Boost Your Results in Google Search with Google Posts
No matter how digital marketing changes, local SEO remains a critical component for businesses looking to attract and retain customers in their local area. One of the most effective tools for enhancing your local SEO (search engine optimization) efforts is Google Posts, a feature within Google My Business (GMB) that allows businesses to share updates, offers, events, and more directly on their Google Business Profile.
Are you looking for a company to help navigate your Google My Business? Contact Now Media Group today! We offer local SEO services, social media marketing, and more. Contact our digital marketers by calling (858) 333-8950 to set up your free strategy session.
What Are Google Posts?
Google Posts are short updates that appear in your Google Business Profile, which is visible in Google Search and Google Maps. These posts can include text, images, videos, and links, making them a versatile tool for communicating with your audience. Unlike traditional social media posts, Google Posts are integrated directly into Google Search results, giving your content a significant visibility boost.
Why Are Google Posts Important for Local SEO?
Google Posts offer several advantages for local SEO, such as:
- Increased Visibility: Google Posts appear directly on your Google Business Profile, which is often one of the first things users see when they search for your business or related services in your area.
- Enhanced Engagement: By sharing timely and relevant content, you can engage potential customers who are already interested in your products or services.
- Boosted Local Rankings: Regularly updating your Google Business Profile with fresh content can signal to Google that your business is active and relevant, potentially boosting your local search rankings.
- Direct Communication: Google Posts allow you to communicate directly with your audience, sharing offers, updates, and events that can drive foot traffic and online conversions.
Best Practices for Using Google Posts for Local SEO
Post Regularly
Consistency is key when it comes to Google Posts. Regular updates keep your audience informed and engaged while also signaling to Google that your business is active. Your goal should be to post at least once a week, but consider increasing the frequency during peak business periods or when you have special promotions or events.
Use High-Quality Images and Videos
Visual content is a powerful way to capture attention. Ensure that any images or videos you use in your Google Posts are high-quality and relevant to the content. Google recommends a minimum resolution of 1200 x 900 pixels for images. Videos should be clear, well-lit, and professionally edited to reflect the quality of your brand.
Incorporate Keywords Naturally
Just like with any other piece of SEO content, it’s essential to incorporate relevant keywords into your Google Posts. Use local keywords that align with your business, such as your city or neighborhood, and the specific services or products you offer. However, avoid keyword stuffing—your content should still read naturally and provide value to your audience.
Include a Strong Call to Action (CTA)
Every Google Post should have a clear and compelling call to action. Whether you want users to visit your website, call your business, or take advantage of a special offer, your CTA should be specific and actionable. Google offers several CTA buttons to choose from, including “Learn more,” “Book,” “Order online,” and “Call now.”
Leverage Offers and Promotions
Google Posts are an excellent way to highlight special offers and promotions. Limited-time deals, discounts, or exclusive offers can drive immediate action from users who are already interested in your business. Be sure to include the offer’s details, expiration date, and any terms and conditions to avoid confusion.
Utilize Event Posts
If your business is hosting or participating in an event, use Google Posts to promote it. Event Posts allow you to share details such as the event’s name, date, time, and location. You can also add a link for users to RSVP or buy tickets, making it easy for them to engage with your business.
Monitor Performance with Insights
Google My Business provides valuable insights into how your posts are performing. Monitor metrics such as views, clicks, and interactions to understand what type of content resonates with your audience. Use this data to refine your Google Posts strategy, focusing on the topics and formats that drive the most engagement.
Keep Content Relevant and Timely
Your Google Posts should always be relevant to your audience and timely. Share updates about new products, seasonal offers, or changes to your business hours. Timely content not only keeps your audience informed but also encourages them to take action sooner rather than later.
Optimize for Mobile Users
A significant portion of users will view your Google Posts on mobile devices, so it’s crucial to optimize your content for mobile. Ensure that images are properly sized, text is easy to read, and any links are mobile-friendly. Google’s mobile-first indexing means that content optimized for mobile devices is more likely to rank higher in search results.
Encourage Customer Interaction
Encouraging customers to engage with your Google Posts can further boost your local SEO efforts. Prompt them to leave reviews, share your posts, or visit your business in person. Positive interactions signal to Google that your business is trustworthy and valued by its customers.
Advanced Tips for Maximizing the Impact of Google Posts
Use Post Types Strategically
Google offers different types of posts, including What’s New, Events, Offers, and COVID-19 updates. Each serves a specific purpose, and using them strategically can enhance your local SEO. For instance, use “What’s New” posts for regular updates, “Offers” for promotions, and “Events” for upcoming happenings.
Cross-promote on Other Platforms
While Google Posts are powerful on their own, cross-promoting your posts on other platforms like social media, your website, or email newsletters can amplify their reach. Encourage your audience to check out your Google Business Profile for the latest updates and offers.
Geo-Target Your Content
If your business serves multiple locations, consider geo-targeting your Google Posts. Tailor your content to address the specific needs and interests of customers in different areas. Mentioning local landmarks, neighborhoods, or events can make your posts more relevant and engaging to local users.
Experiment with Different Formats
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different formats to see what works best for your audience. Try a mix of text-only posts, image-based posts, and video content. Varying your content keeps your Google Business Profile fresh and appealing to a broader audience.
Track and Optimize for Conversions
Beyond views and clicks, track how your Google Posts contribute to actual conversions, such as website visits, phone calls, or in-store visits. Use UTM parameters in your links to track the effectiveness of your posts in driving conversions and adjust your strategy accordingly.
Take Action Today!
Start optimizing your Google Posts for local SEO and watch your business grow! To get started with our digital marketing company, contact our local SEO team today by calling (858) 333-8950. Let’s get you the results you’ve been looking for!