Key Takeaways (Quick Wins)
If you only have 10 minutes, focus on these actions:
- 1. Optimize your Google Business Profile description – include keywords (words people actually search for) that describe your services
- 2. Use those same keywords in Google Business Profile posts – post weekly tips or updates using your target keywords
- 3. Search your main keyword and get listed – see what directory sites appear and submit your business to the relevant ones
- 4. Create location-specific pages – show your local expertise and what makes providing your service unique in each area you serve
How do I get my business to show up when people search locally?
Start with your Google Business Profile – this is how you appear in Google Maps, and many people search for businesses through Maps instead of regular Google search. The most important part is your business description. Use keywords here – these are the actual words and phrases people type when searching for your services. Then use those same keywords in your Google Business Profile posts to increase how often they appear.
For example, if you’re a dentist, use phrases like “family dentist,” “teeth cleaning,” or “dental checkups” in both your description and posts.
Get listed in industry-specific directories by simply searching your main keyword and seeing what listing pages appear. Listing pages are websites that collect multiple businesses in one category – like Yelp for restaurants or Angie’s List for contractors.
Create location-based landing pages that show your local expertise. Don’t just say “we serve downtown” – explain specific challenges of providing your service in that area. What local regulations do you navigate? What neighborhood-specific problems do you solve? This delivers real value to users.
Bonus items like up-to-date photos and accurate business details make for a better user experience and help build trust with potential customers.
Focus on these fundamentals first, and you’ll see your local business’s online visibility improve within weeks.