Google has, and continues to, constantly change. Search algorithms are always being updated and it can be hard to keep track of the latest best methods to get your website to the top of the page. And as we all know, you don’t stand much of a chance if you don’t score one of those limited spots on the first search engine results page (SERP).
Unfortunately, most of those spots are now going to paid ads. Google is a pay-to-play search engine and it is heavily favoring paid ads. But what if you’re not ready to invest in PPC advertising and your competition is fierce?
Don’t worry, there’s another way.
Two Elements You Need in Place To Stand Out on Google:
- Google My Business
- Customer Reputation Management
Standing out on Google with Google My Business
When someone does a search, Google takes into account their location and search string. So let’s say you search for “Attorney near me”. You might see something that looks like this:
The first three items that pop up are paid ads from local attorney firms.. And that’s all above the fold. Most people won’t even bother scrolling down. But, if they do, chances are it’s to that map right below.
The Google map. The map is a quick way to display businesses related to a search and their exact location. If someone searches for you, will your business appear on the Google Search Map?
If you’re not sure – then the answer is probably no.
So how exactly do you get your business listed on Google’s map for everyone to see?
It’s actually very simple, and also free.
When you sign up with Google My Business you can upload your businesses address, photos, hours of operation, contact information and even posts. This is how you get your business on the map and in front of the eyes of searchers without paying the big bucks.
I’ve even written a whole post that goes in depth on how to get more leads for free with Google My Business.
Standing out on Google with Customer Relationship Management
Google my Business not only shows users important location and contact information – it also displays customer reviews.
This can be a pro or a con depending on how well your business manages your customer relationships.
People who love you will return again and again to your establishment. People who did not have a good experience will publish a negative review and once its published, it can be pretty difficult to get removed.
That’s why customer relationship management is so important and how your customer interactions can have a direct effect on your click-through-rates.
How to stay on top of that?
Ask for reviews from all patrons.
You’d be surprised that just by asking, people are willing to do it. You can even offer some kind of discount or freebie in exchange for the review!
I’ve written a post that goes in depth on how to how to manage your online reputation and keep the good reviews flowing in!
Next Steps
In summary, these are the next immediate steps for you to take:
- Claim your google my business listing here: https://www.google.com/business/
- Develop a strategy to gain more happy client reviews
Not sure where to start? Contact me to have your custom Customer Relationship Management System set up for your business today!
Lisa M Gale Digital Marketing helps service professional business owners improve their online presence and visibility to attract new clients. We develop systems and processes to improve digital marketing efforts and help entrepreneurs reach their business goals. Download your Digital Marketing Made Simple for free here >>
