As a business owner, you likely already understand how important it is to be found online. When it comes to local SEO, your business needs to be visible to customers in your area. Local search is about your business showing up when people search for products or services in your area. Here are three action items you can add to your SEO to-do list to improve your local search rankings.
1. Optimize your Google Business Profile
Your Google Business Profile, formerly Google My Business (GMB) listing, is one of the most important factors regarding local SEO. It appears in the Google Map Pack when people search for businesses in your area. This greatly benefits businesses that have a physical address or a service area. Make sure your Google Business Profile is up-to-date, accurate, and complete. This means adding your business name, address, phone number, website, hours of operation, and photos. So many businesses forget to add their hours, especially during the holidays. Make sure you add this information to keep your customers informed. Remember to encourage customers to leave reviews on your Google Business listing, which can also help improve your local search rankings.
2. Use Local Keywords on Your Website
Include local keywords when creating content for your website. These are keywords that are specific to the area where your business is located and or where you do business. For example, if you own a bakery in Indianapolis, you might use keywords like “bakery in Indianapolis” or “best cupcakes in Indy.” Including local-specific keywords on your website helps search engines know that your business is relevant to people searching online in your area.
3. Build Local Citations
Citations and backlinks are important for improving your local search rankings. Citations are mentions on other websites of your business name, address, and phone number on other websites. Citation sites are local directories like Yelp and Yellow Pages. You can also use paid services like those from SEMrush or MOZ that will help you build and keep local citations up-to-date.
By implementing these three action items, you are on your way to attracting more local customers to your business. Remember, local search is all about making your business visible to potential customers in your area. With a little effort, you can improve the local visibility of your website.
