Local SEO, or Search Engine Optimization that is focused on a specific geographical area, can increase the likelihood of your business showing up in Google Carousel and in the top of the Google Search results. It is a vital aspect of any business with a physical location that services customers within a particular region. The process of optimizing a website for local searches is different from standard SEO, and it requires special knowledge of the unique keywords that your audience uses to find products or services in your area.
89 percent of people use mobile devices to look for local businesses, and 72 percent will visit a business that is within five miles. That means that if your local SEO is not strong, you are missing out on potential customers.
There are several tools available that can help you optimize your site for local SEO. One is Google Business Manager (formerly Google My Business), which allows you to manage your business listing and make sure that it is accurate and up-to-date. Another is the free Google Search Console, which lets you see how searchers are finding your site and provides you with valuable information about how users interact with it.
You can also improve your ranking in local SERPs by optimizing the content on your website. This includes your page titles, meta descriptions, header tags, and content with local keywords. You should also consider creating content that speaks to your audience’s specific needs. This can be done by interviewing local experts or writing articles about local events, news, or trends.
When choosing a local SEO service provider, be sure to check out their portfolio and client list. Choose one with experience working with similar clients in your industry and that can offer a personalized strategy that aligns with your goals.
Keywords are important for all SEO strategies, but they are especially critical for local SEO. They need to be relevant and accurate, but they should also be used sparingly. Overusing keywords can actually hurt your local search rankings, so be careful not to overdo it.
Another factor that can impact your local SEO is the number of citations your business has. These are mentions of your name, address, and phone number across the web, including social media, review websites, and local business directories. The more citations your business has, the higher it will rank in local SERPs.
Lastly, it is important to build trust with your local audience. Reviews and testimonials can have a big impact on local SEO, so be sure to ask your customers to leave reviews and to share them on social media. In addition, make sure to respond to positive and negative feedback promptly. This will show that your business is reputable and reliable. It will also encourage potential customers to reach out and give you a try. In fact, research shows that 81 percent of people read customer reviews before making a purchase.