Local search engine optimization can be defined as the process of increasing how visible a business is in search engines, when organic, location-based search results like Google Maps and Google Search are used. Geographically constrained searches are entered into search engines against a database listing local businesses; going beyond the country as a whole and focusing on users in specific towns, cities and districts. With such highly targeted SEO, businesses who have bricks and mortar stores, or local service providers, can really reap the benefits.
Dominating the results pages for local search SEO should be the goal of any business seeking to be a success in its community, and with expert help from a local SEO company, you could use the following 3 strategies to get ahead in a crowded, highly competitive digital marketplace:
- Optimize your listing on Google My Business
This is by far one of the best ways to enhance your local search visibility, and by making sure that all of your business information is correct and updated, you can make the most of your listing on Google My Business.
From your businesses address and contact details, to website and hours of operation, it’s important that all of this information is correct and up-to-date, and it should be reviewed promptly whenever necessary.
You can also encourage customers who were satisfied with your service or products, to leave a review on Google, and make regular updates to your GMB profile with posts and images about recent or upcoming events or promotions. Doing this will help your audience feel informed, and encourage them to stay engaged.
2. Invest in local SEO
Techniques for local search engine optimization can go a long way towards improving the visibility of your website in local search results. By carrying out keyword research to help you better understand the types of phrases potential customers use when looking online for businesses like yours, you can get ahead in the local search results.
Try to incorporate them into the content, title tags and meta description of your website in a natural way, and make sure that your website is responsive; the majority of local searches are carried out on mobile devices.
Additionally, to boost the credibility and authority of your website, you should focus on building quality backlinks from social media platforms, local directories, and industry-specific websites.
3. Engage with your community
There’s more to building a robust presence online than algorithms alone, and businesses must connect and engage with their community both offline and online, if they want to increase their presence in local search, and encourage more users to become customers. With help from an experienced SEO company in Surrey, you can boost audience engagement by connecting with them on social media, taking swift action to respond to queries and reviews, and by taking part in local sponsorships and events, all of which are great methods for helping you establish authority, and gain the trust and loyalty of local customers.
Put these strategies into practice and you’ll soon start to notice an increase in local interest, engagement and ultimately, sales. Don’t have the time, energy or know-how to do it yourself, simply hire an SEO expert, and have them do it for you.