You’re probably heard that SEO is an important part of your business strategy, but how can you tell if you’re hiring the right SEO company? A local SEO agency should be certified by Google or another reputable body. If they don’t, ask to see proof. You should also look for client testimonials and case studies.
What should you look for in a local SEO company?
Start with credentials. A trustworthy local SEO agency is certified by Google or another reputable body, and it can show client testimonials and case studies to back up its work. Beyond credentials, the agency should be able to explain the basics of onsite SEO in plain terms and point to clear performance improvements.
Why does onsite SEO matter for local search?
The key to onsite SEO is in the details. An extensive SEO audit may be impractical or prohibitively expensive, so focus on the elements that move local rankings: a Google My Business page, mobile-friendly content, and a user-friendly site structure with fast load times. For example, email has adapted to mobile users, and subscriber experience now competes with web content in local search results.
Is Google My Business really that important?
Yes. Google’s algorithm isn’t designed to rank the highest website in the world. It cares more about your reputation in the local market. A plumber doesn’t need a world-class website to land on the first page of search results, but he does need a presence in the area he services, starting with a complete Google My Business page.
How do reviews and content affect local rankings?
One of the best ways to improve local search visibility is to manage your reviews. While managing reviews can be a daunting task, the results can be tremendous. Pair that with social media and email marketing activity, keep your message front and center, and use a professional tone when interacting with your online community. High-quality, relevant content in the form of blogs, articles, and reviews ties the strategy together.
Why is local SEO worth the investment?
Local SEO improves the user experience, increases rankings, and makes more sales. It optimizes a website for mobile search and implements a user-friendly structure, which improves load times and overall usability. Done right, local SEO delivers higher rankings and increased revenue.
How has local SEO changed recently?
Google and other search engines increasingly use location information to improve search results. Consumers rely on location-based search to decide what to spend their money on, and local searches are now a huge part of online marketing. Optimizing your website for local SEO is no longer optional.
FAQ
How can you tell if you’re hiring the right SEO company?
Look for Google or other reputable certification, ask to see proof, and review client testimonials and case studies. A good local SEO agency should also be able to explain onsite SEO basics clearly and point to measurable performance improvements.
Do small local businesses really need a website for SEO?
Local SEO is about reputation in your market, not about having the highest website globally. A business like a plumber doesn’t need a world-class website to be seen on the first page of search results, but it does need a Google My Business page and a presence in the service area.
What factors matter most for local SEO?
Reviews management, social media and email marketing, a professional tone with your online community, and high-quality relevant content such as blogs, articles, and reviews. Mobile-friendly structure and fast load times round out the core checklist.