Online search is often the first step for consumers looking for local products and services. According to BrightLocal’s latest survey, 78% use the Internet to find information about local businesses at least weekly, with 21% doing so daily.
To gain visibility and attract customers, appearing in local organic and Map Pack search results is crucial. This visibility can convert online searchers into in-store traffic, appointments, or other transactions.
Here are seven impactful strategies to enhance local SEO visibility:
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Check for Technical Errors That Could Impact Indexing
- Understanding how search engines index your site is fundamental. If technical SEO issues are too complex, consider hiring an expert. Resources are available to help with identifying and reporting indexing issues.
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Create Exceptional Content
- Competing against various sources online, your content needs to stand out. Develop a content strategy aligned with business goals, incorporating diverse types of content optimized for search.
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Incorporate Local Link Building Into Your SEO Strategy
- Links serve as trust signals, indicating endorsements of your content. Local links can demonstrate trust within your area. Resources are available to help you find and attract these links.
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Get Your Google Business Profile In Order
- A well-optimized Google Business Profile (GBP) is vital. It offers business details and allows interaction with customers through photos, posts, and reviews.
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Ensure Local Listings Are Accurate
- Consistency in business information is key. Inaccurate data can harm user experience and visibility. Consider using tools to automate the monitoring of local listings.
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Monitor & Respond to Local Reviews
- Reviews significantly impact local search rankings. Engaging with reviews reinforces your business’s prominence. Educational resources are available to guide you in managing reviews effectively.
- Use Relevant Local Schema
- While not a ranking factor, schema markup helps search engines understand your content better, potentially triggering rich search results. Proper application and validation of schema are essential.
Bringing It All Together
Managing local SEO can be daunting for small businesses. Determine which tasks can be handled in-house and which may need outsourcing. Understanding these tasks ensures effective collaboration with agencies or consultants, if needed.
Remember, local SEO is a continuous process intertwined with customer service. For comprehensive insights, refer to resources like ebooks and guides on local SEO best practices.
More resources:
- Local SEO For Beginners: Getting Started
- Top 6 Ways To Get Higher Quality Reviews
- New Google Local & Google Maps Features That Boost Marketing
Featured image: Shutterstock/Deemka Studio
