Google+ isn’t dead. It just didn’t survive being an important component in a Local Search Strategy. And, I for one am extremely happy about that!
It’s always a bit embarrassing when I’ve insisted that clients follow particularly “important” recommendations (like Google+) and then have to turn around and say “never mind”. But, that’s the nature of SEO. No let me correct that. That’s the nature of Google.
But I do not suffer alone; all SEO consultants and agencies have to live with the never-ending unpredictability of Google. And it must be the responsibility of (great) SEOs and agencies to report up-to-date requirements; even if it makes us look like we may be trying to cover up our lack of knowledge. On behalf of my fellow professionals, please know that sometimes we can only be the messengers. And, it’s because we know our stuff that we can come before you to report yet another SEO modification.
The one thing that you will need to remember, however, is that Google My Business has not changed and is extremely important for improved local search positioning.
Local Search optimization has become more and more complicated; it no longer consists of using geographical modifiers in your title tags. It’s also become more and more effective for driving new customers to your website. Awareness Creation has been solidifying our knowledge base to become Local Search experts to improve our clients’ Internet Marketing campaigns. We love to disrupt business as usual and Local Search is just one way we make sure you no longer have to settle for “business as usual.”
Stay tuned. I’ll be sharing other SEO news (the good, the bad, and the ugly). But today, let’s bask in the demise of Google+ as a Local Search requirement.
