Setup Google My Business
Setting up Google My Business gives you a common application to make Local Search Engine Optimization easier. The app connects you to maps, Google search, Insights, Google+, Analytics and Reviews in one interface. You can make changes that update all your Google services.
Join the Local Chamber of Commerce
The local Chamber of Commerce is a great way to network with other business owners. The main SEO value is that you’ll be listed in your local COC’s digital directory, increasing your chances of being found by local residents searching for the services you offer.
Chambers of Commerce are designed to help local businesses prosper, so you get a lot for a modest annual fee. You can attend Chamber events even if you aren’t a member, but the benefits of membership make it advantageous to join.
Make Your NAP Consistent
NAP Consistency refers to your business name, address and phone number. Make sure your information is accurate across all digital platforms, directories and websites. This is likely to impact your local search results, so it’s important to get it right.
Get Online Reviews
It’s easy for clients to help you build up your reputation online. Consumers can leave reviews on Yelp!, the Better Business Bureau website and on Google. There are also industry-specific review sites that you may be able to nudge loyal clients to leave good reviews on.
If you’re still having a hard time getting reviews, incentivize the requests. Offer discounts or free stuff to customers who leave a review. People will appreciate your effort.
Create Local Listing
Local SEO marketing can lead residents to your doorstep. However, you can also list your details in Google and make sure they can find you in organic searches. Want to know how to rank your local business in Bing, Google, and Apple Maps?
Set up your business in Google with the maximum amount of information:
- Enter Your business name.
- Enter Your address
- Choose a category.
- Enter Your Phone Number and include your website.
- Verify Your Listing.
Optimize Content & Meta Tags for Local Keywords
Page title tags and meta descriptions are believed to still be relevant. Even if they aren’t in the ranking algorithm, they influence whether a searcher clicks through to your page.
To optimize local SEO, make sure your page title tags include the city name you are targeting as well as your product or services.
Optimize Website to be Mobile Friendly, Secured (https), Fast
You may need to bring in a consultant to help you determine how to meet Google’s mobile-first SEO ranking. If your website isn’t mobile-friendly your ranking will suffer. You can measure the speed of your page through Google Chrome’s built-in Developer Tools or WebPageTest.
HTTPS — Hypertext Transport Protocol Secure — provides more security than http: extensions.
Create Location-Specific Pages
Create local content. Google’s algorithms take your local page content into account. Creating local content helps you maintain the interest of viewers and can improve your page ranking. Over 63% of smartphone users use location-based apps to find a particular kind of business near them. Geo-specific content helps them find you.
Blog About Local Events
Local SEO marketing can be as simple as blogging about local events on your site and social media. You can double your exposure by sponsoring a booth at a local nonprofit event, such as a 5k, to raise awareness for a cause while promoting your website and online presence.
Conduct Local Link Building
Local link building is an under-utilized resource. Not every website takes advantage of its location, but it can strengthen your link-building campaigns.
