Google’s Recent Updates: What You Need to Know
Google has made significant changes to its algorithm, impacting businesses across various industries, including contractors, entertainment, and review sites. Some businesses have seen drastic drops in their rankings, while others have benefited. The key question is: Why is Google doing this, and how can you safeguard your online presence?
Chris Lwan from Footbridge Media joined me on Lean and Mean Academy to break down Google’s latest volatility and how businesses can stay ahead of the curve.
The Impact on Local Service Businesses
Over the past few years, Google has prioritized helpful content updates. These changes aim to ensure search results provide the most relevant and authoritative answers. However, many businesses that had previously ranked well saw their traffic suddenly decline. Even deeply researched content is now being outranked by simple user-generated posts, like a Reddit comment. This shift has led many business owners to question how to adapt their SEO strategies.
How to Weather Google’s Changes
1. Keep Producing High-Quality Content
Despite Google's fluctuations, consistently publishing valuable content remains essential. The goal is to answer your customers' most common questions in a way that Google recognizes as valuable. For contractors, this means detailed project pages, blogs about industry best practices, and customer success stories.
2. Diversify Your Lead Sources
Relying solely on organic SEO is risky. Google updates can affect your rankings overnight, which is why you need a multi-channel lead generation strategy.
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Google Business Profile (GBP): Optimizing your GBP with consistent citations, reviews, and updates helps maintain visibility in local searches.
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Paid Advertising: Google Ads and Facebook Ads can supplement your organic traffic.
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Networking & Partnerships: Build relationships with realtors, other contractors, and local business owners to generate referrals.
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Traditional Marketing: Consider direct mail campaigns, cold calling, and local networking groups like BNI.
3. Have a Strong Foundation: A Well-Designed Website
A professional website is essential for any business. If you don’t have one, Footbridge Media offers top-tier web design and SEO services. Mention Lean and Mean Academy and get a website for just $199 a month—a savings of $600 per year!
4. Stay Active on Google Business Profile
Your GBP is your digital storefront. Regularly update it with new photos, customer reviews, and service offerings. Footbridge Media’s GBP management service ensures your profile stays optimized and protected from unexpected suspensions.
5. Stay the Course & Trust the Process
Google frequently rolls back drastic changes after receiving user feedback. If you’ve been hit by an update, don’t panic. Keep producing quality content, engaging with your audience, and optimizing your online presence.
Learn More at the Serious Starter Softwash Boot Camp
Want to learn more about running a successful softwash business? Join Aaron Parker’s Serious Starter Softwash Boot Camp on March 21-22, 2025. Whether you're new to the industry or looking to scale, this event will provide you with expert insights and actionable strategies to grow your business.
Google's constant updates can be frustrating, but with the right strategies, you can protect your rankings and keep generating leads. If you're serious about growing your business, now is the time to optimize your website, diversify your lead sources, and invest in professional GBP management.
Need a website or help with your Google Business Profile? Call Footbridge Media today and let them handle your online presence while you focus on running your business!
📞 Call Aaron O'Hanlan at Footbridge Media (Mention Lean and Mean Academy for a discount!)
