4 Actions Lawyers Can Do Right Now to Help Increase Their Online Presence

1. Get Backlinks

What Is a Backlink?

In simple terms, a backlink is a link from one site to another. Search engines (like Google) use these backlinks as a trust signal.

Backlinks can be from all over the internet.

A few good ways to get backlinks is to apply for your chamber of commerce, local bar associations, or the BBB.

Locally, you could also sponsor an event. More than likely, your firm or site will be featured.

It is important to get quality backlinks.

Also contribute to publications to display your level of expertise. You want to be an authority figure in your areas of practice.

Try and avoid paid link sites that may incur penalties.

Sometimes backlinks can be added to citations.

2. Citations

What Is a Citation?

A citation is a mention of your business name, address, and phone number online. Sometimes also called NAP. They assist search engines (like Google) that your business is legit. Here is a link to an article we wrote about citations or check out this PDF on some you can add.

Oftentimes, when you are creating a citation, it allows you to add a link to your site (backlink).

Think of citations as a trust signal for search engines.

For potential clients or users, another indicator of a trust signal is a Google Business Profile.

3. Google Business Profile (GBP/GMB)

When you work with clients, let them know you have a GBP or GMB. You can follow up after a case with a short sentence and a link to your profile.

Also, optimize your page. Add services and the correct hours.

If someone calls you from your GMB phone number, it is important to answer the call. You do not want the user going down the list of profiles and clicking on the next firm right above or below your listing.

Add real photos of your office. People can generally tell what a stock image looks like. Adding a real photo gives your firm a real-life presence.

Review your competitors’ GMB and see what they have that yours is missing.

4. Review Competitors’ Sites, Write About Similar Practices, etc.

Do a simple Google search and click on some of the competitors’ websites around the area.

Compile a list of practice areas or services. If these services are not on your site (and you provide this service), write about the topic.

For example, say you practice Elder Law. Write about Elder Law, and even better if you can focus on a specific place, like “Elder Law in Toledo.” Niche down if possible as well.

If Google thinks you are the authority on a topic, then it may rank you at the top of the rankings. Please note that this can take some time (months). Plus, if you have backlinks and citations, it should help with your rankings.

These are just a few of the ways you can increase your web presence on your own. If you need assistance or have questions on the above, please feel free to contact us.