We understand how frustrating it can be to pour time and effort into your local SEO, only to find your competitors consistently ranking above you. You’re doing everything “right”—yet somehow, they’re still getting the clicks, the calls and the customers.
If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Many of our clients initially struggle with standing out in their local area. The good news? One of the most effective ways to improve your visibility in Google Maps is by studying those very competitors.
Start by Knowing Who You’re Competing With
Imagine you’re running a coffee shop in Manchester. You type ‘best coffee near me’ into Google. The businesses that appear in the top results are your digital neighbours—and they’re the ones you want to learn from.
Our team has found that identifying your true online competitors (not just the ones across the street) is the first step in gaining a clear advantage.
Take a Close Look at Their Google Business Profiles
Think of a Google Business Profile as a shop window. Some are bright, inviting and full of detail—others look a bit bare.
We’d like to share a few things worth checking:
- What primary and secondary categories have they selected?
- Are they regularly posting updates or offers?
- Do they use high-quality photos?
- How often are they getting reviews?
All of these elements send important signals to Google and to potential customers.
Check How Their Website Supports Their Local Presence
Consider approaching this by pretending you’re a potential customer. When you visit a competitor’s website:
- Is it clear where they’re based?
- Do they mention nearby areas or landmarks?
- Is the site easy to navigate on a mobile phone?
Small touches like using town names in headings or adding directions from well-known locations can help Google (and real people) understand exactly where they serve.
Review Their Links and Local Listings
In local SEO, links from other websites are like votes of confidence. The more relevant and trustworthy the site, the stronger the vote.
You don’t need fancy software to get started—just look up their business name and see where they’re mentioned. Common sources include:
- Local news articles
- Community event pages
- Online business directories
If they’re listed in places you’re not, it might be worth submitting your own details.
Pay Attention to Their Reviews and Reputation
We understand how overwhelming it can feel to manage online reviews, especially negative ones. But they matter—a lot.
Look at how your competitors handle reviews:
- Do they have many?
- Are they recent?
- How do they respond, especially to unhappy customers?
A kind, thoughtful reply can go a long way in showing potential customers you care.
See How They’re Showing Up on Social Media
Social platforms may not directly impact rankings, but they do shape perception.
Take a moment to explore:
- Are your competitors posting regularly?
- Do they support local events or charities?
- Are they engaging with followers?
People like to do business with local companies that feel approachable and involved in their community.
Practical Ways to Outshine Your Competitors
Now that we’ve established this foundation, here are some simple steps you can take based on what you’ve observed:
- Tidy up your Google Business Profile: Add fresh photos, accurate info and regular updates.
- Refresh your website: Mention your service areas clearly and ensure everything loads well on mobile.
- Build local backlinks: Reach out to local blogs, join community directories, or partner with neighbourhood events.
- Encourage more reviews: Ask happy customers to leave feedback and always reply—kindly and helpfully.
- Get involved locally: Sponsor a local team, attend events, or share behind-the-scenes moments on social media.
Improving your local SEO isn’t about copying others—it’s about learning what works and then doing it in your own voice. We believe every local business has a unique story to tell and with a little insight and effort, yours can stand out in a crowded market.
If you’re feeling unsure where to begin, just start small. Choose one competitor to review today. Take notes, reflect on what they’re doing well and pick one thing you could do even better.
We’re here to help you succeed. Contact us!
