Google Releases Pigeon Update
After Google released the Pigeon update in late July, local businesses have been negatively affected. Some industries are getting hit harder than others.
Las Vegas, NV, September 11, 2014 (Newswire.com) - Google’s algorithm “Pigeon” began July 24, 2014. This new search update has negatively affected local businesses, but improved major directories.
Some consider Pigeon to be the largest Google update since the Venice back in 2012. Certain industries have been impacted more than others. People are complaining that directories are now being favored over local businesses. Sites like Yelp may be favored because of their authority.
This update appears beneficial for major directories and large corporations, but many other businesses have experienced a major loss.
Statistics from July and August showed a 28 percent growth in hospitality, a 19 percent growth in food, and a 13 percent growth in education. Here are additional improvements:
- Spa +4.64
- Shop +4.32
- Law +3.55
- Medical +1.83
- Transportation +1.31
- Fitness +1.12
The most negatively impacted industries were jobs down 68 percent, real estate down 63 percent, movies down 36 percent and insurance down 11 percent.
Some other industries were negatively affected:
- Finance -6.21
- Furniture -3.34
- Government -0.07
Many SEO experts agree that the new algorithm just hasn’t settled in yet. These results are from the first month it was enacted. The Pigeon update hasn’t completely taken form. Local businesses shouldn’t worry yet.
Google is currently testing three more versions of Pigeon. They also say that business should start focusing their SEO efforts locally in order to achieve the rankings they want.
SEO experts advise local businesses to keep up with certain practices including Google My Business, Yelp and other directories, on-page SEO tactics and social media.
Contact Raptor Websites at 702.907.0095 for more information about SEO. Visit Raptorwebsites.com or in-person at 3627 S. Eastern, Las Vegas, NV 89169.
