In a significant shift, Google has revamped its local search results, transitioning from the familiar “local 7-pack” to a more concise “local 3-pack.” This update, implemented on August 6th 2022, has stirred diverse opinions within the SEO industry. To demystify this transformation, we present a concise guide addressing key aspects:

Understanding the Changes in Local SERPs:

The update, rolled out globally, brings a substantial transformation to the appearance and navigation of local packs. The key alterations include a reduction to displaying only three businesses, omission of phone numbers and exact addresses, and the removal of flyout business cards and “Google My Business” links.

Implications for Your Local Business:

While the impact of this update is still unfolding, early observations reveal potential opportunities for increased exposure. The top-3 local results now rotate based on the searcher’s physical location, leading to diverse outcomes for users even within close proximity. With the redesigned local pack, more searchers are likely to navigate to the map view with a list of 20 businesses, offering additional visibility. Furthermore, the inclination of users towards organic results may present an opportunity for businesses to leverage organic traffic.

Adapting Your Local SEO Strategy:

In response to these changes, businesses can make strategic adjustments to optimise their local visibility. Recommendations include not panicking if not listed in the local pack, focusing on appearing in the top 20 sites on the map view, refining the snippet to stand out, and emphasising proper Google Business Profile optimisation. Strategies like earning positive Google reviews and accurately indicating opening hours remain crucial, while traditional local SEO techniques retain their effectiveness.

As the dust settles on this Google update, businesses are encouraged to adapt their strategies to the evolving local search landscape for sustained success. Stay tuned for expert opinions from industry leaders Andrew Shotland, Phil Rozek, and Mike Blumenthal as we navigate this transformative journey together.