Optimizing Your Small Business Website for "Near Me" Searches
By Michelle Loredo
As a small business, optimizing your online presence will elevate your business. Optimization will help with a higher search engine score; thus, you will be on the front pages of your local Google search and not in the back end.
We have put together all you need to know about optimizing your “near me” searches to lead you with more organic searches and a higher search engine score.
What is a “Near Me” Search?
A “near me” search is when people in an area search for a service or store near them. For example, a person will search for a place to eat during their lunch break, so they will want to eat in a close establishment. By optimizing your “near me” searches, you will increase your target reach and lead to higher conversions.
Optimizing Google My Business
Google My Business is a free online tool for businesses to connect with their customers. It is a form of business listing that includes all of your business’s information and reviews.
To optimize your profile, you need to include:
- Business Address
- Business Amenities
- Business Hours
- Business/Establishment Photos (High-Quality Pictures)
- Contact Information
- Name of Business
- Website
Interact with your customers through Google My Business! Encourage reviews and reply to both positive and negative feedback. The better the reviews, the higher you will appear in Google searches.
Following a Schema Markup
Schema markup is data on your website and Google My Business that will increase the appearance of quick searches in your area. Implementing schema markups allows the search engines to pull business information that customers want to see to make the experience more engaging.
Implementing a Blog Strategy
Implementing a blog strategy is one of the best ways to improve your business’s Google ranking. You can share business-related articles as week as industry-related content. It will help create backlinks on your website and raise your Google ranking. Try to get your business’s link on high-ranking websites to improve your overall rank.
SBDC Network Resources
The SBDC Network offers no-cost resources including, webinars and in-person events. We have both on-demand and live webinars available daily.
Here are our top optimization webinars:
