Selecting the ideal business name is a key element of creating an effective local SEO strategy. Unfortunately, many businesses neglect to consider how keywords in their name may impact their Google local rankings. In this article, we’ll look at how much keywords in your name can affect your rankings on Google and offer tips for optimizing it for local search.
Google’s local search algorithm takes into account a variety of factors when ranking businesses in results, such as their relevance to the searcher and number and quality of online citations and reviews. Incorporating relevant keywords into your business name can improve visibility in local searches; however, make sure not to violate Google’s guidelines or appear spammy.
Google recommends businesses use their actual business name in their GMB profile and avoid including keywords or location information that isn’t part of the legal name. However, Google also understands common keywords in names, like “pizza” for a pizza restaurant; when considering keyword relevance to both the business and search query, Google takes into account relevance as well.
So, how much do keywords in your business name influence Google local rankings? While there’s no definitive answer, it is generally accepted that keywords can have an advantage for businesses in highly competitive markets or niches. It is however essential to use these words responsibly so as not to violate Google’s guidelines or appear spammy.
Here are some tips for optimizing your business name for local searches:
- Be certain to use your actual business name: It may be tempting to add keywords or location information into the title of your venture, but make sure that this name appears exactly as it does on legal documents.
- Include Relevant Keywords: If your business name naturally includes relevant terms, like “pizza” for a pizza restaurant, make sure to incorporate those into your GMB profile.
- Don’t overuse keywords: Limit your business name to using relevant words and avoid stuffing it with too many, as doing so may make your site appear spammy and may result in a penalty from Google.
- Focus on building high-quality citations and reviews: While including relevant keywords in your business name can improve visibility in local searches, it’s essential to also prioritize creating high-quality citations and reviews.
In conclusion, including relevant keywords in your business name can have a beneficial effect on your Google local rankings; however, it’s essential that you do so without violating Google’s guidelines or appearing spammy. Focus on providing high-quality products and services, building an impressive online presence, and optimizing your business name for local search to boost visibility in relevant results.
