Ranking #1 on search results is much more difficult now than ever. But then, how do you do when appearing on search results is your only chance small businesses have to be seen by prospects?
Before we jump in, let’s brush this a little.
For people to see your business online, you need to optimize your business website for local searches. This strategy is called local SEO. Local SEO allows your business to appear in search results for inquiries in your local area.
For instance, if you are looking for a “Pet store in Los Angeles” or an ” SEO Specialist in New York”, you would type these related terms in Google’s search bar. Then choose from the search results Google will show you.
Local SEO is a crucial strategy for small businesses that operate on a regional level. With nearly 50% of all Google searches looking for local information, leveraging local SEO will help market your business, products, and services to local prospects and customers.
Here are the top 5 ways to make your local SEO strategy successful.
5 Ways To Improve Your Local Seo
Set Up Google Business Profile
Claiming your Google My Business listing is the first step in incorporating local SEO.
Setting up Your Google My Business Profile requires a few steps, after which you can add your business to Google. GBP listing puts your business in the best position to be easily found by prospects. It allows you to showcase your offers, products, and services. Thus, consider optimizing your GBP listing by leveraging effective strategies.
Leverage Local Keywords
Create high-quality content around local keywords and phrases. To get results from local keywords, focus on researching and using relevant long-tail keywords to create content and (or) ads for your small business. This way you will be able to target high-intent buyers.
To get started with keyword research, you can use keyword research tools like SEMRush, aHrefs, Moz, or Google Ads.
Optimize For Voice Search
When you hear voice search think of Apple’s Siri, Alexa, and Google’s Voice Search. Voice search has grown to become an asset in local SEO. Coupled with the increased use of smartphones, millions of people now prefer conducting voice searches to typing out search terms on the Google search console.
For this reason, ensure your website is optimized to answer common questions people ask about your product or service. To optimize your small business for voice search, cite your business on major directories, optimize your GBP listing, create an FAQ page, etc.
Create Mobile-Friendly Pages
The majority of Google searches today are from mobile devices. The shift from desktop to mobile has prompted search engines to favor mobile-friendly websites. So, if your website offers a poor mobile experience, it may affect your rank on search results pages.
Create Specific Landing Pages
If your business offers different services, then you’ll need to create specific pages for each product or service. Packing all your services or products into one page will reduce your visibility on search results. And if your business offers a single product or service, but has different locations, ensure to dedicate one page for each location.
This way, you’ll drive more organic traffic because you were able to target keywords based on location or the product or service.
