2023 was a wild ride for anyone in the local SEO space. If it felt like every time you blinked, Google rolled out another update, you weren’t imagining things. From new ranking factors to a slew of product launches, this year kept everyone on their toes. But before we dive headfirst into 2024, let’s take a moment to look back at the highs, lows, and everything in between that shaped local SEO in 2023.
The Biggest Google Updates for Local
Let’s start with the elephant in the room: Google’s relentless updates. It felt like Google was on a mission to make sure that anyone trying to game the system would have a very bad time. Here’s a quick rundown of the biggest changes that rocked the local SEO world:
1. A New Ranking Factor: "Openness"
In 2023, Google dialed up the importance of "openness" as a ranking signal. Yeah, you heard that right—your business hours now play a bigger role in how you rank. Google’s Search Liaison even confirmed it:
"The team tells me we've long used 'openness' as part of our local ranking systems, and it recently became a stronger signal for non-navigational queries."
We’ve been keeping an eye on how this plays out, and it’s clear that “openness” could be a game-changer for local businesses. Check out our study on how this is affecting local rankings here.
2. The Updated Reinstatement Process for Suspended Profiles
Getting suspended on Google was always a nightmare, but this year Google rolled out a new process for getting your profile reinstated. It’s been a long time coming, and we broke it down with experts Ben Fisher and Sherry Bonelli in a webinar.
3. GA4 Finally Arrived
The switch to Google Analytics 4 (GA4) has been… let’s say, challenging. Imagine the dependable old friend you’ve known for years just vanishing overnight, and you’re left with someone entirely different. It’s been a tough adjustment, but fear not—we’ve got your back with a guide to get you up and running with GA4 here.
4. The Tease of SGE (Search Generative Experience)
Generative AI was the buzzword of the year, and Google wasn’t about to be left behind. They teased the Search Generative Experience (SGE) and even rolled it out for testing in the USA. No confirmed date for a global rollout yet, but when it hits, it’s going to shake up search—especially local search.
5. Social Media Link Management in GBP
Finally! Google added social media link management to Google Business Profiles (GBP), and it’s a real game-changer for those of us managing multiple profiles. Our social media manager practically threw a party.
BrightLocal’s Big Wins of 2023
Here at BrightLocal, we weren’t just sitting around watching Google make moves—we made some big ones ourselves. Here are the highlights:
1. BrightLocal Horizon
We launched our brand-new multi-location command center this month, giving you a bird’s-eye view of all your locations’ rankings with Local Search Grid. It’s a powerful tool that’s already making waves.
2. Active Sync
We turned the listings game on its head with Active Sync, an API solution for managing listings that costs a fraction of what other services charge. It’s all about making your life easier while keeping your listings accurate and up to date.
3. GBP Post Scheduler
Our GBP Post Scheduler is a lifesaver for anyone juggling multiple Google Business Profiles. Now, you can publish posts across all your profiles from one convenient location.
4. Local Rank Tracker 2.0
We upgraded our Local Rank Tracker with a bunch of new features and insights, making it easier than ever to keep tabs on your local SEO performance.
5. Flexible Grid Points in Local Search Grid
We made our Local Search Grid even more accurate by allowing you to place grid points exactly where you want them. It’s all about precision, baby.
The Content That Rocked 2023
There’s a ton of local SEO content out there, but a few pieces really stood out this year. Here’s what we loved:
Miriam Ellis at Moz: Her guide, “The Local Business Content Marketing Guide,” is a must-read for anyone in local SEO. It’s packed with actionable insights and just another example of why Miriam’s content is always top-notch.
Greg Sterling at Near Media: “Google SGE: Meet the New Pack” is an essential read for anyone curious about the future of search. Greg’s insights are sharp, and Near Media’s newsletter is a must-subscribe.
Marie Haynes at Marie Haynes Consulting: Her “Search News You Can Use Newsletter” is a fantastic resource, especially if you’re trying to keep up with the rapid changes in AI and SEO.
BrightLocal’s Moments of the Year
It wasn’t all work and no play at BrightLocal. Here are some of our favorite moments from 2023:
BrightLocal at brightonSEO: Our stand was the talk of the conference, and our “Pin It to Win It” game was a hit. We can’t wait to do it all again next year.
The Philippines Christmas Party: Our team in the Philippines knows how to throw a party, and their Christmas celebration was one for the books.
Local SEO for Good: We hosted a two-day virtual conference, raising $78,401.47 for charity while connecting marketers with top industry experts.
See You in 2024
2023 was a blast, but we’re already looking forward to what 2024 has in store. Whether it’s new challenges from Google or exciting innovations in local SEO, we’re ready to tackle it all. From everyone at BrightLocal, happy holidays, and we’ll see you in January!
In a digital world where visibility is everything, GMB Fox ensures your business isn’t just online—it’s the first choice customers make. Let us handle the complexities of digital marketing, so you can focus on what truly matters: growing your business.
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