How We're Navigating Google's Recent Algorithm Changes
What the December & February updates mean for your visibility, and how we're staying ahead
Hi H Client!
This week, we're breaking down two recent Google algorithm updates and how we're ensuring they work in your favor: protecting your lead quality and keeping your business visible as your busy season approaches.
What Happened
Google rolled out two significant updates:
December Core Update rewarded helpful, people-first content
February Discovery Update emphasized locally relevant, authentic content and cracked down on keyword-stuffed pages
What this means for you: These updates reward exactly what we've been building: authentic content focused on your actual expertise and service area. Your strategy has been positioned for this shift.
How We're Responding
We've been ahead of these changes. Here's what we're doing to strengthen your position:
✅ Refining your content strategy by emphasizing your actual service area and expertise, exactly what these updates reward
✅ Tracking AI visibility by monitoring how ChatGPT and Gemini recommend your business when people search for contractors
✅ Monitoring competitors in real-time so we can capitalize on opportunities when they drop and defend your position when they push harder
✅ Building content that converts with pages designed to turn visitors into qualified leads, not just traffic
These aren't new tactics. They're core to how we've always approached your SEO. These updates just confirm we're on the right track.
What to Expect
If you're reviewing your reports, here's what matters as your busy season starts:
Search activity is ramping up as property owners start planning spring projects. We're tracking your visibility for high-intent searches from people ready to get estimates and book work.
Rankings may still be settling from the recent updates. This is normal and doesn't impact your ability to capture the surge in qualified leads as the season picks up.
Lead quality is our priority. As more people search for landscaping and outdoor living services, we're ensuring your visibility targets prospects ready to hire, not just gather ideas.
Looking Ahead
As we move into March and your busy season ramps up, we're refining your highest-converting pages before search volume increases and ensuring you're positioned in the AI-powered search tools your future customers are already using.
The bottom line: Your strategy isn't just surviving these changes. It's positioned to thrive because of them. These updates reward what we've built, and we're continuing to adjust proactively as your season approaches.
Questions about what you're seeing? Your Project Manager is the best place to start.
Until next Friday,
Lauren Cullnan
Senior Director of Client Experience & Design Operations
