Do you run a local small business? If you have a brick and mortar location and/or your customers come from around the area you serve, then local SEO is something that needs your focus!
Today’s post will share some tips on how to implement local SEO for your small business and rank on the first page of search results for people in your area, thus giving you a better chance of earning their business.
Why does local SEO matter for your small business?
With the rise of mobile use, many people searching for the best local businesses are doing so on the go with their smart phones, and they want a result fast. Does your business show up in the local search results? Are you primed for these customers to choose you?
The local search results show near the top and usually include a map with pin markers of locations near the searcher, as shown in the screenshot below.
6 Tips to Optimize Local SEO for Your Small Business
Local search engine optimization requires a strategic approach. While this includes many factors, here are six top ones to consider when it comes to improving local SEO.
1. Google My Business
One of the most important pieces of local SEO for small business comes from claiming and optimizing your Google My Business page. Your free business profile lets you easily connect with local customers across Google search and Google Maps.
Once you claim your free listing you can then post photos and offers to your profile to showcase what makes your business unique and why customers should choose yours over the competition.
Your Google My Business page allows potential customers to connect with you directly via phone, email or by leaving a review of your small business.
2. Other local directory listings
While Google My Business is the first place you want to set up, there are other local directories out there that are a great way to drive local traffic to your small business. These include:
There are services out there that make it easy to add your business listing to a bunch of local directories. One popular service is Yext. Another great tool is Moz Local.
3. Consistency is key
As you add your business to these local directories remember that consistency is key. To get the most local SEO benefit for your small business it’s important to use a consistent:
- Business Name
- Phone Number
- Address
- URL
Consistent information across different directories and search engines gives your site stronger local authority, as the information that’s out there is consistent and correct for potential customers.
4. Local contact info on your website
In addition to adding your small business to local directories across the web, it’s also important to include local info on your website. This can easily be added to your “Contact Us” page. Be sure to include the address and phone number of your small business along with an embedded Google Map.
It’s also a good idea to add local Schema markup to your address. This sends important local SEO information to Google about the location of your small business.
5. Implement local content on your site
Another suggestion to improve local SEO is to write blog posts on your site to highlight local events or happenings, especially if your small business is involved. Write about the community and any employee-related local news.
You could also highlight case studies or success stories from your local customers on your site. Highlight what services you’ve done for them and how your business helped.
6. Focus on getting positive reviews of your business
When it comes to local SEO for your small business, your reputation matters. The more reviews you can get on your Google My Business profile, the higher up your business will show in the local search results.
Consumers consider reviews when choosing who to go with. Positive reviews give social proof that your business is the one for potential customers to choose.
Getting positive reviews can take some leg work. Most people who take the time to review are angry! So, make sure to ask your happy customers often if they would take a moment to leave you a positive review.
Tools like GetFiveStars and Grade.us can help automate your review process.
Need help implementing local SEO for your small business?
⭐️ We can help. Learn more about our SEO services here, and contact us today to get started.
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