International SEO Question with regards to Sub Folders in Webmaster Tools

[LukeyJamo]

So, we have a website in 18 or so different languages.

bluewidgets.com/br

bluewidgets.com/cn

etc

I have added each sub folder in Google Webmaster Tools and 'pointed' them to be at their respective geographic specific.

However, the United States version of the website is sitting on the root domain. Is there any issue with me pointing the root domain at United States Google, considering there are 18 sub folders already pointed at different regions?

[RanjeetP]

So, you have got the basics fine which is good. If you have good rankings for the root domain other than Google US and if those rankings are important to you )in terms of KPIs, business benefits) then I would refrain from doing the change.

First, try to get the rankings from the sub-folders for the countries that your root domain is ranking for and then make the change. It may not be necessary that you gain immediately with the change, but there are high chances you might loose a couple of rankings in other countries. Better Safe, then Sorry!

[LukeyJamo]

Thanks. The site is brand new.

I may look at creating a sub folder for the united states.

[RanjeetP]

Thats good, just keep your targets in mind.

[gfiorelli1]

No.

I mean... your root can be targeting your main geographic market (USA) and the subfolders your international markets.

if you have geotargeted the subfolders, if you have implemented the rel="alternate" hreflang="x-X" correctly, if you do a targeted, localized and valuable link building, then there no reasons to worry.