"I run a service business and have spent the last 6 months cleaning up spam listings on Google and Maps. I focused on high-competition keywords to improve my rankings. Although I managed to get most spam listings removed or corrected, my rankings have dropped. Despite my efforts, I now rank between 10-20 for most keywords and my business doesn't show up in the local pack near my location. I have even had to start using Google Ads and my revenue has been impacted. It is frustrating to see unfamiliar businesses with no online presence ranking above me."
It’s common for rankings to fluctuate after significant Google My Business (GMB) updates, including spam removal. Google’s algorithm is constantly evolving, and changes can affect your search engine optimization (SEO) in unexpected ways.
While focusing on high-competition keywords is a good starting point, it’s important to consider other factors that influence local search rankings, such as:
- Website quality: Ensure your website is mobile-friendly, fast-loading, and provides relevant content for your target audience.
- Local citations: Consistency across different online directories is crucial for local SEO.
- Backlinks: High-quality backlinks from reputable websites can signal to Google that your business is trustworthy and authoritative.
- User reviews: Encourage positive customer reviews on your GMB listing, as they contribute to your ranking and credibility.
It’s possible that the spam listings you removed were contributing to your overall ranking, even though they were inaccurate. Google may have penalized your business for previously having spammy listings, which is why your rankings have dropped.
It’s important to note that Google Ads, while helpful for short-term traffic, shouldn’t be a long-term solution. Focus on building a strong online presence and optimizing your website and GMB profile for organic traffic.
Consider consulting with a professional SEO expert to assess your website and GMB profile and recommend specific actions to improve your rankings. They can help you identify any areas for improvement and create a customized strategy for organic traffic growth.