Local SEO is a key component of a well-rounded search optimization strategy that can help grow your business. Whether you have a physical storefront or just serve a specific geographic area, leveraging local search engine optimization techniques can help you dominate the local results on Google and drive more traffic to your website.
In general, local search engine optimization is similar to traditional search engine optimization. However, there are a few unique factors that you need to consider. Local SEO focuses on ranking your website, and in particular, your location page, for local search queries. It also focuses on optimizing your social media pages and review sites to improve your local visibility.
One of the most important elements of local search engine optimization is making sure your NAP (name, address, phone number) is consistent across all your online profiles and listings. This includes your Google Business Profile, Facebook Business Page, Bing listings and Yelp listings. Ensure that your NAP is accurate and update it regularly. This can be done easily by logging in to your Google My Business account and checking for any discrepancies or duplicate listings.
Another important local SEO strategy is generating relevant local keywords. This is done by researching the types of phrases that people enter when searching for businesses in your industry. Use tools like the Google Autocomplete and the “People also ask” and “Searches related to” sections to help you find these relevant phrases.
Once you have your list of local search terms, make sure they are in your content on your website and blog. This can be done by adding them to your page titles, headers, meta tags, and image alt attributes. Be careful not to over-optimize for local search terms as this can be seen as spammy and can negatively impact your rankings.
Another great local SEO technique is running a link-building campaign to get backlinks from local websites, area blogs, and news outlets. This can be done by reaching out to local bloggers and publications in your area and offering them something in exchange for a link to your site.
A third way to boost your local SEO is by optimizing your Google Business Profile listing. This can be done by focusing on the relevancy, prominence and quality of your listings. This means including your targeted keyword in your description, as well as your service areas and keywords for each of the services you offer.
Finally, you can also boost your local SEO by adding a photo and video to your Google Business Profile. This can be a great way to differentiate yourself from your competition and show potential customers what your business is all about.