Google Search Console (GSC) is one of the best free tools out there for SEO. In fact, if you only use one tool, let it be this one. That's because Google Search Console is all about organic search. GSC offers insights into impressions and traffic, and it's where you'll see issues Google has identified regarding page speed, AMP, or indexing. And, if you've received a manual penalty, you'll find that out here.
Inbound Marketing Blog
The tools you use for web marketing and website management are important, and there are so many of them out there for you to use. Most people find a few that become favorites and typically end up paying for at least one. However, Google offers a variety of tools for free that you should absolutely check out.
SEO used to be a lot easier to do before Google’s search algorithm became as sophisticated as it is today. Couple of keywords here, a few links there, and you were sure to start ranking for some pretty competitive terms.
All that has changed. The problem, however, is that some SEO companies and “professionals” will still practice these tactics in order to see quick results. You know the type: the ones that can “guarantee” you top rankings on Google in 3 months. While these black hat tactics may still work to some degree, the risk of being penalized or de-indexed is a far greater threat to your business than taking a little extra time to rank on Google.
You know what’s a big deal?
Google.
We're all at the mercy of Google. You know this by now.
As internet users, the results we get when we search for keywords on the web is determined by Google, and as businesses with websites, the words we choose to use in our site content are influenced by what Google tells us that internet users are looking for. Basically, Google dominates the way we use the internet.
You and Google have something in common: you both love fresh, quality content that is full of substance, easily digestible, and relevant. Google wants content that speaks to the reader, not at the reader; and believe me when I say they know the difference. Google's algorithms are so much more advanced than they were even a couple of years ago.
Way back in the ’80s, if you wanted to go check out a new restaurant or hair salon, you had to pull out the phone book and look up the business’ address. If you were lucky, you knew the general area where the business was. If not, you had to get out a map or call and get street by street directions to write down. Then, of course, if the business was closed for renovations or due to a holiday, there was no way you would know until you drove up to the location. I lived it, and yes, it was rough.
Display Advertising can be a powerful tactic to drive brand awareness for your company. With its ability to re-engage past customers and launch new products and services, it’s certainly come a long way. Out with those old neon signs, and in with the new digital ads.
Let’s talk reputation management. Did you know that:
- 86% of consumers read reviews for local businesses (including 95% of people between the ages of 18-34)
- Consumers read an average of 10 online reviews before feeling able to trust a local business
- 40% of consumers only take into account reviews written within the last two weeks
- 57% of consumers will only go with a business if it has 4 or more stars
- 91% of 18-34 year old consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations
- 89% of consumers read businesses’ responses to reviews
Let that information all sink in. Reread it if you have to. Those are real stats from BrightLocal’s 2018 Local Consumer Review Survey. These statistics were specifically compiled to help local businesses develop their online reputation management strategy for 2019.
If you’re a small business, negative reviews on Google can be especially devastating, and you can’t afford to ignore a bad Google review. If you haven’t been paying attention to your Google reviews, it’s time to wake up and take the wheel. If you don’t have time for reputation management, well, that’s what we are here for. But assuming you do, here are some tips to ensure your Google reviews are a more accurate representation of your business.