By developing local SEO, you can conquer the web. In this blog post, we explore the realm of Google My Business Profiles and answer a common question - what is local SEO? This article is a straight-talking guide that everyone can understand and is 90% free of SEO jargon!

What is local SEO?

Using local SEO can make it feel like you're in the part of the neighbourhood where everyone likes to hang out. Only it's on the internet. It's about optimizing your online presence, about making yourself more attractive to people in your neighborhood. Local SEO strategies ensure that when someone in your area searches for similar products or services to what you offer, your business will appear at the top of their search results. Additionally, local SEO helps build trust and credibility with customers, as they are more likely to trust businesses that appear locally. The direct benefit of this is an increase in conversion rates, as local customers often have a higher propensity to buy. Ultimately, local SEO gives you the opportunity to be the go-to place for your product or service because it drives more foot traffic to your business, which creates a stronger connection with the community.

Setting up a Google My Business account is a breeze:

Setting up a Google My Business account is easy. First, you need to set up your Google Business account. Think of it like your digital business. But instead of worrying about keeping your window clean, you'll impress internet users with your online presence. Follow these steps to quickly set up your Google My Business (GMB) profile. You'll be done faster than you can say SEO strategies!

1. Visit the Google My Business website and click on the „Sign up” button.
2. Fill in your business details. Enter your business name, address, category, phone number and website.
3. Verify your account to prove you're not a robot
4. Upload high-quality photos - of your business, your products, your team.
5. Write a well thought-out business description - it should be credible, informative and attractive.
6. And voila! You're ready to set up your Google My Business account.

Common mistakes to avoid:

• ❌ Different company name or address on website and profile (should be the same everywhere!)
• ❌ Outdated opening hours (update if changed)
• ❌ Low or poor quality images (it's the view that counts!)
• ❌ You don't reply to reviews (Google monitors this too)

Obtaining a certificate:

Just like when you show your ID at a nightclub, verifying your Google My Business profile is the same. It's a digital badge that shows you are who you say you are and that you have good intentions, so wear it proudly!

Creating a business description: time to show off

Now that your profile is up and running, it's time to show off. A business description allows you to tell what your work is all about. Bring out your inner copywriter and create something that says, „Choose me.” SEO is all about standing out from the competition, so don't be afraid to put personality into your description.

Name, address, telephone number: Direct and personal

Many businesses overlook the importance of consistency. You should be as consistent with your name, address and phone number as you are with your morning coffee order. Whether it's your website, social media profile or GMB profile, always use the same information. Avoid confusing Google and your potential customers!

Photos and videos: a picture worth a thousand clicks

In the world of local SEO, images are worth thousands of clicks! This is the part where you shine. Just like with social media management, upload images of your latest creations, behind-the-scenes content, or even visual content of your team. These are all worth uploading to GMB to grab your audience's attention.

Customer reviews: the good, the bad and the ugly

Customer reviews - the digital equivalent of word-of-mouth marketing. One day someone may be praising your business, the next day someone is sharing their complaints about your company with everyone. Either way, every review is an opportunity to showcase excellent customer service. Accept the good, the bad and the ugly with an open heart and respond with empathy to their plight, whatever the opinion!

Be nice!

Kindness goes a long way when dealing with customers, especially in the digital world. People assume that good customer service only goes to those who have had a bad experience with your company, but it should be applied equally to those who are happy with your product or service. Whether you're thanking a satisfied customer for a great review or turning a negative experience into a positive one, always respond with warmth and empathy.

Updates and offers: the icing on the opinion cake

Your GMB profile should have caught people's attention everywhere. But that doesn't mean it has to stop; it's time to keep the momentum going. You can also use negative reviews to your advantage by announcing the launch of a new product that's relevant to them, or tempting them with an exclusive discount that will bring them back for more. No one can resist a good offer!

SEO commandment: know your customers!

Finally, one of the most important commandments in your SEO Bible is to get to know your clients! This is your secret weapon. These little pieces of data provide insights into your customers' behavior, preferences and demographics that can help you tailor your products and services to their needs. So put on a nice digital shirt with a pair of shoes and get to know them as if you were on a first date with someone you want to impress.

More details: HERE

Here it is - your ticket to local SEO success with a Google My Business profile. What are you waiting for?

Go for it!

Read about search engine optimisation? Read our article: HERE

📩 Get in touch with us, and let's start working together!