Google Affirms ‘Openness’ as a Key Local Search Ranking Factor

🌐 Google Confirms ‘Openness’ Impact on Local Search:
– Recent Google algorithm changes highlight the importance of business hours in local search.
– Google Search Liaison confirms that ‘openness’ is now a stronger ranking factor for local search.

⏰ False 24/7 Hours Can Backfire:
– Listing incorrect 24/7 hours may negatively affect Google ranking signals.
– Manipulating hours for better visibility is discouraged and can lead to user dissatisfaction.

🔄 Algorithm Shift After November 2023 Update:
– SEO professionals observe a shift in Google’s local search algorithm after the November 2023 core update.
– Businesses appearing as closed experience reduced visibility in local search results.

📅 Keep Google Business Profiles Updated:
– Essential for visibility and customer experience.
– Especially crucial during holidays to influence local search visibility.

❓ Non-Navigational Queries Defined:
– Google acknowledges ‘openness’ as a stronger signal for non-navigational queries.
– Non-navigational queries involve general topics rather than searching for a specific business.

⚠️ Concerns Addressed:
– Businesses falsely listing 24/7 hours to boost visibility may lead to poor user experiences.
– Google advises against manipulating hours, and the ranking signal is subject to ongoing adjustments.

📍 Best Practice for Local Businesses:
– Maintain accurate operational hours on Google Business Profiles.
– Ensures minimal customer frustration and potentially increases visibility in local pack rankings.

🚀 Holiday Considerations:
– Crucial to update hours, especially during the holiday season.
– Accurate operational hours attract more customers with ‘near me’ searches, a significant advantage if competitors are closed.

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