Live @ SMX East: Deconstructing Pigeon, Google’s New Local Search Algorithm

If the changes going on in local search are giving you a headache, you’re not alone. For example, Google’s Pigeon update is a newly released algorithm to provide more useful, relevant and accurate local search results that are tied more closely to traditional web search ranking signals. The core changes are behind the scenes, but many marketers have reported that the changes have had an impact on local search results rankings – in some cases, a dramatic impact.

For some businesses, the changes have been beneficial, with notable improvements in rankings. Some have seen spammy results from so-called “competitors” disappear. But others have noticed that the so-called “7-pack” of local search results is not displaying consistently.

There have been other unexpected results as well. Bizarrely, for a search for New York Hotels, Expedia’s corporate headquarters appeared in the local carousel, along with hotel options you’d expect, such as Sheraton, Hilton, Marriott and others.

Google has acknowledged that there are a few unexpected anomalies, and says it is working on fixing them. Meanwhile, if your business has been affected by the change, what should you do?

At SMX East, our speakers on the Deconstructing Pigeon, Google’s New Local Search Algorithm panel are all experts at navigating and making sense of the constantly shifting terrain of local search. They’ll offer insight and actionable tactics for dealing with new features and requirements. They’ll offer advice on making your local search listings stand apart from the crowd, by developing smarter content, leveraging user reviews, and more. Their key focus will be to guide local businesses (and marketers that serve them) with strategies and tactics that work in this often confusing local landscape.

Want more local search? Immediately after the Deconstructing Pigeon session, be sure to attend Let’s Talk Local Search: Super Therapy Session For Advanced Local Marketers . No PowerPoints or couches. Just the smartest local search experts ready to share advanced strategies and tactics that are working today.

Deconstructing Pigeon, Google’s New Local Search Algorithm is one of more than 60 sessions at SMX East, Sept. 30 – Oct 2, the three-day conference devoted to all aspects of search, online and social media marketing. Check out the agenda for SMX East and register now!

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Looking forward to seeing you in New York City!