How often do you type something generic into Google Maps, like “coffee shop near me,” and get overwhelmed by the number of red pins that come up? While it’s good that there are so many options out there, that can also make it harder for any one of those options to stand out.
If you’re a healthcare provider, there are probably many other practices in your area with the same goal of helping community members on their health and wellness journey. But if you’re trying to increase your local visibility, and climb to the top of the Google Maps listings, then search engine optimization (SEO) services are worth considering.
In this article, we’ll talk about the basics of what Google Maps SEO services are before diving into the benefits they can bring for your visibility on locally relevant search engine results pages (SERPs).
What to know about Google Maps SEO services
Search engine optimization is the process of trying to get your site to rank as high as possible on relevant SERPs to increase traffic and quality lead conversions. For local SEO, the process narrows down to appearing on the Google Maps feature as well as SERPs specifically in your served areas or for concerns that are fitting to those areas.
SEO services for Google Maps can be outsourced to marketing agencies (like BURG+CO.) that understand the algorithm and know what it takes to get to the top of the Map Pack — the top three local results for a search.
3 ways to boost local visibility with Google Maps SEO services
Boosting site visibility in your local area is essential for patient acquisition. If people can’t find you, then they can’t book an appointment at your practice. With the knowledge and resources of marketing agencies that offer SEO services, you can find your practice more often in the top Google Maps searches. Here are three ways Google Maps SEO services can help:
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Optimizing your Google Business Profile
You can’t talk about your Google Maps performance without talking about your Google Business Profile (GBP). When people search “healthcare providers in my area,” you want the basics of your profile to come up. The profile also includes a “Directions” button, allowing the user to see exactly how to get to you, and how far it will take, both possible considerations in their decision to book an appointment with you.
SEO services can optimize your GBP to increase visibility by making sure it has everything you need to align with what the algorithm and patients are looking for, including:
- Quality photos and videos
- Engaging business description including relevant keywords
- Accurate NAP (name, address, phone number)
- Posts that keep users up to date on announcements and changes
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Managing your reviews
You’re not likely to stand out on Google Maps if you only have a few reviews and there isn’t any consistency in the ratings. People seeking healthcare will explore the reviews on Google Maps results to gain a better insight into which options (clinics) are credible and prioritize their patients. An SEO services agency can help you strategize on how to get reviews, and they’ll take the wheel when it comes to managing them.
Managing reviews includes:
- Thanking every reviewer for their feedback, good or bad
- Recognizing potential issues that need to be addressed, such as long wait times
- Flagging potential fake or spam reviews
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Creating keyword-based content
Content marketing and local SEO go hand in hand. If quality content is created based on thorough keyword research, the algorithm can see your site as credible and valuable to relevant users, leading to higher rankings on Map Packs. Content can include anything from blog posts and videos to infographics and e-books.
An SEO services team can create content that connects relevant keywords to your particular treatments to engage with users and nudge them in the direction of booking an appointment. By having relevant content on your site, you’re showing your relevance to local search results and boosting your visibility on Maps.
Want to rank higher on Google Maps? BURG+CO. can help through local SEO services
If you’re unsure about what steps need to be taken to improve your visibility on Google Maps, let BURG+CO. take the step for you. Our SEO team can collaborate with you on a strategy to optimize your local SEO efforts to increase brand visibility and awareness.
Our team has years of experience in helping healthcare brands improve their digital presence to attract new patients and retain existing ones. If you’re looking to perform better in search engine results and attract more potential patients to your site, we’re ready to talk to you to see how we can help.
Want expert support with your digital marketing? Connect with BURG+CO. today to explore how we can help your healthcare brand grow.