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What is Local SEO?
Local SEO is a focused subset of search engine optimization that aims to enhance a business’s online presence for local searches. The goal is to tailor the online visibility of a business to align with the specific needs and preferences of local customers. Through strategic optimization, businesses can increase their chances of appearing prominently in local search results when users in the area look for relevant products or services.
Why Local SEO is Essential for your Business
Local SEO services are essential for businesses that rely on local customers, such as brick-and-mortar stores, service providers, and restaurants. By implementing effective local SEO strategies, businesses can increase their visibility in local search results, attract more foot traffic or local leads, and ultimately boost their revenue within their target geographic area.
How is Local SEO Performed?
As mentioned before, Local SEO is a marketing strategy geared towards optimizing your website for local search engine results. Some ways you can do this include:
Setting up your Google Business Profile
Previously called “Google My Business”, this profile is what will show up when someone searches for businesses locally or on Google Maps. Setting up your Google Business Profile is like putting a pin on Maps and saying, “Here I am.”
Without it, you’re pretty invisible to new customers.
Optimizing your content with relevant keywords
If you’ve ever tangoed with SEO, you know that incorporating relevant keywords into your content has a major impact on your search rankings.
Google scans your content to see if your website matches what users are searching for. It’s also checking to see how far away you are and how valuable your company might be to them. By integrating the correct keywords and phrases into your content, you can convince Google that your website is the perfect match for the user’s inquiry.
Creating content for the local audience
This goes along with keyword optimization. You want to create content that will appeal to the local community. Content can include blog posts, web pages, and social media posts. By building out this content and getting local visitors to your site, you’re solidifying to Google that you’re a well-trusted, local business.
Building and managing local citations
Local citations are mentions of your business name, address, and phone number across various online directories and platforms. Google will often use these to verify the legitimacy of your business.
You can do this by entering and editing your information on sites like Facebook, Bing Places, Yelp, etc. Just make sure that all of your information stays 100% consistent to get the best results.
Managing online reviews
Not only can online reviews boost your local search rankings, but they can also improve the confidence of potential buyers. But it’s not just having good reviews that can impact your social standing, it’s also how you manage them.
According to a survey by Brightlocal, “88% of consumers are likely to use a business if they can see the business owner responds to all reviews, whether positive or negative.”
Improving site usability on mobile devices
Most local searches are done on mobile devices, so make sure your website is properly formatted for these types of users. 61% of users choose not to return to a site that was difficult to access from a phone or tablet, and most of those who leave end up going to a competitor instead.
Building local backlinks
By getting high-quality backlinks from local websites and directories, you can improve your website’s authority and relevance for local searches.
You can reach out to other local businesses, sponsor events, or even contact the newspaper to get these backlinks.
Optimize Your Local SEO Strategy
That may seem like a lot to take in, but luckily, there are some handy tools that will make your local SEO optimization a breeze. See some of our favorites in our Ultimate Local SEO Toolkit Guide (In progress).
FAQs about Local SEO
Is Google Business Profile a big part of Local SEO?
Absolutely, the Google Business Profile (formerly “Google My Business”) is vital for Local SEO. It determines how your business shows up in local searches and on Google Maps. Keeping it accurate with details like contact info and hours boosts visibility, credibility, and improves your overall local SEO strategy.
Is SEO worth it for local businesses?
Yes, SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is worth it for local businesses. Local SEO helps businesses improve their online visibility in local search results, making it easier for potential customers in the area to find them. With the majority of consumers using search engines to discover local businesses, a strong local SEO strategy can attract more local customers and ultimately contribute to increased revenue. It’s a cost-effective and impactful way for local businesses to compete in the digital landscape and connect with their target audience.
Which businesses are most likely to benefit from Local SEO?
Local SEO is best for businesses that are trying to drive people to physical locations. Some examples include grocery stores, restaurants, event venues, and automotive repair shops.
How does Local SEO increase profit?
Local SEO increases profit by enhancing a business’s online visibility within a specific geographic area. By optimizing for local searches, businesses attract nearby customers actively seeking their products or services. Improved visibility leads to more website visits, foot traffic, and inquiries, translating into increased sales, customer retention, and overall revenue growth.
How much should I pay for Local SEO?
The cost of Local SEO services can vary based on factors such as the scope of the project, the competitiveness of your industry, and the specific services offered by the SEO provider. Prices can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per month. It’s crucial to assess your business needs, set realistic goals, and choose an SEO provider that aligns with your budget while delivering effective services. Consider obtaining quotes from different providers and evaluating their track record and reviews to make an informed decision.
Is listing management important for Local SEO?
Yes. Keeping your business information consistent and accurate across online directories and review sites is imperative for Local SEO. This lets Google confirm the legitimacy of your website and ensures potential customers can easily find accurate details when searching for local businesses.
