How to Minimize Your Damage From Google’s New Platform

Have you noticed a new type of sponsored result on Google's search results pages? These ads are for Google's new platform, Local Services, which Google designed to promote local service providers like plumbers, electricians, handymen, cleaners, locksmiths, and the like. According to the official website, "Local Services ads help you connect with people who search on Google for the services you offer. Your ads will show up for customers in your area, so you can keep your calendar … [Read more...] about How to Minimize Your Damage From Google’s New Platform

Could You Be Targeted Next by Google's Aggressive New Filter?

Raise your hand if you wish Google would stop making secret updates already! Just when you think you've mastered local search, Google launches a change that turns everything on its head. This time, it's the Hawk update. This latest update has serious, wide-reaching consequences for small, local businesses like yours. It's crucial you understand the impact this update could have on your business. That way you can take steps to protect yourself. Keep reading to find out everything you need to … [Read more...] about Could You Be Targeted Next by Google's Aggressive New Filter?

Don't Be Afraid to Get Emotional in Local Search

At first thought, you might not believe emotions have anything to do with local searches for things like appliance repairs, junk removal services, or window installation. Indeed, these topics appear rather dry. However, as Ryan Shelley uncovers in his recent article on Search Engine Land, emotion is what powers every local search, and what ultimately leads to a purchasing decision—whether we're conscious of it or not. Pain and Pleasure as Motivation In his article, Shelley discusses the two … [Read more...] about Don't Be Afraid to Get Emotional in Local Search

Is Facebook Preparing to Take Over Google in Local Search?

We've lightly joked before that Facebook is the new Google. This is mainly because Facebook users are asking their social network for recommendations of local businesses rather than conducting their own searches on Google. However, as Wesley Young wrote in a recent article on Search Engine Land, Facebook has made several updates over the past couple of years that point to a greater focus on local businesses and places. In other words, it looks like Facebook is preparing to challenge Google's … [Read more...] about Is Facebook Preparing to Take Over Google in Local Search?

The Google My Business Updates You Didn't Hear About

If you follow our blog at all, then you know at least a little bit about the ever-changing nature of Google. The search giant is constantly updating its algorithm and the way it presents information to users. For major updates, Google typically makes a public announcement. However, for smaller changes, there's often no warning. Webmasters and marketers are left to detect and analyze updates on their own. This is where Internet marketing specialists really earn their stripes. It should come as no … [Read more...] about The Google My Business Updates You Didn't Hear About

Want to Dominate Local Search Results? Here's One Thing You Need

You want to be one of the first local businesses people see when they search for products or services you offer. Obviously, you know that to be prominent and visible in local search results, you need placement on Google Maps. So, it makes sense that you would start your online marketing efforts with a Google Maps listing for your business. There are a lot of reasons to believe Google Maps and a handful of other sites (namely Yelp and Facebook) are all you need to be visible on a local level. … [Read more...] about Want to Dominate Local Search Results? Here's One Thing You Need

How Local Search Empowers Small Businesses to Compete

How can a small business like yours compete with big brands? Four words: Focus on local search. The fact that you operate on a local level can be your biggest strength in the battle against large corporations. Many big names rank nationally in organic search results; however, they don't necessarily have the upper hand when it comes to local search. So if you leverage local search the right way, you can stay competitive with larger brands and come out on top. Here's what you need to know. Local … [Read more...] about How Local Search Empowers Small Businesses to Compete

Enrich Your Local Business's Google Profile by Adding Images

We're always harping on business owners to up their photo game. Websites with photos simply perform much better than those without. Plain and simple. But did you know it's just as important to have photos on your business's Google profile, too? This hasn't always been the case. In fact, it's only been in the last year or so that Google and Bing have been displaying images and logos in their local search results. They made this move as users increasingly want to see photos of whatever they're … [Read more...] about Enrich Your Local Business's Google Profile by Adding Images

One Easy Way to Boost Your Google Maps Listing in Local Searches

Feeling a bit wary about allowing us to manage your Google Maps listing? We understand the hesitation. In this industry, it's hard to know who you can trust. But what if we told you that your Google Maps listing is heavily affected by your website ranking? While there are certainly other factors at play, having your website and Google Maps listing work together is an essential part of getting your business to the top of local search results. So if we're handling one, we should also be handling … [Read more...] about One Easy Way to Boost Your Google Maps Listing in Local Searches