Hey Tim,Thanks for reaching out and sharing your experience. You're definitely not alone! Many experienced tradespeople find the shift to online marketing a challenge, and it's understandable given your focus has always been on delivering top-notch electrical work.Let's break down your questions and explore some options

1. Electrician SEO Pro (or similar companies): Experience & Considerations
Research is Key

Before committing to any SEO company, do your due diligence.

Read Reviews

Search for reviews on Google, Yelp, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), and industry forums. Look for patterns – recurring positive comments or complaints.

Case Studies

Ask for case studies showing the results they've achieved for other electricians, specifically in your local area. Remember, national SEO is different than local.

Transparency

A reputable company will be transparent about their strategies. Avoid anyone who makes unrealistic promises (like guaranteed #1 rankings). They should explain how they plan to improve your visibility.

Contract Terms

Carefully review the contract. What are the payment terms? What's the cancellation policy? Who owns the website if they create it?

Alternatives

Besides Electrician SEO Pro, consider these:

Local SEO Agencies

Focus on local businesses. They understand the nuances of ranking in your specific city/region. Search for "Local SEO Agency [Your City]"

Freelance SEO Specialists

Can sometimes be more affordable than larger agencies. Look for experienced freelancers on platforms like Upwork or LinkedIn. (Again, check their reviews and experience!)

Beware of Generic SEO Packages

Avoid cookie-cutter SEO packages that don't take your specific business and market into account.

2. Advice for Getting Better Local Rankings (DIY Starter Pack)

Even if you hire someone, understanding the basics will help you monitor their progress and make informed decisions. Here's what you can do yourself:

Google Business Profile (GBP) Optimization

This is absolutely crucial for local visibility.



Claim & Verify

If you haven't already, claim and verify your Google Business Profile listing.

Complete Your Profile

Fill out every section of your profile thoroughly. Include: Your business name, address, phone number (NAP) - make sure this is consistent everywhere online. A detailed description of your services. Use keywords your customers would search for (e.g., "residential electrical repairs," "electrical panel upgrades"). Your service area(s). Your business hours. A link to your website.

Regularly Post Updates

Share news, promotions, projects you've completed, or helpful tips.

Respond to Reviews

Thank people for positive reviews and address negative reviews professionally. (Don't argue online – try to resolve issues offline.)

Add Photos

Upload high-quality photos of your work, your team, and your business.

Website Optimization



Mobile-Friendly

Ensure your website is responsive and looks good on all devices (phones, tablets, computers). Google prioritizes mobile-friendly sites.

Fast Loading Speed

Slow websites lose visitors. Use Google's PageSpeed Insights to check your website's speed and get recommendations.

Keyword-Rich Content

Sprinkle relevant keywords throughout your website's text (but don't "keyword stuff"). Focus on providing helpful, informative content.

Local Landing Pages

If you serve multiple cities or neighborhoods, create separate landing pages for each area.

Schema Markup

Implement schema markup to help search engines understand your business and the services you offer. (This can be a bit technical, so you might need help with this).

Local Citations (NAP Consistency)



What are Citations? Mentions of your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) on other websites.

Importance

Consistent NAP across the internet is vital for local SEO.

Where to List

List your business on relevant directories like Yelp, Yellow Pages, Angie's List, HomeAdvisor, Thumbtack, and industry-specific directories. Also, make sure you are listed on any local community-based platforms or pages.

Audit Your Citations

Use a tool like BrightLocal or Yext to check for inconsistencies in your existing citations and correct them.

Encourage Reviews



Actively Ask

Politely ask satisfied customers to leave reviews on your Google Business Profile, Yelp, and other relevant platforms.

Make it Easy

Provide links to your review pages in your email signature or on your website.

Respond Promptly

As mentioned above, always respond to reviews.

3. Working it out on your own vs. Getting Someone in



Do-It-Yourself (DIY)

If you have the time and are willing to learn, you can manage your local SEO. It's a long-term investment, but it can save you money. Start with the basics above.

Hiring a Professional

A good SEO company can save you time and help you get better results faster. But it's crucial to choose wisely.

Consider Your Budget

SEO can be expensive. Set a realistic budget and find a company that fits within your means.

Think About Your Goals

What are you hoping to achieve with SEO? More leads? Higher rankings? More website traffic? Communicate your goals to potential SEO providers.

Addressing Your Concerns About Word-of-Mouth

While word-of-mouth is still valuable, it's increasingly important to supplement it with online marketing. Think of your online presence as an extension of your word-of-mouth referrals. People might hear about you from a friend, but then they'll likely Google you to learn more. If they can't find you easily or your online presence is weak, they might choose someone else.

Final Thoughts & Tips



Patience is Key

SEO takes time and effort. Don't expect to see results overnight.

Stay Updated

The SEO landscape is constantly changing. Keep learning and adapting your strategies.

Track Your Results

Use Google Analytics to track your website traffic and conversions. Monitor your Google Business Profile performance. This will help you see what's working and what's not.

Focus on Quality:* Provide excellent service and build a good reputation. This is the foundation of any successful business, both online and offline.I hope this is helpful, Tim! Good luck with your online marketing efforts. You've got decades of valuable experience, so don't be discouraged by this new challenge. Leverage your expertise, embrace the learning curve, and you'll be well on your way to success. Don't hesitate to ask if you have more questions. Flag for review