About two weeks ago, Google released an update to the way it displays local results to give more prominence to Google Places data on the blended search results page. In cases where Google can determine an exact match, typically for searches that include a business name and location reference, they are now displaying results like what appears below.
Notice the new look for the Places result:
- Five images from the Google Places profile appear as thumbnails
- A short snippet from the Places descriptions appears as “At a glance” info
- The hours appear
- In this case, the closest subway appears that displays the Google Maps page when clicked so you can get directions easily
Importance of Completing a Google Places Profile
In a previous on how to claim a Google Places profile, I talked about making sure the profile be completed as thoroughly as possible. You can see why.
Both images and details are being surfaced in the blended search results, and when Google displays internal site links for your site, you can dominate most of the search results. Mostly, this will only happen when people search specifically for your company name, but it demonstrates authority in the online world.
To make your business shine online, claim and complete your Google Places profile to take advantage of the prominence that Google now gives to its Places profiles in the blended search results.
Have you noticed the new Google Places look for your business or other businesses when searching?
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Unfortunately, these appear only for the branded search. However, yes, it is now more important than before to fill in your Google Places profile correctly and fully. Nice article and good examples.
Thanks, Nyagoslav. Having claim and completed Google Places profiles still seems to be an area many local business overlook when creating their online presence.