Salon Owners & Stylists: 5 Essential SEO & Digital Strategies to Dominate Google Search
Understanding Google’s Search Algorithm:
Google’s algorithms are like meticulous librarians that scan the internet, cataloging and sorting information so that the most relevant results appear when someone searches. For salon owners and independent hairstylists, mastering these algorithms means ensuring your salon shows up at the top of search results, attracting more clients to your business.
Here’s how you can enhance your salon’s visibility on Google:
1. Optimize Your Website for Speed and Mobile:
Google prioritizes websites that load quickly and provide a seamless mobile experience. Ensure that your website is responsive, meaning it adjusts smoothly to any screen size, and that it loads within a few seconds to keep both users and Google happy. “First impressions are important, especially when it comes to Google. If you want to make it to the second round, which is the actual audience, then slow down and put work into the things that really matter. You can have the prettiest website, but if it’s not actually functioning properly according to the highest approver (Google), you’re not going to be seen to maximize your growth.” says Laura Roberts, founder of Laura Jean Roberts, a web design firm in Thousand Oaks, CA.
2. Claim and Optimize Your Google Business Profile:
Your Google Business Profile is crucial for local SEO. Accurately fill out all details, such as your business name, address, phone number, and operational hours. Regularly update your profile with fresh photos and current services. This accuracy and activity level boost your visibility in local searches.
3. Get Featured in Top Beauty Publications:
Being mentioned in leading beauty magazines like Glamour, Salon Today, and Modern Salon can significantly elevate your online authority. These publications offer strong backlinks that enhance your site’s authority and help you reach a vast audience. Here’s a real-life success story: “Getting my salon and myself featured in top tier publications like Glamour and Salon Today helped us double our web traffic and significantly boosted our Google rankings, helping establish our brand in the competitive market.” — Nikki Corzine, The Canyon Salon, Westlake Village, CA.
4. Content Marketing:
Develop and share engaging content that answers potential clients’ questions and showcases your expertise. Whether through blogs, videos, or infographics, consistent, quality content can improve your search rankings and attract more visitors to your site.
5. Encourage Customer Reviews:
Online reviews are a powerful tool for influencing potential clients and improving your Google ranking. Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive feedback. Make it easy for them: “I provide a simple questionnaire or a direct link to my Google reviews page right after my clients’ service to make it convenient for them to give feedback.” — Christy Calafati, Premier Permanent Makeup Artist and Beauty Expert.
Regular Updates Are Crucial:
SEO is not a set-and-forget strategy. Continuously update your content, monitor your Google Business Profile, and stay active on social media platforms. Consistent effort is key to staying relevant and visible in Google searches.
About the Author:
Dawna Jarvis is a seasoned business and media strategist specializing in elevating beauty professionals into industry leaders. With a focus on strategic positioning and brand enhancement, Dawna helps clients stand out and thrive in the competitive beauty market. Visit her at DawnaJarvis.com for more insights and assistance.
