Local SEO involves optimizing your website and business listings to increase their online visibility in your service area. It includes techniques such as local keyword research and claiming Google Business Profile listings.
Add local keywords and landmarks into your content is a no-brainer, but take it one step further by including region-specific hotspots in your writing.
Local Keywords
Keyword research is at the core of local seo, as it allows you to understand which terms your target audience uses to search for products and services similar to yours. By targeting relevant search terms, you can rank higher in local searches and bring more traffic directly to your website.
One of the cornerstones of local keyword research is selecting location-specific words and phrases. Search engines understand this type of keyword as an indicator that your products and services are applicable for a certain location.
Use keywords strategically across your website and blog posts, Google My Business profile descriptions and listing descriptions and even Google Places descriptions – but beware not to overuse them as search engines consider this spammy and will demote content and listings that overcrowd with them. Instead, try naturally including them into the content itself – for instance if you run an exotic flower shop, include keywords like “RDU floral arrangement delivery” as part of blog posts and website content.
Local Citations
Citations is any mention of your business online which features its name, address and phone number. Citations is considered essential to local SEO as search engines use them to verify and increase the likelihood that relevant searches appear in the local pack for relevant searches.
Local citations can be easily acquired by listing yourself on business directories and social media platforms, industry-specific websites and local newspapers – this latter option may prove to be more difficult but highly valuable for local SEO.
However, it is essential that your NAP information remains consistent across all citations. One method to accomplish this goal is using a citation management tool to detect and correct inconsistencies. You should also regularly review citations to ensure they remain accurate and up-to-date.
Local Reviews
49% of consumers read online reviews before visiting a business and trust them as much as personal recommendations. Local search optimization can boost a company’s visibility and credibility within its target market and lead to increased sales.
Local search ranking factors encompass an array of signals, such as Google My Business listings, citations and review signals. Not all review platforms have equal effects on local search rankings – for optimal results it’s wise to collect reviews from more reputable sources such as Yelp, Facebook Thumbtack or Angie’s List for optimal results.
Encourage both positive and negative reviews; even having some poor ones can strengthen your brand by showing that you care about customer experiences. Reviews should also be updated frequently as consumers prefer current listings over outdated ones; this is particularly applicable when businesses change locations, phone numbers or URLs.
Local Maps
An interactive local map is an effective way to help customers discover your business. It displays its location and gives directions. Furthermore, adding your website link enhances search engine optimization.
Local maps are an integral component of your local SEO strategy. Google uses them to determine whether your business is relevant for particular searches. You can increase your local search ranking by prioritizing citation signals and optimizing on-page content optimization strategies on your website.
Ranking highly in Google Map Pack is essential to local SEO as it can attract an incredible amount of traffic to your business. You can increase your chances by employing various local SEO strategies, such as creating local links and implementing NAP on your website, as well as adding customer reviews – 8 out of 10 consumers say positive reviews make them more likely to visit businesses!