Understanding the Difference Between Organic SEO and Local SEO
There is a significant distinction between standard organic SEO and Local SEO. Factors like searcher intent and the specific algorithms Google uses for its map pack differ from those used for main organic search results.
This article will guide you on how to attract new customers and enhance your visibility through effective local SEO strategies.
Top Ways To Improve Your Local SEO
- Keep An Eye On Your Competitors’ Google Business Profile Q&As
- Tweak A Google Product Listing To Gain More Exposure
- Use Google’s Business Messages
- Update Your Google Business Profile With New Attributes
- Join Local Marketplaces and Forums
- Consider Alternative Search Engines Like Bing and DuckDuckGo
- Monitor Your Online Reputation
1. Keep An Eye On Your Competitors’ Google Business Profile Q&As
Google Business Profile (GBP) offers a powerful Q&A feature that can aid in converting hesitant customers. To leverage this tool effectively, pay attention to both your and your competitors’ Q&As.
How GBP Q&A Works
On your GBP, users can submit questions visible to everyone. This allows you to not only address potential customers’ queries on your profile but also gather insights from the questions posed to your competitors.
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Engaging with users through Q&As can turn them into customers. Use the questions posted on competitors’ profiles to improve your own profile and address potential concerns proactively.
2. Tweak A Google Product Listing To Gain More Exposure
Google allows businesses to upload product details to their GBP, viewable on both mobile and desktop search results. These listings can appear in a carousel format, aiding visibility.
How GBP Product Listings Work
Products can be added manually or through automated systems like ‘Pointy,’ which connects to your barcode scanner.
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This listing can spotlight certain products, helping target specific needs based on stock levels or local events, increasing the chances of reaching relevant customers.
3. Use Google’s Business Messages
Google’s messaging functionality in GBP allows direct communication with potential customers straight from search results.
How GBP Business Messages Work
This feature can be activated in your dashboard, enabling quick, direct communication, which can significantly increase conversion rates.
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Responding promptly to inquiries shows potential customers you value their business, increasing the likelihood of them choosing your services.
4. Update Your GBP With New Attributes
Google frequently updates GBP with features that businesses can use to make their profiles more attractive.
How New Attributes Work
Attributes like “women-owned,” “black-owned,” and “LGBTQ+ friendly” can be added based on eligibility, enhancing the appeal of your business.
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Highlighting these attributes can make your business more appealing to minority groups, potentially increasing patronage from these communities.
5. Join Local Marketplaces and Forums
Understanding your target market is crucial, and engaging in local online spaces can provide valuable insights.
How Local Marketplaces & Forums Work
Observing discussions in local online marketplaces and forums helps understand customer preferences and concerns.
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Tailor your marketing strategy, product offerings, and tone of voice based on the insights gained from these platforms.
6. Don’t Neglect Bing, DuckDuckGo, And Others
Google isn’t the only search engine. Platforms like Bing and DuckDuckGo also play a role in local searches.
How Other Search Engines Work
Make sure your business is visible on these platforms by setting up profiles like Apple Maps Connect and Bing Places.
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By appearing where competitors may not, you increase your chances of being chosen by local searchers using these alternative search engines.
7. Keep An Eye On Your Reputation
Regularly monitor reviews and mentions of your business in SERPs to manage your reputation effectively.
How Reputation Monitoring Works
Reviews and directory sites prominently feature in search results and influence customer perceptions.
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Address and respond to any negative feedback promptly to mitigate potential damage to your business’s reputation.
Conclusion
Effective local SEO is multifaceted, requiring attention to numerous aspects. By optimizing your Google Business Profile, keeping up with new attributes, engaging through new features, and monitoring your reputation, you can significantly improve your local business’s visibility and success.
More Resources:
- Local SEO For Small Businesses: Top Ways To Gain Visibility
- Key On-Page Optimizations For Local Organic SEO
- Local SEO: Improving Your Local Search Rankings
Featured Image: Rido/Shutterstock
