About Michael: Freelance Marketing Consultant Northern Illinois

12 years in construction + digital marketing degree = a consultant who speaks your language and gets results

My Story

I'm Michael, a freelance marketing consultant based in Northern Illinois. After spending 12 years working in the construction industry, I decided to go back to college in 2011 and earn a degree in digital marketing from Dublin Business School (graduated 2013).

That combination changed everything. I'd seen firsthand how contractors and tradespeople get ripped off by marketing "experts" who speak in confusing jargon and charge thousands for mediocre results. I knew there had to be a better way.

Today, I specialize in one thing and do it exceptionally well: getting local businesses to rank in the top 3 Google Maps results through professional Google Business Profile optimization. My construction background means I understand what service businesses actually need—more phone calls, not marketing fluff.

What sets me apart is my use of advanced AI technology for Google Business Profile management. I leverage cutting-edge tools to analyze competitors, track algorithm changes, and optimize profiles with speed and precision that traditional agencies can't match. This allows me to deliver enterprise-level Google Maps optimization at small business prices.

My overhead is minimal compared to traditional marketing agencies. No expensive downtown office, no large sales team, no bloated administrative costs. Those savings go directly to you in the form of better pricing ($97/month vs $500-2000/month) and more hands-on service.

I also share what I learn on my YouTube channel where I break down Google Business Profile strategies in plain English—no jargon, just actionable tips you can use.

Credentials & Experience

12 Years Construction Industry

Hands-on experience in the trades means I understand what contractors and service businesses actually need from marketing

Digital Marketing Degree

Went back to college in 2011, graduated from Dublin Business School in 2013 with focus on SEO and digital marketing strategy

Digital Marketing Certificate

International Experience

20 years living and working in Europe, providing SEO services to companies across multiple markets

Based in Northern Illinois

Serving local businesses across Dixon, Rockford, Sterling, and all of Northern Illinois

YouTube Channel

Free tips and strategies on Google Business Profile optimization

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Freelance Consultant vs. Traditional Agency

Traditional Large Agency

  • High overhead costs (office space, large staff)
  • $500-2000/month for basic local SEO
  • Account managers, not specialists
  • Slow to adapt to algorithm changes
  • Cookie-cutter approaches
  • Long-term contracts required
  • Limited direct access to the team

LeadsGen24 Approach

  • Minimal overhead = maximum value
  • $97/month professional service
  • Work directly with me, the specialist
  • AI-powered monitoring of changes
  • Custom strategies for each client
  • Month-to-month, no contracts
  • I speak contractor, not marketing jargon

AI-Powered Google Maps Optimization

I don't just optimize for today's Google Maps - I'm preparing your business for tomorrow's AI-driven local search landscape

Google Algorithm Tracking

Google's search algorithms are constantly evolving. I use AI tools to stay current with updates and industry changes, adjusting your Google Business Profile accordingly to keep you ahead of competitors still using outdated optimization techniques.

ChatGPT Search Optimization

AI search engines like ChatGPT are emerging as the next frontier in local search. While still a small market percentage, I'm already optimizing your Google Business Profile information for these platforms, ensuring you're visible when this channel grows.

Competitive Analysis

My AI-powered tools analyze your competition with a depth and speed impossible for manual research. I identify exactly what's working in your local Google Maps market and exploit gaps your competitors haven't noticed.

Future-Proof Strategy

Search technology is evolving rapidly. I ensure your business stays visible across both traditional Google Maps Search and emerging AI platforms, protecting your investment as the digital landscape changes.

Work With a Consultant Who Gets It

Professional Google Maps optimization without the agency markup

Book Free Strategy Call Get Started - $97/Month

Or call direct: (217) 695-6116