How Does Google Determine Relevance? (And How Do I Improve It)

Patrick McFadden

Whenever you need accurate information, going directly to the source is often the best strategy. That's why when it comes to understanding how Google determines relevance for local business profiles, it's crucial to consider what Google itself has to say. According to Google, "Relevance refers to how well a local Business Profile matches what someone is searching for. Add complete and detailed business information to help Google better understand your business and match your profile to relevant searches." In other words, for a search engine, relevance refers to the crucial factor that determines the significance of a map pack or webpage in relation to a user's search query.

Why Does Local Relevance Matter?

You might wonder why local relevance is so important. Well, local search results are primarily based on three factors: relevance, distance, and prominence. A combination of these elements determines the best match for a user's search. In certain cases, Google's algorithms might decide that a business located farther from a user's location is more likely to have what they're looking for compared to a business that's closer. As a result, the former might be ranked higher in local search results.

Factors Impacting Local Relevance

So, what factors influence local relevance? Again Google says, "businesses with complete and accurate information are easier to match with the right searches." This directly improves your business's relevance score. The key is to provide clear information about what your business does, its location, and its hours of operation to visitors and, more importantly, to Google.


To ensure that your business is viewed as relevant by search engines like Google, it's important to target keywords or topics that potential customers are likely to search for. For instance, if you run a kitchen remodeling company in Richmond VA, you'll want to ensure that your business is associated with keywords such as "kitchen contractor Richmond VA."


Let's list the factors that impact your local relevance:

  • Local Category Selection
  • Business Description
  • On-Page Signals:
  • Content
  • Title Tag, Meta Description
  • Body Tags (H1, H2, etc.)
  • Alt Text
  • Internal Linking
  • Outbound Links
  • Schema
  • Relevant Reviews
  • URL Structure
  • Off-Page Signals
  • Guest Posting
  • Creating 10x Content Pieces

Improving Your Search Relevance for Local Rankings on Google

So, how can you boost your relevance and improve your local ranking on Google?


Local Category Selection

One of the most important factors in ranking locally is selecting relevant categories for your listing. These categories are essentially tags that you associate with your business. You want to ensure that you only select categories that define your business — the more relevant or specific the better.


Examples:

  1. HVAC Repair Service: If your business specializes in fixing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, you should use the category "HVAC Contractor" instead of a broader category like "Contractor."
  2. Carpet Cleaning Company: If your company focuses on cleaning carpets, the category "Carpet Cleaning Service" would be more appropriate than a generic "Cleaning Service."
  3. Law Firm - Personal Injury: If your law firm specializes in personal injury cases, you should use the category "Personal Injury Attorney" rather than the more general "Law Firm."
  4. Tax Preparation Service: If your business offers tax preparation services, the category "Tax Preparation Service" would be more relevant than a general "Financial Consultant."


Dealing with seasonality

Seasonal shifts can have a significant impact on the services a business provides. For instance, an HVAC contractor might find themselves focusing more on air conditioning repairs in the hot summer months and shifting gears to furnace repairs when winter rolls in.


Adapting your primary category to align with these seasonal shifts is a savvy business practice. For instance, if a potential customer is on the hunt for a heating contractor, you certainly don't want them to encounter your business listing showcasing "air conditioning repair" as your primary category. This could happen if you neglect to update your category selection to reflect your current focus.


Moreover, by failing to update your category, you risk diminishing your business's relevance for a significant portion of the year when your service focus changes. So, it's essential to keep your category selection in sync with the seasonal changes in your business offerings.

Add a Business Description

By adding a description of your business to your GBP, you allow users to know exactly what you do (as well as search engines). This shouldn’t be salesy, or an attempt to market your business. Instead, it should give users (and search engines) the info they require to determine if your business matches their needs or intent.


Tips for Writing Your Google Business Profile Description

  • Tell the visitor what differentiates your business from your competitors
  • Include a brief history of your business if that’s appropriate (for example if you have recently reached a notable milestone such as X years in business)
  • Don’t add URLs/Links
  • No keyword stuffing
  • Include a call to action such as ‘Visit us today’
  • Don’t refer to sales or special offers (use Posts to communicate that kind of information)
  • DO NOT USE ALL CAPS
  • Include your business name, keyword, and location (naturally) in the first couple of lines. Google’s Vicinity update means keyword stuffing is no longer effective so don’t force multiple keywords into your description.
  • Write for your audience. Business description gives you a chance to allow your business’ personality to shine. The information you convey, and how you convey it should resonate with your target audience. 
  • Add social proof where possible.

On-Page Relevance Signals

Optimizing your web pages for specific keywords is crucial to enhancing your relevance and increasing the likelihood of being favored by Google's local algorithm. Through competitor research and result analysis, you can pinpoint exactly what search engines are looking for in relation to a specific search query or keyword.


We've compiled a list of on-page attributes below that are essential to consider when striving to boost relevance for a specific keyword or topic.


Content

Crafting your content effectively plays a pivotal role in determining whether it deserves to rank. A core algorithm update rolled out by Google in 2018 emphasized the importance of relevance in content. It's not about the length or quality of your content, but rather whether it is relevant to a user's search query. Pages with strong relevance to a keyword or topic experienced a boost in rankings.


Search engines are looking to see if your content aligns with the intent of the user's initial search query. Does it provide the answer they're searching for? Here are two strategies to enhance relevance while crafting your content:


  1. LSI Keywords: Including keywords that are semantically related to each other can enhance the relevance of your content for your target keyword or query. Search engines are adept at establishing connections between keywords and reward pages that do this effectively. Tip: Leverage Google's search predictor to assist you.
  2. Long Tail Keywords: Although these keywords are lengthier, they typically convert at a higher rate because they are more specific and descriptive. They add context to your content, which helps search engines determine if your page matches the user's search query context.


Title Tag

The title tag is your page's first impression, and it plays a crucial role in both search engine optimization and user experience. It's an excellent place to incorporate your target keyword and entice users to click through to your page. The title tag not only signals to search engines what your page is about but also communicates to users the topic of your content.


Meta Description

The meta description is your opportunity to expand upon your title tag and provide additional context about your page's content. Remember to include your target keyword to reinforce relevance. This snippet of text under the title tag in search results helps users decide whether your content is what they're looking for.


Body Tags (H1, H2, etc.)

Your content can be organized with headings, which not only help capture user attention but also enhance readability. Using descriptive headings that explain the content that follows is a best practice. The H1 tag is particularly important as it stands out most on a webpage. Search engines place significant weight on the text within these tags, making it a strategic place to include your keywords.


Alt Text

Visual content is crucial for user engagement, and images are a key part of that. When you add images, you can use alt text to describe what the image is. This not only helps search engines understand the content of your images, but it's also essential for accessibility. If you can, include keywords in the alt text that are relevant to the service or product the image represents.


Internal Linking

By creating internal links, you can guide users to other relevant pages on your site. This not only enhances user experience but also helps spread link equity and establish a hierarchy within your site. Use internal linking to bolster the relevance of a page by directing users to related content or pages that strengthen your main topic or keyword.


Outbound Links

Outbound links, or links to external websites, can be beneficial for your SEO strategy. They provide additional resources for your users, which can help with engagement and time on page. By linking to relevant and authoritative websites in your niche, you can help Google's local algorithm understand your chosen area of expertise.


Schema Markup

Schema is a type of structured data that you can add to your web pages. It helps search engines understand the context of your content, leading to more informative and rich search results. Implementing schema for relevant elements on your page can boost the relevance of your content for specific topics or keywords. Search engines can easily interpret schema, improving your chances of ranking higher in search results.


Relevant Reviews

The significance of relevant reviews can't be overstated. Not only do reviews influence rankings, but they also add contextual relevance to your page. If a page is about a specific product or service, the reviews on that page should be specific to that offering. By aligning reviews with the content of the page, you add another layer of relevance, which can help boost your standing in search results. It's also wise to display location-specific reviews on the corresponding sections of your website to boost local relevance.


URL Structure

How you structure your URLs speaks volumes to search engines about the content of your page. Your URL should succinctly reflect the topic of the page. A clean, well-structured URL can significantly improve the relevance of a page to a specific keyword or topic, making it easier for search engines to understand the context of your content.

Off-Page Relevance Signals


When it comes to ranking your website, trust and credibility are paramount. That's where off-page signals come into play, primarily in the form of backlinks. These are links from other websites that point to your site. The more quality backlinks you have, the more authority your website or webpage gains, signaling to search engines that your content is both trustworthy and credible. And when I say 'quality', I mean links from reputable sites that are relevant to the content they're linking to.


Take, for instance, a page about "car insurance". You'd want backlinks from pages related to insurance, and even better, from pages specifically about car insurance. A link from a "home insurance" page wouldn't be as beneficial because the topics don't quite align. Let me lay out a couple of stellar strategies for off-page link building.


Guest Posting

Guest posting is a fantastic way to build backlinks. It involves using specific Google search strings to find relevant guest posting opportunities, where you can share your knowledge and expertise. These opportunities are golden because they not only increase your website's authority but also its relevance.


Remember, standing out is key when reaching out to potential guest posting sites because you're not the only one knocking on their door. Make sure your initial message is compelling, showcasing what you or your business brings to the table, and provide multiple topic ideas to give them options.


Creating 10x Content Pieces

If you're aiming to be a link-building pro, leveraging your high-quality content is the way to go. Creating "10x content" (content that is ten times better than what's currently out there) requires a lot of effort and research, but trust me, the results are worth it.


Your content must be so good that it blows readers away. When your content is top-notch, promoting it becomes a breeze. Industry experts and site owners love linking to content that's valuable and relevant. The better your content, the more likely you are to earn backlinks.

Wrap up

In summary, understanding and optimizing your business's relevance in Google's local search is essential for attracting more customers. By providing complete and accurate business information, targeting relevant keywords, and following Google's guidelines, you can significantly improve your local ranking and increase your visibility to potential customers in your area.

By Patrick McFadden November 18, 2024
For commercial cleaning companies, Facebook Ads can be a game-changing lead-generation tool, but the strategy you use determines your success. One critical decision is whether to use Facebook lead forms or direct traffic to a landing page . Both methods have their strengths, and tailoring them to the cleaning industry can significantly improve results. This guide breaks down how to optimize these options, highlighting scenarios, tailored forms, and messaging strategies that resonate with businesses seeking cleaning services.  Option 1: Facebook Lead Forms Why Use Them? Facebook lead forms make it easy for users to submit information without leaving the platform. They autofill basic details like name and email, reducing friction and increasing submission rates. Advantages for Cleaning Companies: Low Barrier to Entry: Attract interest from businesses casually exploring cleaning services. Quick Information Capture: Ideal for getting basic details to start a conversation. Mobile-Friendly: Simplifies the process for users on mobile devices. Tailored Form Options for Cleaning Leads: To improve lead quality, include questions specific to commercial cleaning needs: Service Needs: "What cleaning services do you require?" (Options: Office Cleaning, Floor Care, Janitorial Services, Other) Facility Size: "What is the approximate square footage of your facility?" Frequency: "How often do you need cleaning services?" (Options: Daily, Weekly, Monthly, One-Time) Business Type: "What type of facility do you manage?" (Options: Office, Retail, Medical, Industrial, Other) Challenges: Lower Intent: Some leads may not be serious about hiring a cleaning service. Follow-Up Effort: Requires quick and effective follow-ups to qualify and convert leads. Best Practices: Use automation tools like chatbots or email sequences to engage leads immediately after submission. Pair the form with a compelling offer, such as a free facility cleaning evaluation or cost comparison analysis . Focus on trust-building elements, such as highlighting your background checks, training programs, or customer testimonials. Option 2: Landing Pages Why Use Them? Landing pages allow you to provide more detailed information about your cleaning services, differentiating your business and showcasing your expertise. Advantages for Cleaning Companies: Educates Prospects: Explain the benefits of your services, such as lower employee turnover, improved air quality, or cost savings. Higher Intent: Visitors who take the extra step to fill out a landing page form are more likely to be serious leads. Customization: Tailor landing pages to specific services like floor care or medical cleaning. Tailored Landing Page Content: A well-designed landing page for commercial cleaning should include: Headline: A benefit-driven statement like "Reliable Commercial Cleaning to Keep Your Business Running Smoothly." Visuals: Professional images of clean facilities or your team in action. Social Proof: Client testimonials and reviews from other businesses. CTA: Clear calls to action like “Schedule a Free Cleaning Consultation Today.” Form Fields: Ask for essential details such as business name, contact info, facility size, and cleaning frequency. Challenges: Higher Drop-Off Rates: The additional step of visiting a page may deter casual prospects. Cost Per Lead: Leads generated through landing pages may be more expensive, but they’re often higher quality. Best Practices: Optimize landing pages for mobile and ensure fast load times. Use benefit-driven messaging, such as “Lower Cleaning Costs with Our Efficient Team.” Highlight certifications or compliance standards, especially if you work with regulated industries like healthcare. Choosing Between Lead Forms and Landing Pages For One-Time Cleaning Projects: If you’re targeting businesses needing one-time or seasonal cleaning, such as post-construction or event cleanup, use Facebook lead forms . Highlight a specific offer, such as: “Need a spotless facility after your next event? Get a free estimate today!” For Ongoing Contracts: To attract businesses interested in regular cleaning services, such as daily office cleaning or weekly janitorial work, use landing pages . Create ads emphasizing long-term value, like: “Improve Employee Productivity with a Cleaner Workplace—Get a Free Cleaning Assessment.” Enhancing Your Facebook Ads Strategy Focus on Benefits, Not Just Features Businesses don’t just want cleaning—they want the outcomes. Highlight how your services solve problems, such as: Low Turnover Rates: “Keep your tenants happy with a clean and welcoming environment.” Cost Efficiency: “Save up to 20% on cleaning costs with our streamlined processes.” Health and Safety: “Protect your employees with eco-friendly cleaning solutions.” Build Trust with Visuals and Testimonials Trust is crucial for commercial cleaning. Include: Employee photos and videos showing your team at work. Testimonials structured around specific challenges you solved, such as: “Before hiring [Your Company], our floors always looked dull. Now, they sparkle, and our clients often compliment us!” Leverage Social Proof Highlight your positive reviews and share real stories of how you’ve helped businesses. For example: “XYZ Office struggled with inconsistent cleaning. After partnering with us, they’ve reduced employee sick days by 15%.” Use Retargeting Ads For users who visit your landing page but don’t convert, run retargeting ads featuring: Before-and-after images of cleaned facilities. Time-sensitive offers, like “Sign up for a monthly cleaning plan and get your first month free!” Automation and Follow-Up: Speed to Lead Whether you use lead forms or landing pages, quick follow-up is essential. Use tools like: Chatbots to respond immediately with questions about cleaning needs. Email Sequences to nurture leads over time, sharing tips and service highlights. CRM Systems to track and manage leads effectively. Tailor Your Strategy for Success For commercial cleaning companies, both Facebook lead forms and landing pages can generate valuable leads—but the right choice depends on your goals and target audience. Use lead forms for quick, high-volume lead capture and landing pages for more detailed, higher-quality prospects. By focusing on benefits, building trust, and following up quickly, you can turn Facebook Ads into a reliable lead-generation machine. Whether you’re targeting small offices or large facilities, this approach will help you attract the right clients and grow your business.
By Patrick McFadden November 12, 2024
The world of marketing can be overwhelming, especially when every agency claims they have the “secret sauce” to success. But after talking with a prospect who’d interviewed eight different firms, I saw firsthand the struggles businesses face in navigating this crowded market. Here are the hard truths we uncovered—and what you should know before choosing your next marketing partner. Truth #1: Most Firms Sell Tactics, Not Strategy “We’ll do blog posts, Facebook ads, and SEO for you every month!” It sounds enticing, right? But here’s the problem: too many marketing firms focus on selling tactics instead of explaining how those tactics fit into a bigger strategy. One firm told my prospect they’d handle “all the social media and blogging,” but never mentioned what they’d actually achieve through those actions. Uncovered Truth: Tactics alone won’t help your business grow. Look for an agency that can explain how their approach ties into a long-term strategy, rather than just listing what they’ll do. Truth #2: A Good Partner Asks Questions First In their interviews, my prospect experienced a range of approaches—from agencies that spent 90% of the call talking about themselves to others that actually listened. One firm didn’t even pause to ask about the prospect’s business goals before launching into their sales pitch. Uncovered Truth: A real marketing partner will ask thoughtful questions, listen to your unique challenges, and work to understand your goals before suggesting solutions. If they’re not asking questions, they’re not invested in your success. Truth #3: ‘Industry Specialization’ Can Be Overrated Specialized firms can be appealing—they know your industry, your competitors, your target audience. But when a prospect spoke to several industry-specific agencies, they found the same issue: these firms often rely on cookie-cutter templates instead of adapting to the unique needs of each client. Uncovered Truth: Industry experience is valuable, but it’s only useful if the firm tailors its approach to fit your specific goals. Beware of cookie-cutter solutions that may be designed to work “for everyone” but aren’t customized to work for you. Truth #4: Pricing Transparency Is a Must Most business owners would agree: transparency matters. But several firms gave my prospect little detail on pricing beyond a set monthly retainer and a vague description of services included. Worse, there was no clarity on how changes or add-ons would affect costs. Uncovered Truth: A trustworthy agency provides clear, upfront pricing and explains what’s included. They’re also open about any potential costs for additional services. If the price breakdown feels unclear or vague, it might be time to look elsewhere. Truth #5: Not All Engagement Metrics Are Created Equal One firm tried to impress my prospect with a plan to boost the time visitors spend on their website. But simply holding a visitor’s attention for longer doesn’t always translate to success. For example, a visitor spending more time on a contact page could indicate confusion rather than engagement. Uncovered Truth: The right engagement metrics should align with your goals. Choose a marketing partner who knows the difference and will prioritize meaningful metrics—like conversions and lead quality—that drive your business forward. Truth #6: Different Channels Work for Different Businesses  One of the most interesting insights the prospect uncovered was how certain marketing channels perform differently depending on the industry. For instance, visual, impulse-buy products (like custom closets) perform well on Facebook, where potential customers can see and act on a striking ad. Search ads might not convert as well for these products, as they aren’t usually something people look for proactively. Uncovered Truth: A smart marketing firm doesn’t rely on a one-size-fits-all approach to channels. They’ll recommend channels that match your audience and objectives, rather than pushing a pre-set package. Truth #7: The Best Marketing Firms Focus on Long-Term Success A lot of firms push quick wins or short-term gains, promising immediate boosts in traffic or followers. But real growth doesn’t come from quick fixes; it comes from strategic, sustainable efforts. One firm promised my prospect they’d “double traffic in two weeks,” but when asked about long-term plans, they had little to say. Uncovered Truth: Look for a partner who talks about long-term growth and sustainability, not just short-term boosts. An effective marketing strategy requires consistency and a long-term mindset. Final Takeaway: Choose Wisely, Choose Thoughtfully The prospect’s journey through eight marketing firms uncovered a harsh truth about the industry: the right partner isn’t always easy to find. But when you do, it can make all the difference. So, if you’re on the hunt for a marketing partner, remember these truths. Look for someone who listens, values transparency, focuses on long-term results, and understands that your business isn’t like anyone else’s. A true marketing partner will help you grow strategically, not just sell you a set of tactics. In the end, the search may take time—but finding the right partner is worth it.
By Patrick McFadden October 29, 2024
As the holiday season approaches, Christmas light contractors are gearing up for their busiest time of year. With high demand for professional holiday lighting services, it’s crucial to stand out and maximize your visibility. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, there are a few marketing strategies that can help you gain more customers and grow your business during this festive period.  In this blog post, we’ll explore two key marketing tips to help Christmas light contractors shine this holiday season.
More Posts
Share by: