Google is well-known for its regular updates and algorithm changes, so most businesses have adapted to this and learnt to accept these changes along the way. Most of the changes are very subtle and cause gradual shifts in organic placement on search engine results pages; however the most recent Google Local change, which took less than 24 hours to roll out across the globe, immediately changed how local SEO results were displayed.
A staggering 50% of searches using a mobile device and 34% of searches on a desktop are looking for local businesses, and as such it’s vital that your business stands a chance of showing up for these results.
6 of these local changes are outlined below:
Google Reviews have Disappeared
Google Reviews have disappeared from search engine results pages. Where previously there were labels on reviews listed as ‘Google Reviews’, now they are simply called ‘Reviews’, with the number of reviews per business still included, though not necessarily linked to the SERP as they were previously.
Fewer Results Show Up
This has been the most significant change to the system. Now, instead of the usual list of seven results, there are just three. These are officially referred to as ‘Snack Pack’ local results and, in an unusual move for Google, this change was launched in the U.S. and internationally at the same time.
Phone Numbers Removed
Another way that Google endeavoured to streamline results was to remove phone number listings. Web users now need to click on the link of the website in order to retrieve the business’ number, however the mobile version does have a ‘Call’ option for each listing, enabling you to call the business straight from your Google search.
Exact Addresses also Removed
Another way Google has endeavoured to streamline results is by removing exact addresses from the Snack Pack results. Instead, only the street name is revealed, meaning that the user needs to click onto the website link or map listing in order to get the precise information they desire.
Store Hours Added
Instead of obtaining a phone number or business address from your Google search, you can now acquire the store hours straight from Google. So if a business is closed and you are performing a search for it, Google will specify this information. As such, be sure to verify your business’ opening hours on your My Business account with Google, in order to ensure that all information listed in your organic listings is accurate.
Google+ Links Removed
Finally, for another suggestion that Google+ has passed its sell by date, Google+ links have been removed from local search, enabling local businesses to officially claim their page.
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