GBP-using keyword phrases in title--yes or no?

I was previously using my business name plus a top keyword search phrase in the title of my GBP.
I read that Google is now penalizing the use of keyword phrases in the GBP title, so I removed the keyword phrase and just used my Business name and personal name. I did not change any of my backlinks.

Since eliminating the keyword phrase, I have fallen from occasional ranking in the 3-pack down to #6 position.

Should I go back to my original title which included the keyword search phrase?

If you believe that the keyword phrase is important for your ranking and is used naturally in your business context, it might be

worth considering going back to it

vissarion said:

I was previously using my business name plus a top keyword search phrase in the title of my GBP.
I read that Google is now penalizing the use of keyword phrases in the GBP title, so I removed the keyword phrase and just used my Business name and personal name. I did not change any of my backlinks.

Since eliminating the keyword phrase, I have fallen from occasional ranking in the 3-pack down to #6 position.

Should I go back to my original title which included the keyword search phrase?

Click to expand...

@vissarion If you have read it somewhere and have no proof to it happening to any business, you might consider going back to using the keyword in the title.

Yeah, it is good for ranking. You can use the keyword phrase in the title.

As everyone said you can consider going back to your original title with keyword phrase it might help you to improve ranking as well.

vissarion said:

I was previously using my business name plus a top keyword search phrase in the title of my GBP.
I read that Google is now penalizing the use of keyword phrases in the GBP title, so I removed the keyword phrase and just used my Business name and personal name. I did not change any of my backlinks.

Since eliminating the keyword phrase, I have fallen from occasional ranking in the 3-pack down to #6 position.

Should I go back to my original title which included the keyword search phrase?

Click to expand...

It's understandable to want to optimize your Google Business Profile (GBP) title to improve rankings, but it's essential to consider Google's guidelines and best practices. While using keyword phrases in GBP titles was once common practice, Google has indeed started penalizing overly spammy or keyword-stuffed titles.

However, the drop in rankings after removing the keyword phrase may not necessarily be directly related to that change alone. Various factors can influence rankings, including competition, algorithm updates, and changes in user behavior.

Before reverting to your original title, consider conducting a thorough analysis of your GBP performance, including reviewing your website's SEO health, backlink profile, and overall online presence. It's also worth monitoring your competitors' strategies and seeking advice from SEO professionals to ensure your approach aligns with current best practices.

Ultimately, the decision to revert to your original title should be based on comprehensive research and consideration of potential impacts on your overall SEO strategy.

You can use the keyword in the title and along with it optimize things in your website that can influence your local search rankings as well

Yeah, it is good for ranking. You can use the keyword phrase in the title.

RMX said:

You can use the keyword in the title and along with it optimize things in your website that can influence your local search rankings as well

Click to expand...

Apparently we all have the same opinion, opt for this brother

If you have not changed your title, add an update to your map. If your business has a product, add a product from the add products section. Make 5 comments a month, keep your map updated, and your ranking will be restored. You can also get GMB SEO packages for your map.