Are you about to head out on a blind date? Are you considering taking a client to a restaurant that just opened up in your area? Has a friend just recommended a car dealer, a hair salon, a dog walker, a babysitter, or a roofing company? A few years ago, if most of us were in this position, we would have simply lived with our curiosity and taken our chances. But these days, a trip to Google has become an almost universal first step on any journey into the unknown. And what we find there tends to influence our second step.

Google Credibility for Individuals

For example, most of us can now expect that before any meeting or new introduction, no matter how high or low the stakes may be, those who we’re about to meet have run our names through a search engine and spent at least a few seconds skimming through the results. Even common names can provide telling information if they reveal LinkedIn and Facebook profiles, which tend to show up high in search rankings. And if the search reveals articles, websites, or blogs in which we’re mentioned, even a quick scan can provide information that our interlocutors will interpret as they see fit.

Sometimes no Google search results about a person can be a turn-off. Sometimes too much information can be equally bad. A few glowing mentions on the first page of results can sometimes be all we need to launch ourselves into promising new jobs, opportunities, and relationships.

Google Credibility for Businesses

Companies face the same scrutiny. If you own a business, potential customers will (not may, but will) run your company’s name through a quick Google search before they make any investment in your product at all, including the five minutes it might take to drive to your store. And when they run this search, what will they find? Don’t let the answer catch you off guard.

If possible, make sure a five second Google search can take customers directly to the information they need. Does your company’s website show up on the first page of results? If so, great. If not, a few adjustments may be in order. What else shows up on that first page? Ideally, the answer should be positive reviews, positive news stories, your social media accounts including Facebook and Twitter business profiles, and your business blog. If any of these are missing or overshadowed by negative reviews, businesses with similar names, or other entries, reach out to a digital marketing firm and find ways to expand and control your online footprint.

To gain the advice, contacts and SEO help you need, arrange a consultation with the Houston, Texas small business and staffing pros at Expert. We can connect you with the resources you need to get your company the attention it deserves.