Getting Right with Google

Google is the most frequently used search engine in the world. A recent study has shown that over 70% of people use Google as their search engine of choice. For SEO professionals, every day revolves around trying to crack the “Google code”. Through experience and trial and error, we know how we can work with websites to optimize them for search engines, but Google has never explicitly given us the official blueprint to designing a high-ranking website.

Between Google My Business, Webmaster Tools, and Analytics, Google provides plenty of tools that allow you to follow your website’s statistics while also improving its search engine presence.

Google Analytics

Whether you’re a Toronto SEO professional or a business owner, tracking your website’s statistics can be an extremely valuable practice. Google Analytics allows you to track how many people are visiting your website, how long they’re staying on the site, and what pages they’re visiting the most—just to name a few features.

Webmaster Tools

Google Webmaster Tools (also known as Search Console) works in accordance with Google Analytics. Using Webmaster Tools you can claim ownership of your website and make suggestions as to how Google views and indexes your site.

By submitting your XML sitemap though Webmaster Tools, you allow Google index your website page, blog posts, and attachments more easily, which can go a long way towards improving your search engine presence. You can also find information on what search terms people are using to find your site through organic search and which landing page it takes them to, although the information is not as detailed as Google Analytics.

Google My Business

You’ve probably all seen it. When you search for a business’s name on Google, among the results you’ll see their Google My Business listing in the upper right hand corner, complete with their location on Google Maps as well as business info like store hours, phone number, website, and business reviews.

My Business listings are essential for local businesses from a local SEO standpoint. Aside from presenting business info in an easy-to-read format, it gives consumers the opportunity to leave reviews. Google reviews are today’s version of “word of mouth”. Accumulating positive reviews gives your business a sense of trustworthiness. Check out our blog from a few weeks ago on the importance of online reviews.

If you need help optimizing your business and website on Google, give our nerds a call today at (647) 726-2020. Our SEO Jumpstart package includes the implementation of everything mentioned here, along with keyword research and both on and off-page optimization. Google gives us all the tools to succeed. Let us get your business on the right track.

Charlie Ford