When it comes to the different types of SEO, Local SEO shouldn’t be forgotten. This guide will cover tips for local SEO and teach you how to Optimize Your Google Business Listing for Local SEO.
After you’ve created, claimed and verified your Google Business profile, it’s time to start optimizing it for SEO. If you’re a local business like a restaurant, local store or a doctor, local SEO is paramount.
More and more search terms include local search features like map packs or knowledge cards. Every second you aren’t working on your local presence, you’re losing potential traffic and, as a result, potential customers.
Why is Local SEO Important?
Here are some of the top reasons why you should invest in local SEO:
- Around 88% of local mobile searchers call or visit within 24 hours
- 46% of Google searchers are seeking local information
- 97% of people search online to find a local business.
So let’s dive into how to improve local SEO.
1. Choose Your Primary Category
Your primary category is really important for you local business listing on Google. Ensure to choose the closest category to what you offer. Additionally, it should also be one that is closest to the keyword phrase you want to rank for. Have a look at what category your competitors have chosen if you need assistance.
2. Keyword in Business Name
Having the keyword in your business name can be great. However, it is worth keeping in mind that if the keyword isn’t a part of your business name, Google might reject the change. If it’s relevant, add the phrase to the title, but if it’s not, it is better to leave things be.
3. Location
There’s nothing more important than making certain your Google Business Listing has the correct address. Make sure you also list your service area to ensure you show up in the local search results.
4. Additional Categories
Select any additional categories that are relevant to your business, as this tells Google what you offer. Once again, have a look at your competitors to get ideas of which categories you want to target.
5. Have a Complete Profile
When it comes to your Google Business Profile, you should fill out everything that you can. Your description should be benefit-driven, explaining how you can help customers.
Add products and services as well as booking links, delivery links and anything that relates to your business offering.
When it comes to photos, be sure to add images that are relevant (and a lot of them). They should also be high-quality, non-stock images that show the interior and exterior. You can also show team members and products.
Things like opening hours, adding the menu, and more are great additional ways to boost your search appearance. Utilize every single thing Google has on offer.
You should also activate messaging and use the Q and A’s.
6. Google Reviews
You have to earn reviews. The best way to get people to review is to ask them to do it directly after you help them. People trust reviews, and they are extremely important local search signals. The number of reviews as well as the sentiment of those reviews, matter.
While none of us want bad reviews, a few of them make your business look more reputable. Another important thing to keep in mind is making sure you reply to each and every review.
A good score is between 4.2-3.5.
It’s also worth noting that some reviews have more impact than others. The longer, more detailed a review, the better. Encourage customers to include images they’ve taken or even videos. It could also be worth reaching out to a Google Maps local guide in your area.
7. Your Website
Including a link to your website on your Google Business Profile is a must. Be sure to include the correct http and www versions of your site.
You need to ensure you have a search and user-friendly website. This is where the help of an SEO specialist comes in handy. You’ll want to make sure your Technical SEO is up to scratch, ensuring your site is responsive, mobile-friendly and secure.
Your on-page SEO is also extremely important. Your site should be optimized to appeal to your target keywords.
8. Backlinks
Local backlinks do make a difference. These come in the form of events, local bloggers, neighborhood sites, sponsorships and even employee links.
Backlinks for SEO are always about quality over quantity. Reach out to suppliers, customers and sponsors for links. You can also work on press releases or even investigate HARO.
9. Citations
Citations are done through directory links. It’s worth setting up a business listing on the top citation sites. These links are often nofollow, but they can be a decent source of traffic, and they help boost your credibility.
Local Ranking Factors and Signals
The following signals tell Google that your business should rank higher in the local search results. These factors play a role in where, when and how your business will show up.
- Google Business Profile
- Physical location (proximity)
- Online “prominence”
- Online reviews
- Website content
- Backlinks
- Mobile-friendly website
- Online directories and citations (NAP)
- CTR and Citation signals
It’s important to keep in mind that engagement is important, as are location check-ins, CTRs, and social signals.
How to Improve Local SEO
If you need assistance with your local SEO, reach out to us, and we’ll help you make sure you’re showing up for your customers. Discover more about our local SEO services or contact us.
