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The Bedlam update – What you need to know

The Bedlam update – What you need to know
by
December 1, 2019
in Local SEO, OFF-PAGE SEO
237

Google has once again shifted the local SEO landscape with its latest update, Bedlam. This update focuses more on proximity, which means that businesses that are closer to the searcher’s location will likely receive higher rankings. Here are some key observations from the Bedlam update that you need to know:

Results are not industry-specific

The update has caused massive ranking changes across the board, not just for specific industries. This indicates that the update is a significant shift in Google’s algorithm, and businesses of all kinds need to pay attention.

Huge Google Maps ranking changes

On November 5th, significant changes were noticed in Google Maps rankings. This shift caused some businesses to experience a drastic drop in their rankings, while others saw significant gains.

Organic local search results also changed

Since November 7th, organic local search results began to change as well. This means that businesses that have previously ranked well in organic search may have seen their rankings drop or improve, depending on their proximity to the searcher’s location.

Changes began to settle on November 10th

By November 10th, the changes began to settle, and some of the adjustments made during the update were rolled back. However, businesses still need to pay attention to their local rankings and adjust their strategies accordingly.

local SERP ranking

Changes were mainly on zip codes the business was not located in

The Bedlam update mainly affected businesses that were located further away from the searcher’s location. This shift was achieved by turning up the proximity dial, which means that businesses located closer to the searcher’s location received higher rankings.

More changes were added to Local Pack

Google also made additional changes to the Local Pack during the Bedlam update, changing them back to 3-packs from 1-packs that we have been seeing.

Not a spam update, but it uncovered more spam listings

The Bedlam update was not a spam update, but it did uncover more spam listings. These spam listings are often found to be too close to another similar business or share the same name or phone number with another location. Google is filtering out these listings to improve the user experience.

Final takeaway

When a significant update like Bedlam occurs, it is best to sit back and wait for things to settle down. Use our dashboard to check your local rankings and assess the impact the update has had on your business. Legitimate Google Maps spam listings may compete with your business, so don’t forget to report them to Google.

If you have lost rankings in areas that are further away from your business location, you will need to adjust your strategy to include other referrers. For example, you can start a series of targeted Facebook ads for users who are in your competitors’ locations by offering them a ‘second opinion’ or a ‘free consultation’. Our experienced personnel are here to help if you are facing any issues with your local campaign. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for assistance.

FAQs

What is the Bedlam update?
The Bedlam update is the latest algorithm update by Google that focuses on proximity in local SEO rankings.

How has the Bedlam update affected local search rankings?
The Bedlam update has caused massive ranking changes across the board, not just for specific industries. Businesses that are closer to the searcher’s location will likely receive higher rankings.

How can businesses adjust their strategies after the Bedlam update?
Businesses that have lost rankings in areas that are further away from their business location will need to adjust their strategy to include other referrers. For example, they can start a series of targeted Facebook ads for users who are in their competitors’ locations.

What should businesses do if they notice spam?
If you notice spam listings in your local area, don’t hesitate to report them to Google. Google is working hard to filter out these listings and improve the user experience. By reporting spam, you are helping to create a fair and level playing field for all businesses.

How can businesses stay up-to-date with local SEO changes?
To stay up-to-date with local SEO changes, it is essential to monitor your local rankings regularly. Use tools like our dashboard to track your rankings and see how they are affected by updates like Bedlam. You can also follow SEO experts and news outlets to stay informed about the latest changes in the industry.

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