Prepare for the Latest Google Algorithm Update, Before the Google Pigeon Crosses the Border!
Bassem is a 2-time winner of the Canadian Entrepreneur of the Year award and a digital marketing, SEO, and AI strategist with more than 22+ years of experience managing online marketing strategies for some of Canada's and international corporations, including Canadian Tire, VistaPrint, Remax Canada, Egypt Air, Xplornet, Direct Energy, and Toronto Star.
What does the Google Pigeon Update fix?
- Increased Search Engine Ranking integration with major local directories and review sites, such as Yelp and Yellow Pages.
- Improved distance and location ranking parameters.
- Improved Google Knowledge Graph & recognition of keyword synonyms.
- Increased importance placed on domain authority.
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First, let’s understand where local search results come from:
Certain databases feed information to other sites and search engines. Having an incorrect or inconsistent business listing in one online database could mean there are also incorrect listings elsewhere.
It is important to ensure your business name and phone number (the NAP) are listed in the exact same format across all online business profiles and directories (eg-do not use the abbreviated “St.” in one listing and “Street” in another).
Top 4 Tips to Protect Against the Latest Google Update:
These tips will help shield businesses from any negative effect resulting from the Google Pigeon Update and also improve your local search rankings!
1. Create a Solid Business Presence on Relevant Local Directory Sites
Research the Local Directories that are ranking for your main keywords, and create a complete business profile on each directory. Fill in all available fields of information, and include images and videos if possible.
2. Create a Google+ Local Business Page
To get included in Google’s Local Index, create a Google+ Local Business Page, complete all available fields, select the appropriate business category, and verify your ownership of the business. Include hours of operation and locations served as well as relevant images and videos.
3. Take advantage of the Local Carousel Results on Google SERPs .
The Local Carousel draws information from Google+ Business Listings and displays the business name, profile image and rating. Encourage happy customers to post reviews on your Google+ business page, and be sure to use a high-quality image for your profile.
4. Business Name, Address and Phone Number (NAP) Citations
Include the full business NAP on every page of your website, this is usually done in the footer of each page, as well as all online business profiles on directories. Citations are “mentions” of your business NAP on other web pages, (even when there is no link to your website), and one of the main ways search engines determine rank!
