How to Outrank 99% of Local Businesses on Google (SEO Tier List)

Are you struggling to appear in the coveted Google map pack, watching local competitors outshine you in rankings? You're not alone. But fear not, as we delve into the essential local SEO ranking factors that can catapult you to the top of the map, even if you choose to overlook other aspects.

The Power of Keywords

Keywords in Your Business Name: Although adding keywords to your business name can provide a significant boost, it requires a legal name change to comply with Google's guidelines. It's a 'Should Do' if you can manage it without making your name sound odd.

Keywords in Your Landing Page Title: An absolute 'Must Do.' Including keywords in the meta title of your homepage can substantially enhance your ranking power. It's a simple yet effective strategy.

The Importance of Reviews

Quality of Google Reviews: Encourage customers to leave five-star reviews. The average star rating is a critical ranking factor, so aim for excellence.

Quantity of Reviews with Text: While quality trumps quantity, having a substantial number of positive reviews can significantly impact your ranking. This is another 'Should Do.'

Location, Location, Location

Proximity to City Center: Being close to the city center can help, but it's not something you can easily control. It's a 'Good to Have' but not a deal-breaker.

Physical Location in the Desired City: If you're located in a suburb but want to rank in a nearby city, it's a challenge. However, focusing on ranking in your actual city is a more realistic goal and earns a 'Should Do.'

On-Page SEO Factors

Keywords on Your Landing Page Headings: Incorporating your main keyword into the H1 and H2 headings of your landing page can be very valuable. This is a 'Should Do.'

City Name in Website Content: Naturally including the city name you're targeting throughout your website's content is powerful and easy to do, making it a 'Must Do.'

Google Business Profile and Citations

Complete and Verified Google Business Profile: Filling out your profile completely and getting your address verified is crucial. It's an easy win and a 'Must Do.'

Consistent Citations: While not as critical as before, having consistent citations across the web is still beneficial. It's a 'Do When There's Time.'

The Myth of Social Signals

Contrary to popular belief, social media engagement does not directly impact your Google ranking. It's a 'Waste of Time' for SEO purposes, though it has other marketing values.

The Top Priority: Google Business Profile Categories

Your primary and additional Google business profile categories are the most important factors for ranking. Choose the closest category to your business and the terms people use to search for you. It's an absolute 'Must Do.'

Conclusion

Navigating the maze of local SEO can be daunting, but focusing on the right factors can make all the difference. Prioritize your Google business profile, keywords, reviews, and on-page SEO to outshine your competitors and secure your spot at the top of the Google map pack.

FAQs

1. What is local SEO?

Local SEO is the practice of optimizing your online presence to attract more business from relevant local searches on Google and other search engines.

2. Why are Google reviews important for local SEO?

Google reviews impact local SEO because they influence your business's visibility in search results and help build trust with potential customers.

3. How can I improve my business's ranking in the Google map pack?

Focus on optimizing your Google business profile, gathering high-quality reviews, using relevant keywords, and ensuring your website is optimized for local search.

4. Do social media signals impact local SEO?

No, social media signals do not directly impact local SEO rankings, but they can play a role in your overall online marketing strategy.

5. What are the most important factors for local SEO success?

The most important factors for local SEO success include a well-optimized Google business profile, positive Google reviews, relevant keywords, and consistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone Number) information across the web.