Maximizing Your Self Storage Facility's SEO in the Age of Google's New Ranking Factor
The self-storage industry is buzzing with the latest revelation from Sterling Sky's webinar on December 7th. Google Business Profile (GBP) has introduced a new local ranking factor that hinges on your facility's listed operating hours. This development is a wake-up call and a strategic pivot point for self-storage operators.
What We Know
The discovery by Sterling Sky, and subsequently confirmed by StoragePug, indicates a significant drop in local SEO ranking for facilities marked as closed on their GBP. This might seem trivial at first glance, but a deeper analysis of customer interaction patterns reveals a substantial volume of online rentals and calls originating from Google outside standard office hours.
Why it Matters
Your facility's visibility during peak search times is crucial in the competitive self-storage market. If your facility ranks high at noon but vanishes from search results post-closing time, you may miss out on a significant chunk of business.
Strategies to Adapt
1. 24/7 Facility Operation: The most direct approach is to offer round-the-clock access. This caters to customer convenience and aligns with the new SEO dynamics.
2. After-Hours Call Center: Implementing an after-hours call service ensures that customer inquiries are addressed even when your office is closed, enhancing customer service and boosting your SEO ranking.
3. Live Chat Integration: Offering a live chat option on your website can be a game-changer. It provides real-time assistance to potential customers, regardless of your physical operating hours.
4. 24/7 Contact Rentals: Enable online rental capabilities on your website. This allows customers to rent storage units anytime, aligning with the 24/7 operation model and potentially improving your SEO standing.
5. Adjust Your Real Office Hours: If extending to a 24/7 model is not feasible, consider adjusting your office hours to times when customer interaction is at its peak.
6. Do Nothing At All: Given the evolving nature of Google's algorithms, a wait-and-see approach might be prudent for some operators. However, this could mean missed opportunities in the interim.
What Not to Do
Avoid listing your facility as 24/7 on GBP if it isn't genuinely operational round-the-clock. Misrepresentation can lead to negative customer experiences, bad reviews, and potential suspension of your GBP.
This new ranking factor from Google is a clarion call for self-storage facilities to rethink their operational strategies. Whether it's extending operational hours, integrating after-hours customer service solutions, or enhancing online functionalities, the goal is to align your business model with the evolving digital landscape for maximum SEO benefit.
🔒📚 Hi! I'm Eric Manning, a self-storage operations nerd, and lifelong learner. 🗝️ My articles blend industry know-how with a dash of humor and wisdom. Whether you're a storage newbie or a pro, join me as we explore the world of storage, one witty insight at a time! 📦😊🔑