If you own a local business, you need to show up in “near me” searches. Google’s Consumer Insights has reported a 150% increase in “near me” searches in the past two years. A near me search almost always signals that the searcher is ready to buy a product or service.
Here are 7 keys to “near me” visibility:
1) Mobile-friendly website In a responsive website the same content and experience is delivered regardless of the device visitors are using.
2) Fast pages Many searchers won’t wait more than two or three seconds for your site to show up in their browser or phone.
3) Effective Local SEO List all locations clearly on your website. If you have a single location, it belongs in your footer so it’s on every page. If you don’t have a storefront but provide services at the customer location, describe your service area.
4) Claim your business listings Claim your listing on Google My Business. Include things like business hours, your logo, photos, a description of your business, — anything that Google My Business will accept.
5) Get more reviews Online reviews assure Google that you are worthy of a prominent listing in search results. Start with Google My Business; asked a delighted customer or two if they would give you a review there.
6) Ensure broad and consistent NAP citations You need to be every place your customers are on the web. You should have listings everywhere you can. A local citation is any online mention of your Name, Address, Phone.
7) Get geographically relevant backlinks Your website derives its importance on the web based on the number of other websites that link to you. Your authority is a critical factor in how high you rank in Google search results.
There's so much more to cover - watch the Lunch & Learn from 7/22/20!
Recording Date: July 22, 2020