Boost Your Google Business Listing and Local SEO: Unveiling the Overlooked Ranking Factors
In today’s digital landscape, enhancing the visibility of your business is crucial for attracting potential customers. Amidst the myriad of strategies available, there are two key ranking factors that can significantly improve your Google business profile’s visibility on Google Maps and the Google Map Pack. Surprisingly, these factors are often ignored by small business owners. But fear not – implementing these tactics takes just a few minutes and can yield remarkable results. In this article, we’ll delve into these factors and guide you through their effective utilization.
1. Leverage Additional Business Categories for Enhanced Ranking
When establishing your Google listing profile, you’re prompted to select a primary business category. This choice is pivotal as it holds the top spot in Google’s ranking hierarchy, according to the 2023 local ranking factors survey. However, the pivotal point often missed is that you can add up to nine supplementary business categories to your listing. These secondary categories wield a direct influence on your listing’s ranking when users search for relevant keywords.
Imagine running a beauty salon. You’ve likely designated “beauty salon” as your primary category. Yet, you provide an array of services like waxing, manicures, and more. Incorporating these secondary categories into your listing can significantly improve your ranking for specific searches such as “eyebrow waxing near me” or “French manicure nearby.”
It’s crucial not to underestimate the impact of these additional categories. The challenge arises when faced with over 4,000 categories to choose from. However, the solution is at hand with the “GMB Everywhere” Chrome extension. This tool swiftly analyzes your competitors’ listings, revealing their chosen categories. Nevertheless, a more efficient method involves utilizing the “Category Finder” tool provided by Google. This tool recommends relevant additional categories, enabling you to make informed choices aligned with your business offerings.
2. Unlock the Potential of Suggested Services
You may not be aware of this, but your Google business profile can showcase the services you offer, complete with descriptions and costs. Although these details might not appear on desktop computers, they wield a potent impact on your ranking in Google’s search results across all devices. The significance of services was formerly limited, but recent changes have transformed their influence.
Upon adding business categories to your listing, Google suggests services that align with these categories. By including these suggested services, your ranking for keywords associated with those services gets a significant boost. This enhancement applies to both desktop and mobile searches, effectively broadening your digital exposure.
The process of integrating suggested services is remarkably straightforward. Within a few clicks, you can select and incorporate these services into your listing. The effects are evident within a short span – often between 24 to 72 hours.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Digital Presence Today
Incorporating these two often-overlooked ranking factors into your Google business profile can work wonders for your digital visibility. By exploring additional business categories and leveraging suggested services, you pave the way for your business to shine in Google’s search results. And the best part? These enhancements can be implemented in mere minutes. So, whether you’re a beauty salon, a restaurant, or any small business striving for online prominence, taking these steps will undoubtedly pay off. In a world where digital exposure is key, these strategies are your pathway to success. Remember, your online visibility is not just about being present; it’s about thriving in the digital realm.