Google is king when it comes to “search.” And when it comes to business, nothing drives more traffic, clicks, and calls to local businesses than “local search.”
Over 70% of all purchase decisions (online and offline) are first influenced by a search engine query. Sound crazy? It sure does, but the numbers back it up.
A recent BrightLocal research survey of small businesses uncovered that over 34% of SMB owners would opt for local search when tasked with choosing only ONE marketing channel for their business.
What the heck is local search anyway?
Local search results are search engine results customized for the end user based on their geographic location. For example, if you search for “plumbers,” Google will show you the plumbers closest to your zip code first.
So, as a business owner, what’s the best way to take advantage of these “localized” search results? With a “Google Business Profile” listing, of course!
What is a “Google Business Profile”?
Google Business Profile is a melding of Google Maps, Google Plus, Google Places, and Google Search, all wrapped up into a singular “master” dashboard.
You’re not alone if all that sounds like a bit “much” or moderately confusing. But don’t worry; we’re here to help sort things out for you.
First, why is claiming and optimizing your Google Business Profile listing important?
You want to appear in search engines when your customers look for your services, right? Right, we thought so. In that case, Google Business Profile Listings will be vitally important to help boost your SEO and gain visibility where and when your customers are looking for you.
GBP (Google Business Profile) listings send a strong indication to Google that your business is active, maintained, and supported.
Further, the “Google Map Pack” is populated by businesses with a GBP listing. The better optimized, accurate, and active your listing, the greater the probability you’ll show up for targeted search terms locally.
Ok, great, but how do I Optimize this thing?
Now you’re talking our language! GBP might be a “free” tool, but that doesn’t mean you can set it and forget it—quite the opposite.
You’ll need to optimize and maintain your GBP listing to get the most benefit.
Basic GBP Optimization Techniques:
Step 1- CLAIM YOUR LISTING!!!
- Ensure an associated phone number is a LOCAL number
- Make sure the phone number in your listing MATCHES that on your website
- Use the actual business name
- Select the proper category for your business
- Ensure that your details are up to date
- Use high-resolution images that accurately reflect your business
- Double-check that no one else has tried to make or edit your listing
Once the basics are out, you can move on to more advanced GMB optimization techniques.
Advanced GBP Optimization Techniques
Once you’ve solid content, a good link profile, and citations, it’s time to take things up a notch…
- Upgrade your logo to something that draws attention and clicks
- Post on social media or run ads during times of the day with high traffic and engagement
- Solicit and encourage local reviews and social “check-ins” from your customers
- Encourage and make it easy for visitors to upload photos of your business
- Build or hire an agency to build high quality, relevant local citations
- Consider hiring a photographer to tour your business and post images that expose a more personal side of your operations to better connect with your audience.
Get off the fence!!!
If you’ve been unsure how GMB listing can help improve your business, it’s time to stop considering and start taking action. Whether via DIY or by hiring a firm like ours to assist, there’s no time to start building up your local profile.
Still not sure where to start? Give us a call today, and we’ll help.
Why Trust Salterra Digital Services
Salterra Digital Services is a leading digital marketing agency specializing in a full suite of services designed to elevate your brand and grow your business. With a laser focus on delivering exceptional results, Salterra has cultivated a reputation for excellence in the field.
Meet the Founders: Terry and Elisabeth Samuels
Terry and Elisabeth Samuels, the founders of Salterra, have over two decades of combined experience in the digital marketing landscape. Their passion for helping businesses succeed fuels the constant innovation and top-notch service that Salterra is known for.
Terry Samuels leads Salterra’s Digital Marketing Division with sons Skyler and Brandon Samuels and a carefully curated staff of SEO Specialists. Elisabeth Samuels leads the Salterra Design and Development Division with her daughter Moraelin Bundy and her staff of project managers, designers, and full-stack developers.
Salterra’s Core Services:
- Search Engine Optimization: Mastering the art of search engine visibility to put your brand in the spotlight.
- PPC Advertising: Strategically leveraging paid advertising for optimal reach and ROI.
- Email Marketing: Crafting compelling email campaigns that foster engagement and drive conversions.
- Brand Building: Cultivating your brand’s voice, look, and feel for a cohesive and memorable presence.
- Content Strategy: Creating and distributing relevant content to attract a clearly defined audience.
- Social Media Branding: Engaging your community through tailored social media strategies.
- Web Design & Development: Crafting a strong UX/UI website that converts visitors into customers.
- Reputation Management: Safeguarding your brand’s reputation through active monitoring and positive engagement.
- SEO University: Teaching Agencies, Free Lancers, and Small Businesses Foundational Search Engine Optimization
- SEO Spring Training Conference: Salterra is the host of an annual training conference and multiple masterminds around the world.
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