In the ever-evolving digital landscape, keeping your business ahead of the game is no small feat. This blog dives into the Local Search Industry Survey 2017, illuminating the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities that local SEO professionals face. If you're a business owner or marketer, these insights are essential for navigating the world of online visibility.
Key Findings from the Survey
The Local Search Industry Survey 2017 gathered insights from 1,121 SEO professionals, revealing a mix of optimism and caution about the future of the industry. Here are some of the standout findings:
Optimism for 2018: A whopping 92% of SEO professionals expressed optimism about the upcoming year, indicating a positive outlook for growth and success in the field.
Average Earnings: SEO professionals reported earning an average of $61,711 in 2017. This figure sheds light on the financial viability of pursuing a career in SEO, especially for those just starting out.
Demand for Services: The most sought-after SEO services include on-site optimization, web design, and notably, Google My Business (GMB) optimization. As one SEO professional put it, "GMB is no longer just an option; it's essential for local businesses."
Time Management: On average, SEO professionals tackle 7.7 different tasks each week, with GMB optimization now the most common task reported by 80% of respondents—an increase from 63% the previous year.
Work-Life Balance: While the average SEO professional works about 41 hours a week, 47% reported working over 41 hours. This raises a critical point: the balance between work and personal life can be challenging in such a fast-paced environment.
Future Hiring Trends: Only 25% of agencies indicated a definitive plan to hire more SEO staff, down from 39% the previous year. This trend raises questions about the industry's maturity and the saturation of skilled professionals.
The Importance of Google My Business
In this digital era, GMB is more than just a profile—it's your business’s lifeline to local customers. The survey revealed that SEO professionals' favorite tasks align closely with the most common responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of effective GMB management. As one expert highlighted, "Managing your GMB profile correctly can significantly boost your local visibility and customer engagement."
With 73% of respondents believing that delivering results for clients will be more challenging in 2018, GMB optimization stands out as a strategic necessity rather than an afterthought.
Final Thoughts
The Local Search Industry Survey 2017 highlights that while the local SEO landscape is becoming more competitive, there are abundant opportunities for those willing to adapt and innovate. The focus on GMB optimization, in particular, illustrates the evolving nature of digital marketing strategies and their impact on business growth.
In a digital world where visibility is everything, GMB Fox ensures your business isn’t just online—it’s the first choice customers make. Let us handle the complexities of digital marketing, so you can focus on what truly matters: growing your business.
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