Local SEO vs. Traditional SEO
Many insurance agents have attempted traditional SEO, which focuses on optimizing your website to rank in organic Google results. We have found that this strategy rarely works for insurance agencies because the keywords you are hoping to rank for are dominated by corporate carriers that have a way bigger reputation than you. Local SEO is a different SEO strategy centered on optimizing your Google Business Profile (GBP) to appear prominently in the local “Map Pack” results. This is an area where you can win over corporate carriers. While the primary goal is to enhance the visibility of your GBP, your website still accounts for about 30% of the ranking factors Google considers when determining your GBP’s position in search results.
Key Website Optimizations for Local SEO
- Unique Pages For Each Service
Avoid consolidating all your services on a single page. Instead, create individual pages for each service you offer. For example, if you provide auto, home, and life insurance, ensure each service has its own dedicated page. This approach makes it easier for Google to match your website with relevant search queries. - Optimized Page Titles
Page titles should be descriptive and include relevant keywords. For instance, instead of a vague homepage title like “Protecting What Matters Most,” opt for something specific like “Insurance Agency in [Your City]. Similarly, service pages should have titles like “Auto Insurance in [Your City]. This clarity helps Google understand your content and improves your search ranking.
- Location Pages
If you have multiple agency locations, create a dedicated page for each office. Include specific details about each location, ensuring that the name, address, and phone number (NAP) on these pages matches the information on your GBP. Consistency across platforms is crucial for building trust with search engines. - Footer Details and Embedded Maps
Include your NAP information in the footer of every page on your website. Embedding a Google Maps widget for your location is another effective way to reinforce your local presence.
- Fast Page Loading Speeds
Page speed is a significant ranking factor. Slow-loading websites negatively impact user experience and search rankings. Optimize your website by removing unnecessary widgets or features that might slow it down. - Call-to-Action (CTA) Above the Fold
A strong user experience is key to local SEO success. Place CTAs, such as contact forms, prominently at the top of your pages—above the fold—so users can interact without needing to scroll. Google rewards websites that prioritize usability.
Why Your Website Matters
Your website is more than just a digital storefront—it’s a foundational part of your local SEO strategy. By implementing these optimizations, you help Google associate your GBP with authoritative, relevant content, improving your chances of appearing in local search results.
Need Help?
Optimizing your website for local SEO can seem overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Contact Lift Local for expert guidance to ensure your website sets you up for success in your local SEO efforts.
With the right strategies in place, your website can become a powerful tool for driving local traffic and growing your business.