Over the past few weeks, many local businesses have noticed a big number of fluctuations in their local search ranking. Google search algorithms generally help fetch data from search indexes to instantly deliver search results that are most relevant to the search engine user. Along with the algorithm, there are various other ranking factors that work on delivering search engine results ranking that are relevant within the search engine results pages. This new algorithm update is, termed “Vicinity” by Sterling Sky, took place from the 30th November to 8th December. According to the analysis of various digital marketing services, this update mainly focuses on the proximity factor to make the update. Let’s get to know how this algorithm update works, so your business can make changes with its digital marketing approaches accordingly.

Google’s biggest local search algorithm update- Vicinity

Vicinity update of Google’s local search algorithm can benefit more small businesses establishing their business locally.
Even though proximity has been an important factor from earlier algorithmic updates for local search results, businesses have successfully optimized their rank even though they were far from their actual business locations. But with the Vicinity update, the Google algorithm is now more focused on the proximity factor to make the local search results more relevant. So, there is a greater chance for the local businesses to rank well who are competing against businesses that are further away from a certain location. With the use of Vicinity update, it has been found that SEO services are less effective where adding keywords to the Google business profile was working. Only those businesses who follow Google’s guidelines in using keywords and put effort into combating name spam would be more likely to benefit from these algorithm updates.
According to this new update, what Google suggests is that your business information should be updated to achieve better visibility. So make sure to use digital marketing services to optimize your website and contents to make them super relevant for Google SERPs. Your information should be complete and accurate, so it would be easier for Google can match local searches with your business. Make sure your business location appears in local search results across Google products that involve Maps and Search, etc.

How will local business owners benefit from the Vicinity update?

Google has confirmed, “General guidance for businesses remains the same,” taking it to the tweeter, so you can follow the guidelines to know how to improve your local rankings. This guideline shows that the Vicinity algorithm primarily determines results based on relevance, distance, and prominence, which all remain the same as before. However, if you have a local business, it’s now the right time to invest in digital marketing services, so you can adapt to this change in landscape faster and adhere to Google’s guidelines to achieve sustainable search engine ranking success.

Although this update has disrupted the ranking drastically, there is no reason for you to fall behind for a long time if you make some desired and Google-friendly changes in your listing as per the guidelines. If you update your business information to optimize it accordingly along with the new update, you can see the top rankings in the near future.

Now that you know the growing importance of local search algorithms, you must make necessary changes with your website optimization to make your business website compatible with the Vicinity update. It’s now fair that you join hands with a reliable digital marketing services provider to grow your local business tremendously. Get in contact with XenelSoft to offer you services for this new algorithm of Google.