When I first read about the new Google “Pigeon” update, I seriously thought it was a joke. I have been online in some way, shape or form since 1996 and for as long as I can remember, Google really likes April Fool’s jokes. This recent update triggered a memory I had of some kind of pigeon update, but this one happened back in 2002 – ha ha Google.
Webolutions is a Certified Google Ads Partner in Denver.
After some additional research, this newest Google update is, in fact, true. So, what is it? The Google Pigeon update is a new algorithm (just like Panda and Penguin) which is supposed to provide users with more relevant, useful and accurate local search results on mobile and desktop devices. So when you are searching in Google for something that is very specific to a certain location, the “local pack” you are served up should be very specific to your current location, which is why local SEO services for location based businesses is critical. The pack of between 2-7 listings represent the local results you are given that include a business’ name, address, phone number and map as seen in the example.
Our Denver SEO company has already noticed the changes with some of our clients. Some have improved greatly, while others have decreased from slightly to significantly. According to Moz, “..there were both losers and winners.” In several instances for our clients, local packs were previously displayed with search queries that included “Colorado” as a modifier. Since the update, almost 75% of those search queries no longer display a local pack. However, previous queries that did not display local search results now do. Learn more about Webolutions’ search engine marketing for local businesses.
How To Use This Information
As with any Google update, don’t panic. Even if you do notice a drop in your local results, don’t panic. Do some additional research in Google Webmaster Tools, review your search queries and click-thru-rates (CTR). If you notice a significant drop, identify what has decreased the most, brainstorm some ideas around those topics and support them with new, fresh, engaging content. Also, from a local stand-point, if you don’t have a Google My Business page, it’s time to get one.
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