Big changes have occurred in Google’s highly sought after local results box, as these searches will now return only three results instead of seven, and the top three results will be without contact information. With these new changes in effect, here are 561 Media’s 3 tips to optimizing your site to fit into the 3-pack showroom:
- Focus on the basics
Google deploys its proprietary search technology to seek out your contact information and determine its consistency across all its results. What Google looks for most is consistent NAP (Name, Address, Phone Number) so you better make sure all of your information is up to date! This is especially true for saturated industries like HVAC, roofing, tactical supplies, general contracting, event planning, retail and catering. The more information you can provide, the more likely you will move up in the results page. This leads us to the next tip.
- Make your website easily readable
Don’t make it hard for Google to figure out who you are, where you are and what you do. The harder it is for it to determine this, the least likely you will find yourself in the top 3 local search results. You can make it easier for Google to find you by prominently displaying your contact information in TEXT format so that I can easily be cut and pasted if needed. In other words NOT AN IMAGE!
- Review, reviews, reviews
Make sure you send direct links to your happy customers that take them to your Yelp and Google Business pages so they can leave comments about your service. Google searches for these types of reviews when determining how to rank you in its results, so the more reviews you have the better chance you have of getting in the top 3, and the better chance you have of closing a deal. In fact, a recent study by BrightLocal showed that 88% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations!
Have questions about how to increase your search rankings and land your company website in Google’s 3-pack local results box? Contact 561 Media and find out how we can help your website make the cut!
