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The general rule is to evaluate the Domain/url you are linking to. If you trust the site and it creates good content, among other factors of a properly optimized site, then you are free to use a follow link.

If you feel that the site is not of the highest quality and can actually be detrimental because you are associating yourself with a bad site, use the nofollow links.

The best quantifiable method is to check Domain Authority, Page Authority, Spam Score. Another way to check is the good ol' eye test. If it feels like a good site then go ahead. If you just feel like there is something fishy, do a little research.

Hi Miriam,

I saw that our prior conversation was continued here. I went back and did some more researching and after reviewing everyting I think I found the issue, it was a Google industry cluster issue. I relooked at Google Maps and typed in "gym in [city]" and I noticed 7 of the 10 listings were all fairly close to the industry centroid designated by Google (which I found through Google MapMaker).

Now that I maybe have identified that issue, I'm wondering if there are any strategies we can to combat this. I don't like to think that our physical location has left us to have to accept lower listings on Google Local Pack. Let me know if you know anything?

As always, thank you!

Jason Khoo

Glad to be of service! Good luck with everything

Miriam,

Thorough and as helpful as possible as always. Thank you so much. Right now my strategy is to really work on those reviews. I'm hoping to get that magic 25 reviews because I think that can help us get to the top. All of our competitors don't even come close and are under 10.

So our goal is in that aspect. My client's target base is made up mostly of those over 40 -  50 years of age so their not as prone to review. Our competitors have fitness members of a younger age, so that's where I'm thinking we have a disadvantage. But I'm hoping to work a little more on that end.

Thanks Miriam!

Jason Khoo