If your business isn’t showing up in local search results, it’s not only frustrating… it’s costing you potential customers!
Even after auditing your website to avoid costly mistakes, you might still be wondering why you’re not appearing in searches.
Here’s what you need to do next to boost your visibility without breaking the bank.
You Need to Do This Before Paying for Ads
Before diving into paid advertising, there are foundational steps to take that can significantly improve your local visibility… without breaking the bank.
Here’s what you need to focus on first to set your business up for long-term local search success:
1.) Make Your Google Business Profile Shine Locally!
Ensure your Google Business Profile (GBP) is fully completed, accurate, and regularly updated.
This includes using keywords relevant to your local area and business category, adding high-quality images, and responding to reviews.
When you upload media like videos and images on a regular basis, Google’s scripts will see that you are keeping your information up to date and relevant.
SocialPilot.co provides 8 Ways to Improve Local Ranking in their article that covers:
- Using ever section of you GBP,
- Writing your business description,
- Selecting the correct category,
- Listing your products and services,
- Gettig Google reviews.
- Adding images,
- Adding business features and services, and
- Keeping a Q&A section active
SocialPilot.co even went so far as to list Mistakes to Avoid When Optimizing Your GBP, so be sure to check that article out for full details.
It has been recommended by NobleStudios.com that you should only use ONE video, which needs to be:
- up to 75 MB in size,
- with a resolution of 720 pixels or higher, and
- only 30 seconds long.
This would serve all of your viewer’s mobile devices well (loading quickly), as well as those with little time to spare.
The image guidelines are also listed by NobleStudios.com as being recommended as:
- either JPG or PNG in format,
- between 10 KB and 5 MB in size,
- 720 pixels in height and 720 pixels in width, and should represent reality with no significant alterations or filters used.
An updated Google Business Profile helps potential customers find you easily.
Log in to your Google Business Profile now and double-check your business details.
PRO TIP: Consider scheduling monthly updates to your GBP. This keeps your profile active and shows Google you’re engaged with your business!
2.) Consistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone) Information
Consistency is key.
Make sure your business’s name, address, and phone number are identical across all online platforms.
Inconsistencies in this information can confuse search engines and affect your rankings, even though many ‘experts’ are now claiming otherwise.
Don’t believe me?
Check out what Direction.com has to say about this in the screen print below.
Wondering why NAP consistency matters so much?
Consistent Name, Address, and Phone details make it easy for search engines to identify and rank your business across platforms.
3.) Local Keywords on Your Website
Incorporate local keywords naturally within your content, especially on important pages like your homepage and service pages.
This signals to search engines that your business is relevant to specific geographic searches.
What Does Local Keywords Mean?
Knowing of and using the words or phrases that are being used by those searching for your business.
This will help search engines offer your business to your potential customers and clients organically.
EXAMPLE: Oshawa Bookkeeper
4.) Boost Your Credibility and Rank Higher with Local Reviews!
Positive reviews on platforms like Google are invaluable for local SEO.
But… don’t forget about other platforms such as Facebook, Trustpilot, etc.!
Reviews not only serve to build credibility but also improve your online visibility.
Pick one review platform to focus on this month and reach out to happy clients!
PRO TIP: Thank your customers who leave reviews with a personalized message… small gesture encourages loyalty!
Don’t wait for your competition to get ahead.
Start improving your local visibility today!
Ready to be Found by More Local Customers or Clients?
Start with these tips today, and watch your visibility grow!
1. Use Engaging Content Across Platforms
Create diverse content, like 3–8 minute videos on YouTube and/or Vimeo, to reach customers where they are and encourage sharing.
2. Share Valuable Insights on Social Media
Consistently post helpful, relevant content on your business social media accounts.
Make each post shareable and worth tagging a friend, so your message spreads to new audiences.
3. Provide Free Resources Your Audience Needs
Offer free, valuable resources that solve common customer problems, strengthening your connection and credibility.
4. Turn Customer Stories into Social Proof
Celebrate customer testimonials by sharing them on social media.
When customers see themselves in your success stories, it builds credibility and shows potential clients what they can expect
Ready to Rise Above Your Competition?
After updating your Google Business Profile, why stop there?
Take it a step further with my Ranking Roadmap and eZeroAdSpend strategy… proven methods to enhance your online visibility without ad spend!
Position your business to attract more customers and stay ahead of your competition.
It’s your time to shine!
