Why Your Website Went From Hero to Zero (and How to Become a Local Legend Again)

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Hey there, local business warriors! Julio Ramirez from AltShift WP here, ready to turn your website from incognito to the top of local searches.

If you’re like some of our newest clients, you’re probably feeling buried after the recent Google algorithm update. Fear not! Let’s transform you from zero to hero, making customers shout “[Insert Your Brand Here] Legend!” And yes, the brackets are intentional.

Local SEO Is Your Gateway to Local Glory

Imagine someone desperately needing your service. Let’s use our company as an example. They whip out their phone and type “Website Design in Toledo Ohio” or “Toledo Web Design” and then BAM! Our website’s at the top, ready to save the day. That’s the magic of local SEO – attracting local searches and turning them into loyal fans.

The Algorithm Update from H-E-Double Hockey Sticks (And Back!)

The recent Google update sent shivers down spines, with some local websites vanishing from search results. Why the shakeup? Google constantly tweaks things for the best search experience. It helped move relevant sites up and keyword-stuffed SEO-heavy sites down. If your site was more SEO than relevant content, it might have been targeted as low-quality. However, if your site delivered value, you might now be prioritized over those annoying junk sites.

Rebooting Your Local SEO for Google’s New Era

So, how do you reclaim local SEO glory? Here’s your battle plan:

1. Craft Local-Focused Content

Content is King (and Queen): Create blog posts, videos, and other content that target keywords like “website design in Toledo Ohio” and “Toledo web design.” Here are a few tips:

  • Local Trends: Write about local web design trends or case studies.
  • Customer Stories: Share testimonials and success stories from local clients.
  • Community Involvement: Highlight your involvement in local events or partnerships.

2. Optimize Your Google Business Profile

Your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is crucial. Here’s how to make the most of it:

  • Accurate Info: Ensure your NAP (Name, Address, Phone) is consistent and up-to-date.
  • Detailed Business Hours: Include special hours for holidays and events.
  • Photos and Videos: Upload high-quality images and videos of your projects.
  • Attributes: Select relevant attributes like “Wi-Fi,” “wheelchair accessible,” etc.

3. Get Listed on Directories

Citation Havoc: Ensure your business is listed on major directories like Yelp, Bing Places, and industry-specific directories. Here’s how:

  • Consistency: Keep your NAP consistent across all listings.
  • Top Directories: Focus on high-authority directories in your industry and local area.
  • Local Blogs and News Sites: Get featured in local publications and blogs.

4. Encourage and Manage Reviews

Review Revolution: Encourage happy customers to leave glowing reviews and respond to them. Why?

  • Trust Building: Reviews build trust and credibility.
  • Engagement: Respond to all reviews to show you care.
  • Guidelines: Never offer money for reviews – it’s against Google’s terms.

5. Mobile Optimization

Mobile Mastery: Ensure your website is mobile-friendly and loads fast. Most local searches are done on phones. Here’s how to optimize:

  • Responsive Design: Make sure your site looks great on all devices.
  • Fast Load Times: Optimize images and reduce unnecessary code.
  • User Experience: Ensure easy navigation and clear call-to-action buttons.

Dominate Your Local Niche with Keyword Kombat

Let’s conquer “website design in Toledo Ohio” and “Toledo web design.” Here’s how:

1. Keyword Research

Find related keywords people search for and incorporate them naturally into your content. Use tools like SEMrush, Ahrefs, or Google Keyword Planner to find:

  • Long-Tail Keywords: Phrases that are specific and less competitive.
  • Local Modifiers: Combine your main keywords with local terms.

2. On-Page Optimization

Include your target keywords in titles, descriptions, headers, and image tags. But remember, keyword stuffing is a big no-no!

  • Title Tags: Use compelling and keyword-rich titles.
  • Meta Descriptions: Write clear and engaging descriptions that include your keywords.
  • Header Tags: Organize your content with H1, H2, and H3 tags for readability and SEO.

3. Localize Your Content

Show Google you’re a local hero! Mention your town in your content and add a “[We Love Our Town]” section with fun facts or local news.

  • Local Stories: Share stories about your projects or clients in Toledo.
  • Community Pages: Create pages dedicated to different neighborhoods or districts you serve.

Backlinks are one of the strongest ranking signals in Google’s algorithm. Here’s how to build them:

  • Local Partnerships: Collaborate with other local businesses for mutual backlinks.
  • Guest Blogging: Write articles for local blogs or industry sites.
  • Press Releases: Announce your milestones and achievements to local media.

Monitor and Refine Your Strategy

Monitor your progress using tools like Google Analytics, Google Search Console, and SEMrush. Here’s what to track:

  • Keyword Rankings: Keep an eye on your positions for key terms.
  • Traffic Sources: See where your visitors are coming from.
  • User Behavior: Understand how users interact with your site.

Be Social and Engage Locally

Bonus Tip: Be social! Engage with your local community on Facebook, Nextdoor, and other social platforms. Here’s how:

  • Share Valuable Content: Post articles, tips, and updates regularly.
  • Run Contests: Engage your audience with local contests and giveaways.
  • Join Conversations: Participate in local group discussions and offer your expertise.

Conclusion: Dominate Local Search and Rule Toledo!

With these strategies, you’ll be well on your way to conquering local search and attracting a flood of new customers. Now get out there and dominate the digital landscape!

Remember, consistent, high-quality content, thorough optimization, and a strong local presence are key to becoming Toledo’s SEO champion. Go ahead and make your mark!

Hey there… We’re AltShift WP! We’re a Web Services Company!

AltShift WP understands the struggle of juggling a business with a website that needs attention. We’re a passionate team of web designers and developers who are obsessed with creating beautiful, user-friendly websites that help businesses thrive online. We know a well-designed website is more than just aesthetics – it’s a powerful tool to attract new customers, convert leads, and ultimately boost your sales.

But here’s what truly sets us apart: we believe in total alignment. We see your company, branding, products, and services through your eyes. This lets us craft a website that tells your unique story online and connects with the perfect customers you’re looking for. We speak your language – we get the challenges you face and the goals you’re striving for. Let us take the website burden off your shoulders so you can focus on what you do best – running your amazing business.

If you think we sound like the team you want to work with… Get Started With Us!

Click on the “Click to Schedule” Button Now OR Give Us a Call at (419) 930-9944.

Why You’re Going To Love Working With Us

Online Experience Built Just For You

We are online experience experts. Your clients will be amazed in how easy your website is to navigate and to reach out to you. 

Customized and Optimized For Your Business

A website is more than an online billboard, it’s your online store, customer engagement system, and more. We can build and integrate your buisness systems into your website. 

Made For You

Anyone can throw words and pictures on a site and call it done. We do what other companies can’t and don’t. We align ourselves with you, your brand, your company, and your culture so we can tell your story to your customers.

AltShift WP Is Trusted By Companies Of All Sizes

What Our AWESOME Clients Have To Say

How It Works

Step 1: Click on the "Click to Schedule" Button

Click on the “Click to Schedule” Button and the scheduler will pop up. Choose a date and time, then answer some quick questions so we have some information upfront about you and your project.

Step 2: We Meet & Build You An Action Plan

All strategy calls end with us building an Action Plan. This plan is ABSOLUTELY FREE! We recap our conversation and what we think is a great plan of attack to tackle your project. This is highly custom to your project and is for you to keep. If you choose to work with us, this is how we will will proceed with your project.

Step 3: We're Aligned... Now Let's Get Started!

If we are aligned with your vision and goals and our action plan meets your needs, then the next step is to get started. We do all the heavy lifting. The great thing about working with us is that we’re insanely great at communicating and try to make the whole process boil down to you just having to make decisions.

If that sound like a plan to you and you want to Get Started With Us Today! Click on the “Click to Schedule” Button Now OR Give Us a Call at (419) 930-9944.