Local search optimization is a key part of any SEO strategy. It helps increase visibility for your business, thereby increasing traffic and potential customers.
However, it can be challenging for small businesses to compete with larger and better-recognized brands. Here are some tips to help you gain the best results from your local search efforts.
1. On-page optimization
On-page optimization is the process of optimizing web pages to rank higher on search engine results pages (SERPs). It’s a great practice for local businesses because it increases their chances of being found by people who are searching for relevant keywords.
This is especially important when it comes to Google’s local search, as it can make a big difference in how your business is ranked. It’s also one of the cheapest methods to publicize your brand.
The best on-page SEO strategies include creating high-quality content that matches user intent. This means choosing keywords that are relevant to your audience’s needs and making sure your page is useful to them.
2. Local directory listings
Local directory listings are a great way to boost your business’s visibility online. They are often free and can help you stand out from competitors.
The most important thing about local directory listing is that they help to improve your search engine rankings and drive more traffic to your site. This is due to the fact that they tell Google where your business is located.
To achieve maximum visibility in these directories, you should ensure that your name, address, and phone number (NAP) are consistent across the sites you list. Using a tool like rankingCoach 360 can automate this process for you, creating multiple pages of your business in all relevant online directories that contain the same NAP.
3. Schema markup
Schema markup is one of the best local SEO practices because it helps search engines understand the information on your website and makes it more accessible to users. It also provides Google with additional data to display as Rich Snippets in organic results.
In general, you need to tag your site with a type of schema that Google recognizes and supports, like JSON-LD or RDFa. The search engine will then use that data to create a rich snippet for your site in the search results, which is more likely to attract clicks.
You can add schema markup manually or by using tools, such as the Structured Data Markup Helper from Google. The tool lets you highlight items on your page and select the data type you want to use.
4. Keyword research
Keyword research is an essential practice for any local SEO campaign. Without it, you won’t be able to effectively optimize your website, target phrases for link building, or know what content to develop for your audience.
When you do your keyword research, you need to understand the underlying intent of the search queries your prospects are typing into Google. For example, people searching “wedding cake ideas” have very different intentions from those who are searching for “buy wedding cake in Boston.”
As a result, the keywords you choose need to be aligned with your business goals and the buyer’s journey. Using this insight, you can create content that meets the needs of your audience and helps them shift further along their journey toward conversion.
5. Link building
Link building is one of the best local SEO practices because it helps your business rank better in search engine results pages (SERPs). Links are a major factor in ranking, and having quality backlinks can improve your domain authority and page ranking.
Link building for local SEO focuses on getting links from websites that are relevant to your geographic area. This is essential for boosting your visibility in local search engines and drawing more traffic from people looking for the products or services you offer.
