As a business owner or marketing director, you’ve likely felt the tremor in your search rankings over the last few weeks. We’re here to tell you that what you’re feeling is a real, significant change. Google’s June 2025 algorithm update has concluded its rollout, and the digital marketing landscape is shifting once again. For those of us who live and breathe SEO, these updates aren’t just minor tweaks — they’re pivotal moments that redefine how we connect with our audiences online.

So now, let’s break down the intricacies of the latest Google algorithm update. We’ll explore the key changes, analyze who is most affected, and provide a clear path forward for those experiencing drops in traffic or rankings. This isn’t a time for panic, but for calculated, strategic action. By the end of this post, you will understand what happened, what to expect, and how we, at Dallas SEO Dogs, are helping businesses just like yours in the Dallas area and beyond to navigate this new era of search.

The Latest Google Algorithm Update | A New Era of Quality

The June 2025 Google algorithm update was, by all accounts, one of the more impactful core updates we’ve seen in recent memory. While Google’s official statement described it as a “regular update designed to better surface relevant, satisfying content,” the data shows something more profound. It was a broad core update that rolled out over a span of about 16 days, starting on June 30th and concluding on July 17th. This timeline, while not unprecedented, was long enough to cause significant volatility for many websites, from small businesses to large publishers.

Our team, a leading digital marketing agency in Dallas, has been closely monitoring the changes and analyzing the data. We’ve seen firsthand how sites that were previously negatively impacted by updates, like the September 2023 Helpful Content Update, are now seeing partial or even full recoveries. This suggests that Google is refining its systems, correcting previous over-penalties, and getting even better at distinguishing truly valuable content from low-quality, AI-generated fluff.

What does this mean for you? It reinforces a core tenet of our philosophy: Google wants to reward websites that provide genuine, human-centric value. The focus is no longer just on keywords, but on the overall experience and authority a site provides. If your website suffered a ranking drop, it’s not necessarily a sign that something is broken. Instead, it’s an invitation to re-evaluate your content through the lens of quality, expertise, and user experience.

Key Changes in the Google Algorithm Update | What We’ve Discovered

The rollout of the June 2025 update has highlighted several key shifts in Google’s ranking systems. These changes are not random; they are a clear continuation of Google’s long-term goal of improving search results and rewarding helpful, reliable content. Let’s delve into what we’ve identified as the most significant changes that will inform your digital marketing strategies.

AI Overviews and Zero-Click Searches

A major factor in this latest Google algorithm update is the increased prominence of AI Overviews. We’ve seen AI-generated summaries and answers appearing more frequently in the search results, sometimes accounting for a significant portion of visibility. This trend is leading to an increase in “zero-click” searches, where users find the answer to their query directly on the Search Engine Results Page (SERP) without ever needing to click through to a website.

This shift presents a challenge for businesses that rely on organic traffic. Your digital marketing strategy must now account for this. Instead of just aiming to rank on the first page, we need to focus on optimizing content to be selected for these AI Overviews. This means creating clear, concise, and structured content that is easy for Google’s AI models to digest and summarize.

Content Quality and Topical Authority

The June 2025 algorithm update is placing a stronger emphasis on content that demonstrates authentic expertise, experience, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness (E-E-A-T). Google’s systems are getting smarter at identifying content that is thinly-veiled AI-generated text or simply rehashed information from other sources.

We’ve observed that websites that are thriving post-update are those that have built robust “topical authority” within their niche. They don’t just write one or two blog posts on a subject; they create comprehensive content clusters, covering a topic from every angle. This approach signals to Google that they are a go-to resource in their industry. This is a crucial element of a modern digital marketing strategy.

User Experience and Core Web Vitals

The role of user experience (UX) as a ranking factor is more important than ever. The latest Google algorithm update continues to reward websites that provide a seamless and fast experience for users. This includes factors measured by Core Web Vitals, such as:

• Loading Speed (Largest Contentful Paint or LCP): How quickly your content loads.
• Interactivity (First Input Delay or FID): How long it takes a page to become interactive.
• Visual Stability (Cumulative Layout Shift or CLS): How the layout shifts as it loads.

If your website is slow, clunky, or difficult to navigate on a mobile device, you may have seen a negative impact from this update. Google is essentially saying that a great user experience is a prerequisite for high rankings.

Who Is Most Affected and What to Expect?

The impacts of this Google algorithm update 2025 are not uniform. While some sites saw huge declines, others saw significant improvements. Here are some of the key trends we’ve observed:

Winners — Well-established sites with a long history of creating high-quality, authoritative content have generally fared well. Sites that focused on a people-first, helpful content approach saw recoveries, suggesting Google is getting better at rewarding genuine value. We’ve also seen a rise for sites that are mobile-optimized and have excellent technical SEO foundations.

Losers — Sites relying on thin, unoriginal, or AI-generated content without a human touch have been hit hard. Websites with poor user experience, slow loading times, or intrusive ads also experienced drops. For some, the decline may not have been a sudden freefall but a gradual erosion of rankings and traffic over time.

For businesses that have experienced a drop, it’s easy to feel disheartened. We’ve heard stories from clients who saw their organic traffic plummet overnight. But we always remind them that a drop in rankings is not a final verdict on your business; it’s a signal from Google that it’s time to adapt. A drop is simply a starting point for analysis and improvement.

What to do if you’ve seen a decline? First, avoid making any hasty, knee-jerk changes. The ranking volatility is still settling. A good digital marketing strategy doesn’t react to every single fluctuation but focuses on long-term, sustainable growth.

Best Practices for Google Algorithm Changes in 2025

The key to navigating this and any future Google algorithm update in 2025 is to build a resilient and robust online presence. Our goal at Dallas SEO Dogs is to create a digital marketing strategy that is “future-proof” — one that will thrive regardless of how the algorithm changes. Here are the steps we recommend:

1. Conduct a Comprehensive Content Audit: The first step is to get a clear picture of your content. We analyze every page on your site to identify what’s working, what’s outdated, and what could be improved. We look for thin or low-value pages that Google might deem unhelpful. Our goal is to consolidate and refresh existing content to make it more comprehensive and authoritative.
2. Double Down on E-E-A-T: Showcase your expertise and trustworthiness. This means having clear author bios with credentials, providing references to credible sources, and including case studies or client testimonials that demonstrate your real-world experience. For example, a law firm should highlight the credentials of its attorneys, while a home services company should feature client success stories and before-and-after photos.
3. Prioritize the User Experience: We can’t stress this enough. Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights and Google Search Console to identify and fix technical issues that are hurting your site’s performance. Focus on improving your Core Web Vitals, and make sure your website is easy to use on both desktop and mobile devices. A fast, clean, and intuitive website is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity.
4. Refine Your Digital Marketing Strategy: With the rise of AI Overviews and zero-click searches, we must think beyond traditional ranking. We need to optimize content for featured snippets, create high-quality video content that can rank in video carousels, and build a strong presence on platforms like YouTube that are increasingly integrated with search results. Your digital marketing agency should be thinking this way, too.

Call on Dallas SEO Dogs | Your Digital Marketing Partner

The June 2025 Google algorithm update is a powerful reminder that the digital world is always in motion. What worked yesterday may not work today. This update, with its emphasis on E-E-A-T, user experience, and authentic, helpful content, represents a continuation of Google’s mission to provide the best possible search results for its users.

For marketing directors and business owners, this is your call to action. Take this opportunity to re-evaluate your digital marketing strategy. Don’t chase the algorithm; focus on building a genuinely valuable online presence for your customers. By prioritizing quality, expertise, and a flawless user experience, you will not only recover from any drops but also build a foundation for long-term, sustainable growth.

Need to navigate this latest Google algorithm update and create a resilient digital marketing strategy for your business? We’re here to help. As a trusted digital marketing agency based in Dallas, Dallas SEO Dogs specializes in building powerful online presences that withstand the test of time and algorithm changes.

Let’s discuss how we can help your business thrive!

FAQ

Q. What is the latest Google algorithm update?

As of August 2025, latest Google algorithm update is the June 2025 Core Update, which concluded its rollout on July 17th. It’s a broad core update that emphasizes content quality, user experience, and E-E-A-T.

Q. How does the Google algorithm update 2025 affect my website?

The update can cause fluctuations in your search rankings and organic traffic. Websites with high-quality, people-first content may see gains, while those with thin, unhelpful, or technically poor content may experience drops.

Q. What should my digital marketing strategy be after this update?

Your digital marketing strategy should prioritize creating high-quality, authoritative content that demonstrates expertise. Focus on improving your website’s user experience, ensuring it is fast and mobile-friendly, and optimizing your content to align with a user’s search intent.

Q. Can a digital marketing agency help me recover from a ranking drop?

Yes. A skilled digital marketing agency can conduct a thorough analysis of your website, identify the issues, and develop a strategic plan to improve your content, technical SEO, and overall user experience. This proactive approach is key to recovering from a ranking drop and building a resilient online presence for the future.

The post June 2025 Google Algorithm Update appeared first on Dallas SEO Dogs.

As we head further into 2025, it’s clear artificial intelligence is not just a buzzword but a fundamental component of search engine algorithms. Understanding and adapting to these changes is paramount for marketing directors and business owners seeking to thrive in this evolving environment. The Dallas SEO Dogs are committed to guiding you through these transformations, offering the expertise and support needed to optimize your online presence.

What Is a Google Core Update and Why Does It Matter?

Google Core Updates are significant revisions to Google’s ranking systems, designed to refine the relevance and quality of search results. These updates often lead to substantial fluctuations in website rankings, as Google continually strives to deliver the most accurate and valuable information to its users. The March 2025 Google Core Update, in particular, emphasizes the increased integration of AI-driven search experiences, marking a notable shift in how users interact with search engines.

Key Changes and Observations Following the Google March Core Update

The post-Google March Core Update period has brought several pivotal observations that necessitate strategic adjustments.

Increased AI Overview Integration

We’ve seen a dramatic surge in the prominence of AI Overviews within search results. This indicates Google’s commitment to providing direct, AI-generated answers to user queries. This evolution directly impacts traditional click-through rates, as users are increasingly presented with comprehensive information directly on the results page.

The Rise of “AI Mode”

Google’s AI Mode experiment is fundamentally reshaping user interactions with search. This feature facilitates a more conversational and comprehensive search experience, underscoring the growing role of AI in information retrieval. Adapting to this conversational search paradigm is crucial for maintaining visibility.

Emphasis on E-E-A-T and Content Quality

The significance of Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness (E-E-A-T) remains paramount. Google continues to prioritize high-quality, authoritative content that aligns with user intent. This emphasis on content quality is a cornerstone of the Google Algorithm Update.

Heightened Volatility in Search Results

Post-update, we’ve observed increased volatility in search results pages. This volatility underscores the need for continuous monitoring and adaptive SEO strategies. The Google Core Update has created a dynamic search environment that requires constant vigilance.

Impact on Local SEO

The Google March Core Update has also impacted local search results. Businesses with a strong local presence must ensure their Google Business Profile is optimized and their local SEO strategies are aligned with the latest algorithm changes. This is a critical area for any Digital Marketing Company to consider.

Mobile Optimization

With the increase of AI overview and conversational search, mobile optimization is more important than ever. Users are asking long-tail questions on the go — they need answers both quickly and correctly.

Video Content Influence

Video content is continuing to grow, and is now being more frequently used within AI overviews. Optimizing video content for SEO is a growing need, and should be considered by any Digital Marketing Agency.

How the Google Core Update Affects Your Website and SEO Strategy

The evolving search landscape necessitates a proactive and adaptive approach to SEO. Websites must adapt to the increasing prominence of AI-driven search experiences by:

Optimizing Content for AI Overviews and Conversational Search: Crafting content that answers specific questions and provides comprehensive information is crucial. This involves structuring content to be easily digestible by AI algorithms.

Reinforcing E-E-A-T Signals: Establishing credibility and authority is more critical than ever. This involves showcasing expertise, providing transparent information, and building trust with your audience.

Ensuring Seamless User Experience Across All Devices: With the rise of mobile search and AI-driven interactions, ensuring a seamless user experience across all devices is paramount.

Technical SEO Audits and Enhancements: Regularly conducting technical SEO audits and implementing enhancements is crucial for maintaining optimal website performance. This is especially true after the Google Algorithm Update.

Monitoring and Adaptation: Continuously monitoring website performance and adapting SEO strategies in response to algorithm changes is essential for maintaining visibility. The Google Core Update requires constant adaptation.

Dallas SEO Dogs | Your Partner for SEO Success

The Google March Core Update has ushered in a new era of search, one that is heavily influenced by artificial intelligence. To maintain and enhance your online visibility, it’s crucial to adapt your SEO strategies to align with these changes. By focusing on high-quality content, E-E-A-T, and AI-driven optimizations, you can navigate this evolving landscape and achieve lasting success. Partnering with a skilled Digital Marketing Company like Dallas SEO Dogs can provide you with the expertise and support needed to thrive in this dynamic environment.

The post-Google March Core Update environment demands adaptability and a forward-thinking approach to search engine optimization (SEO). By embracing AI-driven search experiences and prioritizing high-quality content, we can navigate these changes and achieve lasting online success. At Dallas SEO Dogs, we are committed to providing the expertise and support you need to thrive in this evolving digital landscape.

In this dynamic environment, partnering with a knowledgeable Digital Marketing Agency is essential. At Dallas SEO Dogs, we possess the expertise to navigate these changes and optimize your online presence. Our services include:

• AI-driven SEO strategies to align with the evolving search landscape.
• Comprehensive E-E-A-T optimization to establish your website’s authority.
• Technical SEO audits and enhancements to ensure optimal performance.
• Consistent monitoring of the changes caused by the Google Core Update.
• Local SEO optimization to stay visible in your community.
• Video SEO optimization to take advantage of the growing video content.

Don’t let the Google Core Update leave your website behind. Contact Dallas SEO Dogs today for a comprehensive SEO audit and strategic consultation. Let us help you optimize your online presence and achieve your business goals.

The post Google March Core Update appeared first on Dallas SEO Dogs.

Let’s break down the major Google algorithm updates of 2024, explore their impact, and get some insights to help you navigate the ever-evolving language of search.

What Is a Google Algorithm? 

How does Google’s search algorithm work? Think of the Google algorithm as an intricate recipe with countless ingredients and steps. Just as a chef meticulously combines ingredients to create a culinary masterpiece, Google’s algorithm blends numerous factors to determine the order in which web pages appear in search results. It’s the driving force behind Google Search, constantly being refined and updated to ensure users receive the most relevant and valuable information.

Google’s search algorithm employs a multifaceted approach, considering a wide array of factors when ranking web pages. Let’s delve into some of the key elements:

Relevance | The Heart of the Matter

Relevance is paramount in Google’s ranking system. The algorithm meticulously analyzes the content of a web page to determine how closely it aligns with the user’s search query. This involves dissecting the meaning and intent behind the user’s words and matching them with pages that provide the most accurate and comprehensive answers.

For instance, if you search for “best Italian restaurants in Austin,” the algorithm will prioritize pages that:

• Explicitly mention Italian cuisine
• Focus on restaurants located in Austin
• Potentially include reviews or ratings to indicate quality

Authority | Establishing Credibility and Trust

Authority plays a pivotal role in Google’s ranking algorithm. Websites that are deemed authoritative and trustworthy are more likely to rank higher in search results. This assessment is based on various factors, including:

• The website’s age and history
• The quality and relevance of its content
• The number and quality of backlinks from other reputable websites

Imagine searching for information on heart health. Google is more likely to prioritize a page from a well-established medical institution or a renowned cardiologist’s website over a random blog with questionable credentials.

User Experience | Prioritizing Seamless and Engaging Interactions

Google’s algorithm places significant emphasis on user experience. Websites that offer a positive and seamless browsing experience are favored in search rankings. Key factors contributing to a good user experience include:

• Page speed: How quickly the page loads
• Mobile-friendliness: Whether the page is easily accessible and navigable on mobile devices
• Overall usability: The clarity, organization, and ease of navigation on the website

Think about your own browsing habits. Are you more likely to stay on a website that loads quickly, is easy to navigate, and provides a pleasant reading experience? Google’s algorithm takes these factors into account to ensure users find what they’re looking for without frustration.

Backlinks | Measuring Relevance through External Validation

Backlinks, or links from other websites pointing to your site, are another crucial element in Google’s ranking algorithm. They act as votes of confidence from other websites, signaling to Google that your content is valuable and relevant.

The quality and relevance of these backlinks are paramount. A link from a high-authority website in your industry carries more weight than a link from a random, unrelated site.

Think of it this way: if a renowned scientist cites your research paper, it adds credibility to your work. Backlinks from reputable websites boost your authority in the eyes of Google.

Google Algorithm Updates 2024

Google regularly releases updates to its algorithm to improve search results and combat spam. Here’s a timeline of the major Google algorithm updates in 2024:

March 2024 Core Update

Google’s March 2024 core update was a broad update that impacted various aspects of search rankings. While Google doesn’t provide specific details about core updates, they generally focus on improving the overall quality and relevance of search results.

Impact: This update caused fluctuations in rankings for many websites, with some experiencing significant gains or drops in organic traffic.

March 2024 Spam Update

In March 2024, Google also released a spam update targeting websites that engage in manipulative tactics to boost their rankings. This includes practices like keyword stuffing, cloaking, and link schemes.

Impact: Websites caught engaging in spammy practices likely saw a drop in their rankings or were even removed from search results entirely.

Spring Google Algorithm Leak 2024

Not an update, but between March and May of 2024, there was a big Google  leak. thousands of documents relating to Google’s site ranking factors were linked online. Most of this information has been disseminated through the community by now, as the market responds to this new information.

June 2024 Spam Update

Google rolled out another spam update in June 2024, further refining its ability to detect and penalize websites employing spam tactics. This update focused on combating spam across multiple languages.

Impact: This update reinforced the importance of ethical SEO practices and high-quality content. Websites that continued to engage in spam faced further penalties.

August 2024 Core Update

August saw another significant core update that aimed to improve the overall search experience. Google emphasized the importance of content relevance, user experience, and website authority.

Impact: This update reiterated the need for high-quality, user-centric content that aligns with search intent. Websites that prioritized these factors likely saw positive results.

November 2024 Core Update

Google continued its focus on refining search quality with a core update in November 2024. This update emphasized the importance of original, informative, and engaging content.

Impact: Websites with thin or duplicate content likely experienced a decline in rankings, while those with unique and valuable content saw improvements.

December 2024 Spam & Core Update

December brought a combined spam and core update, demonstrating Google’s ongoing commitment to combating spam and enhancing search quality. This update aimed to improve the detection of low-quality content and manipulative link-building practices.

Impact: This update served as a reminder that Google is constantly refining its algorithms to ensure users find the most relevant and trustworthy information. Websites that prioritize ethical SEO and user experience are best positioned to weather these updates.

Navigating Google’s Ups and Downs with Dallas SEO Dogs

Keeping up with Google algorithm updates can be challenging, but it’s essential for maintaining and improving your website’s organic visibility. At Dallas SEO Dogs, we specialize in helping businesses navigate the complexities of SEO and achieve sustainable online growth.

Our team of experts stays on top of the latest algorithm updates and implements best practices to ensure your website is optimized for success. We’ll work with you to develop a comprehensive SEO strategy that includes:

• Keyword research and targeting: Identifying the most valuable keywords for your business.
• On-page optimization: Optimizing your website’s content and structure for search engines.
• Off-page optimization: Building high-quality backlinks to improve your website’s authority.
• Content marketing: Creating valuable and engaging content that attracts and converts your target audience.

Contact our digital marketing company today to learn more about how we can help you navigate the ever-changing world of Google algorithm updates and achieve your online marketing goals.

The post Google Algorithm Updates of 2024 appeared first on Dallas SEO Dogs.

Understanding the Essence of Google Core Algorithm Updates

Google’s core algorithm updates are not mere incremental adjustments; they represent significant overhauls in how Google assesses and ranks web pages. These updates recalibrate the search engine’s core functionalities, influencing which websites secure coveted top spots in search results.

How Often Does Google Change Their Algorithm?

Google’s algorithms are in a state of perpetual refinement, with minor updates occurring almost daily. However, core algorithm updates, like the one in November 2024, are less frequent but pack a much more significant punch. These updates often trigger noticeable fluctuations in website rankings and reshape the search engine results pages (SERPs).

Dissecting the November 2024 Google Core Algorithm Update

While Google maintains a degree of secrecy around the intricate details of each update, the overarching goal remains consistent: to elevate the overall quality of search results. Several key areas typically receive heightened emphasis:

Content Relevance

Google’s primary objective is to surface content that precisely aligns with the user’s search intent. This underscores the need for websites to feature high-quality, informative, and relevant content that directly addresses the specific needs and queries of their target audience.

User Experience

A seamless and positive user experience is paramount in Google’s evaluation criteria. Factors such as website loading speed, mobile-friendliness, intuitive navigation, and clear presentation contribute significantly to how Google perceives your website’s value to users.

Authority and Trust 

Google’s algorithms prioritize websites that exude authority and trustworthiness in their respective domains. Establishing your website as a reliable source of information involves building high-quality backlinks from reputable sources, ensuring a secure website with HTTPS, and cultivating positive user engagement signals.

Impact of the November 2024 Update on Your Website

This update, like its predecessors, has the potential to significantly impact your website’s search rankings. Here are some potential outcomes:

Increased Visibility

Websites that meticulously adhere to Google’s best practices, prioritize user experience, and offer valuable content may experience a boost in their search rankings, leading to increased visibility and organic traffic.

Decreased Visibility

Conversely, websites with underlying issues related to content quality, user experience, or authority may witness a decline in their search rankings, potentially resulting in reduced visibility and organic traffic.

Fluctuations in Rankings

It’s not uncommon to observe some initial fluctuations in rankings as the update rolls out and Google refines its understanding of your website’s content and relevance.

A Strategic Approach to Adapting to the Google Updated Algorithm

While a core algorithm update may seem daunting, it’s crucial to recognize that these changes ultimately aim to reward websites that genuinely prioritize user experience and deliver high-quality content. Here’s a strategic approach to adapt and thrive in this evolving landscape:

Prioritize E-E-A-T

Google’s E-E-A-T principle, encompassing Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness, has become even more critical. Establish your website as a credible and reliable source of information by creating content backed by expertise, actively building high-quality backlinks from reputable sources, and maintaining a secure and user-friendly website.

Content is King

Content remains the cornerstone of a successful online presence. Ensure your website offers valuable, relevant, and well-written content that effectively addresses the needs and queries of your target audience. Regularly update your content to ensure its freshness, accuracy, and ongoing relevance.

Optimize for User Experience

A seamless and positive user experience is non-negotiable. Prioritize website speed, mobile-friendliness, and intuitive navigation to ensure visitors can easily find the information they seek and engage with your content effortlessly.

Monitor Your Website’s Performance

Vigilance is key in the dynamic digital landscape. Continuously monitor your website’s traffic and search rankings using tools like Google Search Console and Google Analytics. Identify any significant changes or fluctuations and proactively adjust your strategies to maintain or improve your performance.

Call on the Dallas SEO Dogs for Your SEO Solutions

Google’s November 2024 core algorithm update serves as a potent reminder that the digital landscape is in a constant state of flux. By prioritizing high-quality content, user experience, and website authority, you can not only weather these updates but also thrive in the ever-evolving world of search engine optimization.

If you’re seeking expert guidance in navigating these changes or optimizing your website for enhanced search performance, our team at SEO Dogs is ready to assist! Reach out to our marketing company today to explore how we can help you achieve your digital marketing goals and elevate your online presence.

FAQs About Google Core Algorithm Updates

Q: How does the Google search algorithm work?

Google’s search algorithm is a sophisticated system that employs hundreds of factors to evaluate the relevance and ranking of web pages. It analyzes content, user experience, backlinks, and a myriad of other signals to deliver the most relevant and valuable results for a user’s search query.

Q: What is a Google Core Algorithm Update?

A Google Core Algorithm Update is a significant change to Google’s search algorithm that fundamentally impacts how websites are evaluated and ranked. These updates occur several times a year and serve to improve the overall quality and relevance of search results.

Q: How can I recover from a Google Core Algorithm Update penalty?

It’s important to note that there’s no “penalty” in the traditional sense. If your website’s ranking declines after a core update, it’s likely due to underlying issues with your content, user experience, or authority. Focus on proactively improving these areas to regain your rankings and enhance your website’s visibility.

The post November 2024 Google Core Algorithm Update appeared first on Dallas SEO Dogs.

In Search Engine Optimization (SEO), keeping abreast of Google’s algorithm updates is crucial for maintaining your website’s visibility and organic traffic — the changes come often and can induce major swings in the way your site is ranked and viewed. 

The August 2024 Google Core Update is no exception. While these updates aim to enhance the overall search experience for users, they often bring about significant shifts in rankings and visibility for websites across various industries. 

Let’s go into the intricacies of this latest Google Core Algorithm Update, its potential impact on your online presence, and proactive steps you can take to adapt and thrive in the changing SEO landscape. 

Understanding Google’s Core Updates

Google’s Core Updates are broad algorithm adjustments that impact search results on a global scale. These updates are designed to refine the search engine’s ability to assess the relevance and quality of web pages, ensuring that users find the most helpful and informative content for their queries. 

While Google typically rolls out multiple core updates throughout the year, the August 2024 update has garnered significant attention due to its potentially far-reaching consequences. 

What’s Different About The August 2024 Core Update?

The official announcement from Google regarding the August 2024 Core Update emphasized a continued focus on delivering “more content that people find genuinely useful and less content that feels like it was made just to perform well on Search.” This statement suggests that Google is doubling down on its efforts to prioritize user experience and reward websites that offer valuable, original content. 

Early observations from industry experts and data providers indicate that this update is particularly impactful. Some of the key takeaways from the initial analysis include:

• Volatility: The update has led to significant fluctuations in search rankings for many websites, indicating a major reshuffling of the SERPs.
• Content Quality: Websites with high-quality, informative content seem to be benefiting, while those with thin or low-value content are likely experiencing a decline in visibility.
• Emphasis on User Experience: Factors such as page speed, mobile-friendliness, and overall user experience are likely playing an even bigger role in determining rankings. 

Potential Impact on Your Website

The impact of the August 2024 Google Core Update on your website will depend on various factors, including the quality of your content, the overall user experience you offer, and your adherence to SEO best practices. 

If you’ve been diligently creating valuable content, optimizing for user experience, and avoiding any black-hat SEO tactics, you’re more likely to see positive or neutral results from this update. However, if your website suffers from thin content, slow loading times, or a poor user experience, you might observe a drop in rankings and organic traffic. 

Proactive Steps You Can Take

Even if you’ve been negatively impacted by the August 2024 Core Update, there are proactive steps you can take to recover and future-proof your website:

1. Comprehensive Content Audit: Evaluate your existing content for quality, relevance and uniqueness. Identify thin or outdated content that needs to be improved or removed.
2. Focus on E-E-A-T: Google’s E-E-A-T guidelines (Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) are crucial for ranking well. Ensure that your content demonstrates expertise, comes from authoritative sources and fosters trust with users.
3. Prioritize User Experience: Optimize your website’s loading speed, ensure it’s mobile-friendly, and make navigation intuitive for users.
4. Stay Informed: Keep up with the latest developments in the SEO landscape and Google’s algorithm updates. 

Stay Ahead On The Algorithm Updates With Dallas SEO Dogs

The August 2024 Google Core Update serves as a reminder that SEO is a dynamic field that requires continuous adaptation. By prioritizing user experience, creating high-quality content, and adhering to SEO best practices, you can not only recover from any potential setbacks caused by this update but also thrive in the long run.

At Dallas SEO Dogs, we’re dedicated to helping businesses navigate the complexities of Google’s algorithms and achieve sustainable online success. If you’re concerned about the impact of the latest Core Update on your website or want to enhance your SEO strategy, reach out to Dallas SEO Dogs today. Let’s work together to ensure your website ranks high and reaches its full potential.

The post What You Need To Know About August 2024 Google’s Core Update appeared first on Dallas SEO Dogs.

The recent massive Google leak may have SEO professionals scrambling, but it’s a gold mine of insights for anyone serious about link building and digital PR. The documents reveal that links still matter—and perhaps more than we thought—but not all links are created equal. Let’s break down the key takeaways and how you can leverage them for better SEO.

Do Links Still Matter?

The short answer is yes! Google’s leaked documentation strongly suggests that links are still a significant ranking signal. But here’s the game-changer: Google isn’t just counting links anymore. They’re dissecting them, prioritizing those that truly add value to the content they’re associated with.

Gone are the days when you could simply chase after any high-authority link, regardless of relevance.  The leak suggests that Google’s algorithm is becoming increasingly sophisticated, able to discern whether a link genuinely strengthens the context of a page or if it’s just there for SEO manipulation.  This means your link-building strategy needs to shift from a “more is better” mindset to a laser-focused pursuit of quality.

What does this mean in practice? It means you need to be hyper-focused on earning links from websites and pages that are directly relevant to your content.  A link from a topically aligned source is worth far more than a dozen from unrelated sites. Think of it as building a network of credible endorsements for your website, rather than just collecting meaningless votes.

Location, Location, Location

The Google leak reveals a fascinating nuance in link valuation: location matters. While high-quality, relevant links are always valuable, the leak suggests that Google gives a slight edge to links from sources that are nationally relevant. This means that a link from a major national publication or a well-respected industry website within your country could pack a bigger SEO punch than a similar link from an international source.

Why does this matter? National links are more likely to resonate with your target audience, driving brand awareness and fostering trust. They can also lead to increased website traffic, higher engagement rates, and ultimately, more conversions. In short, they’re a powerful tool for boosting your SEO and growing your business.

But it doesn’t stop at the national level.  For businesses with a physical presence or those serving a specific geographic area, hyperlocal links are equally, if not more, important.  Ensuring your Google Business Profile (GBP) is accurate and up-to-date, along with claiming and optimizing your local pack listing, is crucial for attracting customers in your immediate vicinity.

Think of it this way: national links build your brand’s authority on a broader scale, while hyperlocal links connect you directly with the customers most likely to walk through your door or utilize your services. By strategically pursuing both types of links, you create a powerful SEO strategy that maximizes your visibility and reach.

More Secret Trust Metrics

One of the biggest bombshells from the leak is that Google seems to have a site-wide authority score, despite previous denials. This means building a reputation for trustworthiness on your site is more important than ever.

The leak also suggests that links from newer pages may be weighted more heavily than those from older content. This is great news for those consistently creating fresh, relevant content.

Google is getting even better at detecting and devaluing spammy links. The algorithm now looks at factors like link velocity (the rate at which links are acquired) and whether a site is being linked to by trusted sources.

The leak reveals that Google specifically tags links from high-quality news sites. This confirms what many SEO professionals have suspected: earning coverage from reputable news sources is a powerful way to boost your SEO.

Seed site is another name for the kind of high-quality websites Google uses as a starting point to discover other trustworthy sites, like the New York Times or Google itself. Earning links from seed sites, or sites linked to by seed sites, could be the most valuable type of link you can get.

Witness the Future of Link Building

The Google leak provides a fascinating glimpse into the future of SEO. It’s clear that link building and digital PR will continue to be crucial, but the focus will shift even more towards relevance, quality, and trustworthiness.

Need help navigating the new search landscape? If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all this information, you’re not alone. The rules of SEO are constantly changing, and it takes a team of experts to stay ahead of the curve. That’s where we come in.

Dallas SEO Dogs is a national team of seasoned SEO professionals who understand the evolving art of search engine optimization. We will help you develop a link-building strategy that aligns with Google’s latest algorithm — and gets you the results you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation!

The post Leverage the Big Google Leak for Your Own Benefit appeared first on Dallas SEO Dogs.

Understanding how the Google algorithm works with SEO, as well as its history of changes, is key to keeping your website visible in search engine results. Let’s explore the nature and history of this strange beast.

What Is The Google Algorithm?

In basic terms, the Google algorithm is a set of rules and calculations that determine which web pages appear on search engine results pages (SERPs) and in what order. 

Think of Google Search as a vast library, and the algorithm is the librarian determining which books to put on the shelves in response to a search query. However, this librarian is incredibly complex and takes into account a multitude of factors when making its decisions.

Here’s a breakdown of some key elements that are part of the Google algorithm:

Crawling and Indexing

Before Google can even rank pages, it needs to find them. Google uses web crawlers, like little bots, that scour the internet and follow links to discover new pages and updates to existing ones. The information gathered is stored in Google’s massive index.

Relevance

The algorithm analyzes how closely the content of a page matches the intent behind a person’s search query. This involves looking at keywords, but also understanding synonyms, related concepts, and the overall context of the search.

Authority

The algorithm tries to gauge how trustworthy and reputable a website is. This involves things like the number and quality of backlinks (links from other websites that point to yours), as well as the overall domain history and reputation.

User Experience (UX)

Google wants to provide a positive experience for its users. This means it will prioritize websites that load quickly, are easy to navigate, are mobile-friendly, and don’t have intrusive elements like excessive pop-ups.

Freshness

For certain types of queries, Google favors content that is recently published or updated. This is especially true for news, trending topics, or queries where information changes rapidly.

It’s important to note the Google algorithm is not a single, static formula. It’s a complex system comprising many interconnected systems, which are constantly evolving and being updated.

How Does Google Search Algorithm Work?

Google’s algorithm is remarkably sophisticated, taking into account hundreds of ranking factors to determine which websites best answer a given search query.  While the exact combination of these factors is a closely guarded secret, here are some of the most important concepts to understand:

Relevance

At a basic level, Google looks for whether the words someone types into the search bar are present on your webpage (keyword matching). However, relevance goes much deeper than simple keyword counts.

The algorithm tries to understand the reason (intent) behind the search — is someone looking for information, trying to buy something, or trying to get to a specific website? Your content needs to align with that search intent to rank well.

Google uses natural language processing (NLP) to grasp the meaning of a search query (semantic search), rather than focusing solely on literally matching up words, so your page will still rank if it’s determined to address the searcher’s overall question in a meaningful way without using the main keywords.

Authority

Think of backlinks as votes of confidence from other websites. When reputable websites link to yours, it signals to Google that your content is considered valuable and credible. Both the number and quality of these backlinks matter.

E-E-A-T

Expertise, Experience, Authoritativeness and Trustworthiness are key. Does your content demonstrate a deep level of knowledge and expertise? Is it created by subject-matter experts with established credentials? Is your website itself well-maintained, secure, and free of technical errors? These factors all contribute to your site’s overall authority.

User Experience

• Mobile-Friendliness: With so many searches performed on smartphones, Google prioritizes websites that display and function flawlessly on mobile devices.
• Site Speed: Pages that load slowly frustrate users. Fast load times are a critical component of a positive user experience, thus heavily influencing rankings.
• Navigation and Design: A website that is confusing to navigate or visually cluttered will send visitors away quickly. Google takes note of metrics like bounce rate (how quickly people leave your site) and time on site, which are indirect signals of UX quality.

The Ever-Evolving Algorithm

The specific weights and combinations applied by the algorithm are constantly evolving to best serve Google’s mission of connecting users with the most relevant, helpful information. That’s why SEO professionals need to stay on their toes through constant research, adaptation, and a focus on providing the best possible experience for their website’s visitors.

The Algorithm’s Recent History

To combat spam and prioritize user-focused content, Google regularly updates its algorithms. Here’s a look at major Google algorithm updates over the past few years:

Google Algorithm 2024

While 2024 updates are still unfolding at the time of writing, here are some major trends:

Focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI-powered systems like MUM (Multitask Unified Model) are improving Google’s understanding of content and the nuances of human language. This means Google can better interpret what a webpage is truly about, even if it doesn’t use precisely the same keywords a person types in their search.

Emphasis on E-E-A-T: Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness remain key, meaning Google prioritizes websites that display these qualities. Websites that demonstrate deep knowledge in their niche, are written by subject matter experts, and have strong reputations (evidenced by things like backlinks and positive reviews) have a significant advantage.

Google Algorithm 2023

The major “Helpful Content” update in 2023 further emphasized Google’s aim to reward genuinely useful content written for people rather than just to please search engines. Sites that provide clear, informative, and original content that addresses users’ questions and needs directly were the big winners after this update.

Product Reviews enhancements improved how product reviews were displayed in search results, prioritizing in-depth, original reviews. Informative reviews showcasing first-hand experience with a product, including images or other media showcasing its features, became more likely to rank highly.

Google Algorithm 2022

The May & September Core Updates in 2022 brought broad changes focusing on the overall relevance and quality assessment of content. These updates, while not as specifically targeted as some others, are a reminder that Google constantly fine-tunes its understanding of what makes a website truly valuable to searchers.

Page Experience Update: Ensuring positive user experience as a ranking factor became fully established in 2022. Technical elements of website design like load speed, mobile responsiveness, and the absence of intrusive interstitials (like pop-ups that block content) became even stronger indicators of whether a site deserved to rank well.

Google Algorithm 2021

MUM Rollout Began: The powerful Multitask Unified Model started influencing search results. MUM allows Google to understand information in a much more complex way, linking concepts between text, images, and potentially other forms of media in the future.

Passage Ranking: Focused on indexing and ranking specific passages within a page, rather than the entire page. This means even if your whole website doesn’t perfectly align with a search, a specific section may now be highlighted if it provides a highly relevant answer.

Spam and Link Updates: Targeting link spam and prioritizing quality backlinks. Google continued its never-ending battle against spammers trying to manipulate rankings. It focused on devaluing links from low-quality websites and artificial link-building tactics.

Google Algorithm 2020

Core Updates: Several broad algorithm adjustments throughout the year. These frequent tweaks reflect how Google is always refining its approach to providing the most relevant results for searchers.

BERT Expansion: BERT (Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers) helped Google better understand natural language queries. This update marked a shift away from simple keyword matching, allowing Google to grasp the intent behind peoples’ searches, even if they used conversational language.

Stay Ahead Of The Curve With Dallas SEO Dogs

Google algorithm updates can send websites tumbling down or vaulting up in search results. The key is understanding the reasoning behind Google’s updates, your own offerings, and how you can present them to find greater online success.

The SEO expertise at Dallas SEO Dogs tracks the ever-shifting digital landscape to ensure that your website adapts and maintains its position on the SERPs. If you want to stop chasing the algorithm and start leveraging it to your advantage, contact us for a free consultation.

The post Google Algorithm Update & History appeared first on Dallas SEO Dogs.

Enhanced Measurement’s significant benefits lie in its simplicity: it offers a more comprehensive view of user engagement without the hassle of implementing additional event tracking codes.

Beyond just setting up your GA4, understanding how users interact with your content is paramount. Using enhanced measurement can help you optimize your website’s design, content placement and user experience (UX) to deliver the best possible outcomes.

Let’s dig a little deeper into this feature and how it can help you make the best decisions for your website.

Scroll Depth

Pageviews don’t just determine user engagement; it’s also about how deeply users engage with your content. Enhanced Measurement takes the guesswork out of scrolling behavior. GA4 automatically captures scroll depth data as users scroll through your pages — invaluable for identifying which parts of your content are grabbing attention and which need improvement.

Site Search Tracking

Enhanced Measurement recognizes that a user’s use of the onsite search function usually indicates high intent. You get insight into what users are looking for on your site and whether they’re finding relevant, authority content. This helps with optimizing search functionality and ensuring your users can easily find what they seek.

Outbound Clicks

When users navigate beyond or away from your website, knowing their outbound destination is crucial to comprehend their journey and interests. 

Enhanced Measurement automatically tracks outbound clicks, showing you which external links they’re clicking on. This can be particularly helpful in evaluating your external partnerships, affiliate links and references to other resources.

Other Perks of Enabling Enhanced Measurement

By enabling Enhanced Measurement (EM) in your GA4 property, you unlock a range of advantages that contribute to a richer and more insightful analytics experience:

Save Time and Resources

Event tracking for each interaction would traditionally involve adding code to your site, which is time-consuming and may require development resources. EM lets you focus on data analysis rather than spending time on technical implementation.

Immediate Insights

With automated tracking, you have access to insights in real-time. You don’t have to wait for events to be recorded or worry about missing out on critical user interactions. 

This immediacy allows for quicker decision-making and responsive adjustments to your website.

User Engagement

EM extends the scope of your engagement analytics beyond pageviews toward a holistic view of user behavior, including scrolling, site searches and outbound clicks. This comprehensive data paints a more accurate picture of user engagement, among other insights.

Data-Driven Optimization

You can now optimize based on actual user behavior. If they often abandon your pages before the end, you can experiment with content placement and design for deeper engagement. Similarly, if certain outbound links receive high click-throughs, consider expanding your partnership with those resources.

How To Enable EM

To enable Enhanced Measurement in your GA4 property, follow these steps:

1. Log in to your Google Analytics account and navigate to your GA4 property.
2. In the Admin section, click on “Data Streams.”
3. Select the correct data stream for Enhanced Measurement.
4. Click on “Enhanced Measurement” under “Configure” and toggle the switches for the interactions you want to track (scroll tracking, site search, outbound clicks).
5. Save your changes.

Note: Enhanced Measurement is a powerful tool, but it still may only capture some nuanced interactions on your website. Manual event tracking configurations might still be necessary for more specialized tracking or unique events.

Dallas SEO Dogs Can Help Lead Your Data-Driven Journey

Enhanced Measurement is more than just a feature. It’s a gateway to deeper insights into user engagement and behavior. Embrace its power, explore its possibilities and embark on a data-driven journey that can set the stage for a more engaging and impactful online presence.

The team at Dallas SEO Dogs is deeply committed to using both cutting-edge and time-tested techniques to track, interpret and act on these insights and more. You need a partner who can see beyond the basics and into the valuable actions you can take to improve your leads and traffic, grow your business, and fulfill your company’s potential.

Contact us to schedule your free consultation today!

The post GA4 Secrets Part 3: Unlocking “Enhanced Measurement” appeared first on Dallas SEO Dogs.

But that’s not bad news. GA4 makes for a much more powerful and flexible tool for tracking and analyzing user behavior across multiple digital platforms, as we’ll see below. 

“Universal Analytics was built for a generation of online measurement that was anchored in the desktop web, independent sessions, and more easily observable data from cookies. This measurement methodology is quickly becoming obsolete.” – Google’s Product Management Director, Russell Ketchum.

One of the most notable recent changes in GA4 is an updated user interface (UI). It’s easier to navigate, helping you quickly find the info you need and customize your reports and dashboards. And that’s just the beginning! Let’s take a closer look at some recent GA4 developments.

Cross-Domain Tracking

With the improved cross-domain tracking features in GA4, you can track users across multiple domains, subdomains, or microsites. This provides a more comprehensive view of user behavior and journeys, which means more informed decisions about your sales and marketing efforts.

Tracking users across multiple domains has been challenging for large businesses with numerous digital properties. You may have had to rely on separate analytics accounts for each domain. 

But with GA4’s recent improvements, you can track user behavior across multiple digital properties in one account. That means insights into how they interact with your digital properties, the content that resonates with them, and the actions they take throughout the funnel. 

Event-Based Tracking

With event-driven analytics, you can track specific events like clicks, form submissions, video plays, and more. These give invaluable insight into how users interact with your properties and can help you optimize your marketing strategies by focusing on trends in user behavior.

Businesses can fine-tune their approach to deliver a better customer experience by tracking custom events and user interactions. 

Say a business notices its users are abandoning the shopping cart at a specific point in the checkout process. They can use these event-driven analytics to identify the problem and optimize checkout, improving user experience and increasing conversions. 

Machine Learning

As customers expect a continually more personalized experience, they demand content and marketing messages relevant to their interests, needs, and preferences. GA4’s machine learning algorithms can follow user behaviors and predict future trends, letting you deliver more personalized and relevant content. It could even replace cookies sometime soon.

Imagine using machine learning to identify which products or services will interest a customer based on past behavior like browsing history or purchase history. This can help create personalized marketing messages, audience-centric content, increasing conversions and helping you build customer loyalty and brand advocates. 

GA4 can identify these patterns and trends by analyzing large datasets. If GA4 were to identify that a particular segment of customers is more likely to engage with video than written content, you could create more video content for them, delivering a better customer experience.

Google Ads Integration With GA4

GA4’s improved integration with Google Ads makes it easier to get a comprehensive view of the customer journey, from ad click to conversion, in one place. That’s a game-changer for businesses looking to optimize their PPC spend and make data-driven decisions about marketing strategy: 

Which ads drive the most conversions? Which ads should you optimize or discontinue? This info means better and more informed decisions about advertising spend and allocating resources to the most effective channels.

Because this integration also enables you to track customer behavior across multiple digital platforms, you could see that a customer clicked on a mobile ad but completed their purchase on a desktop. This way, you can optimize ad campaigns for different devices and platforms, delivering a better customer experience and driving even more conversions.

Reporting Tools

GA4’s powerful analysis tools can give you tons of insight into your performance! Let’s take a look at what you can expect as you buckle up and adjust to the new GA4 standards.

Exploration

GA4 lets you explore your data and uncover insights through ad hoc analysis. Use this tool to your advantage and visualize data in various ways, filter your data, and create segments (i,e. Users from a particular city, users in a specific age group, what users are buying, etc.). From there, you can keep a close eye on the data that matters most without having to sift through mass amounts at any given time.

Funnel Analysis

You want your marketing funnel to be a smooth route to a conversion and sale. However, as audiences can be fickle and easily scared off, this isn’t always the case.

With this tool, you can see the steps users take in your conversion process and see where they drop off. You can then use this info to optimize your processes and improve conversions.

Path Analysis 

Path analysis helps you visualize the most common paths of users through your site or app. This can show you popular content and user flows, not to mention those areas where users need help and you can improve through optimization.

User Analysis 

With GA4, you can analyze individual user behavior and create segments based on it. This helps identify valuable segments and creates more personalized experiences for users.

Tips for Making the Shift to GA4 and Rank Success!

“It’s increasingly important for us to be able to make accurate predictions and recommendations based on user behavior, and GA4 really allows us to get granular [when] tracking user interaction.” – Manuel Gonzalez, founder, and CEO of strategy consulting firm G & Co. 

The conversion from Universal Analytics (UA) to GA4 can be daunting, but there’s no time left to procrastinate. GA4 is here, and UA is going away incredibly soon. It’s best to get your data flow in order now so you can handle the bag. 

Here are three tips to help you survive the conversion and make the most of GA4!

Tip #1: Plan Ahead

Please familiarize yourself with the new features and capabilities of GA4 and how they differ from UA. Create a conversion plan that outlines the steps you need to take, like setting up your GA4 property and configuring tracking codes. Planning will minimize disruptions to your business and ensure a smooth transition.

Tip #2: Analyze Your Data

Take this opportunity to analyze your existing data and identify any gaps or areas for improvement in its analysis. Take a closer look at your current tracking and identify any data that might go missing or even be inaccurate. 

Now you know the data you need to track in GA4 so you can be sure you’re collecting accurate and relevant data for your business, and the only thing left is to design your data migration plan.

Tip #3: Have Fun 

GA4 offers so many new features and capabilities that weren’t available in UA. By exploring, you’ll learn how to use them and how they can benefit your business. Let it be an opportunity to look at your funnel and journeys from a new perspective and see if you need to make any changes.

Read over the changes above and imagine how each could inspire change or even growth in your marketing approach. Do you have multiple domains and subdomains? Questions about some parts of your conversion funnel? Curious about user behaviors? You can get very specific with your questions now, whatever your business aims and GA4 can help.

Let Dallas SEO Dogs Worry About Your Analytics

It’s clear that the latest developments we’ve covered make GA4 an even more powerful and flexible tool to track and analyze user behavior across multiple platforms. 

However, it’s a lot to learn and it makes sense that some of these changes can leave new users scrambling for safety. If you’re a brand owner that needs help adjusting to the shift, Dallas SEO Dogs can help you take advantage of all the new features and capabilities of GA4 as we grow your traffic and work on your conversions. 

We are constantly learning and developing our processes to ensure your strategy aligns with the latest GA4 standards! If you’re looking for help with GA4 implementation, site optimization or want better customers more consistently, schedule your free consultation today!

The post The Google Analytics 4 Switch and What It Means appeared first on Dallas SEO Dogs.

In November, Google rocked the search engine optimization (SEO) world with its announcement that Google My Business (GMB) was becoming Google Business Profiles (GBP).

From retiring the GMB mobile apps in 2022 to simplified profile claims and management, it was clear that this change would be a step forward for business owners focused on local SEO.

One change we also saw coming was easier business verification for GBP. While Google hasn’t officially confirmed changes in verification, there seem to be signs that mail-in postcards may be on their way out.

If this happens, what does it mean for users? What could be the future for Google? Let’s put our creative caps on and speculate how such a big change could be a positive for GBP users.

What is the Importance of GBP?

GBP is one of the best tools a business can use to boost its local SEO and bring more customers to its physical locations.

Once you create a GBP profile, you go through a verification process that allows you to actively update your business information, images, and interact with your customers through reviews. Above all, the service is free to all businesses⁠—as long as Google verifies your account.

How Can You Get Verified With GBP?

Once you claim your business on GBP, you must verify the account with Google. There are currently several ways to verify your business profile. The best choice currently depends on how your business serves the public.

Mail

Most businesses with a physical address verify their account through the mail. Upon requesting verification, Google will send out a postcard to the business address with a verification code.

Once the owner receives the postcard, they enter the verification code into their account and they’re on the path to easy BP editing.

Email, Phone, and Other Verification Options

Although (up until recently), all businesses with addresses had the option for mail verification, Google granted some businesses other options for quick verification.

Service-area and hybrid businesses that offer the option of home visits to their clients (i.e. plumbers, take-out restaurants) may not have a direct address where guests can physically visit.

In these cases GBP offers the following verification options:

• Phone Verification
• Email Verification
• Video Verification
• Search Console Verification

So, Google is Getting Rid of Postcards?!

This brings us to some recent events that lead us to believe that Google may be ditching the mail verification option with the rollout of GBP.

Since its rollout, there have been concerns from business owners both creating and re-verifying their accounts after a major change. Some users have claimed that upon receiving their verification choices, mail verification was not an option.

“Been seeing a lot of business owners on the forums asking for a postcard verification,” SEO Analyst, Elizabeth Rue, posted on her Twitter account. Rue went on to say that Google restricted some business owners’ verification options to photo/video or text.

Kristal Audain, another SEO professional also tweeted about the potential changes in the verification process.

“It’s the first time I have seen other options and the first time I have not had a postcard option as well.”

With a sudden buzz on the internet about Google potentially shifting gears on its Business Profile verification practices, it’s no surprise that people are asking if Google is completely getting rid of postcards with GBP.

Why Would Google Consider Getting Rid of Postcards?

Although there isn’t any official word from Google and postcards are still an option on profile backends, the possibility of saying “goodbye” to postcard verification could be great for businesses that are ready to hit the ground running with their profiles.

Yes, postcards prevent spam practices from shady businesses, but they also come with their fair share of issues that could see users happy with their departure.

As of right now, eliminating postcards would expedite the process if phone and email verification become the standard.

Not only do postcards mean that owners have to wait between 4 and 12 days for delivery, but the USPS can easily lose them, building management could misplace them, or clients themselves can disregard them as spam and toss them in the trash.

While getting rid of the snail mail method may speed up the verification process and prevent lost letters and extensive delays, we know there are two sides to every story.

Default options outside of mail like video and photo verification may cause headaches in their own right as they require owners to be on-site and take/send footage of the business themselves. This would be especially stressful for multi-location businesses and service-area businesses.

Stay On Top of the Latest Google Updates With Dallas SEO Dogs

While the Dallas SEO Dogs can only hope that every new change coming with the GBP rollout will give users a simple verification process, we aren’t psychics and can only help our clients roll with the tides of change.

If you’re a business owner that needs help perfecting their GBP or creating an SEO strategy for the new year, our team of experts is ready to help. From review management to advanced SEO tactics, we have your brand’s back.

Reach out to us today to learn more about our services and schedule your free consultation with a member of our team.

The post Is Google Getting Rid of GMB Postcards With GBP? appeared first on Dallas SEO Dogs.