In the digital age, the first page of search results is the new storefront on Main Street. It’s where credibility is established and first impressions are formed. Search engine optimization (SEO), therefore, acts as the architect of this storefront, ensuring that your business is not just a hidden gem but a beacon that stands out in the crowded marketplace. SEO for building pros is your company’s ticket to the top of search results, where potential customers are searching for your services, and the good news is, you don’t need a marketing or IT department to get started.
Capitalizing on all that SEO has to offer involves tweaking your online presence to make your website more appealing to search engines. Why does it matter? Because when someone needs a contractor, they’re likely to trust the ones they find on the first page of Google.
Different Types of SEO for Building Pros and How to Maximize Their Impact
Let’s break down the essentials of SEO for contractors with a focus on simplicity and practicality.
Content Strategy:
- Craft simple, informative web content that answers common questions your customers and prospects might have.
- Use everyday language and prioritize words and phrases that potential customers searching for your services are likely to type into Google.
Technical SEO:
- Don’t let the tech jargon scare you. “Technical SEO” just means ensuring your website is user-friendly and easy for search engines to understand.
- Check if your website loads quickly and is mobile-friendly. Google likes that.
Local SEO:
- Make your Google Business Profile (or Google My Business profile) your new best friend. Fill it out completely, and keep it updated with your latest business information and contact details.
- Encourage your satisfied clients to leave positive reviews. It’s like a virtual word-of-mouth recommendation. The more positive reviews you have on your website, the more credible Google will assume you are.
Offsite SEO:
- Think of “offsite SEO” as making friends on the internet. Get your business mentioned on other reputable websites, and make sure they link back to you.
- Engage with your local community online. Join forums or social media groups where potential clients might be hanging out.
SEO Changes You Can Make Right Now
Now that we’ve established the significance of SEO for building pros in the digital landscape, let’s dive into actionable steps — changes you can implement immediately to enhance your online presence. Consider these practical tweaks and optimizations that can make a tangible impact on how your contracting business appears in search results.
Smart Keyword Use
Identify the words your clients are likely to use when looking for a contractor. For example, “siding replacement contractor.” Sprinkle these words naturally throughout your website.
Image Optimization
Compress your images before uploading them to your website. This helps your site load faster, and Google appreciates that.
Google Business Profile Tune-Up
Double-check your business information on Google My Business. Is everything accurate? Great, you’re on the right track.
Regular Content Updates
Updating your website pages regularly with relevant content signals to Google that you’re active and engaged. This is where a blog might come in handy. And you can start off small, maybe once or twice a month, turn the frequently asked questions and concerns of your customers into a thought leadership piece on your blog and share it through email, newsletters, and/or social media to drive viewers to your site.
Other Ways to Increase Google Visibility
SEO success is all about playing the long game. Unfortunately, none of these updates will change your search engine ranking overnight. If it did, everyone would be doing it! So stick with it, and keep monitoring the changes you’ve made and their impact. At the same time,look into alternative pathways that can propel your contracting business even more in the vast realm of Google visibility, such as:
Local Service Ads
Google’s Local Service Ads are like the fast pass to the top of the search results. Look into them — they’re worth it. These ads prioritize local services, ensuring that your business is prominently featured when potential clients in your area are actively seeking the services you offer.
PPC (Pay-Per-Click)
If you have a bit of budget, PPC ads can give you a boost. With PPC, you set a budget for your ads, and you only incur costs when users actively engage by clicking on your advertisement. It’s a cost-effective way to ensure you’re reaching a targeted audience, maximizing your budget by paying for actual interactions rather than just impressions.
Consider PPC as a strategic tool to amplify your business presence, especially when aiming for specific demographics or promoting time-sensitive offers.
Setting Expectations for SEO for Building Pros
Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a stellar online presence. Results take time. Be patient as you build your digital strategy and ramp up your SEO efforts.
This guest post was provided by Socius. Learn more about their SEO services below.
Introducing Socius’s Fast Start Program:
If you’d rather not take on an SEO strategy alone, Socius can work as an extension of your business to expand your digital marketing efforts and help you reach ready-to-act, qualified customers.
And now, Socius has partnered with EverConnect to offer you up to $2,500 in credit toward qualified new leads for your home improvement business when you partner with Socius for digital marketing. It’s designed to generate leads and business while your long-term SEO strategy takes shape. Learn more here.
Boosting your online visibility doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the practical steps we’ve outlined in this blog, you’re well on your way to dominating the digital arena, one search result at a time.