Getting To Grips With SEO: Canterbury Businesses
In the charming city of Canterbury, home to the iconic cathedral, local businesses are constantly vying for attention. If you run a hotel here, you’re not just competing with other hotels but also ensuring that you’re visible to the throngs of tourists and visitors who flock to the city each year. This blog post is your guide to understanding how local SEO can make your hotel stand out. Whether you’re new to digital marketing or already have a robust strategy, there’s something here for you.
Google has become the go-to resource for almost anything these days, and that includes finding the perfect hotel. In the past decade, “near me” searches have surged, and you can’t afford to ignore this trend. For a hotel in a city like Canterbury, local SEO is crucial to drive more foot traffic. We’ll break down everything from optimising your Google Business Profile to getting listed in local directories, aiming to bring the digital crowd to your physical doorstep.
Understand Your Audience
Before diving into technical aspects, think about your audience. What kind of guests are you targeting? Are they history buffs interested in the Canterbury Cathedral or families visiting for a weekend? Knowing your audience will guide the kind of content you create and the platforms you use. For example, younger travellers might find you through Instagram, while an older demographic could be searching through traditional search engines. Understand their habits and tailor your strategies accordingly.
Optimise Your Google Business Profile
Your Google Business Profile is a free and powerful tool. If someone searches for hotels in Canterbury, you want to be among the top results. Ensure your profile has all the up-to-date information such as your contact details, location, and images of your hotel. Use high-quality photos and include your unique selling points. Consistency is key, so make sure your details match your website and any other listings.
Leverage Local Listings and Directories
Once your Google Business Profile is polished, get listed on other local directories. Think of websites specific to Canterbury tourism or best accommodation lists. They often have a localised focus and can boost your visibility. Online platforms like TripAdvisor and Yelp can also be extremely effective. Encourage satisfied guests to leave positive reviews, as recommendations play a significant role in decision-making processes.
Create Locally Relevant Content
Content is still king. To appeal to Canterbury’s market, create content that ties into the local culture and events. Blog about the best local spots to visit, what’s happening at the Canterbury Festival, or the best Kentish food to try. Share this content across your social media channels and encourage local engagement. If you host any events or tours, make sure to highlight them in your promotional content.
Build Local Links
Link-building remains a cornerstone of SEO strategies. In Canterbury, you might partner with a local restaurant, tourist attraction, or event organiser. This not only gives you a backlink but creates a synergy where you both promote each other. Reach out to local bloggers or local tourism websites to guest post or list your activities. Remember, authenticity matters, so only link with businesses that share similar values.
Mobile Optimisation is Essential
The world has gone mobile, and so should your website. Ensure your site is mobile-friendly, as searches on mobile devices have overtaken desktop in recent years. Google prioritises mobile-optimised websites, so aim for fast loading times and a user-friendly interface. Users are impatient and can easily switch to competitors if your site doesn’t meet their expectations.
Monitor and Analyse Your Progress
Digital marketing isn’t a one-off task. Use tools like Google Analytics to track where your website visitors are coming from and how they’re interacting with your site. Regularly assess how effective your strategies are and make changes where needed. A consistent review process will help you stay ahead and tweak your tactics for better results.
Engaging in SEO Management in Canterbury will not only boost your online presence but will also drive physical foot traffic to your hotel. Remember, it’s all about creating meaningful connections with your guests and offering them unique experiences in Canterbury. So, focus on local SEO to turn online searches into completed bookings.
