US contractors lack optimal SEO practices, study reveals
Recent research on 9,782 US contractors’ Business Profiles on Google pointed out substantial digital growth and potential areas for SEO improvement. Amazingly, 46% of the profiles studied had no detailed business description, negatively affecting their search engine visibility. To add to this, around 54% hadn’t claimed their Google My Business listing — a significant missed opportunity for enhancing online traffic.
The study also found that about 21% of these profiles do not contain a phone number, greatly hampering potential clients’ ability to reach the business. Moreover, roughly 32% did not list a business address, essentially making physical visits impossible for potential customers.
In a more hopeful turn, about 72% of the evaluated profiles had at least one review. This indicates that customers are interacting with the businesses and unveils opportunities for businesses to utilize user-generated content. The average star rating was a promising 4.2 out of 5, implying broad customer satisfaction with their services.
The study results emphasize the need for US contractors to prioritize optimizing their Google My Business Profiles. Engaging in local SEO can deliver significant benefits such as broadening online exposure, enhancing local reputation, attracting potential customers, and ultimately promoting sales.
The key conclusion of this study is to encourage contractors to take practical steps to boost their online visibility.
US contractors’ untapped potential for SEO optimization
They can achieve this by optimizing their digital assets and implementing local SEO strategies. Businesses should ensure all relevant company information is accurately and comprehensively listed, claim their Google My Business listing, and motivate customer reviews to bolster their online reputation. Just 8% of the highest-performing contractors have customer ratings of less than 4.0 stars, emphasizing the importance of maintaining customer satisfaction in today’s digital landscape.
Geographical variance is evident in online contractor performance. New Castle, DE, and Stamford, CT shine as superstars, while areas like Green River, WY, and Beatrice, NE require enhancements. The report details significant SEO issues among contractors, such as lack of an online presence and use of optimization tools. In spite of the challenges, certain sectors, including Retaining Wall Supplier, Insulation Contractor, and Asphalt Contractor, demonstrated high customer satisfaction levels, reinforcing the importance of fulfilling customer expectations for a strong online presence.
The report gives practical guidance for enhancing online visibility such as improved website design, positive reviews, optimization of website elements, and consistent local SEO practices. Quality service, strategic planning, and efficient analysis of website performance data are essential for maximizing search engine rankings and achieving the best outcomes for digital presence.
