Tips For Local SEO Success

Local SEO is just as important as general SEO for any business with a physical presence, and the two reinforce each other. Your online results mirror the reality of your business, so a weak offline presence hurts you online as much as a weak site does. Below are practical, field-tested tips for local SEO success.

Why local search matters

Although word-of-mouth and local advertisements are effective ways to attract local customers, online search is equally important. According to research by Google, 97% of Internet users have searched for local businesses online, and 46% of Google searches were local in nature. If you are not ranking high on local search results, you are missing out on valuable traffic. Local SEO is a core part of staying relevant and growing your business.

How do I make my website rank for local search?

Your site should be mobile-friendly so it is easily readable on phones and tablets, and its content should contain local keywords. Mentions of those keywords across the site should be consistent. Your website must also have pages oriented toward a specific geographic area. All of these factors contribute to your site’s local ranking in search results, so more potential customers can find your business and make a purchase.

Use real local terms in your copy

Include local city names, neighboring towns, and other terms used in the area. Mention relevant keywords and categories in your content, and write articles that answer local queries. Avoid writing fluff pieces and focus on giving useful information. You can also cover local events and interview local experts to create engaging content.

What keywords should I target for local SEO?

One of the most important steps in local SEO is understanding what keywords people search for in your local area. Local SERPs display organic and paid listings, depending on what users are searching for, and these listings usually have a map. Optimize your site for local search terms by knowing which keywords are the most relevant to your business. This helps your business rank well and attract more local customers.

How do I build local links and citations?

Another important part of local SEO is building links. Create pages on your website that feature news and updates about your local baseball team, and share pictures and updates of the team. If your page is linked by other local business websites, you will likely receive backlinks from them. By creating content related to local topics, you earn valuable backlinks and get your business recognized by local customers.

Use structured data markup

Structured data markup is essential for local SEO. The process involves using code to relay important business information to Google SERPs. Structured data markup can be applied to your website, product, and service listing. Google’s Structured Data Testing Tool can analyze your website’s code and provide you with local SEO recommendations, and it will also help you set up your product schema. Then you can submit your product information to popular review sites.

Claim and optimize your Google Business Profile

A good Google Business Profile (GBP) will boost your visibility in Google Maps, Local Pack, and Local Finder. Local SEO is essential for local businesses to attract attention and convert local searchers, and without it your business could miss out on a large share of potential customers. By creating an excellent profile in GBP, you reach more local customers with your business information.

Related coverage

• The Importance of Local SEO in Search Optimization
• Local SEO Strategies That Drive Foot Traffic to Your Physical Storefront