobile-friendly test. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, you can find an array of information on the Google Developer’s website to make a great site for your mobile visitors.

If your current WordPress theme isn’t mobile-friendly, look for another theme.

You can browse for a new responsive theme. WordPress.org maintains a themes directory. Customize your theme search with their tag filter functionality to customize your search for a theme:

• Browse themes with the “responsive layout” tag. These themes use the principles of responsive design. If the theme has a link to their demo, be sure to check it out on Google’s mobile-friendly tool.
• Browse the most popular WordPress theme downloads. Many of the most popular themes incorporate responsive design. Check for keywords that use “responsive” or “mobile” in the descriptions of the theme.

 
And, remember, you are not alone. Join me at a Websites and Coffee workshop, private coaching session (can be done via phone/Skype), or customized retreat. Good luck!