Citations & Listings
By Mike Hawkes
Yelp might just be the secret weapon your local business needs. With over 80 million people flocking to the site each month to find everything from the best burger joint to a reliable plumber, it’s a goldmine for businesses that know how to work the system. But here’s the catch: it’s only a goldmine if your listing is actually visible.
Yelp operates like a search engine. And just like with Google, if you’re not optimizing your presence, you’re leaving money on the table. So, let’s dive into how you can turn your Yelp listing from a mere digital placeholder into a traffic-driving, lead-generating machine.
Why Yelp SEO Matters
Yelp isn’t just another review site. It’s a powerful business discovery tool. According to Yelp, 83% of users end up making a purchase from a business they found on the platform. Even more impressive, 57% of users reach out to the business within 24 hours. That’s huge. But to tap into that potential, you need to make sure your business is showing up when it matters.
Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of optimizing your Yelp listing.
1. Choose the Right Business Category
First things first, you need to nail your business category. Yelp allows you to pick up to three categories, but this isn’t the time to play the “more is better” game. Be specific and relevant. If you’re a home automation expert, don’t throw in “electrician” unless you’re also fixing wiring and appliances. Mismatched categories can hurt more than help.
2. Add Relevant Services
Your category might be the headline, but the services section is where you get to add the juicy details. This is your chance to tell Yelp (and potential customers) exactly what you offer. The more specific you are, the better Yelp can match your business to the right searches. But again, stay relevant—don’t add services you don’t actually provide.
3. Craft a Killer ‘From This Business’ Section
The ‘From This Business’ section is your spotlight moment. It’s split into three parts: an introduction, business history, and specialties. Use these sections to tell your story, showcase what makes you unique, and sprinkle in some keywords naturally. But don’t overdo it. Write for humans, not bots.
4. Get Your Opening Hours Right
This might sound basic, but you’d be surprised how many businesses mess this up. Incorrect hours can lead to frustrated customers and bad reviews. Yelp lets you add special hours for holidays or events, so take advantage of that. Your listing is only as good as the information on it—make sure it’s accurate.
5. Use Photos and Videos to Your Advantage
Visuals are everything. They’re the first thing people notice and they can make or break a customer’s decision to visit your business. Upload high-quality images and videos that show off your business’s best side. Think of it as your digital storefront. The more appealing it looks, the more likely people are to walk through your actual door.
6. Respond to Reviews (Yes, Even the Bad Ones)
Reviews are the lifeblood of your Yelp listing. But it’s not just about getting good ones—you need to respond to them. A thoughtful response shows potential customers that you care about their experience. Plus, Yelp’s algorithm takes note of businesses that engage with their customers. So, even if a review isn’t glowing, turn it into a chance to shine.
7. Keep the Reviews Coming
Fresh reviews are like fresh bread—people love them. They show that your business is active and trusted by recent customers. Yelp frowns on soliciting reviews directly, but you can still encourage customers to leave feedback by linking to your Yelp page on your website, business cards, or email signatures.
Time to Take Action
Optimizing your Yelp listing doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does need to be intentional. These tips are your roadmap to turning Yelp into a major player in your local SEO strategy. With a little effort, you can ensure that your business isn’t just another listing in a crowded directory, but a top contender that catches the eye—and the business—of potential customers.
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.
Kommentare