{"id":11939,"date":"2024-12-23T15:46:27","date_gmt":"2024-12-23T15:46:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/"},"modified":"2024-12-23T15:46:27","modified_gmt":"2024-12-23T15:46:27","slug":"how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Do SEO for Contractors (5 Steps + Examples)"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>As a general contractor, you want a steady stream of customers for your business.<\/p>\n<p>What\u2019s a surefire way to get your business top-of-mind for potential clients?<\/p>\n<p>Make sure they can find you online through <a title=\"What is SEO? Search Engine Optimization In Plain English\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/what-is-seo\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">search engine optimization (SEO)<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>When someone in your local area searches for services like yours, you want your website at the top of the results. Specifically, you want to appear in the local pack (also called the map pack):<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google SERP \u2013 Contractor Pittsburgh\" alt=\"Google SERP \u2013 Contractor Pittsburgh\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.3514285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/google-serp-contractor-pittsburgh.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>In this guide, you\u2019ll learn all about SEO for contractors, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>How SEO can help you attract more leads<\/li>\n<li>A four-step plan for getting started<\/li>\n<li>Ways to measure your results<\/li>\n<li>Reasons you might consider hiring a pro<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Let\u2019s dive in.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_81 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Why_Contractors_Need_SEO\" >Why Contractors Need SEO<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#How_Does_SEO_for_Contractors_Work\" >How Does SEO for Contractors Work?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Step-by-Step_Guide_to_Contractor_SEO\" >Step-by-Step Guide to Contractor SEO<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Step_1_Optimize_Your_Local_Profiles\" >Step 1: Optimize Your Local Profiles<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Create_a_Google_Business_Profile\" >Create a Google Business Profile<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#List_Your_Business_in_Local_Directories\" >List Your Business in Local Directories<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Get_More_Reviews_for_Your_Services\" >Get More Reviews for Your Services<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Keep_Your_NAP_Information_Consistent\" >Keep Your NAP Information Consistent<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Step_2_Do_Targeted_Keyword_Research\" >Step 2: Do Targeted Keyword Research<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Understand_Keywords_and_Intent_Types\" >Understand Keywords and Intent Types<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Use_Keyword_Research_Tools\" >Use Keyword Research Tools<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Step_3_Build_a_High-Quality_Optimized_Contractor_Website\" >Step 3: Build a High-Quality, Optimized Contractor Website<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Write_a_Catchy_and_Effective_Headline\" >Write a Catchy (and Effective) Headline<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Do_On-Page_SEO\" >Do On-Page SEO<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Optimize_for_Speed\" >Optimize for Speed<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Use_Internal_Links\" >Use Internal Links<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Include_Social_Proof\" >Include Social Proof<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Step_4_Create_High-Quality_Content\" >Step 4: Create High-Quality Content<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Research_Your_Intended_Topic\" >Research Your Intended Topic<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Analyze_Your_Competitors\" >Analyze Your Competitors<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Create_a_Content_Calendar\" >Create a Content Calendar<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Use_These_Content_Ideas_for_Contractors\" >Use These Content Ideas for Contractors<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Success_Stories\" >Success Stories<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#DIY_Guides\" >DIY Guides<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Expert_Recommendations\" >Expert Recommendations<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#FAQs\" >FAQs<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Video_Walkthroughs\" >Video Walkthroughs<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Step_5_Use_Link_Building_to_Increase_Your_Websites_Authority\" >Step 5: Use Link Building to Increase Your Website\u2019s Authority<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Focus_on_Your_Local_Audience\" >Focus on Your Local Audience<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Publish_Shareable_Content\" >Publish Shareable Content<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Try_Guest_Blogging\" >Try Guest Blogging<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Use_Link_Reclamation\" >Use Link Reclamation<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Choose_the_Right_Backlink_Opportunities\" >Choose the Right Backlink Opportunities<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#How_to_Measure_Your_SEO_Performance_as_a_Contractor\" >How to Measure Your SEO Performance as a Contractor<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Keyword_Rankings\" >Keyword Rankings<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Organic_Search_Traffic\" >Organic Search Traffic<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-37\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Backlinks_and_Website_Authority\" >Backlinks and Website Authority<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-38\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Leads_and_Conversions\" >Leads and Conversions<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-39\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Hiring_an_Agency_vs_DIY_SEO_for_Contractors\" >Hiring an Agency vs. DIY SEO for Contractors<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-40\" href=\"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/2024\/12\/23\/how-to-do-seo-for-contractors-5-steps-examples\/#Get_More_Clients_with_Local_SEO\" >Get More Clients with Local SEO<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Contractors_Need_SEO\"><\/span>Why Contractors Need SEO<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Done right, SEO makes your contracting business more visible online. Increasing your online visibility can boost your brand awareness and attract more customers.<\/p>\n<p>Just look at <a title=\"Downtown Air and Heat\" href=\"https:\/\/downtown-air.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Downtown Air<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>My team launched an SEO campaign for them to rank them for important keywords that their prospects are searching:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Downtown Air \u2013 SEO campaign\" alt=\"Downtown Air \u2013 SEO campaign\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.94\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/downtown-air-seo-campaign.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>This drives valuable traffic to their site.<\/p>\n<p>But more importantly, that traffic gets them hundreds of phone calls and form submissions every month.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Site traffic report\" alt=\"Site traffic report\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.35818181818182\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/site-traffic-report.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>So, SEO can drive tangible results for contractors. Let\u2019s look at how it does this.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Does_SEO_for_Contractors_Work\"><\/span>How Does SEO for Contractors Work?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>When people want to find a product or service, they often type in a keyword or a phrase on search engines like Google. In fact, this is how <a title=\"Here&#039;s Where Consumers Get Info About Local Businesses - Marketing Charts\" href=\"https:\/\/www.marketingcharts.com\/cross-media-and-traditional\/local-and-small-biz-232363#:~:text=Eight%20in%2010%20US%20consumers,a%20report%20from%20SOCi.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">72% of consumers<\/a> find information about local businesses.<\/p>\n<p>For example, someone might go to Google and search \u201ckitchen remodelers in Los Angeles.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The businesses that appear on the first page of Google for that keyword are doing their SEO right.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google SERP \u2013 Kitchen remodelers in Los Angeles\" alt=\"Google SERP \u2013 Kitchen remodelers in Los Angeles\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.3742857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/google-serp-kitchen-remodelers-in-los-angeles.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>But how does a business show up on the first page?<\/p>\n<p>There are many <a title=\"Google\u2019s 200 Ranking Factors: The Complete List (2024)\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/google-ranking-factors\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">ranking factors<\/a>, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>The quality of your pages and content<\/li>\n<li>How many other, high-quality pages link to yours<\/li>\n<li>How fast your website loads and how responsive it is<\/li>\n<li>Your website\u2019s structure and security<\/li>\n<li>Your user experience<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Google takes these factors (and more) into consideration when ranking results.<\/p>\n<p>And following SEO best practices lets you optimize your site for these factors, boosting your website\u2019s performance.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step-by-Step_Guide_to_Contractor_SEO\"><\/span>Step-by-Step Guide to Contractor SEO<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>There are countless optimizations you can make as part of your overall strategy.<\/p>\n<p>But for contractors in particular, these are the most important steps to follow.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_1_Optimize_Your_Local_Profiles\"><\/span>Step 1: Optimize Your Local Profiles<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>For contractors, local SEO is typically where you should spend a lot of your efforts.<\/p>\n<p>After all, you\u2019re trying to capture the attention of would-be customers in your service area.<\/p>\n<p>Building out your online profiles is a huge part of local SEO.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s how to nail it:<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Create_a_Google_Business_Profile\"><\/span>Create a Google Business Profile<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>To make your business more visible to local searchers, make (or claim) a <a title=\"Google My Business: The Business Profile Playbook \ud83c\udfec\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/google-business-profile-guide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Google Business Profile (GBP)<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>This helps your business appear in search results like this:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google Maps \u2013 Constructors Las Vegas\" alt=\"Google Maps \u2013 Constructors Las Vegas\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.82857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/google-maps-constructors-las-vegas.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>GBP is a free service that lists your business name, address, and phone number (known as \u201cNAP\u201d) on Google. Along with other information like your opening hours (and you can even add posts too).<\/p>\n<p>It also means people can leave reviews about your service.<\/p>\n<p>That overall review rating will appear on your GBP listing, and <a title=\"How to improve your local ranking on Google - Google Business Profile Help\" href=\"https:\/\/support.google.com\/business\/answer\/7091\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Google uses<\/a> review count and rating for ranking local search results. So, having a positive presence through your GBP can help improve your visibility in relevant search results.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"List_Your_Business_in_Local_Directories\"><\/span>List Your Business in Local Directories<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Build an even stronger online presence by listing your business in local directories outside of your GBP. Yelp, Yellow Pages, Bing Places, and Angi are all good places to start.<\/p>\n<p>These free directories help you reach people who aren\u2019t using Google Search to find your site.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Yelp \u2013 Remodeling contractors\" alt=\"Yelp \u2013 Remodeling contractors\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.0814285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/yelp-remodeling-contractors.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Get_More_Reviews_for_Your_Services\"><\/span>Get More Reviews for Your Services<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Positive reviews make it easier for your target audience to trust you.<\/p>\n<p>They can make you appear more trustworthy to search engine algorithms too.<\/p>\n<p>Here are a few tips to get more reviews:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>When you complete a job, show your client a scannable QR code that links to your Google review page<\/li>\n<li>Include a link to your Google review page on your invoice<\/li>\n<li>Send an email or text thanking your clients for hiring you, and ask them to leave a review<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Keep_Your_NAP_Information_Consistent\"><\/span>Keep Your NAP Information Consistent<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Your business likely has NAP citations all over the place.<\/p>\n<p>Your name, address, and phone number appear on your website, your GBP, and every directory you\u2019re listed in.<\/p>\n<p>Google looks for consistency here so that it can show the right information to users in search results.<\/p>\n<p>Even small inconsistencies (like whether you used \u201cave\u201d or \u201cavenue\u201d in your address) can hurt your search rankings.<\/p>\n<p>Plus, you want your would-be customers to be able to reach you. And if your listings show the wrong phone number, they won\u2019t be able to.<\/p>\n<p>Let\u2019s take San Diego-based contractor TR Construction as an example.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s the company\u2019s Google Business Profile:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Google Maps \u2013 TR Construction\" alt=\"Google Maps \u2013 TR Construction\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.1671428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/google-maps-trconstruction.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Here they are on Yelp:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Yelp \u2013 TR Construction profile\" alt=\"Yelp \u2013 TR Construction profile\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.79714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/yelp-trconstruction-profile.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>And here they are in the Yellow Pages:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Yellow Pages \u2013 TR Construction\" alt=\"Yellow Pages \u2013 TR Construction\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.67571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/yellowpages-trconstruction.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Their details are consistent across all three.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Pro tip:<\/strong> Use \u200cthe Semrush <a title=\"Listing Management by Semrush - Visibility Where You Need It Most\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/listings-management\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Listing Management<\/a> tool to check that your NAP details are correct across all your listings.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>TR Construction\u2019s NAP is consistent across three of its listings, but there\u2019s an error in one (Opendi).<\/p>\n<p>\u200b\u200bThere are also several directories where the company has no NAP at all.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Semrush \u2013 Listings Management \u2013 TR Construction\" alt=\"Semrush \u2013 Listings Management \u2013 TR Construction\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.86428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-listings-management-trconstruction.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Tools like this can make it super easy to stay on top of this crucial aspect of contractor SEO.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_2_Do_Targeted_Keyword_Research\"><\/span>Step 2: Do Targeted Keyword Research<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Including keywords (the <a title=\"Search Terms: What They Are and How to Use Them\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/search-terms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">search terms<\/a> your potential customers type into Google) in your content can increase your chances of ranking for those terms.<\/p>\n<p>But you can\u2019t just stuff keywords into your content and call it a day.<\/p>\n<p>Keyword stuffing is against <a title=\"Spam Policies for Google Web Search | Google Search Central | Documentation\" href=\"https:\/\/developers.google.com\/search\/docs\/essentials\/spam-policies\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Google\u2019s spam policies<\/a>. So your rankings can suffer A LOT if you do this.<\/p>\n<p>Instead, figure out how to weave effective keywords naturally into your content.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s how:<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Understand_Keywords_and_Intent_Types\"><\/span>Understand Keywords and Intent Types<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Different keywords have different motivations behind them. This is known as \u201c<a title=\"Search Intent and SEO: A Complete Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/hub\/seo\/search-intent\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">search intent<\/a>.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The four main types of search intent are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Navigational:<\/strong> When someone is looking for a specific brand or website (\u201cTR Construction\u201d)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Informational:<\/strong> When someone wants to know something about a topic (\u201cwhat is a general contractor?\u201d)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Commercial:<\/strong> When someone is considering buying a product or paying for a service (\u201cbest general contractors in New York\u201d)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Transactional:<\/strong> When someone is ready to contact a business for a specific purpose (\u201cbathroom remodeler near me\u201d)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>As a contractor with a service to sell, you typically want to focus on commercial and transactional keywords. These are the ones people use when they\u2019re ready or almost ready to buy.<\/p>\n<p>Include these keywords in various places across your site.<\/p>\n<p>Automatic Doorz provides a good example.<\/p>\n<p>See how they\u2019ve included the phrase \u201cgarage door company in Maryland\u201d on the homepage?<\/p>\n<p>That keyword has commercial intent. The company wants to attract visitors who are ready to hire them.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Automatic Doorz \u2013 Homepage\" alt=\"Automatic Doorz \u2013 Homepage\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.64857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/automaticdoorz-homepage.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>You can also use transactional keywords in your calls to action (CTAs).<\/p>\n<p>Like Reborn Home Solutions\u2019 \u201crequest a design consultation\u201d CTA:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Reborn Cabinets \u2013 Homepage\" alt=\"Reborn Cabinets \u2013 Homepage\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.78428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/reborncabinets-homepage.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>But not every search is going to be commercial or transactional.<\/p>\n<p>You can also attract searchers who are just starting to explore services like yours by targeting informational keywords.<\/p>\n<p>Blog posts are great for this.<\/p>\n<p>For example, Apex Window Werks describes a window problem that a lot of homeowners have:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Apex Window Werks \u2013 Homepage\" alt=\"Apex Window Werks \u2013 Homepage\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.54285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/apexwindowwerks-homepage.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Searchers who find that article will appreciate the information Apex Window Werks shared.<\/p>\n<p>And with any luck, they\u2019ll remember Apex Window Werks next time they decide to hire a pro. (Or they might even click the big \u201cGet a Free Estimate\u201d CTA button at the top.)<\/p>\n<p>Okay, so you know what type of keywords to target. But how do you find them?<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Use_Keyword_Research_Tools\"><\/span>Use Keyword Research Tools<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>There are lots of tools for finding keywords. (Backlinko even has its own <a title=\"Free Keyword Generator Tool (Get 1,000s of Keyword Ideas)\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/tools\/keyword-generator\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">free keyword generator<\/a>.)<\/p>\n<p>Some of the most popular include Google Keyword Planner and <a title=\"Keyword Generator by Semrush\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/analytics\/keywordmagic\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Semrush\u2019s Keyword Magic Tool<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>These tools can provide you with lots of helpful metrics for each keyword they find. This helps you prioritize them by which ones are likely to get the best results for your business.<\/p>\n<p>These include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Search volume<\/strong> (how many people search for that term each month)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Keyword difficulty<\/strong> (how hard it\u2019ll be to rank for that keyword)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Search intent<\/strong> (the reason behind the user\u2019s search)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>With a tool like Semrush, you can even enter your domain name to get personalized metrics. Like your potential traffic if you ranked for that term, and how difficult it\u2019ll be for your website to rank for it.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Keyword Magic Tool \u2013 General contractor Miami \u2013 Keywords\" alt=\"Keyword Magic Tool \u2013 General contractor Miami \u2013 Keywords\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.96714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/keyword-magic-tool-general-contractor-miami-keywords.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>When you first start doing contractor SEO, you likely want to target keywords with high search volume and low difficulty.<\/p>\n<p>These keywords attract a decent number of searchers, but there\u2019s not much (great) content to compete with.<\/p>\n<p>Ranking for these keywords is therefore more achievable and likely to pay off. (Although you\u2019ll still need to create <a title=\"Quality SEO Content: The QRIES Approach for Better Rankings\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/quality-seo-content\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">high-quality content<\/a>.)<\/p>\n<p>Keyword research tools make it easier to find these keywords. They eliminate the guesswork and help you make data-driven choices.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Note:<\/strong> A free Semrush account gives you 10 searches in the Keyword Magic Tool per day. Or you can use this link to access a <a title=\"Backlinko &amp; Semrush: 14-day PRO Trial\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/lp\/backlinko-offer\/en\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">14-day trial on a Semrush Pro subscription<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-note.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_3_Build_a_High-Quality_Optimized_Contractor_Website\"><\/span>Step 3: Build a High-Quality, Optimized Contractor Website<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Getting people to see your webpage appear in search results is one thing. Getting them to actually visit your site and contact you is another.<\/p>\n<p>You want to give people a good impression of your business when they visit your site. You do this by making it easy for them to find the information they need. Or teaching them something valuable that they can use.<\/p>\n<p>That way, they\u2019re more likely to think of you when they do decide to hire a contractor.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s how to optimize your website to leave a good impression and convert more visitors into customers:<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Write_a_Catchy_and_Effective_Headline\"><\/span>Write a Catchy (and Effective) Headline<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Your headline should showcase your unique selling proposition.<\/p>\n<p>Write something that will set you apart from other contractors. This helps potential customers understand why they should hire you for their contractor work.<\/p>\n<p>Ask yourself: What sets your company apart?<\/p>\n<p>Is it decades of experience? Excellent customer service? Affordable prices?<\/p>\n<p>Whatever it is, make it clear on your homepage.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s what MSCS Inc. did:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"MSCS Inc \u2013 Homepage\" alt=\"MSCS Inc \u2013 Homepage\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.45142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/mscsinc-homepage.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Their focus is on \u201cstate of the art hardwood flooring\u201d and it\u2019s instantly clear when you land on the site.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_On-Page_SEO\"><\/span>Do On-Page SEO<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Doing on-page SEO means improving the content on your individual webpages.<\/p>\n<p>That way, they\u2019re more likely to rank higher in search results.<\/p>\n<p>Optimize key elements like:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Keyword placement:<\/strong> Place keywords in title tags, meta descriptions, header tags, and naturally throughout your pages<\/li>\n<li><strong>Meta tags:<\/strong> Write short, descriptive title tags and meta descriptions so people (and search engines) know what the page is about<\/li>\n<li><strong>URL:<\/strong> Use descriptive URLs that incorporate relevant keywords<\/li>\n<li><strong>Page structure:<\/strong> Use headings, subheadings, and bullet points to organize your content<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Also create separate pages for each of your services. This way, you optimize pages for the specific services you offer, rather than trying to rank one broad page for lots of different terms.<\/p>\n<p>For example, create dedicated service pages for remodeling, new construction, and maintenance.<\/p>\n<p>Like this roofing company, which has separate pages for replacements, storm damage repair, rejuvenation, and solar projects.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Secured Roofing &amp; Solar \u2013 Homepage\" alt=\"Secured Roofing &amp; Solar \u2013 Homepage\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.71285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/securedroofingandsolar-homepage.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Bonus:<\/strong> Consider your service areas too.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-tip.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>If you serve multiple cities within a state, create dedicated pages for each location.<\/p>\n<p>This way, Google can serve the most relevant page to users based on the specific area they\u2019re in.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Optimize_for_Speed\"><\/span>Optimize for Speed<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The slower your pages load, the more likely your users are to leave (or \u201cbounce\u201d).<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__visual-chart backlinko-image\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Slower page load speed equals higher bounce rates\" alt=\"Slower page load speed equals higher bounce rates\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.51428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/slower-page-load-speed-equals-higher-bounce-rates.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Use free tools like <a title=\"PageSpeed Insights\" href=\"https:\/\/pagespeed.web.dev\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">PageSpeed Insights<\/a> to run speed tests on your site.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"PageSpeed Insights \u2013Performance \u2013 Finn\" alt=\"PageSpeed Insights \u2013Performance \u2013 Finn\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.83428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/11\/pagespeed-insights-performance-finn.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Large image files, poorly optimized code, and long server response times can slow your site down.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Further reading:<\/strong> <a title=\"Technical SEO: The Ultimate Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/technical-seo-guide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Technical SEO: The Definitive Guide<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Use_Internal_Links\"><\/span>Use Internal Links<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Internally linking your webpages to one another makes it easier for search engines to crawl and index your website.<\/p>\n<p>Start by linking to important pages (like your \u201cContact Us\u201d page) from your homepage.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Robert Carpentry \u2013 Get in touch button\" alt=\"Robert Carpentry \u2013 Get in touch button\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.62857142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/robertcarpentry-get-in-touch-button.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Then, place key pages (like your service pages) in the footer.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Columbus Handyman \u2013 Service pages in the footer\" alt=\"Columbus Handyman \u2013 Service pages in the footer\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.63285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/columbushandyman-service-pages-in-the-footer.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>In your content, write descriptive anchor text (the text that contains a link).<\/p>\n<p>Instead of writing \u201cclick here,\u201d use more descriptive text. Like \u201cLearn more about White Castle Roofing\u201d:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"White Castle Roofing \u2013 CTA\" alt=\"White Castle Roofing \u2013 CTA\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.40714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/whitecastleroofing-cta.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Also add internal links between your blog posts.<\/p>\n<p>The Kitchen Cabinet Guys did that well here, linking from an article about kitchen cabinets to one about picking kitchen hardware:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Kitchen Cabinet Guys \u2013 Internal links\" alt=\"Kitchen Cabinet Guys \u2013 Internal links\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.84461538461538\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/kitchencabinetguys-internal-links.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Include_Social_Proof\"><\/span>Include Social Proof<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Social proof helps show potential customers why they should trust your contracting business.<\/p>\n<p>It could be customer testimonials, trust badges, and even awards you\u2019ve received.<\/p>\n<p>They show that people have used your services in the past and are satisfied.<\/p>\n<p>Silverado Construction Services uses its homepage to show its awards. This helps build trust and confidence with the company\u2019s prospective customers.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Silverado Construction Services \u2013 Awards\" alt=\"Silverado Construction Services \u2013 Awards\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.73285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/silveradoconstruct-awards.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_4_Create_High-Quality_Content\"><\/span>Step 4: Create High-Quality Content<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>A huge part of optimizing your website is creating quality content for your audience\u2014and including the search terms they use within it.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s how to do it:<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Research_Your_Intended_Topic\"><\/span>Research Your Intended Topic<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>One quick way to come up with content is to base it on your target keywords.<\/p>\n<p>Let\u2019s say you want to show up for the keyword \u201ckitchen remodeling.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>You could write blog posts like \u201cHow to Prepare for a Kitchen Remodeling,\u201d or \u201c10 Kitchen Remodeling Mistakes.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>In the example below, the Kitchen Cabinet Guys probably want to show up for the term \u201cKitchen Cabinet Refacing Providers in Chicago.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>So the website features a blog post that naturally incorporates the keyword:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Kitchen Cabinet Guys \u2013 Blog post incorporates the keyword\" alt=\"Kitchen Cabinet Guys \u2013 Blog post incorporates the keyword\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.74571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/kitchencabinetguys-blog-post-incorporates-the-keyword.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Tools like Semrush\u2019s <a title=\"Topic Research: Topic Finder Tool for Finding Content Ideas | Semrush\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/topic-research\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Topic Research<\/a> can also help you come up with content ideas.<\/p>\n<p>Simply enter a topic into the text field and click \u201c<strong>Get content ideas<\/strong>\u201d to start.<\/p>\n<p>As an example, we entered \u201ckitchen remodeling.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>We get a bunch of content ideas, along with search volumes, difficulty scores, related questions, and more:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Topic Research \u2013 Kitchen remodeling \u2013 Details\" alt=\"Topic Research \u2013 Kitchen remodeling \u2013 Details\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.75571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/topic-research-kitchen-remodeling-details.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Analyze_Your_Competitors\"><\/span>Analyze Your Competitors<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Make a list of your competitors and study their content.<\/p>\n<p>Ask yourself the following questions:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>What types of content do they publish?<\/li>\n<li>What topics get a lot of engagement?<\/li>\n<li>Is there anything they\u2019re doing that you can do better?<\/li>\n<li>Are there opportunities they\u2019re missing that you could snap up?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Looking carefully at your competitors\u2019 strategies can help you define your own.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Further reading:<\/strong> <a title=\"How to Conduct an SEO Competitor Analysis [Comprehensive]\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/seo-competitor-analysis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">How to Conduct an SEO Competitor Analysis<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Create_a_Content_Calendar\"><\/span>Create a Content Calendar<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Once you have a list of content to create, organize it and plan out where and when you\u2019ll publish it. \u200c<\/p>\n<p>You can use a simple spreadsheet for this. Like our <a title=\"Content Calendar Template\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/templates\/marketing\/content-calendar\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">free content calendar template<\/a>:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Content Calendar Template\" alt=\"Content Calendar Template\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.42\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/11\/content-calendar-template.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Or use tools like CoSchedule, Buffer, or <a title=\"Planning Your Social Media Posts in an Interactive Calendar\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/kb\/768-planning-social-media-posts\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Semrush Social<\/a>:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Semrush \u2013 Social Calendar\" alt=\"Semrush \u2013 Social Calendar\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.56142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/semrush-social-calendar.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>These tools are especially useful if you collaborate with others to create content. Or if you plan to post your content on multiple social media channels.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Use_These_Content_Ideas_for_Contractors\"><\/span>Use These Content Ideas for Contractors<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Here are some ideas to get you started on writing content for your contractor website:<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Success_Stories\"><\/span>Success Stories<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Share projects that you\u2019re proud of and that your clients love by using a before-and-after format or sharing a case study.<\/p>\n<p>The key is to show your readers the quality of your work and the level of satisfaction you provide to your clients.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Kitchen Design Solutions \u2013 Case studies\" alt=\"Kitchen Design Solutions \u2013 Case studies\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.88428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/kitchendesignsolutions-case-studies.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"DIY_Guides\"><\/span>DIY Guides<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>DIY guides can be super helpful for your audience. And they\u2019re a great way to show readers that you know what you\u2019re talking about.<\/p>\n<p>Examples of DIY post ideas include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>How to choose a flooring material for your kitchen<\/li>\n<li>How to plan a kitchen remodel<\/li>\n<li>How to child-proof your living room<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Expert_Recommendations\"><\/span>Expert Recommendations<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>People want to learn from experts.<\/p>\n<p>And as an experienced contractor, you can help people understand how to confidently choose a service provider (like you).<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s an example from Oregon-based contractor, Mountainwood Homes:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Mountainwood Homes \u2013 How to pick a home remodeler\" alt=\"Mountainwood Homes \u2013 How to pick a home remodeler\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.1428571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/mountainwoodhomes-how-to-pick-a-home-remodeler.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>They wrote about the process of choosing a home remodeler.<\/p>\n<p>That\u2019s <strong>definitely<\/strong> a topic they\u2019re qualified to talk about. And it\u2019s likely that some readers of that page turn into customers.<\/p>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs\"><\/span>FAQs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>You can easily add frequently asked questions (FAQs) to your content. Use these to provide short, helpful answers to common questions about your contractor services.<\/p>\n<p>Or create a dedicated FAQ page.<\/p>\n<p>For example, Rosebud Construction\u2019s FAQ page highlights their specialty, which is building decks.<\/p>\n<p>The company uses this page to answer the most common questions they get about their services.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Rosebud Construction \u2013 Homepage\" alt=\"Rosebud Construction \u2013 Homepage\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.78285714285714\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/rosebudconstruction-homepage.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Video_Walkthroughs\"><\/span>Video Walkthroughs<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p>Another good option for contractors is to show a finished project using videos.<\/p>\n<p>Talk about how you did it, what challenges you faced, and how you achieved the end result.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Mitchell Construction Group \u2013 Watch the video\" alt=\"Mitchell Construction Group \u2013 Watch the video\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.72714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/mitchcogroup-watch-the-video.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>Seeing real contracting projects come to completion can be a powerful way to win over new clients who like what they see.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Step_5_Use_Link_Building_to_Increase_Your_Websites_Authority\"><\/span>Step 5: Use Link Building to Increase Your Website\u2019s Authority<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><a title=\"Link Building: The Definitive SEO Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/link-building\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Link building<\/a>, an integral part of off-page SEO, involves getting <strong>other sites<\/strong> to link back to <strong>yours<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<p>These are called backlinks.<\/p>\n<p>Quality backlinks from relevant, reputable sources can signal to search engines like Google that your website is trustworthy. This can improve your rankings and increase your visibility.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s how you can add link building to your contractor SEO strategy:<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Focus_on_Your_Local_Audience\"><\/span>Focus on Your Local Audience<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>People looking for contractors generally look in their own local area.<\/p>\n<p>They might also read local blogs and news publications from their own city or town.<\/p>\n<p>For example, this article was published by San Diego\u2019s 10 News. It shares expert advice from Murray Lampert, who owns a home remodeling firm in the city.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"San Diegos 10News \u2013 Published article \u2013 Home renovations\" alt=\"San Diegos 10News \u2013 Published article \u2013 Home renovations\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.91142857142857\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/sandiegos10news-published-article-home-renovations.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>These kinds of media features can be GREAT sources of quality backlinks.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Publish_Shareable_Content\"><\/span>Publish Shareable Content<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Create content that is useful and insightful enough that people want to share it.<\/p>\n<p>Think beautiful interior designs, industry trends, unique hacks, and even expert opinions about a relevant current event.<\/p>\n<p>For example, The Spruce creates galleries with home design ideas. From each one, it links back to contracting companies that worked on the actual design.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"The Spruce \u2013 Historic paint colors \u2013 Link\" alt=\"The Spruce \u2013 Historic paint colors \u2013 Link\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.0357142857143\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/thespruce-historic-paint-colors-link.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Try_Guest_Blogging\"><\/span>Try Guest Blogging<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Another way to get quality backlinks to your site is to write <a title=\"Guest Blogging: The Definitive Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/the-definitive-guide-to-guest-blogging\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">guest posts<\/a> for other websites.<\/p>\n<p>You can start your link-building outreach by researching websites to pitch your content to. Then, reach out to the owner or editor.<\/p>\n<p>As long as you offer relevant and valuable content that benefits their audience, there\u2019s a chance they\u2019ll link back to you.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Use_Link_Reclamation\"><\/span>Use Link Reclamation<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Search for mentions of your company online that don\u2019t currently link back to your site, like the one below.<\/p>\n<p>Reach out and request the website owner add a link where the text already is.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Qualified Remodeler \u2013 Article \u2013 Link reclamation\" alt=\"Qualified Remodeler \u2013 Article \u2013 Link reclamation\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.67846153846154\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/qualifiedremodeler-article-link-reclamation.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>These are great opportunities because the other site is already talking about your service. So they\u2019re likely to be open to linking to your website.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Choose_the_Right_Backlink_Opportunities\"><\/span>Choose the Right Backlink Opportunities<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Before reaching out to the website owner to request a backlink, consider the website and its content.<\/p>\n<p>Only ask for links from sites that are reputable and relevant to your business.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Further reading:<\/strong> <a title=\"Link Building Strategies: The Complete List\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/link-building-strategies\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Link Building Strategies: The Complete List<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Measure_Your_SEO_Performance_as_a_Contractor\"><\/span>How to Measure Your SEO Performance as a Contractor<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Once you\u2019ve implemented some SEO best practices, you\u2019ll want to know how your SEO campaigns perform.<\/p>\n<p>This way, you can understand what\u2019s working and what isn\u2019t. So that you can prioritize your efforts on what\u2019s leading to real results for your business.<\/p>\n<p>Here are some of the most common metrics to track:<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Keyword_Rankings\"><\/span>Keyword Rankings<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Use a tool like <a title=\"Position Tracking: Keyword Rank Tracker Tool | Semrush\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/position-tracking\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Semrush\u2019s Position Tracking<\/a> to monitor your rankings for target keywords.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Position Tracking \u2013 Backlinko \u2013 Visibility, average-position, keywords\" alt=\"Position Tracking \u2013 Backlinko \u2013 Visibility, average-position, keywords\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.98714285714286\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/position-tracking-backlinko-visibility-average-position-keywords.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>This helps you catch any major changes.<\/p>\n<p>If your rankings improve, you might want to create more content around that keyword. And use what those pieces of content do well across the rest of your pages.<\/p>\n<p>But if your rankings on a certain keyword drop, it might indicate your content isn\u2019t high enough quality. Or the keyword might not be relevant enough to your business.<\/p>\n<div class=\"sc-quote alert blue-box font-georgia type-normal transparent-img-bg\">\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-sm-down\">\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">        <\/figure>\n<div class=\"media-body\">\n<blockquote class=\"sc-quote\">\n<p><strong>Further reading:<\/strong> <a title=\"The 17 Most Important SEO Tips for Higher Rankings\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/actionable-seo-tips\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">The 17 Most Important SEO Tips for Higher Rankings<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"media\">\n<figure class=\"sc-picture media-left hidden-md-up\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/06\/icon-further-reading.png\" alt=\"| Craig Hordlow\" loading=\"lazy\" title=\"| Craig Hordlow\">                <\/figure>\n<p>                                <cite class=\"sc-name media-body media-middle\"><br \/>\n                                    <\/cite>\n            <\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Organic_Search_Traffic\"><\/span>Organic Search Traffic<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Organic search traffic is traffic you get from Google search thanks to good SEO (i.e., not from paid ads).<\/p>\n<p>You can see this in analytics tools like Google Analytics:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Backlinko \u2013 Organic Traffic\" alt=\"Backlinko \u2013 Organic Traffic\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.46615384615385\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/09\/backlinko-organic-traffic-august-2024.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Backlinks_and_Website_Authority\"><\/span>Backlinks and Website Authority<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Tracking your backlinks and how authoritative your website is helps you understand what other people think about your website.<\/p>\n<p>And the more quality backlinks you have and the higher your authority, the more likely it is that you\u2019ll be able to rank for important contracting keywords.<\/p>\n<p>Different tools offer different metrics for tracking your authority. For example, Semrush uses Authority Score. Track your <a title=\"What is Semrush Domain Authority Score and How It Works\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/blog\/semrush-authority-score-explained\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Authority Score<\/a> and backlinks in Semrush\u2019s <a title=\"Backlink Analytics: Backlink Checker for Any Website | Semrush\" href=\"https:\/\/www.semrush.com\/analytics\/backlinks\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Backlink Analytics<\/a> tool:<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Backlink Analytics \u2013 Backlinko \u2013 Authotity Score\" alt=\"Backlink Analytics \u2013 Backlinko \u2013 Authotity Score\" data-aspect-ratio=\"1.0328571428571\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/backlink-analytics-backlinko-authotity-score.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Leads_and_Conversions\"><\/span>Leads and Conversions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Finally, the most important metrics to track are how many leads and customers you generate.<\/p>\n<p>After all, the whole point of using SEO as a contractor is to grow your business.<\/p>\n<p>Leads are people who\u2019ve taken action on your website and given you their contact details. Like subscribing to your email newsletter or filling out a contact form.<\/p>\n<p>But they haven\u2019t decided to hire you yet.<\/p>\n<p>Use <a title=\"Google Analytics 4 (GA4): The Ultimate Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/google-analytics-4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Google Analytics<\/a> to track leads on your website. In this example, events like \u201cform_start,\u201d \u201cfile_download,\u201d and \u201cform_submit\u201d all indicate a lead.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"backlinko-image__screenshot backlinko-image backlinko-has-border\">\n<div class=\"backlinko-img-placeholder\"><\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"GA4 \u2013 Engagement events \u2013 Marked details\" alt=\"GA4 \u2013 Engagement events \u2013 Marked details\" data-aspect-ratio=\"0.73571428571429\" src=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/app\/uploads\/2024\/12\/ga4-engagement-events-marked-details.png\" loading=\"lazy\" \/><\/p><\/figure>\n<p>If you\u2019re not getting a lot of leads, try:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Optimizing existing lead-generating pages for a better user experience<\/li>\n<li>Creating more lead forms on your best pages<\/li>\n<li>Testing different versions of your <a title=\"Landing Page Guide: Create Pages That Convert Super Well\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/landing-page-guide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">landing pages<\/a> (A\/B Testing)<\/li>\n<li>Writing more compelling CTAs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Hiring_an_Agency_vs_DIY_SEO_for_Contractors\"><\/span>Hiring an Agency vs. DIY SEO for Contractors<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>When you start a contracting business, it makes sense to do your marketing yourself.<\/p>\n<p>You\u2019re on a shoestring budget, and you have more time than money. And you can perform the <a title=\"SEO Basics: A Comprehensive Guide for Beginners\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/seo-basics-for-beginners\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">basics of SEO<\/a> yourself.<\/p>\n<p>But once your business takes off, the workdays can get really busy. You may not have time to run an SEO campaign\u2014let alone hire staff to help with it.<\/p>\n<p>In these cases, a viable option could be to hire experts.<\/p>\n<p>SEO agencies have the knowledge and experience to deliver great results. But it can get pricey.<\/p>\n<p>So before you consider hiring an SEO agency as a contractor, consider these pros and cons:<\/p>\n<div class=\"table-responsive\">\n<table class=\"table table-primary table-striped table-hover\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th scope=\"col\"><\/th>\n<th scope=\"col\">Pros<\/th>\n<th scope=\"col\">Cons<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"strong\" scope=\"row\" data-before=\"\">DIY SEO<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Pros\">\n<ul>\n<li>Complete understanding of your business<\/li>\n<li>You can move fast with complete control over your strategy<\/li>\n<li>You can do it fairly cheaply, with the main expense being <a title=\"41 Best SEO Tools (Free &amp; Paid)\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/best-free-seo-tools\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SEO tools<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Cons\">\n<ul>\n<li>It takes time away from your core contracting business operations<\/li>\n<li>Lack of SEO experience can lead to a delay in seeing results<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td class=\"strong\" scope=\"row\" data-before=\"\">SEO Agency<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Pros\">\n<ul>\n<li>Experience and expertise may lead to quicker results<\/li>\n<li>You get to focus on what you do best: serving your clients<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<td data-before=\"Cons\">\n<ul>\n<li>Higher cost than DIY<\/li>\n<li>The agency might not understand all the ins and outs of your business<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Get_More_Clients_with_Local_SEO\"><\/span>Get More Clients with Local SEO<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>With good SEO, you can rank your contracting business on Google. But it will take time and effort.<\/p>\n<p>To prioritize your efforts, focus on ranking for relevant local keywords.<\/p>\n<p>Learn exactly how to do this with our <a title=\"Local SEO: The Definitive Guide\" href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/local-seo-guide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">definitive guide to local SEO<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>The post <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/seo-for-contractors\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">How to Do SEO for Contractors &lt;br&gt;(5 Steps + Examples)<\/a> appeared first on <a href=\"https:\/\/backlinko.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Backlinko<\/a>.<\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>As a general contractor, you want a steady stream of customers for your business. What\u2019s a surefire way to get your business top-of-mind for potential clients? Make sure they can find you online through search engine optimization (SEO). When someone in your local area searches for services like yours, you want your website at the top of the results. Specifically, you want to appear in the local pack (also called the map pack): In this guide, you\u2019ll learn all about SEO for contractors, including: How SEO [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":0,"featured_media":11940,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"h5ap_radio_sources":[],"cybocfi_hide_featured_image":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[8,52],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-11939","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-backlinko","category-marketing-blogs"],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/google-serp-contractor-pittsburgh-1EtagL-600x400.png","featured_image_src_square":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/google-serp-contractor-pittsburgh-1EtagL-600x600.png","author_info":{"display_name":false,"author_link":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/author\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11939","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=11939"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11939\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/11940"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=11939"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=11939"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/craighordlow.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=11939"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}