Local SEO drives organic traffic from nearby searchers and is one of the most effective ways to grow a small business online. The tactics below cover the core components of a local SEO campaign, the behaviors of local searchers, and the results businesses can expect once the fundamentals are in place.
Why does location-based search matter?
Location-based searches are growing among consumers, and about 60% of searches are conducted on a mobile device. Reaching this audience is essential, and local SEO is a proven way to attract new customers. Social networks can also support a local SEO strategy.
How do consumers behave in local search results?
Google uses multiple ranking signals to determine results for a local search, but most consumers click on the first few listings. That makes it critical for a local business to optimize its website for mobile devices. Local SEO can work for businesses with multiple locations too. Using Google Maps, a business can reach a wide audience in its area and appear as the most relevant result for that specific area.
What results can a local SEO campaign produce?
A local SEO campaign builds trust in your local market. A recent study found that 61% of people who search for local businesses end up making a purchase. A local campaign captures that traffic by offering a good user experience and providing information that is relevant to the searcher. If a user cannot find what they need, they move on to a competitor’s site.
Which local groups and directories should you join?
Joining business networking groups in your city is an effective local SEO strategy. Local Chambers of Commerce run member directories that feature local businesses, and your business listing should include a backlink to your website. Accreditation from the Better Business Bureau is also worth pursuing because it is a trusted brand among local customers, and accreditation signals to prospects that they can trust you and buy from you.
How should you handle customer reviews?
Responding to reviews is an important part of local SEO. A business may lose sales if it does not receive reviews from customers, so encouraging customers to write reviews boosts local SEO. Responding to negative reviews shows customers that you care about their opinions and are committed to their satisfaction.
Why is Google My Business important?
Google My Business (GMB) is an online platform that lets businesses manage their listing and respond to reviews. Google uses the information on a company’s profile to rank businesses, so an optimized GMB profile improves the chances of appearing in related searches and gives customers a way to find a business in the area they are searching.
Should you list on local directories?
Listing on local directories is an effective local SEO strategy because many people search local businesses through these directories. The more directories a business is listed on, the more visibility it enjoys. Tools like Yext can help you get listed on multiple directories at once, saving time that can be spent on other essential tasks.
Related coverage
- SEO for Business Owners: Unlocking the Power of Search Engine Optimization
- Local SEO Boosts Search Engine Rankings
Related coverage
- SEO for Business Owners: Unlocking the Power of Search Engine Optimization
- Local SEO Boosts Search Engine Rankings