SEO Disappearing From Local Search – sign of things to come?
If you undertake a search for a search engine optimisation consultant in Scotland, you will now need to be more specific. But only slightly so. It seems Google now longer shows local results for searches that don’t include the word ‘in’.
A search for SEO Scotland will return general search results. A search for SEO in Scotland will return general results together with a local search results panel. It is only a subtle difference in the query yet the results are very different.
Google’s thinking is fairly understandable. The query ‘SEO Scotland’ is not specific. Does the searcher want someone who will service the Scotland area, or someone in Scotland. Hence, by including in, you are clarifying the search parameters.
From Google’s perspective, it’s a logical move since they are trying to deliver results that are more relevant to a searcher’s needs. However, why make the change to SEO (and web design it appears) and not other areas of search? This is one area where no one knows Google’s thinking. Some feel it is a slap at SEO. I doubt that somehow. Perhaps it is a sign of things to come.
SEO and web design are not the only areas where users need to be more specific in their search terms. Is Google using one of the most powerful voices (in terms of spreading information) to help alter the way users search. If users can be convinced to include the word ‘in’ when it comes to requesting local search results, this trend could then spread across all search verticals. Every search would, in theory, provide results that are more relevant. Isn’t that what Google is always seeking – especially when it comes to targeting paid search results!
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