Web Maintenance Desk

9:20 p.m. UPDATE: Eastbound: Chains required on all vehicles except all wheel drive, Oversize Vehicles Prohibited. Westbound: Closed. Snoqualmie Pass is closed westbound due to multiple collisions and blocking vehicles. Westbound traffic is stopped at Exit 106 Ellensburg, Exit 84 Cle Elum, and Exit 71 Easton.

I-90 on Snoqualmie Pass is closed in both directions due to heavy snow and multiple spinouts. There is no estimated timetable for reopening.

Google is updating algorithms for the third time this year - This November update started yesterday and is planned for 1-2 weeks. Keep an eye on your rankings. For more information check out this SEO journal https://www.seroundtable.com/category/google-updates If you need help with any SEO give us a call or chat here at webmaintenancedesk.com

Google Search Algorithm Updates : Search Engine Roundtable The most comprehensive and detailed list of Google search ranking algorithm updates ever. See all the confirmed and unconfirmed Google algorithm updates here.

Maximizing Your Local SEO Strategy: Getting Noticed, Citations, and Voice Searches

In today’s fast-paced digital world, getting your local business noticed is no easy feat. But the good news is that with the right Local SEO strategies, you can not only enhance your online presence but also ensure that you’re visible on the major meta search engines. In this blog, we’ll explore the essential elements of local search optimization, the role of citations, and the significance of adapting to voice searches.

Is Your Business Getting Noticed?

Local SEO, or Local Search Engine Optimization, is a powerful tool that helps your business shine in the online world. It’s all about increasing your visibility in local search results, making it easier for potential customers to find you.

But where do you start?
The Power of Meta Search Engines

Meta search engines serve as intermediaries, aggregating information from various sources to provide users with comprehensive and accurate data. The big three meta search engines that dominate the local search scene are Google, Bing, and Apple Maps.

Google and Google My Business: Claim and optimize your Google My Business listing. It’s your digital storefront, where you can showcase your business hours, location, and receive customer reviews.

Bing and Bing Places: Don’t underestimate Bing’s reach. Set up your business listing on Bing Places, ensuring you’re accessible to users who prefer this search engine.

Apple Maps: Apple Maps is the default mapping app on iOS devices. Make sure your business is listed here so that iPhone users can easily find you.
Mastering Primary Citations

Primary citations are the foundation of your online presence, and you need to ensure they’re rock-solid. Focus on these data drivers:

Foursquare: Foursquare is a trusted source for location data. Make sure your business is present and correct here.

Data Axle: Formerly known as Infogroup, Data Axle is a key player in providing data for local search. Having your business details listed here is crucial.

Neustar / Localeze: Neustar’s Localeze is another vital source for business data, so ensure your listing is updated.

Yelp: Yelp is a popular platform where customers leave reviews and search for businesses. Claiming and optimizing your Yelp listing can significantly boost your online presence and reputation. Yelp is being used more and more for data.
Expanding Your Reach with Other Citations

In addition to primary citations, secondary citations can be a hidden gem for boosting your online presence. Consider listing your business on platforms like YP, US City, Hotfrog, Show Me Local, and many others – over 50 in total. These lesser-known platforms can generate valuable backlinks to your website, increasing your visibility in local searches

The key to success in local search is consistency and constant updates. Ensure that your business information, including name, address, and phone number (NAP), is consistent across all platforms. Regularly update your Google My Business listing – ideally once a week – to keep customers informed about any changes or promotions.

Don’t forget to make your descriptions compelling and keyword-rich. Use relevant keywords and phrases that potential customers are likely to search for. This will increase the likelihood of your business appearing in local search results.
Voice Searches: A Growing Trend

As voice searches continue to gain popularity, it’s reassuring to know that most voice searches involve longer and more specific keyword phrases. People use more natural, conversational language when speaking to voice-activated devices, making your keyword-rich listings even more critical. By aligning your online presence with the language of voice search, you increase the chances of your business being discovered by users who rely on voice-activated assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant. So, always strive to keep your listings as comprehensive and keyword-rich as possible.

In conclusion, local search is a dynamic field where consistency and constant updates are key. By making the most of the big three meta search engines, mastering primary citations, expanding your reach with secondary citations, and adapting to voice searches, you can boost your local SEO and ensure your business stands out in the digital crowd. And with voice searches on the rise, you’re well-prepared for the future of local search. Check out GMB for the cost of not being at the top.

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Those with WordPress websites, WordPress is updated and so are many of the plugins, check your site integrity.

Average CTR per position on Google business - where do you sit?

🚀 **Boosting Website Conversions: 7 Key Steps** 📈

Hey there, fellow website owners! 👋 If you've noticed a drop in your website conversion rate, don't panic. Here are the first things you should do:

1. Website Analytics: Dive into the data. Identify where the conversion rate dipped and look for strange user behavior. That's your starting point!

2. Tech Check: Hunt down technical gremlins - broken links, slow loading times, or server errors. They scare away potential conversions.

3. UX Tune-up: Make sure your website is user-friendly. Intuitive navigation, eye-catching design, and compelling call-to-action buttons are your BFFs.

4. A/B Test: Did you recently change something on the site? Run an A/B test to figure out if those tweaks are conversion killers.

5. Mobile Magic: In a world of smartphones, make sure your site plays nice on all devices. Mobile users matter!

6. Form Fixes: If forms are the culprits, give them some love. Simplify, clarify, and fix any tech hiccups.

7. Spy on Competitors: See what your rivals are up to. Have they made moves that impacted your conversions?

Don't forget to document everything, consult with your team, and keep tweaking. Conversion optimization is a marathon, not a sprint! 🏃‍♀️💨

How many have a WordPress site that has wp-admin as your login URL? You are waiting to get Hacked!
Add a layer of Security by changing the login URL - a person can do it by adding a plugin or rewrite the .htaccess file. Here is the plugin method.

Go to your WordPress Dashboard, hover over Plugins, and then click on "Add New" – Enter into the search Bar "Security"

Check out which plug-in you like, and make sure that it is updated and has good reviews. My favorite is AIOS or all in One WP Security- A lot of websites will push WPS Hide Login – but I found out it does have conflicts with other plugins. Go ahead and install- Make a backup of the website before activating it in case there is a conflict. This is a good practice to do with any updates of themes or plugins. Most plugins will lead you through the process of setup. Done! While you are there, might as well add limited login attempts. Just another layer of protection.
If you want to do the .htaccess method click on my blog. It is more technical to do.

First Step to Security - Web Maintenance Desk First Step to Security Wordpress Security: Changing Url Log-in Why Change the Admin Login URL? The default WordPress login URL is “yoursite.com/wp-admin” or “yoursite.com/wp-login.php,” which makes it easy for hackers to target your website. By changing the admin login URL, you create an add...

Finding time to get the new business set up on Facebook, We take care of websites, making sure your website is up and performing. We offer maintenance for WordPress sites, content updates, SEO, page expansions, and customizations to your platform.