If you’re a service-based business owner, you probably dream of that coveted N#1 ranking in local Google search results. Why? Because top-ranking translates to more customers and, ultimately, more money in the bank. You’re not alone in this quest; from plumbers to dog trainers, everyone’s vying for that top spot. But how do you achieve this goal, mainly when you don’t operate a traditional brick-and-mortar store? Say hello to your new best friend: a local SEO strategy.
Let’s break it down to its basics and also hear how a local SEO Services Company in Hamilton can help you get where you want to be.
Know Your Google
First off, understanding Google is essential. When someone types in”handyman,” Google’s algorithms instantly know that the person is looking for a local service provider. You’ll usually see a small map with three businesses listed. These are pulled from Google Maps, and making it into this ‘Map Pack’ is one of your primary goals.
The Importance of Google Business Profile
To show up in the Map Pack, you need a Google Business Profile. A Google Business Profile connects your business with Google Maps, allowing you to show up in local search results. If you’re a service-based business visiting customers at their locations, you won’t display an address on your listing. But you’ll need to define your service areas, which Google will then highlight.
Get it Right the First Time
Now, you might be tempted to ‘game’ the system by renting a UPS box or using a virtual office. But if you’re working with an SEO Services Company in Hamilton or elsewhere, they’ll tell you that this is a bad idea. Google’s gotten pretty smart, and doing so could get your listing suspended.
Optimize, Optimize, Optimize!
Instead, focus on optimizing your profile. Post pictures, collect customer reviews, and specify your services clearly. This sets the stage for better rankings in both Google Maps and traditional search results. Most importantly, these tweaks help turn casual browsers into actual customers.
Key Factors for Ranking
Now, after claiming and optimizing your profile, you might think you’re done, but not so fast! Google considers three factors to rank your listing: Relevance, Prominence, and Distance.
Relevance: Google checks how well your business matches the search query. So, a bakery won’t show up when someone searches for a ‘carpenter.’
Prominence: This is all about how famous your business is. Companies with higher prominence get priority in rankings.
Distance: Proximity matters; the closer you are to the person searching, the better.
Tackling the Website Issue
Your website is another critical tool in your local SEO strategy. One way to extend your reach beyond your immediate area is through what SEO experts call ‘city pages’ or ‘service area pages.’ Here’s where an SEO Services Company in Hamilton can really make a difference. They’ll help you create location-specific pages that feel unique and authentic, avoiding the cookie-cutter feel that Google dislikes.
What Should be in Your City Pages?
List of Services: Describe each service you offer in detail.
Local Landmarks: Feature pictures or references to well-known places in the area.
Local Partnerships: Link to other local businesses that complement your services.
Customer Testimonials: Include reviews from customers in that specific area.
Keep Tabs on Your Performance
Whether you’re going DIY or hiring an Digital Marketing Company in Hamilton, monitoring is crucial. Use tools like BrightLocal or Whitespark to gauge how well you’re doing in local search rankings.
Build Authority Through Backlinks
Your site’s authority is also crucial. To bump this up, you’ll want to earn backlinks from reputable sources. List your business in local directories and engage with local media to earn these valuable links.
Internal Linking: The Final Piece of the Puzzle
Last but not least, don’t forget about internal linking. This is the process of linking your various pages together in a way that makes sense. It helps Google better understand your website and also makes for a better user experience.
Your Google Business Profile is a Goldmine
First off, open your Google Business Profile. You’d be surprised how many people neglect this free resource. Once you’re logged in, click on the”Performance” icon. A window pops up, giving you a six-month performance report of your business listing.
Scroll down to the”Searches Breakdown” section. This shows you the keywords that people are using to find your business. Use this list to update your website content and your Google Business Profile. For example, if you own an electrical services business and see that people are searching for”electricians offering same-day services,” but that’s not listed on your website, it’s high time to create a page for it.
Pro Tip: Download Keyword Lists
To keep all this valuable data for future reference, use a neat Chrome extension called Table Capture. With this, you can download all the keywords into a Google Sheet with just a click. This list becomes your go-to resource for crafting content that matches what your potential customers are searching for.
Edit and Review Your Services
Another underrated feature is the”Edit Service” icon in your Google Business Profile. By clicking on it, you can see all the services you offer. If you find services you didn’t list yourself, don’t be surprised. Google often auto-populates this section based on other information they’ve gathered about your business. Clean up this list, and use it as inspiration for additional content on your website.
Competitor Analysis: Know Thy Enemy
Want to get ahead in the game? Look at your competitors. A Chrome extension called GMB Everywhere lets you peek into your competitor’s list of services. Use this information to identify keyword opportunities you might have missed and integrate these into your local SEO strategy.
Google Keyword Planner: Your New Best Friend
Another free tool at your disposal is Google Keyword Planner. Even if you’re working with an SEO Company in Hamilton, it’s a good idea to understand how this tool works. Create a Google Ads account (it’s free but requires credit card details), navigate to”Tools and Settings,” and open the Keyword Planner. Enter some products or services that are related to your business, narrow it down to your location (say, Hamilton), and let the tool do its magic. Consider Choosing keywords with a higher search volume and lower competition for your website and Google Business Profile.
The Hidden Gem: Google Search Console
Google Search Console is, in many ways, the crown jewel of SEO tools, and it’s entirely free. This platform shows how your site is performing in search results, identifies issues, and much more. For keyword research, navigate to the”Search Results” option in the left-hand side menu. From there, you can export a list of keywords your site is ranking for and use this data to improve your local SEO strategy.
Putting it All Together
So, what’s the next step? Start by revisiting your website and Google Business Profile. Update them with the keywords you’ve gathered. Create new content that fills the gaps. Consistency is key here, so make this a regular exercise. By doing so, you’re not just throwing content into the void; you’re targeting what your potential local customers are actually searching for.
Working with a knowledgeable SEO Services Company in Hamilton can give you that extra edge; consider Convex Studio. When you align all these strategies, you’re not just catching smoke; you’re catching fire, and before you know it, your business will be the talk of the town.