Big Changes Have Arrived in Google Local Search Rankings

As Google continues to optimize for increased mobile usage, we have found many changes that can affect your overall search results. For instance, Google has removed the right-side ads in its search results and has pushed organic listings down the page. Google has also been putting more emphasis on Google My Business (GMB) listings, and it has confirmed some ways to improve local rankings in recent posts. It takes much more than a website to stand out in a search.

Google suggested the following tips to improve local results:

1) Claim and verify your GMB location. 

2) Enter complete data in your GMB profile. 

3) List accurate hours, including holidays and special events. 

4) Reviews matter: Attract and respond to reviews on your GMB profile. 

5) Add photos that help tell the story of your business.

Mobile matters to Google as well…

In addition, Google has warned that using older Web designs, which are not optimized for mobile screen sizes and modern standards, will hurt search results. Google will start warning site owners whose sites are not optimized and remind them that they need to upgrade to a responsive and mobile-friendly design.

ClientWhys offers a suite of services that will help you optimize your CPA or tax accounting practice for Google local search results. This involves a combination of optimizing your GMB profile; using other social media sites; and attracting reviews on multiple marketplaces, including TaxBuzz.com, Google and Yelp. Feel free to ask questions below or reach out to one of our marketing consultants for a free online marketing review.