Have you ever received a web marketing report that seemed like a mixed bag of good and bad news? Many website owners find themselves in this situation, unsure of how to interpret the data or what to do next. Let’s break down a common scenario and explore how to navigate it.
The Scenario:
A friend recently shared his experience with a web marketing report. The report initially seemed positive, highlighting good performance in areas like page speed and backlinks. However, when he delved into the SEO metrics, he was met with a confusing picture: website visits, views, and new users had all declined significantly compared to the previous year.
Understanding the Discrepancy
This discrepancy between positive and negative metrics often stems from a lack of context and understanding. While a report might indicate good performance in certain areas, it’s essential to assess how these factors contribute to overall website goals. In this case, the decline in SEO metrics, despite positive page speed and backlinks, suggested that there might be underlying issues hindering website visibility and traffic.
Taking Action: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Analyze SEO Metrics: Look beyond raw numbers. Consider factors like keyword rankings, organic traffic sources, and competitor analysis.
- Identify the Root Causes:
- Mobile Optimization: Ensure your website is fully optimized for mobile devices, as a significant portion of traffic now comes from smartphones and tablets.
- SEO Best Practices: Check for issues like slow loading times, duplicate content, and poor keyword targeting.
- Communicate with Your Web Creative Agency:
- Share Your Findings: Present the data from your PageSpeed Insights test and other analysis to your agency.
- Request Explanation and Solutions: Ask for a detailed explanation of the declining metrics and request specific actions to address the issues.
- Set Clear Expectations:
- Outline Your Goals: Clearly communicate your desired outcomes, such as increased website traffic, higher conversion rates, or improved search engine rankings.
- Establish Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Define measurable metrics to track progress and evaluate the effectiveness of your agency’s efforts.
Remember: A strong web marketing report should not only highlight positive aspects but also provide actionable insights and recommendations. By understanding the data, identifying potential issues, and effectively communicating with your agency, you can ensure that your website is performing at its best and achieving your online goals.