Local SEO is vital to the success of a small business. A consistent NAPU across your website tells search engines what you do and where you are located, and a good SEO company will pull from multiple sources to build local rankings. Here are the tips that move the needle on local search performance.
What is structured data and why does it matter for local SEO?
Structured data mark-up helps your site rank on Google SERPs by relaying important information about your product or service directly to search engines. You can check whether your site has the proper schema by running its code through Google’s Structured Data Testing Tool. Proper mark-up increases your chances of appearing at the top of Google for local queries.
Should your phone number be on your website?
Yes. People often prefer to call a business instead of mapping directions to its office. A plumber whose site lists a phone number makes it easier for local customers to book the job. That same site also lets potential customers read reviews from previous clients before they pick up the phone.
How does local SEO bring in customers?
If your business is local, optimizing for local searches attracts customers in your area who then choose your business. The stronger your local SEO, the more recognition and growth your site earns. You need to optimize for local searches to boost your online presence, and a great website will attract recognition and grow with it.
Do blogs and citations help local rankings?
Creating a blog is a solid way to build the authority of your site and earn valuable links. Building local citations is an effective way to get valuable local links for your business. Keep your business website updated in the last few weeks and make sure there are recent reviews. Watch for price discrepancies between business directory sites and your own site, since those hurt local SEO.
Why optimize for mobile?
Local SEO on mobile devices puts your business in front of consumers when they need it most. Responding to reviews matters too. If you want to see improvements, your website must be responsive.
How does Google My Business fit in?
GMB is an essential part of your local SEO strategy. It lets you manage and monitor reviews of your business. To be listed on the first page of local search, your NAP and phone number must be listed. Domain authority is also a crucial factor for boosting local SEO, so aim for a high domain authority on your site.
What about localized content and local competition?
Localized content is crucial to the success of your business. By localizing your website, you get more visitors from your area and increase sales. Local SEO strategies also let you compete with other local businesses. A strong local presence drives more traffic and a higher conversion rate, so it pays to hire a local SEO company.
How does this apply to attorneys?
If you are an attorney, ranking high on Google’s local SERPs makes it more likely that people searching for your services in your area will find you. Put your name on Google and make sure your site contains the details of your business. Local SEO efforts keep your website visible on Google and other search engines, which is especially important for a local lawyer.
FAQ
What is NAPU and why does it matter?
NAPU stands for Name, Address, Phone, and URL. A consistent NAPU across your online listings tells search engines what your business does and where it is located, which is the foundation of local SEO ranking.
What tools help check local SEO setup?
Google’s Structured Data Testing Tool lets you analyze your site’s code to confirm the proper schema mark-up is in place. Google My Business lets you manage reviews and confirm that your NAP and phone number are listed correctly.
What hurts local SEO rankings?
Price discrepancies between your website and various business directory sites hurt local SEO. Missing NAP information, no phone number on the site, an unresponsive mobile design, and stale business details also hold rankings back.