Recently, Google’s E-A-T principle (Expertise, Authority and Trustworthiness) has become a critical element of SEO strategy. E-A-T measures how well websites or businesses demonstrate their expertise, authority and trustworthiness within a topic or industry. For local businesses, conveying E-A-T can be challenging; however with the right strategies in place it’s possible to build an effective online presence and boost your website’s visibility in search results. Here are some creative tactics for local businesses to convey E-A-T:
- Create a Strong Reputation: Local businesses should prioritize building their reputation both online and offline. This involves investing in high-quality products and services, providing outstanding customer service, and creating an inviting brand image. Encourage customers to leave reviews on Google, Yelp, or other relevant platforms as proof of your business’ quality.
- Provide Expert Content: Producing expert content is a major element in demonstrating expertise. Local businesses can publish high-quality blog posts, videos, or other materials that showcase their knowledge and experience within their industry. For instance, landscaping businesses could create blog posts on seasonal plant care tips, lawn maintenance tricks, or other related topics related to their specialty.
- Get Involved with the Community: Local businesses can demonstrate authority and trustworthiness by becoming active participants in their local community. This could include sponsoring events, participating in service projects, or collaborating with other nearby businesses. By showing a dedication to their neighborhood, local businesses will build trust with potential customers.
- Showcase Your Team: Another way to demonstrate expertise and authority is by showcasing your team members. Local businesses can create a “Meet the Team” section on their website, where they introduce staff members and highlight their experience and qualifications. Doing this helps establish your business as an authoritative voice within its industry.
- Verified: Local businesses can take advantage of verification options available on various platforms. Google My Business, for instance, provides verification to businesses which involves Google verifying the legitimacy of a business. Verification helps build trust and credibility with potential customers by showing that you mean business.
- Leverage Social Media: Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram can be excellent tools for communicating E-A-T. Local businesses can use them to showcase their expertise, share relevant content and connect with their audience. A strong social presence helps establish a business as an authoritative voice within its industry.
In conclusion, local businesses can demonstrate excellence through a combination of building a solid reputation, providing expert content, getting involved in their community, showcasing their team members, getting verified, and using social media. By taking these steps, local businesses will become trusted authorities within their industry while improving their online visibility.
