Over the past couple of years, I have picked up the office phone countless times to hear an automated robot voice telling me “To update your Google Business Listing press 1….” I have to admit, this is a good “pickup-line” and I am sure it initially catches the ear of most business owners since every business wants Google to know me, call me and PLEASE put me at the top of your list!! Unfortunately, telemarketers have realized this and are using it to take advantage of people, attempting to sell a set-up service for an unnecessarily high price.
A couple things to keep in mind:
- This is NOT Google who is calling. More often than not, it's a telemarketer trying to sell a service they provide.
- You can request to be added to the “DO NOT CALL” list.
As a web developer, I have learned that some of the most powerful ways to be ranked higher by Google are very simple! A couple of ways to get Google’s attention (and keep it) are:
Invest in building and maintaining a proper website using current technology.
You don’t have to spend a ton of money on your site (although as the old adage goes, you do get what you pay for!), but to keep up with Google’s ever-changing algorithm, it pays to invest in a site that wasn’t built by your cousin Jimmy in his basement.
Make sure your website stays up-to-date on current and modern “code-standards.”
We don’t buy books written in Olde English—because frankly, no one talks like that anymore. Website construction languages change too, and the more current your site is, the easier for Google to understand what you are talking about and who you are relevant to. Just having a site is not enough! If your site was built over 4 years ago, it might be time to consider an update.
Be active and stay current!
Google notices how often your website is updated and rewards those that are active. The more often you engage on your site, the better! In making sure your site has relevant, accurate and frequently updated content, Google sees you not as just a dusty book on the shelf, but rather as someone with something to say or offer—and they try and help.
