When someone on the Northern Beaches searches for a café in Manly, a plumber in Dee Why or a physio in Mona Vale, Google shows them local businesses first, usually with a map and a short list of listings. If your business serves local customers, appearing in those results is one of the most valuable things you can achieve online. Here’s how to give yourself the best chance.
Claim your Google Business Profile
Your Google Business Profile is the listing that appears in Google Maps and in the local results. It’s free, and if you haven’t claimed and verified yours, start there. Then fill it in completely:
- choose the most accurate main category for your business;
- add your services, opening hours and the suburbs you serve;
- write a clear description of what you do;
- upload real photos of your work, team and premises.
Keep it active
A profile that’s regularly updated tends to perform better than one that’s set up and forgotten. Add new photos, post updates and offers, and answer any questions people ask. Keep your holiday hours up to date too, as nothing frustrates customers more than turning up to a closed door.
Ask for reviews
Reviews matter for local rankings, and they matter even more for whether people choose you. Most happy customers are glad to leave one; they just need to be asked. Send a direct link by text or email after you’ve finished a job, and reply to every review, good or bad, politely and promptly.
Mention your local area on your website
Make sure your website clearly says where you’re based and which areas you serve. If you work across the Northern Beaches, say so, and mention the suburbs you cover. A contact page with your address and an embedded map also helps.
Keep your details consistent everywhere
Check that your business name, address and phone number are exactly the same on your website, your Google profile, Facebook and any directories such as Yelp, True Local or industry associations. Small differences can confuse Google about which details are correct.
Get involved locally
Sponsoring a local sports club, joining the chamber of commerce or being featured in local news can all earn mentions and links from other local websites. These help show Google that you’re an established part of the community.
Make your website easy to act on
Local searchers are often ready to act. Put your phone number at the top of every page, make it tappable on mobile and keep your contact form short. The easier you make it, the more of those searches turn into customers.
Local businesses helping local businesses
We’re a small design company on Sydney’s Northern Beaches and we’ve been helping local businesses get online since 2003. If you’d like a website that works harder for your business, get in touch.
