57: How to Get Higher Local Rankings (p1)

Summary

In this podcast episode, Meredith's husband explains how local businesses can optimize their online presence for local search results by focusing on their Google Business Profile and website content. He emphasizes the importance of accurately completing your Google Business Profile, including using the correct business category, local address, and collecting high-quality reviews. He also highlights how to naturally incorporate location details into your website for better local visibility in search results.

Blog Post: How to Optimize Your Local Business for Better Search Results

Local businesses depend on visibility in local search results to attract nearby customers. Whether you’re a photographer, a restaurant owner, or a service provider, showing up in search results like “near me” or in a specific neighborhood can make or break your business. In a recent podcast episode, Meredith's husband discussed actionable ways to improve your local SEO by optimizing your Google Business Profile and website content.

Here’s a breakdown of the key strategies he shared.

1. Set Up and Complete Your Google Business Profile

The first and most important step in optimizing for local search is setting up your Google Business Profile (formerly known as Google My Business). This profile is crucial because it’s often the first thing potential customers see when they search for businesses like yours in their area.

• Choose the Right Business Category: Don’t try to get creative here. Select the most accurate category for your business. If you’re a photographer, choose “photographer” rather than something less specific like “visual artist.”

• Include Your Address: Google uses your address to show your business in local search results, so make sure it's correct. If you work from home or don’t want to list your home address, consider renting a co-working space with a unique suite number. Never use a fake address or a P.O. box, as this could lead to your profile being banned.

• Add Images and Fill Out Your Profile: A complete profile with photos looks more trustworthy and professional. While photos won’t directly improve your ranking, they help convert visitors into clients by giving them a better sense of your business.

2. Collect High-Quality Reviews

Another critical factor in local SEO is customer reviews. According to Meredith's husband, it’s better to have a few excellent reviews than a large number of average ones. Encourage your happy clients to leave a 5-star review, as positive reviews not only improve your reputation but can also increase your ranking in local search results.

3. Use Location Information on Your Website

Your website is just as important as your Google Business Profile when it comes to local SEO. Google needs to connect the information on your website with your business profile to verify your location. Here’s how to do that:

• Include Your Address in the Footer: Make sure your address is in the footer of every page on your website. This helps Google understand where your business is located.

• Use Location-Specific Keywords: Mention your location naturally in the title tag of your homepage and throughout your site. For example, instead of just “John Doe Photography,” use “John Doe Photography | Brooklyn, NY” in the title tag.

• Add Your Location to the About Page: Work your neighborhood or city name into the copy on your About or Home page. Don’t just list a bunch of locations—make it feel natural and part of the conversation.

4. Leverage Testimonials

If you have customer testimonials, take advantage of them to reinforce your local presence. Instead of simply saying, “John and Jane loved our services,” you can say, “John and Jane from Park Slope, Brooklyn, loved our services.” This subtle inclusion of location keywords helps with local SEO while also making your reviews feel more personal.

5. Blog About Local Topics

A blog can be a great tool for local SEO. Write posts that reference local events, parks, or neighborhoods where you’ve worked. For instance, if you’re a photographer, you could write about “Best Places for Family Photos in Prospect Park.” This not only helps attract local readers but also shows Google that your website is relevant to specific areas.

Resources

For more detailed instructions on how to set up and optimize your Google Business Profile, check out Meredith’s husband’s SEO Roadmap, which can guide you step-by-step through the SEO process.

Final Thoughts

Optimizing your business for local search doesn’t have to be complicated. By taking simple steps like filling out your Google Business Profile, using local keywords, and gathering high-quality reviews, you can significantly improve your chances of being found by nearby customers. These strategies will ensure your business stands out in local searches and continues to attract new clients from your area.