Struggling to get found online? You’re not alone. Many small business owners fight to rank locally while competitors rake in leads. The good news? Local SEO works, if you know how to do it right. Learn more about how local SEO increases profits and why it’s a game changer for small businesses.
1. Optimize Your Google Business Profile (GBP)
Your GBP is your golden ticket to local visibility. If you haven’t claimed and optimized it, you’re leaving money on the table.
- Ensure NAP Consistency: Your Name, Address, and Phone Number must match everywhere online.
- Select the Right Categories: Google prioritizes businesses with accurate, well chosen categories.
- Post Weekly Updates: Fresh posts with offers, events, or news boost engagement.
- Get Reviews & Respond: The more 5 star reviews you have, the better your ranking potential.
🔍 Need a deeper dive into GBP optimization? Check out this guide on Google Business SEO.
2. Local Keyword Targeting
If you’re a plumber in Austin, ranking for “best plumber” won’t cut it. You need geo specific keywords like “emergency plumber in Austin” or “leak repair near me.”
- Use Google Keyword Planner and Google Search Console to find location based keywords.
- Add these keywords to your website, GBP, and content.
🔑 Not sure how to find the right local keywords? Use this Local Keyword Generator to get keyword ideas instantly.
3. Website Optimization for Local Search
Google favors local businesses with fast, mobile friendly websites.
- Include Location Based Landing Pages: If you serve multiple cities, have a dedicated page for each.
- Schema Markup: This helps search engines understand your business details.
- Mobile Speed Matters: If your site is slow, you lose rankings and customers.
🖥 Want to check if your site is mobile friendly? Try our Mobile Friendly Check Tool to make sure you’re optimized.
4. Local Citations & Listings
Google trusts businesses that are consistently listed on credible directories.
- List your business on Yelp, Bing Places, Apple Maps, and industry specific directories.
- Use a tool like BrightLocal or Whitespark to monitor your citations.
📍 Need help with local citations? Use our Local Citation Checker to see where your business is listed and where it’s missing!
5. Local Link Building
Backlinks from local sources signal to Google that you’re a trusted local business.
- Partner with local news sites, bloggers, and community organizations to get mentions.
- Sponsor local events to earn backlinks from reputable sources.
6. Reputation Management & Reviews
Reviews directly impact your local rankings.
- Ask for reviews via email or SMS after a purchase/service.
- Address negative reviews professionally Google considers responses as engagement.
7. Leverage Social Media for Local Engagement
- Facebook, Instagram, and Nextdoor are powerful local platforms.
- Engage with followers, answer questions, and run geo targeted ads.
Final Takeaway
Local SEO isn’t a one time task, it’s an ongoing strategy. If you’re not implementing these tactics, your competitors are. Need help executing a rock solid local SEO strategy? I’ve got decades of experience helping businesses like yours rank higher and get more local customers.
🚀 Want an expert to your local SEO for you? Book a Strategy Session Now!
How to Do Local SEO and Dominate Your Market
