A Local SEO Guide for Small Businesses: How To Be Found

Whether you are an entrepreneur or an online business owner, it is essential to have an understanding of Local SEO. With the increased use of smartphones and tablets for searches, in addition to desktop computers, people are searching more locally than ever before. In fact, more than 46% of all Google searches are local.

Unfortunately, if you're not a web designer or web host, you may find yourself neglecting local search optimization altogether, which will lead to lost revenue as well as unhappy customers who can't find your website! In this post, we will discuss how small businesses can benefit and thrive from local SEO, as well as tangible tips to get started.

What Is Local SEO?

Local search optimization is the process of increasing web visibility in local searches on Google, Bing, and Yahoo. When people use a web browser to find small businesses online, they are often looking for something close by or within their city/town. This typically includes holding a high-ranking spot on the Google maps application.

For example: If someone wants web design services and lives in Miami, Florida, then it would make sense that they would search "web design services in Maimi Florida." The top results that pop up are a result of local SEO efforts.

Why Does My Small Business Need Local SEO?

Local SEO is essential for small businesses because they can take advantage of the typically higher web traffic that comes from a keyword search. Ranking at the top of Google maps will encourage more people to visit and, if your website converts well, it could lead to more online business.

How To Improve Your Local SEO

1. Register Your Business On Google My Business

If you don't have a Google Business listing, you won't show up on Google search or Google maps. You can customize your account with business photos, respond to reviews, list the hours of operations, and ensure the proper address is listed to make sure your customers can find your listing and benefit from the information provided.

2. Optimize Your Website For Local Search

When customers search for a local business on Google, they will often see the web address in their search results. Therefore, the more on-page optimization that is done to your web page content and web address, the higher you'll rank on Google maps.

Whether it's adding nearby locations into your website services and content or optimizing keywords throughout your website domain name, you're helping to improve your local SEO through these efforts.

3. Ask Customers For Reviews

Reviews are an excellent way to get your web page noticed on Google. It's a win-win for the user and business owner because customers have the opportunity to give feedback about their experience. At the same time, web pages can collect reviews that will eventually boost rankings in search engine results. Include links on your social media page directing your customers to review, or include a link to review after customers have received your products or services.

Increase Your Local SEO With Our Services Today

Building your local SEO is essential for small business owners to thrive in today's digital marketplace. If you're unsure where to start, it usually begins by creating a web design and online presence that helps your company build the credibility it needs. Contact us today for a free consultation to help your small business grow today!