Google Local Pack Update
Google has been tweaking just about every piece of it's search engine algorithm in an effort to give a better experience for its customers, and another recently released update has been thrown into the fold. The most recent update is going to affect local searches. Before the update, when you searched for a service or good on Google, it would give you seven local businesses (based on your location).
(image via searchengineland
Now when you do a search, there will only be three local businesses in the desktop search results.
(image via searchengineland
Google is constantly looking to improve the experience when using search. They want to make it as easy and enjoyable as possible to get to what you are looking for. The update aims to provide people with the most relevant information, including photos, reviews and prices, for the searches that have multiple results for a given location.
Money is on Mobile:
Google understands that most people do their viewing on a mobile device, so it only makes sense that they would want to optimize search for mobile users. This update effectively makes results from your computer look the results from your phone; 3 businesses within your area showing up on the map at the top of the search.
How It Affects Your Business
If you were in the previous 7 pack of search results for Google, you likely benefited from more traffic and increased sales leads. Any local business with more than two other competitors now have to compete for prime viewing on the first page of a Google search. If you are in the top 3 results, this change could lead to more business and increased traffic with a more targeted approach. Being in the first three gives you the best chance to make a good first impression, and drive more sales.
What Can I Do To Get Into (And Stay in) the Top 3?
Optimize your SEO. Local SEO is going to get more aggressive now that there are only three spots instead of seven. What this increased competition means is that businesses have to keep their SEO as efficient as possible to stay on top. How do you do this? Invest in your digital marketing. Be aware that this is a tool to be used to your advantage. This update lays the groundwork for a more efficient, and more effective digital strategy.
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