Local SEO is one of the most valuable (and arguably, underrated) forms of digital marketing at your disposal today – particularly if your business already relies heavily on the locals. So, what do you do when you live in a busy city with a tonne of competition on your doorstep? For example, how can you make your business pop and cut through all the noise in New York City? By strategizing and implementing a world-class local SEO campaign; that’s how.
In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about effectively putting your website in front of more people in your local area.
What is local SEO and how does it work?
In a nutshell, if you were to type: “best BBQ ribs in my area” / “near me” or any other localized variation of that search term, Google will present you with a selection of local results.
The purpose of local SEO is to make sure that, when people search similar phrases relevant to your business, yours is the page that pops up.
And Google makes these decisions based on a number of important criteria, namely: reputation, relevancy, and quality of content / information.
Here’s how to make your local business pop on local SEO
1. Set up a Google My Business account (GMB)
First things first, if you want to show up on the local search results you need to register and set up your Google My Business account.
It’s relatively straightforward and there are plenty of guides that can assist you with the process, however, if you want it done well, it’s always worth hiring the professionals.
2. Don’t forget to NAP
We’re not saying you should lie down and catch some Zs (unless you’re tired, in which case, go for it); what we’re saying is, don’t forget to put down your Name, Address, and Phone Number.
Of course, you should go one further and add an email address and your website’s URL as well. The more information you can provide on your local listing; the more likely Google will be to rank you. People want and need details.
3. Link your socials to GMB
If you’re active on Facebook, for example, make sure you link both your Facebook and GMB accounts. That way, your social posts will show up on the local searches. Social media posts are indeed a ranking factor when it comes to your local SEO and GMB listing.
4. Know your keywords
When filling out your GMB, it’s not enough to simply input some generic info about your business. Carry out keyword research and look for the local search phrases that people who are in your area are actively typing into Google (in relation to your services of course). Then, focus on these valuable keywords and implement them into your copy as naturally as possible.
Also, don’t be afraid of ‘long-tail’ keywords. These are less competitive and much easier to rank for, while also boasting excellent conversion rates. (e.g., “who makes the best BBQ ribs in New York City” Vs. “BBQ ribs New York”).
5. Create unique (and relevant) content
Wanna stand out online and out-rank your competitors? You need to produce high-quality, unique, and relevant content – consistently.
It’s one thing to make and sell the best BBQ ribs in New York City, but if you want to be recognized as such by Google, you’ll have to offer a little more information.
For example, sharing blog posts about ‘how to prepare the best BBQ ribs for your next event’, or ‘how to cook ribs that melt in the mouth’ etc. This let’s Google know exactly who you are and what you do and thus can rank you accordingly.
6. Have your website optimized for mobile use
Remember, approximately 46% of all Google searches are seeking local information, and about 88% of people who make a local search on their mobile phone will visit or call a store within 24-hours.
In other words, most people who are looking for your services are likely going to be on their smartphones – which means if they visit your website and have not been optimized for mobile use, then you’ll be missing out on a lot of business.
Mobile first = intuitive design that looks perfect on a mobile device and is easy to navigate.
Final thoughts
The above tips are the big ones, however, there’s so much more you can do to positively impact your local SEO rankings. For example:
- Take plenty of photos of your premises and upload them (quality, relevant photos)
- Take part in local events and support y engage with your community
- Encourage people to leave reviews on your GMB
- Focus on link building (you’ll find no shortage of SEO services in New York City that can help you with this).
If you are able to tick all of the above boxes, you’ll set your business in great stead for ranking well, locally. Remember, it doesn’t matter how much competition you are up against so long as you are prepared to go the extra mile!
