Local Search Marketing is an approach to SEO that targets customers within a particular geographic region. Additionally, it assists businesses in expanding their brand recognition and increasing sales.
Google’s local algorithm takes into account proximity, reviews and other elements when ranking search results. Optimizing for these elements can have a significant effect on your ranking.
Keyword Research
Keyword research is an integral component of a successful local search marketing strategy. It assists in discovering keywords people use when looking for your products and services, which can drive targeted local traffic to your website and bring more customers your way.
Keyword research is an integral step in any local SEO campaign, whether you’re just getting started or want to enhance your current keywords.
A successful keyword research method should incorporate several components, such as an in-depth understanding of your target audience (actual data, not assumptions), creative thought and dedication to task.
Keyword research can seem intimidating at first glance, but there are plenty of tools to help you locate the ideal words for your local business. Popular ones include Google’s Keyword Planner and SEMRush — both offering comprehensive data about volumes, trends and search result ad copy.
On-Page Optimization
On-page SEO is the process of optimizing content on your website for search engine visibility. This includes elements like keywords, URLs, titles, headers and meta descriptions.
Local businesses need on-page optimization in order to stand out in local search. Ranking higher on organic and MapPack results will expand your reach significantly.
The key to successful on-page optimization is optimizing for both pre and post click traffic. To increase clickthrough rates, ensure your title tag and meta description are optimized to be clickable.
Post-click, your website needs to have a fast loading speed for improved rankings in organic and local search. Furthermore, ensure your site remains up-to-date with relevant content and ensure you update your Google My Business profile accordingly.
Google My Business
Your Google My Business (GMB) profile is an integral component of local search marketing. It helps your business appear in both search results and Google Maps.
Establishing your GMB page is both effortless and free. Simply log into your Google account, create a profile, and add your business details such as the name, address, and phone number.
This is also an ideal location to manage customer reviews. Keeping your information accurate and consistent will allow search engines to locate you more quickly.
Google Posts are another great way to let people know about upcoming events, sales, and more. Plus, you can customize each post with a cover photo and videos for extra appeal.
Content Marketing
Content marketing is an integral element of a successful local search marketing plan. It can range from textual offsite material to image and video assets.
One of the best ways to boost your local SEO is by including location-specific keywords in your content. Doing this will enable you to reach a relevant audience and boost rankings for both websites and other pages.
You can accomplish this by creating a list of terms related to your industry or niche, then designating one page on your website about each topic.
Local Ads
Local ads are an effective way to reach potential customers who are searching for your business services. As pay-per-lead models go, you only pay when a lead comes your way.
To be successful with your local search marketing strategy, ensure your name, address and phone number (NAP) information is consistent across the web. Doing this can help boost your ranking for local searches and build credibility with search engines.
Claiming, verifying and filling out your NAP information on important directories online can be a time-consuming task; however, the result will be worth all the effort as it will significantly help grow your business!