Local SEO Marketing refers to optimizing a website so as to increase its presence in search engine results pages (SERPs). Implementing Local SEO techniques may increase its ranking for certain geographical queries on SERP.
Local keywords are terms that describe your business’s location. They can be included in both website content and directory listings to accurately represent where you do business.
Keyword Research
When it comes to local SEO, keywords are critical in terms of rankings. To increase the odds of ranking well and generate traffic and conversions effectively, it’s essential that high-performing terms be identified through analyzation of search query reports in Google Analytics or keyword performance data in an enterprise solution such as SE Ranking.
Consider what keywords your competitors are using as well, using tools like Ubersuggest or Moz’s Keyword Planner for ideas of relevant terms. Also take advantage of Google Autocomplete to gain an idea of what users are typing into search bars when looking for services in your region.
Consider including keywords related to your service offering, physical locations where you serve them and searches they make online – this can help set yourself apart from competitors while building customer trust in you and encouraging business with you.
On-Page Optimization
On-page optimization is an integral component of local SEO, including optimizing titles, page content, meta-tags and NAP (name, address and phone number) listings across online directories.
Consumers want to see evidence that your business stands behind its claims. A successful Local SEO marketing strategy can help build this trust and authority among customers by encouraging reviews through signage, email follow-ups, or other tactics.
Assembling a solid local SEO strategy may seem intimidating, but its rewards can be immense. Through proven methods like local citations, online reviews and ratings and content marketing you can draw more qualified traffic to your site, leading to increased sales and repeat business – maybe even inspiring competitors to raise their game!
Local Citations
Citations is the practice of noting the name, address and phone number of your business on other web pages – from business directories such as Yellowpages to industry-specific directories like law firm directories.
Search engines use website citations as a way of validating information on websites. When the algorithm recognizes that your NAP details appear across several local sites, it gains confidence that you’re an actual business located at that address and increases their search results placement accordingly. This could result in you appearing higher up on local search pages.
If your listings on review sites contain negative reviews, make sure they are regularly updated. Even negative reviews can demonstrate your customer engagement and demonstrate steps taken to improve their experience, increasing customer trust and leading to more referrals. In some instances, Google may reward businesses with many positive reviews with higher rankings in local searches; but this may not always be the case.
Social Media
An effective local SEO strategy can help your business be found online and draw in new customers. Reputation management – which covers everything from Google Business Profile reviews to social media promotion – plays an integral part of this effort.
Maintaining an online presence and engaging with your target demographic are vital for business success. While this may sound daunting, focusing on these tactics and following best practices should make this task much simpler.
Simply stated, any business with physical locations or offering specific services within an area can benefit from local search engine optimization. By optimizing key factors specific to local searches, your website could rank higher than competitors and draw in ready-to-buy customers.