How To Get Your Business To Appear In Your Local Google Search Results: 3 Things You Can Do Today!

In today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is crucial for any business. One of the most effective ways to attract local customers is by ensuring your business shows up on Google when people search for services in your area. Here are three actionable steps you can take today to improve your local search visibility.

1. Set Up a Google Business Listing

One of the most effective ways to get your business to show up in local searches is by setting up a Google Business Profile. This free tool allows you to manage how your business appears on Google Search and Maps. Here’s how you can set it up:

Steps to Set Up Your Google Business Listing

1. Sign in to Google My Business:
   • Go to Google My Business and sign in with your Google account. If you don’t have a Google account, you’ll need to create one.
2. Enter Your Business Information:
   • Follow the prompts to enter your business name, address, and phone number. Make sure this information is accurate and matches what’s on your website and other listings.
3. Verify Your Business:
   • Google will send a verification code to your business address. Once you receive it, enter the code to verify your business. This step is crucial as it helps to confirm your business’s legitimacy.
4. Complete Your Profile:
   • Add as much information as possible, including your business hours, website, and services offered. Upload high-quality photos of your business to make your profile more appealing.
5. Update Regularly:
   • Keep your profile up to date with any changes in your business, such as new services, updated hours, or promotions.

Having a well-maintained Google Business Profile will significantly improve your chances of appearing in local search results and attract more local customers.

2. Make Sure Your Website Talks About How You Serve the Local Area Specifically

Your website should clearly communicate that you serve the local area. This can be achieved by including localized content and keywords. Here are some tips on how to do this effectively:

Tips for Localized Content

• Include Location-Specific Keywords:
  • Use keywords that mention your city or neighborhood. For example, instead of just “plumbing services,” use “plumbing services in [Your City].”
• Create Local Content:
  • Write blog posts about local events, news, or stories related to your industry. This not only helps with SEO but also shows that you are an active part of the community.
• Add a Location Page:
  • Create a dedicated page on your website that details the areas you serve. Include a map and directions to your business.
• Use Local Testimonials:
  • Showcase reviews and testimonials from local customers. This adds credibility and reassures potential customers that you are trusted in the community.

By ensuring your website clearly indicates your local presence, you make it easier for Google to understand and display your business for local searches.

3. List Your Website on Local Directories

Getting your business listed on local directories can significantly boost your local SEO. These directories act as citation sources for search engines, reinforcing the credibility and legitimacy of your business. Here are some popular local directories where you should list your business:

Examples of Local Directories

• Yelp:
  • Yelp is a widely used platform where people search for local businesses. Ensure your business information is accurate and encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews.
• Angie’s List:
  • This directory is particularly useful for service-based businesses. Listing your business here can attract local customers seeking reliable services.
• Yellow Pages:
  • An online version of the traditional phone book, Yellow Pages is still a trusted source for many people looking for local businesses.
• Bing Places:
  • Similar to Google My Business, Bing Places allows you to manage your business listing on Bing’s search engine.
• Facebook:
  • Creating a Facebook Business Page and keeping it updated can help improve your local visibility as many people use Facebook to find local services.

Using a Listing Management Service

Manually listing your business on multiple directories can be time-consuming. A listing management service can automate this process, ensuring your business is consistently listed across various platforms. Our Local Listing Management Service can manage and update your listings automatically, saving you time and ensuring accuracy across the web. Book a free consultation with Josh to learn more about our Local Listing Management Service today.

By taking these three steps—setting up a Google Business Profile, optimizing your website for local searches, and listing your business on local directories—you can significantly improve your chances of appearing in local search results and attracting more customers from your area. Start today, and watch your local online presence grow!