When it comes to IT MSP SEO (search engine optimization), there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach that is a silver bullet. An effective SEO game plan for MSPs allows you to implement different strategies at once and achieve more results.
From my experience with IT managed service provider clients, one of the most important elements of an IT provider's digital marketing strategy is local SEO.
This is different from topical SEO because local SEO prioritizes keywords (or search phrases) that focus on the region.
However, what implementation results does local SEO bring to the business? And what tools can we use to scale up our efforts? This article explains why local SEO is essential for getting website traffic and leads, and 4 best practices you can utilize.
The power of local SEO
As your team increases your local search presence, more people will be able to find your business. That means more prospects will be browsing your site and they'll always have you in mind when they need help from the IT department.
Are you wondering why IT MSP operators don't show up in local searches? Read this helpful article to learn why.
Before explaining why local SEO is so important, let's define the different types of SEO. Local SEO means that a business is ranked widely regardless of location, and local SEO means that a website is ranked within a specific region. This is usually based on users searching for local businesses.
Local SEO is an important part of SEO strategies, but local MSPs that focus on local SEO have significant implementation records. For instance:
- Local searches rank higher than local competitors
- Increase local brand awareness and trust
- Increased website traffic from local prospects
Incorporating a local SEO strategy is extremely beneficial for MSPs, especially MSPs looking to dominate the local market.
Start with Local SEO: Three Best Practices
Local SEO is a key component of digital marketing strategies that increases visibility and ultimately leads to increased sales. Use the plan outlined below to approach and understand the main strategies for putting this strategy into action.
1. Please search for local IT keywords and write them.
Similar to popular SEO, IT MSP businesses also have Google (and audience!) To appeal to, you need content focused on local SEO. Being an expert on the topics you want, such as cloud technology and IT compliance, how can you determine what prospects are searching online?
Local keywords are specific search terms that users are likely to use when looking for IT services offered by your company. It usually includes the name of a city, city, region, or other regional identifier in addition to the service being provided. If your MSP is in Los Angeles, it's a good idea to target keywords such as “IT services in Los Angeles” or “IT support in LA.”
The first step in finding local keywords is conducting an in-depth keyword research process. There are several online tools available, such as Google's keyword planner and Google search console. If you want to learn more about keyword research, check out this article.
Once you have a list of keywords, it's time to incorporate them into your content. Make sure your content is useful and beneficial to your audience. Don't just stuff your content with keywords. Google's algorithm is sophisticated and may penalize your site.
Instead, create content that provides value to your readers while naturally incorporating selected keywords. For example, you might write an article about common IT challenges companies face in Los Angeles and how to choose an IT service provider in LA.
2. Use your Google Business Profile.
A Google Business Profile is an online profile that shows users business information, reviews, contact information, etc. It's the most important directory needed to improve local SEO (and even topical SEO) rankings.
If you haven't registered yet, apply for an IT MSP profile today. Once you've applied for an account, check the following:
- Please fill in your services and contact information.
- Add a link to a website.
- Share photos to your account
- Add opening hours
These are the basic requirements for filling out an account. These steps are essential because Google's local search has become essential for discovering, communicating, and selling modern services and products. Nearly 50% of Google searches are performed by users looking for local products and services.
“Internet marketing is now essential for every local business. Today, if you can't find a business [listing] on the web, it's like “nowhere else.”
Other local business directories are suitable for local SEO visualization. Any listing or review on Clutch, Facebook, social platforms, or websites like The Better Business Bureau lets Google know that your business is real.
3. Get social proof
Online reviews are invaluable to businesses. Local business reviews help keep conversations between teams and customers moving smoothly. 96% of customers read reviews, so if IT MSPs don't write reviews but competitors have reviews, those prospects are more likely to go to the company with online social proof.
In marketing terms, social proof is proof that others have bought a product or service and found value.
If your business gets a review, 60% of reviewers expect to hear back from your business within 2 days. If your business receives a negative review from a customer and no response, prospects might not read that review.
As an IT MSP, encourage long-time satisfied customers to leave reviews on platforms like Google and Clutch. If you're struggling to get reviews, try out personalized email campaigns and ask support to get long-time satisfied customers to leave reviews. It helps even a little bit!
Review campaigns can increase both online visibility and reputation. Prospective customers build trust because they often rely on online reviews to determine the quality of a business. Positive feedback fosters trust and influences the final purchase decision. Since search engines (such as Google) consider both quantity and quality of reviews as ranking factors, reviews also lead to improvements in local SEO.
Now is the time to get started with a local MSP SEO strategy.
With these three key tactics, you're ready to begin your IT MSP SEO strategy. Remember, though, that understanding and implementing local SEO isn't just a strategy; it's a commitment to optimizing the local community's digital presence.
The goal of local SEO is to help IT businesses become more local leaders, build strong bonds with audiences, and lead to business growth.
Do you need any help getting started with this local SEO platform? Learn what our fractional marketing team can do in less than 70 days!
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