Have you noticed the new search result look Google has been returning when you do a local business search? No? Well give it a try!
Google has Integrated “Places” Into Their Organic Listings
Google’s 7 pack has lived up to the rumors surrounding it, moving to the right side of the screen above paid advertisements… Kind of. The map has moved to the right hand column but the “Local 7 Pack” has been integrated into the organic search results.
So far our initial research has shown that the 7 pack results are being placed into the organic results either as a “block”, similar to the previous style, sans map, or integrated into the results themselves.
Changing the Local Search Results…. Why?
Of course no one but the inner circle at Google really knows why they made the change but I would bet that this move has been driven by the trend to mobile internet (smartphone) use . Google reads the same studies that we do and that data indicates that when someone is searching for a local product or service they plan to make a local off-line purchase and so it makes sense to integrate their “Places” data.
What This Change Means for Your Business
It’s too early to tell how much of a “boost” a Places listing gives to a business’ site in the overall algorithm but it seems pretty clear that if you don’t have a Places account, then you had better get one pretty quickly . Google almost never puts down more that 7 “Places”, so it is emperative that you get into those 7.
Do I Need A Website Anymore?
As you look at the newly revised local organic SERPS you might question whether or not you need a website, since you can have a “Places” listing without one. Here’s what you need to remember. When your potential customers go online and search, they are not looking to buy right away. They are looking for information. (credibility factors, education, trust factors) If all you have listed is a phone number and no website, you’re probably going to lose. Second, the move to mobile means that not only do you need a website but you need a mobile compatible website too so that your new potential customers can access decision supporting information on the go .
Finally, don’t think for a minute that this is the end of Google’s latest shift on local search results . If I was a betting man, I would be willing to promise that Google will give extra weight to those who have a “Places” listing AND a great content rich sight. So get to work!