Getting Listed at the Top of Google

If you’ve got a website for your CPA firm, congratulations. Websites for accountants are a vital tool for building up clients.

But how do you get your site listed at the top of a Google search? Search Engine Optimization, or SEO – the process of on-page and off-page work that places you higher in the organic search results – can take weeks or months to get results.

Google Local Listings Appear Above Organic Search Results

And if you’re not at the top of the search engines, chances are you won’t get the clients you want.

Don’t despair. There’s a quick and easy way to get your CPA website listed at the top of a Google listing – in just a few minutes.

Google Local Search

When searching for a local business, 82% of people use online search methods over traditional ones, like the Yellow Pages. CPAs stand to benefit from this over other businesses because clients want a local CPA – not one in the next state over or across the country.

Be where your prospective clients are looking. Sign up with Google Local Search.

When you sign up with Local Search, you’re listed above the organic search results. Only the sponsored listings – which are paid ads – rank higher.

It’s Easy to Get Listed

Google Local Search is the same as Google Maps.

You won’t be listed unless you have a gmail account – so sign up for one at gmail.google.com. It’s free!

Then check maps.google.com and look up your city. Search on your accounting firm and your location. If you aren’t listed, go to google.com/places and choose Add Your Business.

Tips for Sign-up

• Include a physical location, not a mailing address.
• Use a generic email, not a personal one.
• Include a short description. Use keywords and phrases that match typical searches – like “CPA,” “accounting,” or “tax preparation.”
• Upload photos of you, your staff, and your building.

Seek Out Reviews to List Higher

The downside to Google Local Search: Google only lists 10 local businesses – no matter how many there are in the area. In a city, it can be a challenge to stay within those 10.

This is where reviews come in. Any review will help your listing, whether positive or negative. Ask your clients, friends, and family to review you.

Get creative!

• Offer a coupon for a free consultation to anyone who writes you a review.
• Write the review and email it to your best clients, asking them to cut and paste.
• Offer to write a review for other local businesses if they write one for you.

Signing up with Google Local Search is a great way to get your CPA firm listed at the top of the search results.

And when you’re at the top of the listings, clients will find you – not your competitors.