Local SEO Tactics You Can Use

Local SEO is more critical than ever for businesses trying to capture their share of the market within their geographic area. Whether you run a small retail store, offer a local service, or are an online business looking to target a specific city or region, mastering local SEO tactics can make all the difference.

How Google is now moving with AI into their organic search results, and always messing with the Algorithm, it is time for all businesses who service or sell product in a geographical area to optimize where they are now sending the traffic that includes an element of, “….best…. near me” in their query.

In this article, we are set to explore proven strategies and practical tips that can help you improve your local search visibility, increase foot traffic to your store, and boost sales.

First Off, What is Local SEO?

Local SEO refers to the practice of optimizing your online presence to increase visibility in local search results. It is the online version of the Yellow Pages for lack of a better comparison. No one reaches for those big yellow books next to the home phone plugged into the wall… Heck, no one has home phones anymore either! But everyone now pulls out their phone to of their pocket and googles for a repairman or a place locally that sells what they are curious about. For instance when someone types “best pizza near me” or “plumbers in Salt Lake City” into Google, local SEO tactics ensure your business shows up in those search results.

Why is Local SEO Important for Small Businesses?

Local SEO is particularly important for small businesses that serve a specific region. That being said, Google has separated any search they get into a general question (which used to bring up websites across the globe… More on the SEO with Google Click Here) and to a specific geography-driven inquiry and sends them to the Local Listing that is called Google My Business or in professional terms Google Business Profile. Local SEO tactics help you rank in search results related to your city or town, giving you a competitive edge over larger, national brands. Local SEO puts you right in front of people who are most likely to become customers—those who are searching for the products or services you offer in your local area.

The Importance of Google My Business

One of the first steps in your local SEO strategy should be claiming your listing and setting up or optimizing your Google My Business (GMB) profile. Google My Business is a free tool that helps businesses like yours and mine to manage their online presence across Google, including Search and Maps. As many do not know, it is wholly separate from the mainstream organic search, and has its own set of tactics to optimize for better exposure.

Setting Up Your Google My Business Account

To get started, claim your business on Google My Business, (just Google, “claim my business listing” to create your new profile updates. Add your business name, address, phone number, website, and business hours. The more information you provide, the better. This is not a place to skimp on the info you provide. The better you fill it out, the better you can show up on the local search results.

Optimizing Your Profile for Better Visibility

But you don’t just stop there. Once your GMB account is set up, be sure to add high-quality images, update your business hours, and respond to customer reviews. Engaging with your customers on Google My Business can significantly improve your chances of ranking higher in local search results. As an inside note, the two best ways to rise in your ranking are to keep your info fresh and updated. Reviews are a HUGE factor in how well you show up on the results they display for the keywords you are trying for.

Understanding Local Keywords

Effective local SEO hinges on using the right keywords. You need to understand which search terms your potential customers are using to find businesses like yours in your area. On your GMB listing you have your location or service area, and the 15 keywords related to your business that you can optimize.

How to Find the Best Local Keywords

Use tools like Google Keyword Planner, Ahrefs, or SEMrush to find keywords that include your city, neighborhood, or region. Consider phrases like “best restaurants in [city]” or “top-rated [service] near me.”

Using Local Keywords in Your Content

Once you have a list of local keywords, strategically place them in your website’s content. Be sure to include them in titles, headings, meta descriptions, and throughout your body copy, making sure it reads naturally. For additional strategies and tactics, connect with us at MediaBus Marketing Group to have a conversation on what can be done and needs to be maintained for your Local Keywords to be effective for you.

Creating Localized Content

Localized content helps you connect with your community and boosts your chances of ranking in local search results. So what that actually means is that you include in the naming of your pictures or the articles you have on your articles/blog section that it includes the city or cities where you have done the work.

Types of Content that Attract Local Audiences

Create content that speaks directly to your local audience. It is all about the STORY, and how well you can tell it with words, pictures, and videos. This can include blog posts about local events, city guides, or news relevant to your area. You can also publish customer success stories or case studies based on local clients.

Importance of Geo-Targeted Content

Geo-targeted content focuses specifically on topics related to your location, which helps you rank higher in searches from people in your area. For example, if you run a bakery in South Salt Lake, create content that discusses the best places to get desserts in the city. Be creative with this and make it fun and eventful for those who want to follow your ‘Story’.

Here’s a few more tips that can get you some leverage with your listing: