In today’s digital-first world, many potential customers search for services “near me” or in specific locations using Google Maps. Whether you’re a salon in Kisumu, a car rental in Nairobi, or a café in Mombasa, showing up in local search results can bring you more traffic and real paying clients.
Local SEO is the key to getting your business listed and ranked on Google Maps. At Onfrey, we help Kenyan businesses claim their space online and compete locally. Here’s how you can do the same.
Create or Claim Your Google Business Profile
The first and most important step is to set up your Google Business Profile (GBP), previously known as Google My Business.
- Go to google.com/business and sign in with your business email.
- Search for your business. If it’s listed, claim it. If not, create a new listing.
- Fill in accurate details like business name, address, phone number, category, and website.
Complete profiles tend to rank higher on Maps.
Add Accurate and Consistent Information
Google wants to be sure your business is trustworthy. One way to signal this is through NAP consistency (Name, Address, Phone number).
Make sure the details you enter in your Google Business Profile match exactly what’s on your website, social media, and local directories. Even small differences (like “Rd” vs “Road”) can affect your ranking.
Choose the Right Business Category and Subcategories
Selecting the right business category helps Google understand what you offer and who to show your listing to.
- Start with a broad category like “Restaurant” or “Plumber.”
- Then add relevant subcategories like “Seafood Restaurant” or “Emergency Plumbing Services.”
This improves visibility for specific search queries.
Use Local Keywords in Your Profile and Website
Incorporate location-based terms that reflect how your customers search. For example:
- “Best dental clinic in Nairobi”
- “Affordable car rentals in Mombasa”
- “Interior designer in Westlands”
Use these phrases in your business description, website homepage, service pages, and blog posts.
Add Photos, Hours, and Service Details
An active and visually rich profile performs better than an empty one. Uploading high-quality photos of your business — such as your storefront, products, team, or recent work — increases engagement and builds credibility.
Also, include your business hours, accepted payment methods, and a clear list of services or products offered. Customers are more likely to trust and visit businesses that show they are active, transparent, and professional. A complete profile not only improves your chances of ranking but also increases click-throughs and conversions.
Encourage and Respond to Customer Reviews
Reviews play a huge role in local SEO. Google considers both the quantity and quality of reviews when determining which businesses appear in the top local results. A steady stream of positive reviews signals to Google that your business is reputable and relevant.
Politely ask satisfied customers to leave reviews after a purchase or service. Make the process easy by sharing your review link via SMS, email, or WhatsApp. More importantly, always respond to reviews — whether they are positive or negative. This shows potential customers that you value feedback and are committed to good service.
Embed Google Maps on Your Website
Adding a Google Map with your location on your website (usually in the Contact page or footer) sends strong signals to Google that you’re connected to that physical location.
It also improves user experience and helps customers find you easily.
. Get Listed in Local Online Directories
Register your business on local Kenyan directories such as:
- KenyaYote
- Yellow Pages Kenya
- BrighterMonday (if service-related)
- Local blogs or niche listing sites
This improves your credibility and helps with local SEO by creating local citations.
Let Customers Find You Faster
Ranking on Google Maps is not about luck it’s about strategy. By optimizing your Google Business Profile, collecting reviews, using local keywords, and staying consistent across platforms, you’ll boost your local visibility and attract more customers.
At Onfrey, we specialize in local SEO services tailored for Kenyan businesses. Whether you’re just getting started or want to improve your current listings, we’re here to help.
Contact Us today!
Website: www.onfrey.com
Email: [email protected]
Tel: (254) 768644458