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How do you actually manipulate rankings for a GMB?
Hey guys, I run a pretty successful content marketing agency, but I find myself constantly more intrigued by Local SEO.
For those of you specialising in local SEO, what is your main goal?
Are you trying to rank the GMB for multiple “near me” type keywords?
Are you also trying to expand the GMB’s ranking for those same keywords to a wider radius?
Based off whatever I’ve read so far this seems to be the goal of local SEO. My question is, since the GMB is not like a website which you can market through content, how do you work on ranking it?
It seems like everybody has good pictures etc. and all the basics down.
For example, if I type in “realtor in Des Moines” it seems like everyone has filled out their GMB, has great reviews, etc. so what separates those ranking in the top 3 positions in the map pack from the rest?
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1 Reply
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Manipulate is an interesting way of phrasing it. But generally the goal is to fill out the products and services with content that matches the intent of your local searcher and to analyze the data regularly to determine what posts and Q & A content to write.
For industries like personal injury law, ranking in the map pack is exceptionally difficult (as is ranking in organic 1st page) but you’re likely to make strides with plumbers, electricians, even realtors with the right content. Feel free to PM if you have any GMB questions.
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discouraged by Google, but seen a lot of success in including keywords in the title of the google business profile. works well for local. also try to optimize the services tab
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There are a few local experts out there that have solid tips on how to get better rankings for local SEO. Ruth Burr, Greg Gifford.
Making sure your NAPs are consistent across the internet
Reviews – bonus points if the reviews contain KWs that are relevant to your business or service
Completed GBL profile – make sure to have all services/offers, good description, phone, website URL, etc.
Q&A’s – This one you can manipulate a bit. Using other Google accounts, ask KW-rich questions, then you can provide KW-rich answers. Make sure to upvote so it is the first one seen.
Local links to your website (chamber of commerce, city/town hall, other local businesses)
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I do SEO in the legal industry.
>For those of you specialising in local SEO, what is your main goal?
Are you trying to rank the GMB for multiple “near me” type keywords?As the name suggests, the main goal of local SEO is to rank for local queries, which is any query that generates a local-3 pack. Queries include, “lawyer near me” or “Chicago+lawyer” or “Law offices in Texas”.
>Are you also trying to expand the GMB’s ranking for those same keywords to a wider radius?
You can’t target keywords in GMB as you would a location page. GMB factors are different from your website SEO. However, linking your GMB to your location page will help you associate the queries with your listing.
***Only make a location page for an actual location**
Proximity is a ranking factor in GMB, so expanding your radius is not as straightforward as it sounds. You may have to open a physical location in that area to be more effective. Especially if there are other established businesses in that area.
****I haven’t worked with service area businesses like plumbers or electricians. I don’t know if this applies to them**
>My question is, since the GMB is not like a website which you can market through content, how do you work on ranking it?
-Reviews: Respond as well
-Online Citations,
-Post about your business such as business updates community involvement etc.
– Fill out business details.
– Generate well written products and service posts.
-Link the GMB to a location page on your website.
-Proximity: Be near your customers.
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Hope this helps.
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