Small Business SEO
SEO Keywords for Accountants
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Learn which keywords to utilize in order to drive traffic to your website
Unlock More Leads with the Right SEO Strategy for Accountants
Finding ways to stand out in the accounting industry today takes takes great service and smart strategy. And when it comes to digital marketing, nothing is more powerful than selecting the right SEO keywords. Your accounting firm’s SEO success depends heavily on the keywords you choose to target. When you focus on high-traffic, local, and service-specific terms, you can reach clients directly from Google search.
Currently, there are hundreds of thousands of accounting-related searches happening every single month in the United States. From small business owners looking for tax help to individuals searching for personal finance advice, the demand is there. By using location-specific keywords like “CPA near me” or “tax preparation in [City],” your firm can start showing up exactly when and where people are looking for your services.
In this SEO Guide for Accountants, You Will Learn:
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The Top 50 SEO Keywords for Accountants and CPAs
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How to Choose the Right Keywords for Your Services and Locations
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Pro Tips to Boost Local SEO, PPC Campaigns, and Website Traffic
Whether you specialize in small business bookkeeping, personal tax returns, financial consulting, or all of the above, it is essential to understand how potential clients are searching online. When you align your SEO strategy with those search habits, you increase your visibility, build trust, and ultimately grow your client base. The first step? It all begins with the right keywords.
How to Choose the Best Accounting Keywords for Your Business
Before you start filling your website with every finance-related term you can think of, take a moment to consider the most important question:
Who Is Your Ideal Accounting Client?
Do you primarily work with small business owners who need ongoing bookkeeping and tax help? Are you focused on personal income tax returns, CFO services for startups, or financial planning for high net worth individuals? Every potential client searches differently and understanding their intent is the key to choosing the right keywords.
For example:
- A freelancer may search “self employed tax accountant near me”
- A small business owner might type in “monthly bookkeeping service [City]”
- An individual could be looking for “CPA for personal taxes in [City]”
When you align your keywords with your audience’s goals and challenges, you dramatically increase your chances of getting found by the right people.
Start With Your Core Services
Begin with your most in-demand services. These are often the services that bring in the most inquiries and tend to have strong search volume. You will want to build your homepage, core service pages, and paid search campaigns around these terms. For instance:
- Tax preparation in [City]
- Bookkeeping services for small business
- Payroll accountant near me
- QuickBooks certified accountant
Once you have your core services mapped out, use tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ahrefs, or SEMrush to uncover related search terms with solid traffic potential and manageable competition.
Research the Competition
Take a close look at the top accounting firms in your area. What keywords are showing up in their page titles, service descriptions, and blog content? Use SEO tools to identify which terms are bringing them traffic and where they might be missing opportunities. This competitive insight can help you shape a smarter keyword strategy that fills in the gaps and stands out locally.
Prioritize Long Tail Keywords
Most people searching online are not using broad terms like “accountant.” They are using longer, more specific phrases that describe exactly what they need. These long tail keywords may have lower volume, but they tend to convert better because they reflect clearer intent. Some examples include:
- How to file taxes as an independent contractor
- Best accountant for LLCs in [City]
- Do I need an accountant or CPA for my business
These kinds of keywords work well in blog posts, FAQ pages, and specialized landing pages. When used strategically, they attract ready-to-convert clients and help you build topical authority in your niche.
Ready to Improve Your Search Visibility Online? Get Your Free SEO Report!
Each report is hand-crafted by a team member at MarketKeep and comes with a customized video that walks you through your report visually. That way we can help you understand how your business is performing online, and what you can do better in order to connect with your customers in the moments that matter to them.
The Best SEO Keywords for Accountants By Category
Organizing your keywords into categories makes it easier to build strong pages, blogs, and ad campaigns that speak to your audience and improve your search rankings.
General Accounting Keywords
These high-volume terms are perfect for your homepage, service pages, and paid search ads. They attract people looking for accounting help in a broad sense and are a great way to build brand awareness online.
- accounting services near me
- CPA firm in my area
- top rated accountant
- best CPA for small business
- tax services open now
- affordable accounting firm
- bookkeeping and tax services
- full service accounting firm
Local SEO Keywords (Insert Your City or Service Area)
To appear in local search results, use city and neighborhood-based keywords. These are perfect for your location landing pages, blog posts, and Google Business Profile. They help you stand out to clients searching for help close to home.
- CPA in [City Name]
- tax preparation services in [City Name]
- accountant for small business in [Neighborhood]
- bookkeeping services [City Name]
- tax return filing in [City Name]
- local CPA near [Your Area]
Service-Based Accounting Keywords
These keywords reflect your specific service offerings. They are ideal for creating dedicated service pages or running Google Ads with strong intent targeting.
- business tax preparation
- QuickBooks cleanup and setup
- monthly bookkeeping services
- financial statement preparation
- payroll processing for small businesses
- IRS audit representation
- sales tax filing assistance
- cash flow management services
Urgent and Deadline-Focused Keywords
During tax season or financial emergencies, these keywords help attract clients who need fast help. Use them in homepage highlights, PPC ads, or seasonal blog content.
- last minute tax help near me
- emergency accountant for business
- help filing taxes before the deadline
- CPA for IRS notice response
- rush tax filing services
- get taxes done today
Industry Specific Keywords
If you serve industries like real estate, law, medical, or nonprofits, these keywords can help position you as a specialist.
- accounting for real estate agents
- CPA for medical professionals
- law firm accounting services
- nonprofit bookkeeping
- accounting for ecommerce stores
- tax planning for contractors
Long-Tail Keywords for Blog or FAQ Pages
These highly specific phrases are perfect for content marketing. They show clear search intent and can drive qualified traffic to your blog, FAQ pages, or service-specific landing pages.
- how to choose an accountant for your small business
- do I need a CPA to file taxes
- how much does a CPA charge for tax preparation
- difference between a bookkeeper and an accountant
- can a CPA help me start a business
- what to bring to your first meeting with a CPA
For the full list, keep reading our blog: Top 50 SEO Keywords for Accountants!
How to Use The Top 50 SEO Keywords for Accountants Effectively
Once you have identified the most valuable keywords for your accounting firm, the next step is to use them strategically across your website. Smart placement and thoughtful content will help boost your rankings, bring in more qualified traffic, and turn website visitors into long-term clients.
1. Optimize Your Website with the Right Accounting Keywords
Begin by adding your primary keywords in the places where Google and other search engines looks first. These key areas include:
- Page titles and meta descriptions
- Main headings like H1 and H2 tags
- URLs for service and location pages
- Image file names and alt text
- Internal links between blog posts and service pages
If you provide services like tax preparation, payroll support, or QuickBooks consulting, make sure these phrases are naturally included in your content. Avoid keyword stuffing. Focus on informative, helpful writing that speaks to your clients’ real needs and search intent.
2. Create Location-Specific Pages
If your firm serves more than one city, county, or neighborhood, create individual service pages for each area you work in. This improves your chances of showing up in local search results and builds trust with clients looking for nearby professionals.
For example:
- Tax preparation in Baltimore
- CPA for small businesses in Columbia
- Bookkeeping services in Towson
Each page should include tailored content that mentions the services you provide, references local industries or communities, and uses keywords that reflect the way people search in that specific area.
3. Optimize Your Google Business Profile
Your Google Business Profile is one of the most powerful tools for driving local traffic. Make sure it is fully filled out and optimized with relevant keywords.
- Include commonly searched phrases such as “accountant near me” or “best tax services in [City]”
- List all services offered and keep contact details accurate
- Upload professional photos of your office, team, and branding
- Encourage reviews from satisfied clients and respond to them professionally
- When replying to reviews, consider using relevant keywords in a natural way. For example: “We are glad we could assist with your year end business tax return in Rockville.”
4. Build a Keyword-Focused Content Strategy
A well-planned content strategy gives you the opportunity to rank for long tail keywords and answer the specific questions your clients are asking. Use your blog, FAQ page, and educational resources to target one keyword or phrase per piece of content.
Some strong examples include:
- What to bring to your first tax appointment with a CPA
- How to choose the right accountant for your small business
- Can a bookkeeper help with tax filing
- What are the benefits of hiring a payroll accountant
- How much does tax preparation cost in [City]
Publishing valuable, keyword-rich content on a regular schedule builds credibility with both your audience and search engines. It shows that your firm is active, knowledgeable, and invested in solving client problems.
Ready to Improve Your Search Visibility Online? Get Your Free SEO Report!
Each report is hand-crafted by a team member at MarketKeep and comes with a customized video that walks you through your report visually. That way we can help you understand how your business is performing online, and what you can do better in order to connect with your customers in the moments that matter to them.
The 50 Best SEO Keywords for Accountants (2025)
| Keyword | Avg. Monthly Searches | Competition |
| accountant | 135,000 | Low |
| cpa | 201,00 | Low |
| accounting | 246,000 | Low |
| iras | 201,00 | Low |
| sage one | 1,000 | Low |
| personal tax account | 880 | Low |
| trial balance | 18,100 | Low |
| bookkeeping | 74,000 | Medium |
| financial accounting | 12,100 | Low |
| petty cash | 18,100 | Low |
| intuit quickbooks | 74,000 | Low |
| cost accounting | 8,100 | Low |
| management accounting | 27,100 | Low |
| general ledger | 14,800 | Low |
| waveapps | 27,100 | Low |
| QuickBooks self-employed | 40,500 | Low |
| cpa near me | 90,500 | Low |
| forensic accounting | 22,200 | Low |
| ifrs 15 | 1,300 | Low |
| accumulated depreciation | 8,100 | Low |
| tax preparer near me | 90,500 | Low |
| accountants near me | 60,500 | Low |
| profit and loss account | 390 | Low |
| ifrs 17 | 1,300 | Low |
| managerial accounting | 9,900 | Low |
| quickbooks payroll | 27,100 | Medium |
| account payable | 40,500 | Low |
| my tax account | 6,600 | Low |
| tax accountant near me | 40,500 | Low |
| gnucash | 5,400 | Low |
| ledger account | 8,100 | High |
| quickbooks time | 33,100 | Low |
| tax account | 1,300 | Low |
| zohobooks | 14,800 | Low |
| waveapp | 14,800 | Low |
| tax accountant | 18,100 | Low |
| certified public accountant | 18,100 | Low |
| t account | 8,100 | Low |
| sage one accounting | 170 | Low |
| imprest | 1,000 | Low |
| ifrs16 | 2,400 | Low |
| tax advisor | 9,900 | Medium |
| accounting services | 12,100 | Low |
| corporate accounting | 1,900 | Low |
| reddit accounting | 14,800 | Low |
| ifrs 10 | 260 | Low |
| Tax Consultant near me | 8,100 | Medium |
| bookkeeping services | 18,100 | Low |
| certified management accountant | 74,000 | Low |
| basic accounting | 3,600 | Low |
| accrued expense | 9,900 | Low |
| junior accountant | 720 | Low |
| accounting firm | 18,100 | Low |
| contra account | 2,900 | Low |
| quickbooks pro | 8,100 | Medium |
| ifrs 5 | 110 | Low |
The 50 Best SEO Keywords for Accountants (2024)
| Keyword | Avg. Monthly Searches | Competition |
| accountant | 65,000 | Low |
| CPA | 135,000 | Low |
| bookkeeping | 60,500 | Medium |
| Quickbooks self-employed | 40,500 | Medium |
| Intuit Quickbooks | 33,100 | Medium |
| CPA near me | 33,100 | Medium |
| accountants near me | 27,100 | Medium |
| forensic accounting | 18,100 | Medium |
| waveapps | 14,800 | Low |
| general ledger | 14,800 | Low |
| accrual accounting | 14,800 | Low |
| Quickbooks payroll | 18,100 | Medium |
| financial accounting | 9,900 | Low |
| tax accountant | 14,800 | Low |
| cost accounting | 8,100 | Low |
| managerial accounting | 9,900 | Low |
| tax accountant near me | 12,100 | Medium |
| accounting firms | 9,900 | Low |
| reddit accounting | 12,100 | Low |
| accounting services | 9,900 | Low |
| bookkeeping services | 8,100 | Medium |
| certified public accountants | 6,600 | Low |
| my tax account | 5,400 | Low |
| IFRS 16 | 4,400 | Low |
| Quickbooks Enterprise | 6,600 | High |
| basic accounting | 4,400 | Low |
| capital account | 4,400 | Low |
| iasb | 3,600 | Low |
| Quickbooks 2019 | 6,600 | High |
| IFRS 15 | 2,900 | Low |
| small business accounting | 6,600 | Medium |
| Quickbooks Proadvisor | 6,600 | Low |
| CPA firm | 5,400 | Low |
| reconciliation accounting | 6,600 | Low |
| capital lease | 4,400 | Low |
| Quickbooks Accountant | 5,400 | High |
| accounting firms near me | 3,600 | Low |
| fund accounting | 2,900 | Low |
| accounting profit | 2,900 | Low |
| Contra Account | 2,900 | Low |
| Quickbooks Pro | 3,600 | High |
| tax advisor near me | 3,600 | Medium |
| public accounting | 2,900 | Low |
| cpa accounting | 3,600 | Low |
| Quickbooks Pricing | 3,600 | Medium |
| general ledger accounting | 2,900 | Low |
| my IRS account | 4,400 | Low |
| Quickbooks premier | 2,900 | High |
| divorce financial planner | 720 | Medium |
| edward jones financial | 590 | Low |
Ready to Improve Your Search Visibility Online? Get Your Free SEO Report!
Each report is hand-crafted by a team member at MarketKeep and comes with a customized video that walks you through your report visually. That way we can help you understand how your business is performing online, and what you can do better in order to connect with your customers in the moments that matter to them.
Utilizing the Top SEO Keywords for Accountants
If you want your accounting firm to show up when potential clients are actively searching for help, the secret lies in how you use the right keywords. Ranking well for top accounting search terms involves seven essential steps that build both visibility and trust.
1. Make Sure Your Website is Mobile Friendly, Fast, and Secure
A slow-loading or outdated website can hurt your rankings and turn away clients. Make sure your site loads quickly on mobile devices, uses a secure connection, and offers a smooth user experience across all screen sizes.
2. Target the Right Keywords Based on Search Intent
Incorporate keywords that reflect what your clients are actually searching for, such as “tax preparation near me” or “bookkeeping for small business.” Think like your client, not just like an accountant.
3. Optimize Title Tags, Headings, and Meta Descriptions
Your most important keywords should appear in your page titles, headers, and meta descriptions. These areas signal to Google what each page is about and influence your click-through rate from search results.
4. Claim and Fully Optimize Your Google Business Profile
Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is a top priority for showing up in local searches. Use your exact business name, address, and phone number and select relevant categories like Accountant, Tax Consultant, or Bookkeeping Service.
5. Get Listed on Local Directories with Consistent Information
Make sure your business is listed across platforms like Yelp, BBB, and Bing Places with the same Name, Address, and Phone Number. This consistency helps build trust with potential customers and improve your credibility in Google’s local algorithm.
6. Build a Blog Around Key Search Phrases
Create helpful content that targets long tail keywords like “what to bring to your tax appointment” or “how to track expenses as a freelancer.” Blog posts help attract qualified traffic and build authority in your niche.
7. Use Optimized Photos and Videos in Your Content
Add images of your office, team, or client consultations and use descriptive file names and alt text that include your SEO keywords. Videos with captions can also help boost engagement and time spent on your site.
Local SEO for Accountants
Get Found by Clients in Your Area When It Matters Most
Most people searching for an accountant are looking for help nearby and they are likely doing it on their phone. That is why local SEO is one of the best ways to grow your client base, especially during peak seasons like tax time.
How to Boost Your Local Visibility
Claim and Optimize Your Google Business Profile
Make sure your Google listing is complete and accurate:
- Use your full business name, exact street address, and local phone number
- Choose the best categories for your business like Accountant, CPA, or Tax Preparation Service
- Upload photos of your team, workspace, and signage
- Write a clear, keyword-rich business description that includes the services and cities you serve
Keep It Active with Ongoing Posts
Regular posts show Google and potential clients that your firm is engaged and reliable.
- Share tips on tax deductions, year-end planning, or business bookkeeping
- Announce seasonal promotions or reminders to file on time
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Highlight service areas and any specializations (like real estate accounting or nonprofit audits)
Encourage and Respond to Reviews
Online reviews help your firm rank higher and build trust with new clients.
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Ask satisfied clients to leave a review after working with you
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Respond to each review professionally and sincerely
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When appropriate, include relevant keywords like “Thank you for choosing us for your small business accounting in Annapolis”
Get Listed in Local Business Directories
Improve your local presence by submitting your firm to trusted directories. Just make sure your details are identical across each one.
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Yelp
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Angi (formerly Angie’s List)
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BBB
- Apple Maps
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Bing Places
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Chamber of Commerce directories
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TaxBuzz or CountingWorks
Create City-Specific Landing Pages
If you serve multiple locations, build a separate page for each area that reflects the services you offer there.
Each page should include:
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Keywords like CPA in [City] or Bookkeeping Services in [City]
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References to local neighborhoods, industries, or landmarks
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Testimonials or case studies from clients in that area
Examples:
- Tax Preparation in Silver Spring
- Bookkeeping for Small Business in Bethesda
- CPA for Freelancers in Rockville
City specific pages help potential clients feel confident that you understand their market and are ready to serve them.
On-Page SEO for Accountants
Make your website easy for Google to understand and impossible for potential clients to overlook.
On-page SEO is one of the most important steps you can take to boost your accounting firm’s visibility. It is all about optimizing your website so that it ranks well in search engines and gives every visitor a smooth, helpful experience. When your site loads fast, reads clearly, and features the right accounting keywords, Google is more likely to reward you with higher placement and your clients are more likely to take action.
Where to Use SEO Keywords for Maximum Impact
To get the most value from your target keywords, place them in the areas that matter most to both search engines and users:
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Page Titles: Use location based phrases like Accountant in [City] | [Your Firm Name]
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Meta Descriptions: Write short summaries that include keywords such as Need help with tax preparation in [City]? Schedule a consultation today
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Headings (H1, H2, and H3): Use clear, keyword-rich headings like Small Business Tax Services in [City] or Trusted Bookkeeping for Entrepreneurs
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Body Content: Include keywords naturally and consistently. Focus on clarity and usefulness over keyword stuffing
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URLs: Use clean, keyword focused URLs such as /tax-preparation-baltimore or /bookkeeping-services-rockville
Create Dedicated Pages for Each Accounting Service
Rather than lumping all services onto one general page, give each core offering its own optimized page. This approach helps you rank for more specific searches and makes your site easier to navigate.
Examples include:
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Tax Preparation Services
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Bookkeeping for Small Business
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Payroll Management Solutions
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QuickBooks Setup and Training
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Financial Statement Preparation
Each page should focus on one main service, include local keywords where relevant, and feature strong calls to action like “Schedule a Free Consultation” or “Request Your Tax Review.”
Improve Your Site Speed and Mobile Experience
Many people searching for an accountant are doing so on their phones. Whether it is someone looking for last minute tax help or a business owner in need of bookkeeping support, your site needs to be fast and easy to use on any device.
Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights or GTmetrix to check your site’s performance. Make sure it:
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Loads quickly on mobile and desktop
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Has a mobile friendly layout with easy-to-tap buttons
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Includes clear calls to action like Call Now or Book a Consultation
Add Schema Markup to Help Google Understand Your Firm
Schema markup helps Google identify what your business does, where you are located, and how users can contact you. This structured data can improve your appearance in search results and even boost your chances of showing up in featured snippets.
Use Google’s Structured Data Markup Helper to add Local Business Schema. Include:
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Your business name and contact information
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The cities or regions you serve
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Office hours
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Service types such as Tax Preparation or Payroll Services
Optimize Your Images for SEO
Photos of your office, team, or community involvement help build trust with site visitors and influence your SEO performance.
To optimize images:
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Compress them to reduce load time
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Use descriptive filenames like tax-preparation-consultation-baltimore.jpg
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Add keyword focused alt text such as CPA consultation for small business in Baltimore
Image optimization not only helps your rankings but also supports accessibility and increases your visibility in Google Image search.
With these on-page SEO strategies in place, your accounting firm will be well positioned to rank higher in search results and attract more of the right clients when they need you most.
Off-Page SEO for Accountants
Build trust, expand visibility, and boost your accounting firm’s online reputation.
Off-page SEO includes everything you do outside of your website to strengthen your authority and climb the search rankings. The more your accounting firm is mentioned online and the more credible websites that link back to you, the more Google sees your business as trustworthy and relevant. This external validation plays a big role in helping you attract more clients through search.
Ways to Strengthen Off-Page SEO for Accountants
Earn High-Quality Backlinks
Backlinks are like referrals in the digital world. When respected websites link to your accounting firm, search engines take it as a sign that your content is reliable and useful.
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Submit your business to finance related directories like Clutch, Expertise, BBB, and accounting platforms like CPA Directory or Accounting Today
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Pitch guest articles to local business blogs, startup resources, or publications aimed at small business owners
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Get featured on chamber of commerce websites or city business listings
- List your firm on niche directories related to your specialty, such as nonprofit, real estate, or ecommerce accounting
Promote Content on Social Media
Social platforms can help amplify your content and increase your chances of earning links or mentions from others.
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Share blog posts, financial tips, tax deadline reminders, or case studies
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Post client testimonials, success stories, and behind the scenes looks at your team
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Use location specific hashtags like #AtlantaCPA or #SmallBusinessTaxHelp to reach clients in your area
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Engage regularly: answer questions, comment on local posts, and build your digital presence
Connect With the Local Business Community Online
Networking with local professionals not only builds real relationships but also opens the door to valuable online exposure.
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Sponsor business events, financial literacy workshops, or community fundraisers and ask to be listed on the event page
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Join local professional associations, chambers, or business alliances that feature member directories
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Collaborate with lawyers, financial advisors, or business consultants and ask to be listed on their preferred partner pages
Ask for Backlinks From Satisfied Clients and Industry Partners
If you provide services to startups, nonprofits, law firms, or other professionals, ask for a mention on their website.
- Request a testimonial with a link to your website
- Offer to write a guest post on a financial topic for their blog
- Suggest listing your firm on their “Trusted Vendors” or “Our Partners” page
Monitor and Maintain Your Backlink Profile
Keeping an eye on who is linking to your site is essential. Not all backlinks are good, and too many low quality links can hurt your rankings.
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Use tools like Ahrefs, SEMrush, or Moz to track your backlinks
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Watch for new and lost links, and follow up with any sources you want to build a stronger relationship with
- If spammy or irrelevant websites link to you, use Google Search Console’s disavow tool to prevent those links from dragging down your site
Strong off-page SEO takes time, but it pays off by building credibility in your industry, helping you rise in the rankings, and connecting you with more clients who are already looking for your services.
Pro Tip: Tie It All Together With Google Analytics
Knowing which SEO keywords to target is only half the battle. To make the most of your efforts, you need to track what is working and that is where Google Analytics becomes essential for your accounting firm.
Track Your Performance by Monitoring
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Which keywords are driving traffic: Identify which accounting related search terms are bringing people to your site. This helps you focus on the keywords that matter most, such as “tax services near me” or “CPA for small business.”
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Which pages are performing best: See which service pages, blog posts, or city specific landing pages are getting the most visits. This gives you insight into what your audience is looking for so you can improve underperforming pages or expand popular topics.
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What search terms trigger your Google Business Profile: Use Google Business Profile Insights to find out which local search queries are showing your listing. Terms like “tax preparation in [City]” or “best accountant near me” can offer valuable clues into what potential clients are searching for.
By connecting tools like Google Analytics, Google Search Console, and Google Business Profile Insights, you create a clear view of how your SEO strategy is performing. These insights help you make smarter decisions, refine your content, and keep your accounting firm growing in local and organic search rankings.
