Business owners everywhere were shocked at the site of the new Google search results…it was missing something!
How about 7 websites that used to appear on the first page of Google no longer exist. At least it seems like they don’t exist because 91% of people searching online never get to page 2 when ready to make a purchase.
These 7 disappearing websites were not zapped, destroyed, de-listed, black-listed, or removed. They suffered from the Google Switch.
When Google decides something is relevant because the consumer says so…FLIP…Google hits the switch.
In early 2011 Google decided it was time to acknowledge that Local searches deserve special attention. Search for a given term and you are likely to see 7 listings on the first page of Google that are Local listings named Google Places (formerly Google Local).
Considering that nearly 85% of all consumers click on one of the first 7 sites that appear, this is HUGELY important. If you also consider that these listings are enhanced with visible phone numbers, addresses, and maps, it is even more important. These listing are more enticing to the consumer because for local search, location matters.
Look at the difference in Local listings and the former search results.
What gets me…and also excites me… is companies have not figured this out yet. Their marketing agencies and consultants have not figured it out yet either.
Our clients are reaping the benefits and just to show you how important it can be:
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Salon Owner in California – Was nowhere to be found in search results and we were able to put them on page 1 of Google in 72 hours.
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Car dealer in Louisiana – Increased their leads from 1 per week to 2 per day after we led them into the #1 spot on the first page of Google.
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Doctor in Las Vegas – Went from 92 exposures per month to 995 per month which led to more patients and higher revenues in less than 90 days.
Wondering if your business can benefit from Local Search? If you depend primarily on local consumers…then yes you can benefit from Google Places and other local listings.
Comment below on your biggest challenge with local online marketing or the biggest surprise.
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