In today’s digital world, appearing in the search results of potential customers right in your neighborhood is crucial. That’s the power of local SEO (search engine optimization). But how do you make sure your business shines in those local searches?
With some simple but strategic practices, you can rise through the ranks and attract more customers from your local area. Leadhub thrives on helping our clients set the same SEO roots in their communities that they do in local relationships.
Your Google Bussiness Profile
Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is foundational for local SEO. Claim it (or create it if it doesn’t exist), and thoroughly fill in your business information. This includes your name, address, phone number (NAP), hours of operation, website and category. Add high-quality photos and regularly update everything.
Harness Google Posts
Think of Google Posts as mini-ads located directly within your GBP profile. Use them to promote events, new services, and limited-time offers — the possibilities are endless! It’s a direct way to communicate with people searching for businesses like yours.
Take Advantages of Services
If you have a service-based company, you’ll have the option to add services and descriptions to those services up to 300 characters. This is an often overlooked place to get more keywords in and to explain more about your business. Just make sure all the services are relevant to your business.
NAP Consistency Is Key
Unfortunately, your daily siesta will have to wait! Search engines trust you more when your NAP (name, address, phone number) data is identical across the web. Make sure all your online profiles, directories and even social media pages have the exact same NAP information. Any discrepancy leads to confusion for search engines and can hurt your rankings.
In fact, Google will frequently attempt to make that key information found on your website or other online presence match your GBP. This can result in incorrect phone numbers or addresses being replaced by Google on your GBP. It’s important to keep a close eye on the information and correct it if needed.
The Power Of Online Reviews
Customer reviews on platforms like Google and Yelp are incredibly influential. Not only do they build (or break!) trust with potential customers, but they also impact search rankings. Actively encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews by providing avenues for them to reach your GBP or preferred review platform. Responding with professionalism to both positive and negative feedback is key.
Remember: you should respond to every review that lands on your GBP.
Location-Specific Content (Speak To Your Customers!)
A wide-reaching content strategy only goes so far. It’s a good idea to make sure that at least some of your content targets local towns or cities inside your service area.
If your business has multiple locations, dedicate a separate page on your website to each one. Include all the crucial NAP info, location-specific offers and even testimonials from customers in that area.
Make Your Website Mobile-Friendly
The majority of local searches happen on smartphones. If your website is clunky or slow to load on mobile devices, you’re losing out on potential customers. Google also factors in mobile-friendliness when determining rankings.
Local Links Show You’re Legit
Getting backlinks (links from other websites to yours) is always valuable and shows search engines you’re an authority. For local SEO, focus on links from relevant local websites. Try partnering with community organizations, sponsoring local events or guest blogging on local news sites to rack up those local links.
Don’t Ignore ‘Traditional’ Directories
While Google dominates search, don’t underestimate the power of being listed in reputable directories like Yelp, Yellow Pages or industry-specific ones. Consistent profiles on these boost your credibility in the eyes of search engines.
Lay Deep Roots In Your Community With Local SEO
Dominating local SEO doesn’t have to be complex. By focusing on these key practices, you’ll put your business squarely on the map for your most important audience — the folks right in your neighborhood. Remember, consistency and an emphasis on delivering great customer experiences are the secrets to long-term local SEO success!
If you’re ready for a more effective SEO strategy, it’s time to talk to Leadhub. Our team plans and executes local SEO strategies for all our clients, ensuring they show up to the local customers who need them most! Give us a call today or fill out a form.
