Google claims over 70% of internet searches which means thousands of people are turning to Google each day to find the service you offer. Now the question is, if someone searches “insurance agent near me,” will your agency pop up? And if it does, how high is your ranking? 92% of searchers will choose a business from the top half of the first page of listing results… which means you want to do everything you can to rise to the top. Here are 3 easy steps on how you can start improving your rank.
1. Take our free online visibility report to find out how you’re doing.
The first step is to find out where you’re currently ranking. We have this great tool that provides a free online visibility report for your agency. Put in your business info, wait a few seconds for it to load and then get your results! It’s important to note your starting point so that you can track progress.
2. Understand how Google works.
So a little background info… Many think that searchers should automatically be able to find you through a quick Google search. Having a website with basic SEO just won’t cut it nowadays. You’ll also want to claim and optimize your Google My Business (GMB) account to increase your Google rank beyond the SEO basics.
It’s difficult to ensure that all information online related to your agency is accurate. By claiming your Google My Business listing, you get to have full control over the narrative and make info as accurate as possible. Optimizing your listing through your GMB account will also help you rank higher on Google. This in effect, can prevent inaccurate pages from being seen on the search engine results page, or SERPs.
3. Spend consistent time optimizing your listing.
Statistics show that most people who search on Google for an insurance agent are ready to buy. Plenty of potential customers, ready to buy, are out there looking for you. You just have to make it easy for them to find your agency. And optimizing your GMB listing is a great way to do it.
Optimizing your GMB account isn’t difficult, and the rewards are numerous. First, request and receive the GMB postcard in the mail. Second, follow the postcard directions and verify the listing. Third, make sure your listing is accurate. Any other optimization efforts are a waste of time and resources if potential customers are getting the wrong information right off the bat. Check that your GMB listing has the right address, website URL, category, services and phone number. All of this pertinent information tells the Google search algorithm that you operate a legit insurance agency that deserves to rank. Google’s main objective is to give searchers the most accurate and helpful results as possible.
Another major reason why you should take care to give Google accurate information on your listing, is that people are going to be using their mobile devices and voice assistant programs to search. Quite a few people will look up your GMB on the SERPs, then immediately call your location. The information on your listing must be accurate. If not, customers will get frustrated and move right on to the next insurance agent. Google usually knows the precise location of internet searchers. So when customers ask their mobile voice assistant, “insurance agency near me,” Google will direct them to a local insurance agent who is ranking highly on the SERPs.
Business Descriptions
Business descriptions are also essential when it comes to optimizing your GMB account. Use relevant keywords in your agency’s description that will help customers understand what types of insurance services your agency offers. Google will give you a max of 750 characters for the business description. Not sure what to put after you’ve added your services? Consider putting awards, or any other relevant information that will set you apart from your competitors. Only using 750 characters to describe your agency isn’t a lot so make it punchy, relevant and keyword-rich.
Services
Recently, Google added a service menu section to GMB listings. Before, this feature was solely dedicated to the restaurant industry where eateries could put menu items on their pages. But other businesses, including insurance agencies, can now take advantage of this feature. Plugin the different kinds of insurance services you offer here. This may be a little time intensive, but definitely worth it as it will help move you up the ranks on Google.
Photos
Adding photos and videos to your GMB listing will also help improve your rank. Visuals and videos can help entice customers to your agency, and also make your business seem more legitimate and robust. Use videos to convince customers that you offer the best insurance services around. These don’t have to be filmed in a professional studio, use your iphone to make high quality videos. Another great tip is to consider using photos of your office, both interior, and exterior. Exterior images can help people find your agency location, while interior photos can add weight to the company and make it look professional. Pictures and videos from work events and award ceremonies are also a good idea. People love visual material and it can really set you apart from your competition.
Reviews
Your agency’s reviews will also show up along with your GMB listing on the SERPs. People trust online reviews as much as a recommendation from a friend, and reviews can help cement a potential customer’s decision to contact you or visit your location. Ask your happy customers to leave a review on Google. You may need to follow up via different channels to get reviews. Most of the time, people forget, or they don’t understand how critical reviews are for your business, and you’ll want to follow-up.
Google Posts
If you’re looking for an under utilized, easy way to stand out from your local competition, use Google Posts on your GMB listing. Google’s algorithm takes into account all posts and will boost you up the ranks if your agency is posting relevant, consistent content. Google Posts are similar to Facebook posts. Think of posting pictures of recent company events, a new service you’re unveiling, or an office upgrade. We recommend posting industry articles and helpful home and auto tips for your current and potential customers.
Get Started
The internet has completely changed how people shop for insurance. In today’s competitive market, it’s critical that you leverage the power of Google to grow your clientele and increase your agency’s profits. At Lift Local, we love helping insurance agents rise above their local competition. We can help you claim and optimize your Google My Business listing for a greater online presence. In fact, we can even run the entire optimization process for you. Contact us today to request a demo from Lift Local. Or find out how you’re ranking through our online visibility report.