If you're running a service-area business (SAB) and noticed your Google Maps rankings take a nosedive lately, you're not alone. The local SEO community is buzzing, and not in a good way. As of September 7th, SABs have been experiencing some seriously unsettling fluctuations in their rankings, leaving many scratching their heads and wondering, “What’s going on?”
The September 7th Shakeup: A Local Algorithm Update?
Local SEOs have been reporting that since around September 7th, service-area businesses have been mysteriously dropping out of the Local Pack results. And we’re not talking about a slight dip; some businesses have just vanished from the map—literally. This has left many wondering if Google quietly rolled out a local algorithm update targeting SABs.
Joy Hawkins of Sterling Sky mentioned that she’s been hearing similar stories and is starting to suspect it could be related to one of Google’s recent algorithm updates. And boy, have there been updates. Between the Helpful Content Update that started rolling out in late August and the September Broad Core Algorithm Update, it’s hard to pinpoint exactly what’s causing the turmoil.
Return of the Kansas Bug?
As if a potential algorithm update wasn’t enough to deal with, there’s also talk of the dreaded “Kansas bug” making a comeback. If you’re unfamiliar, the Kansas bug is a bizarre glitch where Google relocates your business to the middle of Kansas. Yes, you read that right. Your SAB in sunny California could suddenly be operating out of Fawn Creek Township, Kansas, according to Google Maps.
Amy Toman, a Local SEO expert, shared that she spotted service-area businesses based in Texas showing up in Kansas on Google Maps. Not exactly the kind of cross-country move you had in mind for your business, right?
What Should You Do if Your SAB is Affected?
So, what do you do if your rankings have tanked or your business is suddenly living it up in Kansas? First off, don’t panic. This seems to be a bug, and there’s a chance it might get resolved on its own. In fact, some users have reported their rankings bouncing back without them lifting a finger. But that doesn’t mean you should just sit around and wait.
Here’s a quick action plan:
Contact Google Support: If you suspect your business has been hit by the Kansas bug, reach out to Google Support. They’re aware of the issue, but it’s always a good idea to make some noise.
Monitor Your Rankings Closely: Keep an eye on your rankings and traffic. If you notice any sudden drops, document them. This will help you make a stronger case when communicating with Google.
Don’t Make Any Major Changes: Resist the urge to make significant changes to your Google Business Profile right now. With so much volatility, you don’t want to trigger another issue.
Stay Updated: Follow updates from reliable sources like the Local Search Forum or local SEO experts on Twitter. The situation is evolving, and new information could help you navigate these choppy waters.
Is This Just a Bug or a Sign of Bigger Changes?
The million-dollar question: Is this just a bug, or are we looking at a more significant shift in how Google handles SABs? Barry Schwartz of Search Engine Roundtable and Search Engine Land speculates that this could be related to the recent algorithm updates. Meanwhile, Joy Hawkins has pointed out strange behavior in her own Google Business Profile, such as the appearance of a ‘Directions’ button on an SAB listing—something that shouldn’t happen.
Whether it’s a bug, an algorithm update, or a bit of both, one thing is clear: Google’s recent changes are keeping local SEOs on their toes.
What’s Next?
We’re in a bit of a wait-and-see mode right now. Google has confirmed the Kansas bug issue, and they’re reportedly working on a fix, but there’s no timeline for when that might roll out. In the meantime, keep your eyes peeled for any changes and stay connected with the local SEO community.
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