Frequently asked questions
Do I need a website if I have a Google Business Profile?
Yes. While a GBP can get you calls, Google uses your website to "double-check" the facts of your business. Websites that load in under 2 seconds and have clear "Service Area" pages are 40% more likely to be cited in AI-generated search answers and maintain stable Map Pack rankings.
How long does it take to see results from Local SEO?
Typically, you will see initial improvement in rankings and "Map Pack" visibility within 8 to 12 weeks. While technical website fixes can have an immediate impact, building "Prominence" (reviews, local backlinks, and consistent GBP activity) is a compounding process that yields its best results after 6 months of consistency.
Is Local SEO different from "Traditional" SEO?
Yes. Traditional SEO focuses on ranking your website for broad, national terms. Local SEO is hyper-focused on geographic relevance and proximity. It prioritizes your Google Business Profile (GBP), local reviews, and "NAP" (Name, Address, Phone) consistency across local directories to ensure you show up when someone searches for a service "near me."
Does my business name on Google need to include my city or service?
No, and doing so can actually get you suspended. Google’s 2026 guidelines are strict: your GBP name must match your legal business name. To rank for your city or service, we use "Categories" and "Service Area" settings rather than "keyword stuffing" the title.
How often should I post updates to my Google Business Profile?
We recommend at least twice a week. Frequent activity is now a top-tier ranking signal. These posts don't need to be complex—seasonal tips, "job of the week" photos, or special offers are enough to signal to Google that your business is active and operational.
Do I need a perfect 5.0 rating to rank #1?
Surprisingly, no. A rating between 4.2 and 4.8 is often more effective. AI filters in 2026 sometimes flag "perfect" 5.0 ratings with zero negative feedback as suspicious. What matters more is Review Velocity (getting new reviews regularly) and your response rate.