Google Introduces New Pigeon Algorithm to Benefit Local Businesses

In the online marketing world, it is all too easy for smaller, local companies to be overshadowed by bigger brands with a larger web presence. This week, Google has endeavoured to solve this issue by updating its Pigeon Algorithm to help improve local search results.

The new algorithm has been nicknamed the Pigeon Update by Search Engine Land. This update will provide more useful and relevant local search results, which are more closely linked to site ranking. Local businesses have already noticed some movement due to the update, but Google has not confirmed the number of sites that have been effected.

One of the more noticeable changes is the addition of a scroll bar in the Google Maps search. Now, any local searches will appear on the map itself and in a display along the side. The scroll provides instant access to the location’s ratings and further information. While Google has stated that the changes will only take effect in English US results, we noticed that the scroll bar was already in use on Google Maps UK.

This new update stresses the importance of optimising your local search results. Be sure to register your business address with Google, so that it appears in Maps. It is also important to optimise your listing on local directories, as the new Google Pigeon update places a greater emphasis on these types of sites. So, encourage your customers to leave reviews on sites like Yelp and Trip Advisor.

At Win Marketing, we can help to improve your visibility in local search results. View our Search Engine Optimisation page or call 01509 265890 for more information on how we can help.

In the online marketing world, it is all too easy for smaller, local companies to be overshadowed by bigger brands with a larger web presence. This week, Google has endeavoured to solve this issue by updating its Pigeon Algorithm to help improve local search results.

The new algorithm has been nicknamed the Pigeon Update by Search Engine Land. This update will provide more useful and relevant local search results, which are more closely linked to site ranking. Local businesses have already noticed some movement due to the update, but Google has not confirmed the number of sites that have been effected.

One of the more noticeable changes is the addition of a scroll bar in the Google Maps search. Now, any local searches will appear on the map itself and in a display along the side. The scroll provides instant access to the location’s ratings and further information. While Google has stated that the changes will only take effect in English US results, we noticed that the scroll bar was already in use on Google Maps UK.

This new update stresses the importance of optimising your local search results. Be sure to register your business address with Google, so that it appears in Maps. It is also important to optimise your listing on local directories, as the new Google Pigeon update places a greater emphasis on these types of sites. So, encourage your customers to leave reviews on sites like Yelp and Trip Advisor.

At Win Marketing, we can help to improve your visibility in local search results. View our Search Engine Optimisation page or call 01509 265890 for more information on how we can help.

Win Marketing

Published by:
Win Marketing

6 August 2014

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