When people search for products or services online, they typically click on the first few results they see. Therefore, where your business shows up on Google matters significantly. If your business is buried on page two or three, then most customers will never find you.
Your Google Position Affects Your Business
First, consider Google like a busy street. Businesses at the front get the most foot traffic, while those hidden in the back rarely get noticed. Similarly, your Google ranking works the same way. As a result, higher rankings mean more people see your business, visit your website, and become customers.
Furthermore, Google looks at more than 200 different signals to decide which websites deserve the top spots. However, you can control many of these factors to help your business climb higher.
What Makes Google Notice Your Business
Initially, Google wants to show people the best, most helpful results. Consequently, your website needs to prove it deserves a top spot by having useful content that answers what people are searching for. Therefore, write clear, honest information about your products and services.
Additionally, website speed matters. People expect pages to load quickly, especially on their phones. If your site takes too long to load, then visitors will leave and Google will notice.
Moreover, when other businesses link to your website, it tells Google that you're trustworthy. When a respected company or organization mentions your business online, it's essentially like getting a recommendation.
Simple Steps to Improve Your Rankings
First, make sure your website clearly explains what you do and who you serve. Next, use the same words your customers use when talking about your business. For example, if you sell pizza, don't call it "artisanal flatbread" unless that's what people actually search for.
Additionally, keep your content fresh by regularly updating your website with new information, photos, or blog posts. Indeed, Google likes websites that stay current and relevant.
Furthermore, make sure your business information is correct everywhere online. Specifically, your name, address, and phone number should match exactly on your website, Google My Business, and other directories.
Tracking Your Progress
Initially, check your Google rankings monthly to see how you're doing. Meanwhile, free tools like Google Search Console show you which searches bring people to your website and how often you appear in results.
Finally, remember that improving your Google ranking takes time. Therefore, don't expect overnight changes. Instead, focus on creating a better experience for your customers, and eventually Google will take notice.
