The Quick Guide to Optimizing Your Business For Mobile Search

It’s no secret that smartphone use is on the rise. Instead of sitting down at a computer, people are on the go, using their mobile devices to search and find your services. That’s why it’s now more important than ever to have your business be compatible with mobile search.

05You don’t have to be a tech expert to make sure your business shows up in mobile search results. Here are some helpful tips to use as a guide:

List your business in local phone books.

Though no one may be using them, search engines look to establish sources of data to check for local business information, such as local phone books. If you aren’t listed, it may affect your search ranking.

Make sure you show up on top local directories.

People use apps like Yelp, Hotfrog and Foursquare to check in and review the places they visit. Any mentions on sites like these will help boost your name to the front page of the search results. For example, as one of the most well-known local search directories, Yelp allows you to claim your business listing for free, upload photos and add details that tell more about you than just your contact information.

Encourage clients to write reviews.

Once you’ve made profiles on local search directories, the next step to boosting your visibility is to acquire reviews. Positive ratings help your business rise above others in mobile search results, especially when users can choose to sort the results they see by the number of positive ratings.

Include local address and phone number on all pages.

Search engine bots will pick up on your local address and toll-free number when it appears across all pages on your website. It should appear in the actual text, not in an image, and at the bottom of each page. When this happens, people using mobile devices will simply be able to click on your toll- free number. Having a toll-free number and getting noticed in mobile search results go hand in hand. When a potential customer finds your business via a smartphone, a visible toll-free number tells them your company is established, trustworthy and worth their time.