Core Web Vitals Optimisation
Fix LCP, CLS, and INP — turn failing Core Web Vitals into ranking advantages.
Why Core Web Vitals matter for rankings
Google uses Core Web Vitals as a ranking signal. Sites that fail on LCP (Largest Contentful Paint), CLS (Cumulative Layout Shift), or INP (Interaction to Next Paint) lose organic visibility to competitors who pass. This is not theoretical — I have seen sites gain 20-40% organic traffic after a CWV audit and fix.
The three metrics that matter
LCP should be under 2.5s. The most common causes are unoptimised hero images, render-blocking JavaScript, and slow server response times. CLS should be under 0.1. Caused by images without explicit dimensions, dynamically injected content, and web fonts loading. INP should be under 200ms. Caused by heavy JavaScript execution on the main thread during user interactions.
My optimisation process
I start with a field data audit (CrUX data, not just lab scores). Then identify the specific elements causing each failure. Then fix — not guess. Common fixes: preload LCP image, convert to next-gen formats (AVIF/WebP), remove render-blocking scripts, add explicit image dimensions, defer non-critical JavaScript, optimise font loading.
Common questions
How long does a Core Web Vitals audit take?
A full audit including field data analysis, per-page LCP/CLS/INP diagnosis, and a prioritised fix list takes 3-5 business days. Implementation of fixes depends on complexity — typically 1-2 weeks.
What Lighthouse score should I aim for?
Lighthouse lab scores are useful directional signals but not the metric Google uses for ranking. Google uses field data from real users (CrUX). Aim for Good ratings on all three Core Web Vitals in CrUX data. Lab score of 90+ is a reasonable proxy.
My site passes in the lab but fails in field data. Why?
Lab tests run in controlled conditions — no third-party scripts, fast connection, no extensions. Real users have slower connections, older devices, and run your GTM tags. Field data (CrUX) is what Google measures.
Can you fix Core Web Vitals on a WordPress site?
Yes — most WordPress CWV issues come from unoptimised images, page builders adding render-blocking CSS/JS, and slow hosting. I diagnose the specific causes and fix them without a full rebuild.
Will fixing Core Web Vitals definitely improve my rankings?
CWV is one of many ranking signals. Fixing it removes a negative signal but does not override weak content or poor backlink profiles. Most sites I have worked on saw ranking improvements within 60-90 days after CWV fixes, alongside existing good content.
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