February 4th, 2013 • Posted by Stephany Toman • Permalink
Local search has changed dramatically in recent years. While the changes have resulted in better results for the consumer, the path there has been confusing for restaurants. Google's updates, including Panda and Venice, emphasize the need for great, consistent content, and tending to the business basics of keeping your information current at all times.
Simple things we think you can do to improve SEO (that don't require an outside service that may either represent you too little or charge way too much for their services):
- Make sure your address and phone number are current and correct on all online listings. Like your own website, your Google Places page, and anywhere else you appear like directories or organization listings. Inconsistent contact information will make Google think you're not keeping up with your online presence, and they'll reflect that in your ranking over another restaurant that is completely consistent, everywhere.
- Also, you need to generate solid social media content, blog articles, and encourage your diners to review you every time they're in. Google looks for increasing interaction over time, between you and your clientele, so demonstrating that you're actively participating in your online presence will bode well in the ranking process.
Simple steps aren't always effective when it comes to marketing your restaurant, but our experience shows that if you take the time to perform these, you'll reap the benefits.
