From 2012 to 2013, mobile browsing increased from approximately 10% to over 20% of all web traffic. And those numbers are rising rapidly.

More and more people are using smart phones and tablets on a regular basis, meaning that they can browse pretty much any time, any where. And research shows that, even when we are near our laptops or desktops, we are still likely to browse and search on our mobile devices (information that I find just a bit disturbing).

Mobile is not going anywhere; you need to get in the game

If you are starting a business, you need a website – and it must be mobile-optimized. If you already have a website for your business, and it’s not optimized for mobile... get a new website, and get it now. And make sure it’s optimized for mobile.

Google did a survey in March 2013 that showed some impressive statistics. Over 75% of mobile searches triggered a “follow-up” action. In fact, each mobile search triggers an average of nearly 2 follow-up actions: e.g. additional research, a store visit, sharing content, or making a purchase. And, even more enlightening; 28% of mobile searches result in conversions.

Mobile searches result in faster online and offline actions

People using their mobile devices to search are more likely to be results-driven. They are looking to make a decision (possibly a purchase), and they’re usually looking to make it soon. Whether they’re in the home improvement store looking for reviews of the two lawn mowers that they’re comparing, or they’re looking for a place to take their kid on a rainy day, they want information, and they want it now. If your website isn’t mobile-optimized, they’re going to move on to one that is.

Mobile e-commerce still faces some hurdles

While e-commerce sales on mobile devices are also rising, they still only account for about 15% of all e-commerce sales. That number will only increase as more online retailers embrace mobile-optimized sites and streamline the process for their customers.

A mobile-optimized website is no longer an option – it’s a necessity. No matter what industry you’re in, your clients and potential clients will be searching for you on mobile devices. Make sure you’re ready for them when they do.