If your local rankings suddenly shrank and your heat map looks tighter than usual, you’re not imagining things. Over the past few weeks, we’ve seen a consistent pattern across multiple industries and locations: local search visibility is narrowing, and engagement metrics (views, clicks, etc.) are dropping. It's not just your business. This is happening everywhere.
So what’s going on? And what should you do about it?
1. Shrinking Local Visibility Zones
Google is tightening the radius around physical business locations. Businesses that previously ranked well across a broad service area are now only showing up near their actual address. In other words, your reach may be getting more “local” than ever before, whether you want it or not.
2. Fewer Clicks and Views? Blame AI Mode
Engagement is down, and that’s largely because more users are being funneled into Google’s AI-generated search results (called “AI Mode”). This changes how listings are displayed, and many users are getting answers directly in the search results without ever clicking through to a business profile.
3. Should You Be Worried?
No. But you should stay consistent. Google’s algorithm is clearly evolving to be more precise, more sensitive, and more reliant on real-time profile quality. That means the fundamentals matter more than ever:
- Keep your Google Business Profile fully optimized
- Post updates and photos regularly
- Respond to reviews (especially recent ones)
- Maintain accurate NAP (Name, Address, Phone) info
- Add services and FAQs if applicable
These updates now affect your visibility not just on Search and Maps, but inside Google’s AI-generated responses too.
4. Good News: Suspensions Are Easier to Fix Now
One major positive: Google just improved its suspension appeal process. If your profile gets suspended and your appeal is denied, Google now tells you exactly why. No more playing detective or guessing what went wrong. This clarity can save you days of frustration and lost revenue.
This builds on changes they made last year with failed verifications, and it’s a big step in the right direction for business owners and marketers alike.
5. AI Mode Is Now Everywhere
Google has expanded AI Mode to Workspace accounts, too. This means most users, both personal and business, are seeing AI-powered search results by default. If your business isn’t optimized to appear in AI Mode (not just traditional search), you're already behind.
Final Takeaway
Google is evolving fast, and local search is changing with it. Rankings are tightening. Visibility is shifting. But the roadmap remains the same: play the long game, focus on your foundation, and let the algorithm reward consistency.
We’ll continue to monitor these changes and let you know when it’s time to pivot. For now, keep your Google profile strong. It is still one of the most valuable digital assets your business owns.
Have questions? Contact us.
