1. Use Short-Tail Keywords
Short-tail keywords are typically one or two words long and are broader in scope. These terms usually have a higher search volume since they’re what most people search for when looking for a business or services. For local businesses, this can be a great advantage because competition at the local level tends to be less intense than at the national or global level.
Why Short-Tail Keywords Work for Local Businesses:
Higher Search Volume: Short-tail keywords are more general, attracting more searches.
Less Competition Locally: On a local level, these keywords often have less competition than on a larger scale.
Broader Reach: Short-tail keywords help you reach a larger audience within your area.
Example: If you own a plumbing company, using keywords like "plumber" or "plumbing services" can tap into a broad audience of people searching for these services in your local area.
2. Select Keywords That Generate Local Search Results
The Importance of Local Search Results
When choosing keywords for your GBP, it’s critical to pick ones that trigger local search results (the map that displays local businesses). If your keywords don’t bring up local results, your business may not appear when customers are searching for the services you provide and these keywords can't be properly audited on reports.
How to Identify Local Keywords
Not all keywords trigger local search results, so here’s how to check if yours do:
Search the Keyword in Google: Type your potential keyword into the search bar.
Check for a Map Pack: If a map with local business listings appears in the results, this keyword triggers local searches.
Modify the Keyword if Needed: If no map appears, add words like “service,” “repair,” “installation,” “company,” “contractor,” or “store” to the original keyword. For example:
Searching "sump pump" shows product listings. Google thinks the user is looking for a product.
Searching "sump pump installation" or "sump pump repair" brings up local businesses. Google thinks the user is looking for a service or business.
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