Google Places has made some changes to what is displayed in your businesses Google places account.

1. The new layout puts greater emphasis on Google user reviews as opposed to third party user reviews.

Thought: Makes sense, logical evolution, of course Google want to push their own wheel barrow.

2. Implemented easy to see 'Write A Review' button.

Thought: again, logical given focus on Google user reviews, encourage people to use the Google interface to leave their thoughts, over other directories.

3. Removed Citations at the bottom of the page.

Thought: Not ideal, but it's not make or break. Encourages you to continue working to build the overall authority of your website but keep getting other 3rd party appearances, so Google continues to recognise your business domination online.

4. Description & Working hours has disappeared.

Thought: The one certainty in life is change. Google has stopped showing this info. So be it, it's their bat and ball.

Keyword Phrase
People often ask, whether to put the keyword phrase in the title...or not.

We have made a number of listing and I am not seeing it as an issue. That does not mean it will or will not become an issue, but right now as long as it relates to the business, then Google appears to be allowing it.

For example, search for 'Dentist Leeds' (UK) and take a look at the listings there.

Search for 'Dentist Chicago' (US). And 'Dentist Sydney' (Aus) and you will see listings in the top 7 with the keyword phrase.

These changes are not major, in how it affects your ability or your businesses ability to get into the 7 pack.

But watch out for more changes once the mighty G gets started with this sort of thing they often have a few more tricks up their sleeve.

The Basics Still Hold True
Build authority for your website(s), build a quality experience for your sites visitor and your listing will hold firm.

A simple thing you could do immediately, is to ensure that the title of your website reflects the keyword phrase you are targeting in Google Places.

Showing consistency in Google's eyes is of massive importance. Make sure your website and your Google Places listing are both singing from the same sheet.

One last tip!
We've noticed an increased in incidence of 'anomalies' meaning listings that are showing that they are 100% complete, no negative message from Google, yet they are not showing.

If after several weeks, you are still experiencing this. We have found that deleting and starting again with the listing can be the best bet to get it fired up again.