If you’ve recently launched your website and completed Google’s extensive SEO checklist, but you still don’t see your site showing up in your industry keywords, you could be stuck in Google Sandbox.
What is Google Sandbox?
During the sandbox trial period, Google effectively measures all aspects of your website that are important to user experience.
It might be a myth, but SEO experts from all over the world agree that there is a trial period from when you first launch a website to when Google takes your site seriously enough to display it to users as a top search result.
Does Sandbox really exist?
As mentioned before, the sandbox theory is partially a myth as it has never been officially confirmed and was only observed by the experts doing everything they can to promote new sites to no avail.
Whether or not Google Sandbox exists, a period of slow ranking ascension is definitely real to most new websites. Let’s take a look at the factors Google monitors.
Factors that influence rankings:
- Search console
- Content
- Links
- Directories
- Social signals
- Local directories
- Local citations
Google might give your site a test period
While you work steadily behind the scenes to ensure a top ranking spot for your site, Google might give your site a trial timeframe in a high ranking position to see how consumers respond to your content and site design.
This makes a ton of sense. Think of hiring a new nanny for your kids and before creating a set contract, scheduling a playdate with prospective sitters to see how your kids respond to their company, discipline, and fun.
During your initial web launch period, don’t be surprised if you notice your site getting a ton of traffic for a brief period; this is likely because Google is testing how much searchers respond to and appreciate your content. If all goes well during this timeframe, you will likely be rewarded by higher search rankings.
Is it possible to bypass the Sandbox period?
Some measures can be taken to catapult your site’s success; other elements take time to establish their authority to Google. For example, quality backlinks take time to accrue and prove their worth, and Google’s algorithm needs time to analyze user behavior on your site effectively and adequately.
What is Google looking for when it comes to consumer interaction?
Google wants to provide the best possible search experience to consumers, which includes content relevance and engagement quality between website and searcher.
To measure these aspects, Google will monitor two important factors:
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Click-through
Click-through metrics reflect the intelligent and compelling design of your site. The more interesting and engaging your site is, the more consumers will click through various pages.
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Dwell time
Dwell time shows Google the power of your content. As consumers venture through your articles, videos, and other interactive elements, Google can monitor how much time is spent dwelling on your site, and thus, how appealing a website is to a consumer.
Tips for launching your site
- Publish articles on similar sites.
- Partner with an influencer to promote your site launch.
- Include your lunch announcement and website link in emails.
- Host a website launching event.
- Partner with interviewers who can spread the word about your launch.
- Issue a press release that lets consumers know about your new website.
Hire Executive Digital
Executive Digital can help expedite your site’s time in Google Sandbox by making sure all relevant and competitive keywords are included, content is consistently abundant, and that all peripheral marketing tactics are utilized to get your website ahead of competitors and to the forefront of Google attention.
Learn more about our services and how our team can help navigate your brand’s digital experience through the illusory Google Sandbox by reaching out for a consultation, today. We look forward to hearing from you and working with you toward a top ranking search position for your business.
