Can I Hide My Google Business Profile? Essential Tips
You’re a busy entrepreneur juggling inventory, customer inquiries, and maybe even payroll. Figuring out how to optimize your online presence, specifically your Google Business Profile, might be the last thing on your mind. But when potential customers search for a business online, where do they look first? You guessed it: Google. It is important to find a GMB SEO service company to help increase your visibility, unless you are trying to hide your GMB.
A robust and accurate Google Business Profile, formerly known as Google My Business, can be the difference between attracting new customers and fading into the abyss of search engine results. A burning question for some entrepreneurs is, “Can I hide my Google Business profile?”. Maybe you run a home-based business or want to keep your business address private. Let’s untangle this digital dilemma.
Should You Hide Your Google Business Profile Address?
Before we discuss how to hide your Google Business Profile address, let’s explore why you might consider it. There are pros and cons to hiding your physical storefront on your Google Business account.
Reasons Businesses Might Hide Their Address
Some businesses, like those that operate solely online, service-area businesses, or offer services at their clients’ locations, might not need (or want) a public-facing address. Perhaps you run a consultancy firm from your home office. You might not feel comfortable displaying your home address on Google for the world to see.
In these cases, hiding your business’s address could make sense. Google’s local SEO algorithms highly favor businesses with physical addresses. Google considers a business’s proximity to the searcher, meaning closer businesses usually rank higher. Customers searching for “plumber near me” on Google Maps will likely first see plumbers with a physical address closest to them.
Hiding Your Address Can Impact Your Visibility
When you hide your address and rely solely on a designated service area, your business won’t be pinned on Google Maps, potentially costing you foot traffic and lead generation.
Some business owners see significant improvement in their local search rankings when they switch from a service-area-based model to displaying an address listing on their Google Business Profile. Some users even reported that their boost in rankings happened quickly. However, some service-area businesses argue that Google unfairly disadvantages businesses that hide their address when they are simply following Google’s guidelines.
Before you change your Google Business profile settings, learn about the steps involved to understand the ramifications fully.
Can I Hide My Google Business Profile: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you decide to hide your address, here’s how to do it.
- Log In: Go to Google Business Profile and log in using your registered email address and password.
- Access Your Profile: Sign in to Google My Business and choose the listing you want to manage.
- Find “Location”: Click on the “Info” tab on the left-hand side menu.
- Edit Business Location: Find the “Business location” section. Click the pencil icon to make edits.
- Clear Your Address: You’ll see an option that says “Clear address.” Click this to remove your business address from your Google Business Profile.
- Hit “Apply” and Confirm: Click “Apply” to save the changes. These changes could trigger a verification process. Google may require re-verification when a business removes a business address from a listing. They usually send a postcard to the registered address for verification–it’s similar to when you first set up the listing.
To Hide or Not to Hide? That is the Question…
The best course of action depends on your business model. Weigh the pros and cons before deciding whether to hide your Google Business profile address. Some ecommerce companies like to hide their address as some are operating their business out of their home and don’t want customers to know their residential address. If you are looking for an ecommerce SEO company, give us a call we can assist you throughout the entire SEO process.
Alternatives to Hiding Your Address
Instead of hiding your business address completely, consider these alternatives:
- Partial Address Disclosure: List your city and state or your service area. This strikes a balance between transparency and privacy. It might be enough to help you show up for local searches while still protecting your privacy.
- Embrace the Virtual Address: A virtual office address can provide professionalism without revealing your physical location.
Ultimately, there’s no right or wrong answer when deciding whether to hide your Google Business profile and the best way to manage your online presence for local searches. Experimentation, monitoring your results, and reaching out to digital marketing pros can help you make the best decision for your company.
FAQs about Can I Hide My Google Business Profile
Can you temporarily hide your Google Business Profile?
You can’t entirely hide a Google Business Profile temporarily. However, you can adjust your business hours to indicate that you’re “closed” for specific periods, like if you’re on vacation.
How do I hide my Google Business?
As of right now, you can’t completely hide your Google Business Profile from searches. However, you can remove your business address from your Google Business Profile listing and simply list your service area.
Can I turn off my Google Business Profile?
While you can’t precisely “turn off” your Google Business profile, you can mark it as “permanently closed.” This action will prevent it from appearing in most search results.
How do I change my business visibility on Google?
Managing your business visibility on Google has many different elements, including editing and optimizing your Google Business profile.
Conclusion
An online presence, especially in local search results, is critical for today’s entrepreneurs. One of the first steps to take is to claim or create your Google Business Profile. Your Google Business Profile helps you show up as an option when potential clients search for your type of business. Digital success isn’t just about being present online–it’s also about strategically managing how you appear.
If you’re still unsure whether you should hide your Google Business Profile address, remember that you can always experiment and test new strategies. You never know how these tests will impact your review marketing efforts, and you can always change things back if you aren’t happy with the results.
What is the Difference Between Local and Organic SEO?
As a business owner, you know you need a strong online presence but figuring out the best way to achieve that can be tricky. You’ve probably heard a lot about SEO, or Search Engine Optimization but what exactly is the difference between local and organic SEO? Understanding both and how they work together is vital for any digital marketing strategy.
While both local SEO and organic SEO aim to get your business noticed by search engines like Google, they each use different tactics and appeal to separate audiences. This distinction can be the difference between attracting a handful of site visitors and drawing in a steady stream of eager potential customers ready to do business. Understanding the difference between local and organic SEO helps clarify the unique needs of your business.
Local SEO: Targeting Your Neighborhood
Imagine this: someone in your city searches Google for “best pizza near me.” Local SEO is what puts your pizzeria at the top of those geographically specific search results.
Simply put, Local SEO targets customers in a specific geographical location. Think “near me” searches. It ensures that when someone searches for a business like yours in your area, you show up ahead of the competition. Local SEO relies heavily on getting your business listed correctly in online directories (think Yelp, Google Business Profile, Apple Maps).
In order for local search marketing to be effective, make sure your business’s name, address and phone number (NAP) is consistent. This includes local listing directories and your website. It’s crucial for businesses with a physical storefront such as restaurants, shops, and salons. They all benefit from drawing foot traffic based on location.
Why Visuals Matter in Local SEO
Think about the last time you did a “near me” search for a restaurant. Did you gravitate towards the listings with mouthwatering food photos? Probably. Don’t underestimate the importance of high-quality visuals. Listings that include photos are 42% more likely to see clicks for directions – a pretty strong incentive for any local business.
Mastering Your Google Business Profile
Your Google Business Profile (GBP), previously known as Google My Business, is your digital storefront. Setting one up should be a top priority for local businesses. In a nutshell, it’s free advertising, letting you manage how your business appears across Google Search and Maps. Make sure you list important details, keep your hours updated, and include keywords relevant to your business. A well-optimized GBP increases your visibility in local search algorithms. It’s one of the easiest ways to improve local searches, especially if you want more details to appear.
Reviews and Local SEO
Before trying a new restaurant or shop, most people do their research by reading reviews. Think about your own online behavior: are you more likely to trust a business with dozens of positive reviews? Online reviews build trust and signal to potential customers that you’re reliable and trustworthy. It’s one of the first things they look at. Encouraging customers to leave reviews can boost your business’s visibility.
Organic SEO: Casting a Wider Net
Organic SEO, in contrast to local SEO, is about establishing your website as an authority in your industry. Imagine someone searches “how to fix a leaky faucet.” They are looking for answers and information, that’s where organic SEO steps in.
While this someone may not be in your immediate geographical area, good organic SEO is what could draw them to your website. This will lead them to your expertise and, eventually, your products or services. Ultimately this leads to increased visibility for a specific target audience, helping your business stay ahead of competitors.
The Role of Engaging Content
A core component of any organic SEO tactic is creating high-quality, keyword-rich content that addresses users’ questions. This could involve blog posts, articles, video tutorials – whatever best resonates with your audience. Creating useful and relevant content keeps readers engaged on your page.
Long-form, informative content that establishes you as an expert on the topic and gives practical, detailed advice can be extremely beneficial. It attracts not just site visits but qualified leads – those who find genuine value in your expertise and are more likely to become loyal customers.
But make sure the content loads quickly. Page speed has been a Google ranking factor since as early as 2010. You could have the most well-written content in the world, but it won’t rank as high in search engines if users abandon your site because it loads too slowly.
Link Building for Organic Growth
Link building plays a crucial role in organic SEO. When other authoritative sites in your niche link back to yours, this signals to Google that your website is trustworthy and relevant. Building a robust backlink profile increases organic traffic and improves your organic search rankings.
Which Strategy is Right for You?
So, we’ve outlined what the difference between local SEO and organic SEO is, but you’re probably thinking – which one should I prioritize? It’s not an either-or situation. In an ideal world, a successful business utilizes a mix of both.
If you have a brick-and-mortar store and rely on local foot traffic, prioritizing local SEO would be the better option. But even online-only businesses can benefit from targeting local customers and appearing in relevant “near me” searches. This becomes more vital if you have regional-specific offerings or wish to establish dominance in a specific area before expanding. Incorporating elements of local SEO like claiming your Google Business Profile can improve overall online visibility.
Let’s break down the unique advantages of each approach to see which SEO path would best suit your business needs.
Benefits of Local SEO
- Targeting customers who are ready to buy.
- Improved local visibility leads to more foot traffic for businesses with a physical presence.
- Relatively cheaper and quicker to achieve noticeable results compared to organic SEO.
Benefits of Organic SEO
- Higher organic traffic that compounds over time – the earlier you start, the better.
- Building trust and authority in your field.
- Sustainable long-term growth.
No matter what path you choose, don’t expect overnight success with either local SEO or organic SEO. Building a strong SEO strategy requires consistency, high-quality content, and time. Focus on what best serves your target market and then consider a two-pronged approach that includes elements of both to expand your reach.
FAQs About What is the Difference Between Local SEO and Organic SEO?
Is organic SEO better than local SEO?
There’s no definitive winner in an “organic vs. local” SEO battle – both play equally important roles. Businesses often grapple with the question of choosing between the two; but, ultimately a blended approach works best. The best approach depends on each business’s goals.
Local SEO suits businesses that primarily operate offline such as restaurants or stores. They thrive on customers close by. It drives traffic to their location through geo-targeted searches. Organic SEO is like building a global reputation. Anyone searching for your specific niche can find you – regardless of location. Businesses like e-commerce, SaaS companies, content creators, etc. benefit by focusing on attracting wider audiences. A hybrid approach, incorporating elements from both methods, offers the most comprehensive solution for many companies.
What is an example of local SEO?
Let’s say you own a vegan bakery in Austin, Texas. Local SEO is what makes sure your business shows up when a user searches for something like “vegan bakery near me,” or “best vegan cupcakes in Austin.” It also means having consistent NAP information – name, address, phone number – across different online directories. That way, potential customers can easily find you.
What’s an example of organic SEO?
Organic SEO targets those who are not geographically close by… at least, not yet. Think about a fashion e-commerce store based in New York City but targeting a national demographic. With local SEO, if someone 5,000 miles away in Los Angeles searches “trendy winter outfits”, that store in NYC wouldn’t show up. Instead of geographic terms, organic SEO relies on keywords, link-building, content marketing strategies. Its primary focus is increasing website traffic. Getting this traffic could come from targeting keywords like “best winter jackets” or “cute winter outfit ideas”. These help that store show up high on Google search results for users anywhere – whether it’s Los Angeles, Seattle, London, you name it.
By now, I hope we’ve thoroughly answered what the difference between local SEO and organic SEO is. These two facets of digital marketing are not competing strategies, but rather allies in maximizing online visibility and lead generation. When effectively combined, local SEO helps capture ready-to-buy local customers, while organic SEO strengthens your website’s online presence, establishing brand credibility. Integrating the two ensures a strong digital footprint, paving the path to sustained business growth.
How Long Does Local SEO Take to Boost Your Business?
You’re right, business owners have a lot riding on their online presence these days. So it’s no wonder the question I hear most often is “how long does local SEO take”? It makes sense — they need customers, and they need them ASAP. But if you’re serious about ranking in local search results and building a sustainable online presence, then buckle up because it’s a long game. That’s why, I’ll break it down for you, explaining exactly what impacts your local SEO timeline and giving you practical strategies to see results sooner. Hiring the correct local SEO agency can go a long way, you need to make sure the company you hire can drive real results.
Why Does Local SEO Even Matter?
Let me get real, local SEO is essential for local businesses. With nearly 70% of all desktop search traffic going through Google, getting noticed organically on this search engine is important for visibility. That little map pack that pops up when you Google “coffee shops near me”? That’s local SEO gold.
You know what I mean. You’ve probably used it a bunch of times. It’s a game-changer. It’s all about optimizing your online presence to attract customers in your specific geographical area.
This means when someone searches “best pizza in Chicago,” you want YOUR pizzeria popping up at the top of those local search results. Think about it – people rely heavily on search engines to find local products and services. Don’t you use it almost daily?
In fact, 78% of navigational searches lead to an offline conversion. Let me ask you this, how often have YOU searched for a restaurant online and ended up dining there that very day? That’s the power of a robust local SEO strategy. It connects businesses with ready-to-buy customers directly in their area. That being said, let’s discuss what this strategy looks like in more detail.
Breaking Down the Local SEO Timeline
How long does local SEO take to deliver those piping hot leads? It’s the million-dollar question. But just like Rome wasn’t built in a day, a solid local SEO strategy takes time to show noticeable results.
I know that might sound disheartening. However, this doesn’t mean you won’t see ANY results immediately. Within a matter of a few weeks, you should see your website appearing in local searches, and if you put the work in you could find yourself ranking well on the first page in around 4 to 6 weeks.
You should begin seeing significant progress within the 3 to 6-month mark, such as increased website traffic, a steady climb in rankings, and improvements in local pack visibility. After 6 to 12 months of solid SEO effort, many business owners experience a more noticeable jump in website traffic, landing pages start ranking on page 1 for more local keywords, and they often see those conversion rates rise significantly.
To give you a clearer picture, let’s break this timeframe down. But keep in mind that a year is just a starting point. SEO is an ongoing journey, and maintaining those top rankings takes persistence and vigilance. Google is constantly tweaking its algorithm, so regularly analyzing your competitors and adapting your content and keyword strategy accordingly is important for consistent performance.
Factors That Influence How Long Does Local SEO Take?
While some studies reveal that over half of web pages that rank in the top 10 Google search results are three years old or more, there are also outliers, new players who disrupt the SEO world every so often. As previously mentioned, the timeline for SEO results is relative and dependent on a few specific variables, including:
1. Your Industry and Competition
Your industry and competition play a HUGE role in determining your SEO timeline. A brand-new bakery in a small town won’t face the same SEO battle as a new tech startup in Silicon Valley, right? It’s a bit of a David-and-Goliath situation, where a new local business may find they have a much harder time outranking a large company or even a more established competitor in their niche.
The level of competition in specific local markets varies significantly. In other words, if you’re a plumber in a city flooded with them, it’ll be trickier (but not impossible.) to rise to the top compared to being the only plumber in a smaller town. Keyword difficulty (KD) is another critical component of keyword research to factor in during content creation.
High-volume keywords with high KD might bring a massive volume of traffic but also take significantly longer to gain traction. The digital marketing landscape of today demands a multi-faceted approach to SEO, one that prioritizes building a strong online presence from the get-go.
2. The Current State of Your Online Presence
A website with pre-existing technical SEO issues, like broken links or low-quality content will obviously require a different SEO approach, than a brand new business, right? So before even diving into keywords or off-page SEO techniques, you might need to focus on laying those SEO foundations.
Remember – SEO builds upon itself. The quality of your foundation can make or break your efforts, ultimately affecting that coveted timeline for how long your local SEO takes to stick. This is why having a well-optimized site right from the get-go is crucial, and one of the first places I advise business owners to begin is their Google Business Profile.
This free tool isn’t just a business listing; it’s a local SEO powerhouse. In fact, Google now confirms that relevance, distance, and prominence are the key factors for higher rankings in their local pack. And let’s not forget, we’re talking about almost 93% of internet users relying on search to find local businesses.
For businesses wondering “Is local SEO even worth it?”, I think that stat pretty much says it all. If a local business wants to be seen online, they simply cannot afford to ignore GMB optimization as part of their overall SEO strategy.
3. Your Chosen SEO Strategies
Like I mentioned before, simply setting up a website and hoping customers stumble across it isn’t going to cut it in the ever-so-competitive online landscape. Implementing a solid local SEO strategy which considers your site structure and keyword research will impact not just your visibility in local search but how effective this increased traffic will be when it comes to boosting those all-important conversions.
According to experts, both high-quality content and link-building are two of the biggest ranking signals Google uses. This essentially boils down to valuable content marketing and promoting it for backlinks, along with on-page factors. And because SEO efforts are rarely confined to what happens on a website alone, off-page optimization matters as well.
Google’s own John Mueller even stated that ranking can fluctuate a great deal more within a website’s first year. You need to also always run your site through Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test as most of the searches these days happen on mobile devices, in fact, 96% of the global digital population use their smartphone to connect.
It is easy to see how website owners might mistakenly fall into a state of complacency and become a little complacent. Because SEO is not a set-it-and-forget-it thing, consistently producing top-tier, share-worthy content is essential. But with almost half of digital marketers struggling with content marketing, a consistent content creation schedule is essential, especially since consistently producing helpful content earns over 55% more website visitors.
So while SEO can feel overwhelming, this doesn’t mean you should throw in the towel and hire just anyone, as “hiring a search engine optimizer could be the best idea you’ve had, or it could be the worst”. There are reputable firms and consultants that can guide you in building a long-lasting, local SEO strategy that delivers, however, make sure to do your research on them to make sure they are legit.
FAQs
How much time does SEO need to show results?
While results may be visible early on, expect significant improvements in search rankings and organic traffic within a 6 to 12-month timeframe, although it’s crucial to remember that SEO is a long game.
Does investing in local SEO really pay off?
Especially for small businesses targeting a local customer base, local SEO is worth it as it boosts online visibility and drives more traffic to their physical locations.
No Magical Switch to Flick on Local SEO
So how long does local SEO take to yield tangible results? It really depends – there’s no magical switch to flick for instant success. Just like any worthwhile endeavor, patience and perseverance, coupled with the strategies, a realistic timeline, and continuous adaptation to Google’s algorithm updates are all crucial ingredients for acing that local search game.
How To Add Someone to Google My Business (Step-by-Step)
You’re busy running a business – and these days, that often means managing a whole online presence, too. Figuring out how to add someone to Google My Business probably isn’t at the top of your priority list. But believe me, granting access to your team or outside help can be a game-changer. It can free up your time to focus on what you do best. Plus, with the right people on board, you can really unlock the full potential of Google My Business and watch those customer leads come pouring in. Hiring an agency who can help with your Google My Business SEO can go a long way as well.
Intrigued? Keep reading to find out why you SHOULD be adding users and exactly how to add someone to Google My Business.
Why Giving Access to Your Google My Business is Essential
First things first: Let’s discuss why giving access to your Google My Business profile is so important. In today’s digital age, Google My Business isn’t just an online listing – it’s your virtual storefront.
Consider this: Google processes billions of searches every single day. People rely on it for everything. When a potential customer searches for a business like yours in their area, a positive first impression is essential. Your Google My Business listing is often a customer’s first impression, so making it shine is vital.
By adding users to your Google My Business account, you empower your team (or even an SEO agency) to take charge of your online presence. They can ensure your listing is up-to-date and looking sharp, from optimizing photos and opening hours to responding to reviews and sharing special offers. Adding users to your Google My Business account is a great way to enhance your online presence.
We get the question a lot about does posting on Google My Business help SEO? To find out read our blog that breaks that down for you and what does help with your Google My Business and increasing your online presence.
The Different Levels of Google My Business User Roles (and What They Can Do)
Just like with the employees in your business, you’ll probably want to give different levels of access to different people when it comes to your GMB listing. Below is a breakdown of the different user roles Google My Business offers:
1 – Primary Owner: Top Dog (That’s Probably YOU.)
The primary owner has ultimate control over the Google My Business listing. This is typically the person who first claimed the Google My Business listing, generally the business owner.
Think of yourself as the CEO of your GMB. As the primary owner, you can add and remove other users, edit business information, manage those all-important reviews, and even delete the listing (hopefully not.). You’re in charge..
2 – Co-Owners: Trustworthy Sidekicks.
Do you have a business partner, a trusted manager, or maybe even a tech-savvy family member who’s helping you with the business? If so, adding them as a co-owner is a great option.
Co-owners have almost the same abilities as the primary owner on Google My Business. Co-owners can tweak your business details, add new users, and remove users, but they can’t delete the Google My Business listing completely.
3 – Managers: The Go-Getters.
Managers on Google My Business are like your front-line staff in the GMB world. A Manager might be a marketing assistant, someone on your social media team, or even an outside marketing expert.
Managers can update photos, share posts, and respond to reviews. They can improve your listing’s aesthetics and really engage customers. However, managers can’t add or remove users, so you maintain complete control over who has access.
A Step-by-Step Guide: How To Add Someone To Google My Business
Ready to learn how to add someone to Google My Business and put all this great stuff into practice? It’s easier than you think. Here are 5 easy steps:
Step 1: Sign in.
Go to business.google.com and log into your Google My Business account.
Step 2: Head to Users
Look for the “Users” section within your Google My Business account. You can usually find it in a side menu or under the settings for your listing.
Step 3: Click “Add User.”
You’ll be asked for the email address of the person you want to add to the Google My Business account, and don’t worry – you won’t need their password or any personal info. Google will never ask you for sensitive information like this.
Step 4: Choose Their Power Level (I Mean “Role.”)
Do you want to make them a co-owner (remember, almost the same power as you.) or a manager? Carefully consider what responsibilities they’ll have and what access level makes the most sense. Choose wisely.
Step 5: Hit That “Invite” Button.
The new user will receive an email, so it might be a good idea to give them a heads up that it’s coming and ask them to click “Accept.” That’s it..
It’s that simple. Adding users is straightforward. Once your new user accepts, they’ll be off to the races, improving your listing, engaging with your customers, and attracting new customers.
FAQs about how to add someone to Google my business
What happens if I accidentally give someone the wrong access level?
Mistakes happen. The good news is you can always go back to the “Users” section on Google My Business and edit someone’s permissions, or even remove their access completely. Disaster avoided.
Can someone outside of my business, like an SEO agency, manage my listing?
Absolutely. If you are not well-versed in Search Engine Optimization (SEO), using an agency to manage your Google My Business account is common.
Allowing an experienced SEO agency to manage your Google My Business can save you time and help boost your business’s online visibility, bringing in even more customers. Simply add them as a user with the appropriate permissions.
Do I have to give access to my whole Google account?
You only give new users access to your Google Business Profile when you add them to your Google My Business account, not your whole Google account. Your personal email, documents, and other sensitive data are kept completely separate.
Try to Give Someone Access to Your GMB Today!
Learning how to add someone to Google My Business is easy – now you are fully equipped with all the tools you need to build a fantastic team. You can now effortlessly take your GMB listing to the next level by understanding and assigning users roles effectively and watching your customer leads and engagement grow.
Your In-depth Guide: How To Check For Technical SEO (and Why it Matters)
So, you’re trying to figure out how to check for technical SEO? This is an absolutely vital part of any successful SEO strategy. It can feel overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. This guide will show you some tools and techniques to assess your website’s technical SEO health and pinpoint areas for improvement. Don’t have the expertise in web development or areas of understanding the technical audit, hire a digital marketing agency like SEO Locale.
What is a Technical SEO Audit?
A technical SEO audit is like giving your website a complete checkup. It examines the technical aspects that affect how search engines understand and rank your site. This includes analyzing factors like your website’s structure, how quickly pages load, mobile responsiveness, and security. If you’re looking for a free website analysis, several online SEO auditing tools are available. Consider exploring options like SEO App, or tools from companies like Screaming Frog, SEMrush, or DeepCrawl.
Key Elements of a Technical SEO Audit
A thorough technical SEO check involves a multi-faceted approach. It goes beyond the surface to examine crucial elements that contribute to a search engine-friendly site.
Crawlability and Indexability
This element checks whether search engines can find and understand your site’s content. Think of it this way: if you invite guests to your house, but they can’t find the front door, they can’t visit. Crawlability refers to a search engine’s ability to access your content. Indexability means search engines can successfully store and categorize your content in their database.
A few things that can hinder crawlability and indexability include broken links and pages with incorrect HTTP response codes. Other issues include poorly structured URLs, an ineffective robots.txt file, and misplaced noindex tags in your code.
Website Structure and Navigation
A well-structured site with logical navigation is important. A confusing layout makes it difficult for search engine spiders to crawl your website. Visitors may also struggle to find what they need. This often leads to frustration, causing them to leave and potentially increasing your bounce rate.
A simple, user-friendly site architecture with organized categories is key. Using clear, concise internal links also creates a better user experience. These best practices help search engines grasp your site’s topic and understand how its content is related.
Mobile Friendliness
These days, having a website that’s easy to use on smartphones is crucial. Mobile devices accounted for over half of all internet traffic in February of 2023. With nearly 60% of global web traffic coming from smartphones and tablets, if your site doesn’t provide a positive mobile experience, it will affect rankings.
Search engines understand this shift in user behavior. Google switched to mobile-first indexing back in 2018, meaning their crawlers primarily look at the mobile version of a page. Websites need to be responsive to adapt to various screen sizes, meaning text must be readable without zooming, and buttons must be easily tappable. If Google deems your site lacking in these factors, your ranking will likely suffer.
Page Speed
Page speed is all about how quickly your website pages load. No one enjoys a slow-loading webpage. It’s like standing in a slow line at a grocery store. What if after 10 minutes of waiting to pay, there was no end in sight? Page speed is about loading content fast to improve user experience.
You can use various free online tools to check for technical SEO issues related to page speed, including PageSpeed Insights. You’ll find recommendations on image optimization, caching, server response time, and more to speed up your site. The tool provides separate data on desktop and mobile. Don’t forget about using Google Search Console for more advanced Core Web Vitals data.
XML Sitemap
An XML sitemap guides search engines to all your pages. Think of it as a roadmap. Submitting an XML sitemap to Google helps ensure that all important pages on your website are properly indexed.
While submitting a sitemap isn’t a guarantee for indexing, it acts as a courtesy notice to search engines. It allows them to see all your pages at once. You should review your XML sitemap regularly to check for crawl errors. Make sure it’s including your most important pages and isn’t including pages you don’t want Google to index. Google Search Console allows you to submit sitemaps and review index coverage.
HTTPS Protocol
That padlock in a website’s address bar signifies a site secured with HTTPS. It’s now more than a security best practice – HTTPS signifies a site using secure communication protocols that encrypt data. This data is transmitted between your server and users’ browsers.
Moving from HTTP to HTTPS requires installing an SSL or TLS security certificate on your site. An SSL certificate ensures your visitor data is encrypted and transmitted securely. This safeguards it from any interception.
Other Factors When Learning how to check for Technical SEO
The elements above create a strong foundation for technical SEO. However, technical SEO goes even further with other essential components to evaluate.
Duplicate Content
You want to make sure all your website pages have unique, original content. Having pages that compete with each other on the same keywords might dilute link equity. It can also diminish each page’s individual authority, ultimately lowering rankings for all competing pages.
Search engines want to showcase original, useful content. When duplicate content is present they struggle to determine which page deserves a better position in the search results.
Broken Links and Redirects
Broken links are dead ends that interrupt the user experience. Imagine enjoying a fascinating article and suddenly, upon clicking a link, you are presented with an error message.
When crawlers find a page that’s unavailable, they receive an error. This is commonly a 404 error. Implementing proper redirects, such as a 301 redirect, helps maintain the flow of link equity and takes users to updated content.
Schema Markup
Schema Markup is a type of structured data. It enhances how search engines read a page’s content, giving crawlers better clarity and context. Have you ever noticed those informative details that sometimes pop up in Google’s search results? This could be product availability, user ratings, or even recipe preparation time. This is schema markup at work.
International SEO
Do you have audiences in different countries who speak different languages? If so, International SEO is crucial. Setting up language tags (Hreflang tags) properly guides Google to show the right language versions of pages to your users. This also prevents search engines from interpreting multilingual content as duplicates. It signals that it is a unique version specific to an audience or region.
Putting It All Together
There are several SEO tools available to help you perform a technical SEO audit. Google Search Console and PageSpeed Insights are great free tools to start with. There are also free SEO tools and browser extensions, such as SEO Meta in 1 Click, available to provide more in-depth information while navigating a website. Some SEO software suites also offer free versions you can use.
It’s easy to see how complex technical SEO can get. However, all of these steps, when performed consistently, can drastically improve your website’s technical SEO. Pay special attention to the elements that may be impacting your website the most. This will make sure Google sees you as a reliable resource. It also creates a smooth, enjoyable experience for your visitors.
FAQs About How to Check For Technical SEO
What falls under technical SEO?
Technical SEO involves all aspects of a website that impact how effectively search engines can crawl and index a site’s content. It focuses on crawling, rendering, and indexing your pages and assets. It also includes structural elements like your site navigation and site architecture. Some of the core issues technical SEO addresses are page speed optimization, mobile-friendliness, site security, duplicate content issues, redirects, broken links, XML sitemap setup, use of Schema Markup, and hreflang tags.
How do I run an SEO check?
To run an SEO check, start with Google’s free tools such as Google Search Console and Google Analytics. The Google Search Console can give you insight into indexing issues, response codes, sitemap errors, and other key metrics. There are also other SEO tools and SEO checkers on the market. For instance, Screaming Frog offers a technical SEO audit tool. Don’t forget to routinely check more obvious things like your website navigation, the readability of your content, and other visible aspects of the site.
What’s included in a technical SEO audit?
A technical SEO audit involves analyzing page speed, crawlability, mobile-friendliness, and security. It also typically includes an analysis of robots.txt files, XML sitemaps, broken links, and canonical tag urls. The audit tool you choose may have other site audit checklist items.
Is technical SEO difficult?
Technical SEO can be challenging for those who are unfamiliar with it. Start with the basics. Focus on using free SEO tools, especially those offered by Google, such as the URL inspection tool. However, diving into more complex areas of technical SEO can feel more complicated. Consider consulting with an SEO expert or web developer for these more advanced technical issues.
Conclusion: Technical SEO is Not Easy
Technical SEO is about creating a website that is easy for search engines to crawl and index. This involves creating a fast, secure, and technically sound website that provides a good user experience. You want a website that runs smoothly, ranks well in search engines, and keeps your visitors happy. Don’t get overwhelmed you can hire a digital marketing agency like us to handle your national SEO or local SEO strategies to help you rank on top of your competition.
Does Posting on Google My Business Help SEO?
These days, it seems like every business owner is wondering, does posting on Google My Business help SEO? With nearly everyone turning to the internet to find local businesses, a solid online presence is more important than ever. Your Google Business Profile (GBP), formerly known as Google My Business (GMB), is your free ticket to getting seen on Google Search and Google Maps. But is just having a profile enough, or does posting on Google My Business help SEO even more? Let’s explore why those GMB posts might be the missing piece in your local SEO strategy.
Why is Google My Business Important for Local SEO?
Think about the last time you searched for a restaurant, a plumber, or a new pair of shoes in your area. Chances are, you found them through a quick Google search. What did that search result page look like? You probably saw some ads at the top, followed by a list of three businesses — that’s Google’s local 3-pack. After that come the standard organic search results.
Landing in that coveted 3-pack can make a huge difference. A complete, optimized Google Business Profile is vital to achieving just that. Studies have shown that a whopping 97% of people look online for information about local businesses. So, neglecting your GMB profile is like setting up shop on a deserted island – no one’s around to find you. Plus, don’t forget about Google Maps – an increasingly popular tool for on-the-go users.
A strong GMB presence makes sure you pop up on Maps when people are searching for businesses like yours in their neighborhood. Not convinced it’s worth the effort? Local searches lead to purchases 28% of the time. Ignoring this powerful tool is basically telling potential customers to take their business elsewhere.
How Does Google My Business Impact Local Search Ranking?
Does posting on Google My Business help SEO and your quest to conquer the Local Pack? You bet it does. Understanding how it all works is key to harnessing its full potential.
Relevance: Does your profile match what people are searching for?
Think about it this way – when someone searches for “best pizza downtown,” Google wants to make sure it delivers the most relevant results. The more information you have filled out on your GMB profile – like your address, phone number, business hours, website, categories, and attributes – the easier it is for Google to determine if your business fits the bill. This also makes it easier for Google to connect your GMB posts with other web content.
This consistent, relevant information helps to build trust, and that trust translates to higher rankings. Google relies on ranking factors to determine where your business lands in search engine rankings. Ensuring your GMB is optimized will improve local SEO.
Distance: Location, location, location.
People searching for local services want convenience. So naturally, distance plays a huge role in search rankings. If your GMB profile is optimized for your location and service area, Google will be more likely to recommend you to users who are geographically close by.
Make sure to fill out your service area; Google lets you set a radius to capture even more local customers. Don’t be afraid to get hyperlocal; mentioning landmarks or cross streets can further boost your visibility to nearby searchers.
Prominence: Stand out from the crowd.
Think of prominence as your business’s reputation both online and offline. Established businesses, landmarks, and well-known brands have an easier time ranking high. That’s why it is important to cultivate an authoritative online presence, starting with your GMB profile. Does posting on Google My Business help SEO in terms of prominence? It certainly can, but there’s more to the equation.
Positive reviews are marketing gold. Encourage customers to leave feedback – Miva found longer, more detailed reviews are more valuable to Google. Another effective tactic is to work on securing high-quality backlinks from other authoritative websites. Consider guest posting on relevant industry blogs, sponsoring local events, or getting involved with your local Chamber of Commerce. The more Google sees that your business is a trusted authority in your field, the better your chances of securing a prime position in local search results.
Using Google My Business Posts: Does It Help With SEO?
Alright, now that you’re up to speed on Google Business Profile ranking basics, let’s get into the heart of the matter. Does posting on Google My Business help SEO? Research says yes – a resounding yes. Think about it: less than 20% of businesses post on GMB weekly. An even more staggering 40% never post at all – they are missing out on a prime opportunity. Posting relevant content gives Google a fresh stream of information about your business, reaffirming those signals we talked about: relevance, distance, and prominence.
But wait, there’s more. Your GBP profile is also a platform for sharing updates. Sharing engaging content through your Google Business account can do wonders for your SEO. Unlike those fleeting social media posts, Google My Business keeps your 10 most recent posts front and center for everyone to see. You’re probably wondering – why does posting on Google My Business help SEO? It boils down to providing those crucial signals that Google loves.
How GMB Posts Help SEO: |
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Location-Based Relevancy: Mentioning your location and targeting local keywords in your GMB posts makes it abundantly clear to Google what areas your business serves. Think about using phrases like: “near me” or “serving [city/region]” or “[Your City]”. This boosts your visibility for hyperlocal searches, driving customers directly to your doorstep. |
Keyword Opportunities Galore: Google Business posts offer another avenue for incorporating those all-important keywords. But, don’t just stuff keywords into your content – Google is too smart for that. Weaving keywords naturally into your blog and newsletter content, alongside internal linking strategies, does wonders for boosting your site’s overall SEO score and relevance to your target audience. |
Build Engagement (and Impress Google.): Think beyond simple announcements. Use visuals – photos, videos – to bring your posts to life. Even better – make them interactive. Run polls, ask questions, or encourage users to share their experiences. Studies show GMB posts with images significantly increase views, clicks, and actions, indicating greater user engagement and, in turn, boosting SEO performance. |
Posting fresh content regularly tells Google that you’re not just a dormant listing; you’re actively engaging with your community and providing up-to-date information. It demonstrates your commitment to being a valuable resource, which contributes positively to local search rankings. This can even improve your mobile SEO.
Does Posting on Google My Business Really Make a Difference?
Yes. Multiple case studies, including a 2019 study from Moz have found a direct correlation between posting to GMB and an improvement in local rankings, even causing some businesses to leapfrog their competitors on Google Maps. What does this mean for your business?
Well, consider this: a study conducted by Search Engine Land revealed that businesses saw significant jumps in their Local Pack rankings within a week of starting consistent GMB posting. This data suggests that the combination of regular posting and relevant, engaging content acts as a signal flare to Google, boosting your local SEO authority and attracting a continuous flow of local customers.
A Case for GMB:
Imagine a cozy, family-run bakery struggling to compete against larger chains. They were relying solely on word-of-mouth and foot traffic but weren’t seeing the growth they’d hoped for. They finally took the plunge and committed to regularly posting on their Google Business Profile, sharing mouthwatering images of their fresh pastries, announcing daily specials, and even running interactive polls about customer-favorite treats.
Within weeks, their GMB listing was getting significantly more views, website traffic surged, and most importantly, those local customers started pouring in, all thanks to consistent and engaging Google My Business posting. You can share your business logo, business description, and contact details. You can also add secondary categories and run special offers to encourage customers.
Does Google My Business Posting Really Matter That Much?
In a world saturated with marketing noise, capturing attention is a battle in itself. You’re probably thinking, “With only 17% of businesses even bothering to post weekly, does posting on Google My Business really give that big of an edge?” In short, absolutely. That stat right there highlights the incredible untapped potential GMB holds.
By simply showing up consistently, your business is already head and shoulders above the majority. You’re not just another name in the crowd; you’re an active, engaging business that values its customers. That, my friends, is invaluable.
Mastering Google My Business Posts:
Now that we’ve established that posting consistently can make a huge impact, let’s explore some strategies for crafting winning Google My Business posts. You have the content; now it’s all about presenting it in a way that captivates, engages, and encourages users to take action.
1. Timing is Key: Catch Your Audience When They’re Looking
Studies have shown that the ideal time to post is when users are actively looking for information or services like yours. For example, a restaurant might want to post tempting photos of their lunch specials around midday, while a local boutique could highlight new arrivals or flash sales on weekends. Tools can automate your posting schedule, ensuring that your GMB content goes live at peak engagement times.
2. Embrace the Visual: Pictures Tell a Thousand Words.
Did you know that listings with 100+ photos get way more clicks than those without? There’s proof – listings with more visuals tend to capture attention and entice those clicks. Showcase your space with a virtual tour (check out Google’s resources on creating 360-degree tours.).
High-quality product shots, behind-the-scenes peeks at your business in action, or even snapshots of happy customers enjoying what you offer can significantly increase engagement and tell your story visually. Experiment with different image types, use bright colors and eye-catching compositions, and keep the user experience in mind to maximize impact.
3. Let’s Get Visual: Add Video Content for Enhanced Engagement
Don’t shy away from using video either; it’s an even more impactful way to showcase your business’ personality. Even if your budget is small, you can create simple yet captivating videos directly from your phone or experiment with user-generated content. The key is to make it visually compelling and aligned with your brand message to capture those precious seconds of attention as users scroll through their search results.
4. Short and Sweet is the Name of the Game: Capture Attention Quickly
Although Google My Business lets you write posts of up to 1500 characters, try keeping your captions succinct. Think elevator pitch – you’ve got a small window to convey the most important information before a user scrolls on by.
5. Call to Action:
Every great GMB post needs a strong call to action. What do you want the user to do after they read your post? Visit your website, call for a quote, or learn more about your services? Don’t be afraid to be direct; use action-oriented phrases like “learn more”, “get directions”, “call today”, “sign up”, or “view offer.”
So, Does Posting on Google My Business Help SEO?
Without a doubt, those regular updates might be that crucial ingredient for attracting local customers. And don’t be discouraged if you’re not seeing instant results; SEO takes time. Stay consistent, be patient, and your Google Business Profile could be your best tool yet to grow your business.
SEO Locale: The Team To Better Your Business
Discover the Magic of Local SEO with SEO Locale
In the bustling city of Philadelphia, a dedicated group of digital marketing experts has worked tirelessly to create a company that would revolutionize the world of local SEO. At SEO Locale, we are driven by passion, expertise, and a deep understanding of the online landscape. Through our mastery of the digital world, SEO Locale has helped countless businesses reach new heights and achieve the coveted first page of Google. Who are we, and what do you need to know about how we can help you address digital marketing needs?
Meet the SEO Locale Dream Team
Behind every great company is a team of talented individuals working together to bring their vision to life. We are proud to have passionate team members, each of whom brings a slightly different set of skills to the table, which we can use to help you position your business for success. At SEO Locale, our dream team is made up of:
- Owners and Leaders: CEO Marc Brookland and COO Nick Quirk provide the guiding vision and leadership that keep SEO Locale at the forefront of the industry. Our leadership team works hard to stay on top of the latest developments in digital marketing to make sure that we provide you with the results you need and deserve.
- SEO Team: Our skilled SEO specialists possess leading expertise in keyword research, on-page and off-page SEO strategy, and competitor analysis, ensuring your business stays ahead of the game. We want to make sure that you are at the top of the rankings for the most important keywords, and we will do everything we can to make that happen.
- Project Managers: Our detail-oriented project managers provide comprehensive breakdowns of SEO rankings, website data, and campaign management, keeping you informed every step of the way. Our purpose is to make sure that we are working to meet your goals, ensuring that everything we do is headed in the right direction.
- Developers: Our talented developers are experts in website design, management, and web building, crafting visually stunning and highly functional websites that capture the essence of your brand. We know that there is never a second chance to make a first impression, and our developers can help you make a positive one on your target market.
- Content Team: Our creative content team incorporates SEO strategy into content tailored for individual businesses, and provides educational blog posts, such as our insights on avoiding cookie-cutter SEO and the patience behind keywords. Our content team will help you make sure that the content on your website is appealing and helpful.
- Social Media Team: Our savvy social media team creates helpful and engaging posts for various industries, emphasizing your business’s services and attributes. If you’re looking for social media management in Philadelphia, SEO Locale has you covered.
In this digital era, having a solid online presence is crucial for the growth of any business. Local SEO is especially integral for small and medium-sized businesses that depend on drawing in customers from their nearby area. By optimizing your site and web presence to optimize local search, you can stand apart from your competitors, draw more traffic to your company, and eventually increase sales.
At SEO Locale, we acknowledge the unique difficulties as well as advantages that come with local SEO strategies. Our skillful experts are knowledgeable in the most up-to-date trends and best practices, guaranteeing that your organization gets noticed by those searching for what it has to offer within its vicinity.
Our Commitment to Your Success
At SEO Locale, we are driven, dedicated, and ready to see you on the first page of Google. We understand that the world of SEO can be overwhelming, which is why we’re committed to educating our clients on the process and how the industry works. By demystifying the complexities of SEO, we empower businesses to make informed decisions and optimize their online presence. What sets SEO Locale apart from other digital marketing companies is our personalized approach to local SEO. We recognize that each business is unique with its own set of goals, target audience, and industry-specific challenges. When you work with SEO Locale, we take the time to identify your goals, design a custom plan tailored to your needs, and dedicate our team to making your goal a reality.
Embark on Your SEO Journey with SEO Locale
In a world where the digital landscape is constantly evolving, SEO Locale is your trusted partner in navigating the complex world of local SEO. Our expert team, combined with our commitment to your success, make us the digital marketing and SEO company that businesses turn to for unparalleled results.
As you embark on your journey with SEO Locale, you’ll discover the magic of local SEO and witness firsthand the transformative power it holds for your business. We invite you to join us on this incredible adventure, and together, we’ll conquer the digital realm, one search result at a time.
Are you ready to take the first step toward increasing your digital presence? If so, reach out to our team today to get the process started. We would be honored to work with you to help you craft a digital marketing campaign that can help you stand out from the crowd.
Why Service-Based Industries Benefit the Most From SEO
SEO is essential for most companies, but certain industries require a robust SEO strategy to stay ahead of the competition and reach their target audience.
For highly competitive fields, utilizing SEO best practices for service-based businesses can help businesses stand out from their peers by allowing them to show up on the first page of Google search results for industry-related queries. This is particularly important for service-based companies. Businesses in these sectors must consistently create content and optimize web pages according to SEO standards if they want to be successful online.
So, while every organization needs an effective SEO plan, those operating in fiercely competitive markets should take extra care when crafting theirs – as it could make or break their success!
Roofers & Contractors
If you’re a roofing contractor looking for more organic traffic, SEO is the key. With the vast majority of customers searching online for local services like yours, it’s important to increase your visibility and get listed on the first page of Google search results.
That first-place ranking means everything. You want to land at the top, but if you aren’t on the first page, you might not get any traffic at all. So how do you boost your chances? It all comes down to optimizing with SEO techniques specifically tailored toward roofers and contractors in general. By doing this, you’ll attract potential clients who are actively seeking out what you offer.
With an experienced team at your side and some clever optimization practices behind you, there’s no reason why those valuable leads shouldn’t come flowing in soon enough! Roofers and contractors need professional SEO services to increase traffic.
HVAC Companies
These days, if you want to be successful in the local HVAC market, SEO is a must. An experienced marketing agency that knows how to optimize websites can make all the difference when it comes to helping your business stand out from competitors. First off, search engine optimization (SEO) helps contractors rank highly on SERPs – which means more potential customers visit their websites. Not only that but boosting CTRs (click-through rates) from Google searches also gets easier with an optimized website.
Local HVAC SEO has become even more critical since most people trust online reviews and do research before choosing an HVAC provider near them. That’s why targeting nearby areas with content tailored specifically toward what locals are searching for is key; think “energy efficient replacement air conditioners” or “green certified HVAC contractors”. In other words – today’s yellow pages are Google searches! It doesn’t matter where you live or how big your business is – if you don’t have good local SEO, nobody will find it.
Investing in proper SEO practices now could mean getting plenty of leads later on down the line.
In-Home Cleaning Services
As SEO services help customers find your home cleaning business online, it’s essential to ensure that your website is optimized for search engines to boost its ranking and make it easier for people searching for the services you offer to locate you.
By applying effective SEO strategies specifically tailored toward residential cleaning, there should be a notable increase in organic traffic, leads, and even sales or revenue. With the right strategy, you should notice an improvement in page rankings on different search engines and the amplification of visits to your website. You might even notice that you are getting a more positive response rate from contact forms.
Local Services Need SEO To Position Them As An Authority
If you provide a local in-home service, you need to position yourself as an authority in your field and drive more leads for your business. Search engine optimization (SEO) is the key to unlocking these goals. With a strategic approach, you can rank higher than competitors on relevant SERPs, strengthen customer loyalty, and increase brand recognition – all while earning clicks even before searchers consider other options. This includes home renovation businesses, home repair businesses, flooring, painting, and more.
Modern search engines are designed with users’ needs in mind; they can assess which web pages best match up with their queries. If your website has a high ranking on results pages, it conveys trustworthiness and credibility – even if people haven’t encountered your company yet! By leveraging SEO techniques tailored specifically toward boosting rankings of targeted keywords or topics associated with your company name or industry niche, you can position yourself as an expert among consumers. This will make them more likely to convert into paying customers who remain loyal over time.
If you want to make that happen, you need to partner with the right team. When you need home services SEO, rely on SEO Locale to help you.
Contact SEO Locale For Help With Your SEO Campaign
If you are looking for help with HVAC, renovation, or even carpet cleaning SEO, we are here to help you. At SEO Locale, we have become one of the most trusted names in the industry by always putting the needs of our customers first. We can customize your SEO campaign to meet your needs and provide you with the results you are looking for and deserve. Contact us today to speak to our team, and learn more about how we can help you!
3 Things Contractors Should Include In Their Digital Marketing Plan
If you run a contracting business, you need to invest in strong digital marketing services. The vast majority of people use the internet when they are looking for products and services they require. A strong presence on the internet is a must if you want to compete with the other businesses in your area. At the same time, you have a lot to do daily, and you might not have the knowledge or resources necessary to handle your digital marketing on your own. That is why you need to find a digital marketing service that can help you. If you are looking for SEO for HVAC companies, plumbing, or remodeling, there are a few steps you can take to make the process easier.
1. Contact Page or Quote Form
When you are looking to build out your digital marketing plan, one of the first things you need is a contact page or a quote form. You want to be a company that makes it as easy as possible to contact. If someone has to spend a lot of time scouring the website to find the page you need, that is not a good sign. Make forms, phone numbers, and all contact information visible and easy to get in touch with.
If you offer free quotes, make sure it’s common knowledge across your website. Transparency is critical, and anyone looking for your services needs to trust your business before their initial contact. You want the contact information and forms to be user-friendly and accurate to lead the right audience to you. Make sure the customer knows the quote is free and there is no catch. This can provide you with serious leads that will result in quality business opportunities.
2. Detailed Service Pages
As you are assessing all your services and looking to translate them into detailed service pages? There are several elements involved in search engine optimization for local services. You want to provide your customers with the best information that meets their needs and accurately represents your business. That means highlighting your business’s services, showing highly-rated work experience, and indicating the areas you offer your skills in.
As an industry expert, you want to show your experience and work on these service pages without overwhelming or misleading potential customers.
You need to be familiar with each of the services you offer and have a website design that best represents the key points of those services. Your website should be clear on these services and break down the information in an easy-to-read format for the appropriate audience. If you aren’t sure what your website needs, you should think carefully about SEO services that would be the right fit for your business. If you have questions about which services you should highlight or what is the best strategy for your company, this is something else you should discuss with the marketing team.
This will allow your customers to learn more about the quality of the work you provide.
3. Past Works, Reviews, and Testimonials
When someone is looking for products and services online, there is a good chance they will look at reviews and ratings before they decide whether you have what they are looking for. You need to take the same approach and look at your business as if you were the customer. Take a look at what other people have to say.
As a service-based industry, you should add a list of prior works or projects. This is a great opportunity to show the high-quality work you have already performed. You can add a gallery of work sites or before and after pictures to show the type of work you can do. This also shows how you meet your customer’s visions and needs. Don’t forget to see what other companies have, and how you can remain competitive with the knowledge. You can take a look at your competitors to see what you like and don’t like so that you can pick the elements that highlight your company’s best features and services.
Work With SEO Locale for Digital Marketing Help
Ultimately, there are a lot of factors you need to consider if you are looking for local SEO for your small business. If you are looking for a digital marketing team that can help you, it would be our pleasure to assist. At SEO Locale, we have experience working with contracting companies across all industries. We have the expertise and marketing tools necessary to help you as well.
Are you ready for website optimization in Philadelphia or the surrounding area? Start by contacting our team today!
Myth or Fact: Do Google Reviews Help SEO?
Do Google Reviews help SEO? The short answer is yes that Google reviews, so long as they are positive, do assist with SEO by helping to improve search engine rankings. Positive reviews indicate to search engines that the recipient of the reviews is trustworthy and authoritative. In an era in which competition on the Internet has gotten harder and harder, especially for smaller companies, overseeing online reviews helps to differentiate a business and improve its visibility in search engine results. Authority and trustworthiness are rewarded by search engines through improved search results. Your response as a business owner is key on helping keywords trigger to Google Bot to see you are relevant for X service or product.
Why Positive Google Reviews Matter
SEO requires examination of extensive search details, including content creation, link building and reviews generally don’t get much SEO attention. However, they certainly should, and especially for local businesses. The Local SEO Guide confirms the value of positive customer reviews for local businesses. For larger national businesses, the value is also indisputable. In fact, 88% of customers believe in online reviews as much as they do personal recommendations. Shoppers nearly always check online reviews before visiting any business, and 95% of shoppers say that reviews affect buying decisions. Google itself has confirmed this. In a recent survey of Google ranking factors, it was found that the importance of reviews has increased substantially over the last several years. Reviews now rank at 15.44% in search engine importance and #13 among 50 top ranking factors. The value and importance of positive reviews in SEO are clear.
Reviews Allow Customers to Learn About Products
Customers use online reviews to learn about products. When a product is new, there is a very good chance the customer will do a Google search to learn more. Positive reviews are likely to lead a customer to choose a provider of the product, and even to become a buyer.
What is the Best Way to Manage Reviews?
So long as a business is successful, review management should not be too difficult. Make sure that positive reviews are collected and reported online, and positive results will follow. Always display positive reviews on a website. There are various website development tools that can be used for this. Communicating with customers, encouraging reviewing, and collecting reviews makes good sense and will lead to receipt of positive reviews. Attempt to gather an email address at the time of a sale and then send a request for a review. Unfortunately, not all reviews will be positive, but even negative reviews are useful and should be collected. Communicate with negative reviewers from a customer service perspective in an effort to resolve complaints, and with resolution of complaints, a negative review may very well become a positive review. Allow us help you manage your Google My Business and reviews online, we can help you grow your entire digital marketing strategies.