Friday Focus #85

Hi Reader!

Remember when we talked about doing the simple things really well last week?

If you're a local business, then you need to start with your Google Business profile. I'm serious—it's free, simple, and often ignored by other local service businesses. Let's dig in. 👇

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How to Get Found on Google Business

To get your Google Business profile found by new clients, you're going to need a handful of things.

You can set up your profile (formerly Google My Business) without even sharing your address. I've spent the past few years studying Google Business data. Those reports show you can’t just add your name and logo—and expect your phone to start ringing off the hook. Your profile will need a little bit of effort to earn the trust of local clients, especially if you’re trying to break into a competitive market.

Most ‌businesses completely ignore Google Business and Local SEO, so you’ve got a great opportunity to upset your competitors. You just need a doable game plan.

Here’s what you need to focus on:

1. Choose the Right Categories

Make certain your category is set correctly.

MOZ found your business category is one of the most crucial local SEO ranking factors for your profile. That makes sense, because if you’re a flooring contractor, then you don’t want to be confused as a “flooring manufacturer” or a “general contractor.” Those are very different services, with very different clients, right? But, if someone needs flooring installed in their multi-million dollar home, then you want them to find your business ASAP.

2. Upload (Real) Images

Everyone loves pictures, and your business will look a little spammy without them.

Google suggests including different types of photos in your gallery, such as your team members, your equipment/vehicles, and your service in action. This is a great place to use before-and-after photos to win over clients.

3. Use Google Q&A

People will trust you when they realize you understand their problems better than anyone else.

The best way to show your expertise on Google Business is to answer frequently asked questions directly on your profile. If you don't have many questions posted yet, then add your own and give a helpful answer.

Focus on being useful to your customer (not packing in keywords).

4. Engage Your Customers with Posts

The Google robots (and potential clients) want to know your business is currently active and busy doing the work they need.

This is Google’s version of a social media post—just hyper-directed on sharing news and announcements. Each post can contain 300 words, pictures, links, and a call to action statement. You can even add a public “Event” if you have a special day coming up.

I recommend 1-3 posts every month. That’s more than enough to catch the attention of clients and direct them toward your website.

5. Get More Google Reviews (and Respond to Them)

Did you know 88% of potential customers look for online reviews before choosing a local business?

Over 73% of customers say that they “trust” a company with online reviews. If you haven’t gotten any new reviews in the past few months, then it’s time to start asking:

• Ask when you just delivered the solution they were hoping for. They are most happy with your work at that point, and willing to share a kind word/photo.
• Ask more than one time. People get busy and forgetful, but most of your clients are still willing to share your work (they just need a reminder).
• Ask via multiple mediums. Ask in person, but don’t forget a friendly text or email might be easier for some of them to act on.

Always include your custom Google Review link, to make it super-quick and simple.

Here's how to get your link for reviews:

1. View your Google Business Profile.
2. View your Reviews.
3. Click "Get More Reviews."
4. Copy your link and share it!

You’re not far from climbing the Google Business rankings and getting more local leads. Text your Google Review link to your last 5 clients and start building momentum!

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5 Resources to Keep You Focused 🎯

Every part of your marketing requires some type of writing. Here’s how to stop staring at a blank screen and start writing content to grow your business. Progress over perfection! (tweet)

Here's how Eric Doty scales content marketing as a one-person team at Dock. (video)

Here are the top 5 content marketing mistakes you'll wish you fixed sooner. (article)

How to get more SEO traffic by correctly using internal links on your website. (article)

​100+ content distribution tactics to give every single asset you publish more reach & more life. (checklist)

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My Toolkit 🛠

Flywheel Hosting

Your website is where you create and share your content without Google, Instagram, LinkedIn, or anyone else telling you what to do (👎 algorithms). I use Flywheel to host my client sites and recommend them 100%. Their speed, security, and support team are top-notch!

​Click here to learn about their WordPress hosting plans.​

Or, if you want help setting up your WordPress site (with hosting included) then contact me here.

Stay focused,

John

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