In today’s Tech News Tuesday episode, we’re talking about some first quarter updates in local search. Moz has an article on what’s been happening and we want to share a couple highlights we think are particularly relevant to our listeners.
Trouble with Local Services Ads
We’ve talked a lot about the importance of being on the map and showing up locally, and unfortunately scammers want to appear there too! Google has been in an ongoing battle to root them out. The latest appears to be scammers hijacking Google’s Local Services Ads causing legitimate business to disappear. It’s a serious trust issue that Google needs to address.
No, Google doesn’t call you!
And let’s not forget those automated calls that tell you your Google listing is not verified. We talked about this a while ago, but this scam is still around and active. It’s crucial to stay vigilant and never give out sensitive information over the phone.
How Google’s Looking Out for Small Businesses
On a brighter note, Google is making it easier for businesses to remove third-party ordering services from their Google Business Profiles. Many business owners were surprised to find their listing updated with ordering services like DoorDash, Uber Eats, GrubHub and others that take a hefty fee from the business. Businesses can now request removal via a link and manage the services they want to appear.
Remove third-party ordering services from your listing.
Google is Constantly Changing
The Google Business Profiles are constantly changing, and what Google gives, Google also takes away. They have had an option for a free one-page website built from your profile, and that feature was shut down last month. We weren’t recommending that option, but a number of small businesses now find themselves without a website. The old site will redirect to the Google Business Profile until June 10. Here are some options for one-page sites, if this affects you.
AI Integration in Google Business Profiles
It wouldn’t be 2024 if we didn’t mention AI, and you may see an option to use AI to generate your business description in your Google Business Profile. While that may be useful in some cases, it’s still important for business owners to identify their audience and messaging and make sure the description is on target.
The bottom line is to make sure you are visiting and updating your Google Business Profile at least monthly to stay on top of changes that may affect your local search ranking.
Do you prefer to listen in? Here’s our podcast:
Links in this episode: 14 Local Search Developments You Need to Know About From Q1 2024
How to Create a Decent One-Page Local Business Site in the Face of the Google Website Shutdown
