Introduction to Local SEO
Local SEO is a subset of search engine optimization that refers to optimizing your business's online presence to help your ideal customers – who are already looking for a business just like yours – find you when they perform relevant local searches on Google and other search engines[1].
In short, local SEO is all about increasing the visibility of your website in search for businesses that serve customers in person or on-site. This includes both brick-and-mortar businesses that have physical locations where they serve customers (i.e. coffee shops and restaurants) as well as service-area businesses that operate throughout a certain geographic area (i.e. electricians or cleaning companies)[1].
Local SEO involves
reviews,
on-site optimization,
content, and
digital PR (such as earning press in local news)[1]. While local SEO is most commonly associated with brick-and-mortar businesses, it can also be used by online businesses that serve specific local areas to improve their visibility in local search results[1].
What is Local SEO and Why is it Important?
Local SEO is the process of optimizing your online presence to increase local traffic, visibility, and brand awareness[2]. Over 75% of consumers in the United States, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom use Google for business information, making it the most dominant search engine for local search in those (and many other) countries[2]. By optimizing your business for local SEO, you can reach potential consumers who use local search to choose which products or services they will buy[2].
Difference between General SEO and Local SEO
General SEO, AKA "Website SEO", focuses on improving your website's visibility and ranking in search engine results pages (SERPs) for a broader audience, while Local SEO focuses on improving your website's visibility and ranking in local search results for a specific geographic area[2]. Local SEO is more targeted and specific than General SEO, and it requires a different set of strategies and tactics[2].
Local SEO Impact on Brick-and-Mortar and Service Area Businesses
Local SEO has a significant impact on brick-and-mortar and service-area businesses. It helps businesses attract more foot traffic, phone calls, and website visits from local customers[3]. By optimizing your website and online presence for local search, you can increase your visibility and reach more potential customers in your area[3].
Local SEO also helps to build trust and credibility with customers, as your Google Business Profile can give them detailed information about your business location, products, services, and hours of operation[3].
Next steps for your Local SEO learning path
Sources
- Rank Math https://rankmath.com/blog/local-seo/
- Semrush https://www.semrush.com/blog/what-is-local-seo/
- BrightLocal https://www.brightlocal.com/learn/local-seo/introduction-to-local-seo/benefits-of-local-seo/
- Mailchimp https://mailchimp.com/resources/what-is-local-seo/
- Victorious https://victoriousseo.com/blog/local-seo/
- Search Engine Journal https://www.searchenginejournal.com/local-seo/what-is-local-seo-why-local-search-is-important/
