Whenever someone performs a Google search, Google’s algorithm tries to understand what they really want. Now, there are several factors in this algorithm, and one of the most important is location.
For example, if a user searches for a restaurant, it will be of little use if they get a link to a restaurant thousands of miles away.
If your website depends on traffic from a specific location, you’ll need to ensure that it features high in those location-specific search results.
The problem arises when you run a global business that relies on traffic from different countries. In this case, you’ll want to feature high in the search results of every country you operate in.
So today, we’ll show you how to track your website’s SERP performance in different countries.
What Is SERP Tracking?
So, what is SERP tracking exactly? SERP stands for Search Engine Results Page.
It refers to the page that appears when you type a search query into a search engine like Google, Bing, or Yahoo. The results on the SERP are ranked according to their relevance and authority– determined by the search engine's algorithm.
SERP tracking (or SERP monitoring) is the process of monitoring and analyzing the performance of your website and competitors in the search engine results pages for specific keywords.
By tracking your website's position in the SERP over time, you can gain valuable insights into your search engine optimization (SEO) efforts and identify areas for improvement.
For the most part, if you want to track SERP, Google is one the easiest and most affordable options (it’s free!). However, we’ll provide a few more robust Google SERP tracking tools that you have to pay for but come with some nifty features that make them more effective.
The Importance of Tracking SERPs
SERPs tracking, particularly local SERP tracking, is an essential part of any digital marketing strategy. Here are some of the key benefits:
● Understand your competition: When you track competitor SERP rankings, you better understand their strategies and can adapt to get an edge.
● Identify unique opportunities: SERP trackers let you identify keyword opportunities where you're not currently ranking but your competitors are. By focusing your efforts on these areas, you can improve your online visibility and drive more traffic to your website.
● Measure your SEO efforts: Keyword SERP tracking lets you gauge the effectiveness of your SEO efforts and make data-driven decisions about where to allocate resources.
● Stay up-to-date with search engine algorithms: Search engine algorithms are constantly evolving. You can stay on top of these changes using SERP tracking tools and adjust your strategy accordingly.
● Monitor local search results: For businesses with a physical presence, tracking local SERPs is especially critical. By keeping an eye on your local search results, you can be sure that your business pops when people in your area search for relevant keywords.
Having a SERP tracker on hand and making sure you track your SERP is paramount in today’s digital landscape. So let’s take a look at how to do it and some tools that make it happen.
How to Track SERPs Using Google
One of the easiest ways to start tracking SERPs is to use Google, especially if you’re looking for a free tracking SERPs tool.
Let’s dive in!
1. You Can Use Google to Track Your SERP Performance by Location
Firstly, you can go to Google’s homepage and click on Settings at the bottom of the screen. In the dialog box that opens, you’ll then click Search Settings.
You can then scroll to the bottom of the page that opens, where you’ll find an option to change your Region Settings. Under these settings, you can choose a specific country.
When you now perform a search once you’ve changed your region settings, you’ll see results from that country.
Another option is to go back to Google’s homepage and click on Settings again.
In the dialog box that opens, you’ll then click on Advanced Search. Then, select a country from the region dropdown list. Based on this search, you’ll get results relevant to your chosen country.
The problem with these two methods is that they provide results on a country level, which is not ideal if you want results from a specific location.
To solve the problem, you should add a local parameter to your search. Add &near=location, where “location” is the specific location you want to look at, at the end of the URL in the search bar.
For example, let’s say you want to see the search results for restaurants in London by using the query restaurant near me. When the results page opens, you’ll add &near=London at the end of the URL.
Keep in mind, however, that none of these methods might offer the most accurate results, and you’ll still get a lot of results from your own location.
2. Check Your Website’s SERP Performance in Google Search Console
A better option might be to use Google Search Console. This free tool from Google not only helps you track popular queries but also allows you to monitor your individual pages’ rankings. This will provide plenty of valuable insights into how your website performs in different countries.
For example, when using the tool, you can click on the Countries tab to learn where your website or pages rank for specific keywords in different countries.
You can also learn what keyword searchers users are using in the queries to find your website.
In turn, this shows you those keywords you might be ranking well for on a country level but where you might perform poorly on a more granular level.
It’s important to remember, though, that while Google Search Console simplifies tracking your SERP and is free, its data isn’t always accurate. That’s why you may want to source the data from GSC but analyze it with another tool.
3. Consider a Dedicated SERP Tracking Tool to Understand Your Local Performance
Finally, you can track your website’s SERP in different countries using a dedicated SERP tracking tool.
The benefit of tools like Mangools’ is that they’re specifically aimed at tracking search engine results and measuring your SERP performance more accurately.
These tools typically offer features that allow you to identify profitable keywords. You can also use them for competitor tracking.
For instance, you can check where your competitors are getting their traffic from and what keywords they use.
More importantly, these SERP tracking tools can show you where your website ranks in a specific region or country. In addition, by using these tools, you can also learn which keywords work best in a particular location.
Remember, though, that while they offer several benefits, most of these tools require a monthly subscription, which is a relevant consideration when you’re looking to limit your expenses.
How to Track SERPs using SERPs Tracking Tools
Besides looking at your local SERP, you can broaden your reach globally if you don’t have a physical local.
Let’s take a look at some of the SERPs trackers available on the market today:
1. SE Ranking
SE Ranking is a top-ranked SERP tracker that offers a wide range of features beside its SERP tracking capabilities. Along with letting you track Google SERPs, it provides website audits, backlink monitoring, and even helps you with creating marketing plans.
And with its SERP location changer, you can pretend to be anywhere in the world to find trends that might be popular somewhere else but haven't reached your area yet– giving you a head start on your competitors.
Its easy-to-use interface, customizable reports, and being one of the most accurate SERP trackers make it a favorite among users.
Pricing starts at $39.20/month with 250 keywords.
2. Zenserp
Zenserp offers a unique take on SERP tracking through its SERP tracking API. While it doesn't come with any metrics or position tracking, it allows users to build their own real-time database of SERP results. This gives users complete control over the data, enabling them to use it in any way they see fit.
It works with Google Maps, Google Trends, Google Images, Google Shopping, Bing, Yandex, and more.
One of the biggest advantages of Zenserp is its affordability. For just $29 per month, users can conduct up to 5,000 searches.
This makes it an excellent option for small businesses or individuals who want to keep a close eye on their SERP performance without breaking the bank.
3. Whatsmyserp
Whatsmyserp is another popular SERP tracking tool that allows you to automatically check your SERP rankings. With daily updates and unlimited on-demand checks, you can keep a close eye on your search engine rankings.
One standout feature is that it lets you track local SERPs using geo-location– simply type in your city, and the tool will do the rest.
It also comes with a host of other features including competitor tracking, keyword suggestions, and detailed reports.
Pricing starts at only $4.99/month for 25 keywords, up to $59.99/month for 1,000 keywords. With such a low entry price point, it’s a great option for those small businesses and startups wanting to get started tracking their SERPs.
4. AccuRanker
AccuRanker is one of the most robust SERP websites in the market. In addition to being a top Google SERPs tracker, it also supports other search engines like Bing.
The tool provides detailed reports, lets you add multiple domains, and can even track if your website appears in Google's featured snippets.
However, AccuRanker's premium features come at a cost, with plans starting at $129/month for tracking 1,000 keywords.
For users with more extensive keyword needs, AccuRanker offers more expensive packages that can track up to a million keywords.
Overall, AccuRanker is a highly recommended tool for users who need comprehensive SERP tracking and analysis.
Despite the cost, the platform's advanced features and ability to track multiple search engines make it a valuable investment for businesses and SEO professionals looking to improve their online visibility.
5. Wincher
Wincher is a simple and effective Google SERP tracker that allows you to compare your website's performance against that of your competitors.
What sets it apart is its keyword research tool, which not only suggests relevant keywords, but also takes into account the keywords that you're already ranking for– meaning you can capitalize on emerging trends and increase your organic traffic.
Pricing for Wincher starts at $39/month, making it an affordable option for those looking for a powerful yet simple tool to track their SERP.
With a user-friendly interface and daily updates, Wincher is a great option for those who want to monitor their search engine rankings without getting bogged down in complicated analytics.
So if you’ve been wondering “how can I track my SERP?”, then these 5 tools + Google (for SERP tracking, free of charge) have got you covered.
However, there are plenty more. When choosing one to track SERP, make sure you research its features, accuracy, and price before fully committing!
Bonus Option: Hack Your SERP Tracking with ScreenshotAPI
While you should use Google’s tools to understand your SERP performance in different countries, you don’t have to invest in other expensive tools (especially if you’re still growing).
You can also take timed screenshots of your target SERPs with ScreenshotAPI.
For example, let’s say you want to track “best restaurants in London” to ensure you’re constantly ranking prominently.
All you’d have to do is enter the query with the location-based parameters into your ScreenshotAPI dashboard, and you’d receive programmatic screenshots.
Copy the SERP URL, add it to ScreenshotAPI, and configure your settings (e.g., automated screenshots, text extraction, and more).
Then, you’ll automatically get fresh SERP screenshots:
When you’re new to SEO or simply want to maintain your results, ScreenshotAPI is a quick and effective tool to keep a finger on your SERP pulse point and make sure you don’t lose the first spot!
Are you ready to keep an eye on your SERP performance? Try ScreenshotAPI for free today!