Google, the search engine behemoth, has once again shaken up the world of local SEO with its latest announcement. According to the Google Search Liaison, the concept of ‘openness’ has now taken centre stage as a robust ranking signal for local search. In this blog, we will explore how this can redefine local SEO services in Sydney and how businesses approach their online presence.
The Role of Business Hours – A Stronger Signal Unveiled
Among the various elements that contribute to this newfound emphasis on “openness,” business hours have emerged as a potent factor. Google’s acknowledgment suggests that businesses stand to gain or lose in local search rankings based on the accuracy and consistency of the operating hours they present to their online audience.
Why Listing Business Hours is Important for Local SEO?
Listing business hours provides numerous benefits for both businesses and their customers. This simple yet crucial piece of information plays a significant role in enhancing customer experience, establishing trust, and contributing to the overall success of a business. Here are some key benefits of listing business hours:
Improved Customer Experience
Accurate and readily available business hours help customers plan their visits, reducing frustration and contributing to an overall positive experience. Customers appreciate businesses that provide clear information, allowing them to align their schedules with the operating hours.
Enhanced Customer Trust
Transparent communication, including the provision of business hours, builds trust with customers. When businesses are open about their operating hours, it signals reliability and a commitment to providing accurate information, fostering trust among current and potential customers.
Search Engine Visibility
Search engines, such as Google, consider business hours as a relevant piece of information for local search results. Accurate listing of business hours enhances the business’s visibility in local searches, making it more likely to be discovered by potential customers, benefiting Sydney SEO services.
False 24/7 Hours – A Double-Edged Sword
One of the noteworthy caveats in this new ranking signal landscape is the peril of listing false 24/7 operating hours. Google has become more discerning in evaluating the accuracy of information provided by businesses. Incorrect operating hours not only undermine the trust of potential customers but can also lead to a dip in rankings. It’s a stark reminder that authenticity and reliability should be the cornerstones of any digital strategy.
The Google Business Profile – A Crucial Element
At the heart of this shift is the Google Business Profile, a powerful tool that allows businesses to showcase their offerings, location, and operating hours. Keeping this profile updated is no longer just a housekeeping task; it’s a strategic move that directly impacts visibility and customer experience. For businesses seeking the best SEO services in Sydney, optimising the Google Business Profile is a fundamental step toward online success.
A New Era for Local SEO
As businesses in Sydney and beyond adapt to this paradigm shift, the integration of ‘business openness’ into local SEO strategies becomes a game-changer. The synergy between accurate information, transparency, and the best SEO services in Sydney will determine which businesses rise to the top of local search results. In this new era, success lies in the hands of those who not only navigate the digital landscape but also embrace openness as a guiding principle in their online journey.
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