SEO Belfast

Big news, this morning I’ve noticed quite a big update to the Google My Business listings.

Web design terms are finally back for local business listings. Google stopped showing these years and years ago, so it’s strange to see them back.

From a few searches I’ve done it’s pretty obvious that Google is showing Google Business listings more prominently and frequently than before.

The listing for ‘Web Design Ni’ doesn’t even have a website and the Google Business listing page as far as I’m aware hasn’t been claimed, there are no reviews, photos, posts and video. It’s a poor listing and shouldn’t be anywhere near the first page of results. In fact I’ve seen some very poor business listings appear alot higher than some very well developed ones with no obvious reason as to why.

Google seems to be switching between 3 results and 7 packs on a desktop search.

[Update 23rd Dec 2014] Google has confirmed that their local Pigeon update, which rolled out in the U.S. on July 24, 2014 has now expanded over last week to the United Kingdom, Canada and Australia.

[Update 11 Jan 2015] Google seems to be sticking alot more on 3 pack listings.

Incredibily it’s been 3 years since the last SEO meet up.

So along with Barry from SearchScientist and Newtownard’s finest Jordan, we’ve decided to have another meetup for people involved in Search.

There’s no agenda, just a meet up, catchup, chance to make new friendships, few drinks and talk shop.

There’s a few things I have in mind that I’d like to pick someone’s brains about. I’ll add these to the comments at a later stage.

So if you’ve an interest in SEO, PPC, Analytics, Conversion Optimisation, Adsense or anything Search related and are thinking of coming along then please add your name below.

The date is Saturday 17th January 2015 at 5.30.

[Update] Meeting in the Eglantine Inn on the Malone Road.

*********[Further Update] It appears the Eg is getting refurbished, so the meet-up will now happen in the Botanic Inn, just across the road from the Eg.*********

At the moment I’m training a small business owner and it’s one of the most satisfying aspects of the job, so in true festive spirit I’m giving away a tailored training course for any Belfast company that wants to get to grips with SEO, PPC, Google Analytics & Email Marketing in 2015.

Just pop your name in the comments below, or send me an email.

There’ll be 8 hours custom training, tailored to your market and your website.

Winner will be picked randomly, and named on the 23rd Dec 2014.
Training will be arranged at my office, 1 to 1 training, and must be completed January / February 2014.

(Just a quick update: The winner will be picked at 5 o’clock, and I’ll email them & post their name here. Still plenty of time to enter.)