Do trades really need ongoing SEO?

Most trades don't need full-scale SEO, but they do benefit from ongoing support that keeps their Google Business Profile active, trusted, and visible. Local searches change constantly, and keeping reviews, posts, and optimisation up to date helps ensure the phone keeps ringing.

Why trades benefit from ongoing SEO (even if they're already ranking)

For trades, the battle isn't just appearing in Google — it's staying chosen.

Customers compare:

  • recency of reviews
  • activity on your Google Business Profile
  • clarity of your services
  • trust signals like photos and responses

These things fade over time unless they're maintained.

Google also changes:

  • ranking factors
  • local intent patterns
  • how services are interpreted
  • competitor activity in your area

A profile that was strong three months ago may not be today.

The difference between "SEO" and what trades actually need

Most trades don't need:

  • expensive technical SEO
  • heavy backlink campaigns
  • 40-page website audits

But they do need:

  • consistent reviews
  • regular GBP posts
  • ongoing optimisation updates
  • visibility checks (like heatmaps)
  • fixes when Google changes something

This is "ongoing SEO" for trades —
the parts that actually move the needle.

What happens if you stop completely?

Trade visibility usually drops gradually, not suddenly:

  • fewer reviews
  • stale posts
  • declining trust
  • competitors overtaking you
  • fewer calls

Google prefers businesses it thinks are active and alive.

If you're unsure whether you need monthly support or just a one-off fix, a one-to-one consultation can help you decide what makes sense for your business.