Do you ever use Google Maps to find local businesses? What about for your business? Google Maps can play a crucial role in your local SEO strategy.
If you know how to create a search engine optimization strategy, you can help get more customers to your local business. That way, you don’t have to spend as much money on advertising.
Read on to learn more about what to include in your local SEO strategy.
Set Up Google My Business
If you haven’t already, Google My Business is essential to your local SEO strategy. You can use your Google My Business listing to share information about your business location and hours.
Customers can leave reviews, and you can respond to those reviews. You can also review your analytics, such as how many people contact you and how people find your business.
Then, you can use that information to optimize your SEO even more. As you learn more about what people search for, you can improve your search rankings and be visible to more people.
Verify Your Business Information
If you already have a Google My Business, you should verify the information is correct. Do this any time you move or change your phone number or business hours.
You can also check your information once or twice a year to make sure everything is up-to-date. Verify that your information also matches what is on your website.
That way, you will have the right information no matter how potential customers find you. And you can avoid any confusion for customers who visit your website after viewing your listing on Google.
Be sure to check your information regularly. Then, you can make sure you don’t get customers showing up if you decide to start closing earlier.
Add a Map to Your Business
When working on your website, you should add a map that directs customers to your location. Adding a map can help people visualize where your business is, and it can keep them from having to look you up themselves.
You can include the map on your contact page so that it’s easy to find and reference. If your business is hard to find, you can also include a few directions from common streets and highways.
That way, you can make it easier for people to get to your office or salon. You can also add a direct link to your phone number so that you can help customers contact you if they get lost.
Get Citations
Part of your local SEO strategy should involve websites outside of Google and your business site. A good place to start is to get citations from local directories.
Try to join as many relevant directories as possible. You can join directories for professional associations or community organizations, and that can help you get more visibility.
Depending on the directory, you may also be able to include a link to your website. The more links you have from trustworthy sites, the better you can rank in Google Maps or a general Google search.
Work With Other Local Businesses and Publications
Another great way to get links from other websites is to partner with local businesses or get an interview in a local publication. If you want to work with another business, find one that offers similar services to you.
For example, an HVAC company could work with a plumber or an electrician. Businesses can link to the websites of the other businesses to recommend those similar services.
You can help other businesses get customers, and they can help you. Not only can that help with SEO, but it can also be a free digital marketing tool because word of mouth and referrals can be very useful.
If you want to work with a publication, you can ask them to interview you about your business. Then, you can talk about what you do and link back to your website.
Create Pages for Each Location
If you have multiple stores or office locations, you can still use a local SEO strategy. When creating your website, make sure you have pages for each business location.
That way, customers can determine which store or office is closest to them, and they can find the phone number and address. You won’t have to worry about people booking appointments at the wrong salon or law office.
You’ll also be able to optimize your website for each of your locations. That way, potential customers can learn about your business whether they live on the north or south side of your city.
Use the Right Keywords
Keywords are crucial for search engine optimization, local or otherwise. You can use different keywords that your customers may use when searching for what you offer.
For example, you can use keywords or phrases that include your city and professions. Your keywords may include “Tampa hairstylist” or “lawyer in Tampa.”
Use these keywords on your home page, about page, and any blog posts you write. You can also alternate between different keywords so that you can rank in search engines for those other search terms.
Keywords can also tell Google what your website is about. This can be useful if your business name doesn’t make your business obvious.
Write Excellent Content
Another tip to consider when using keywords is to include them in high-quality content. Don’t stuff keywords just to include them in a blog post or web page.
Instead, focus on creating content that people will want to read. You can then find keywords that are relevant to your business but will also fit naturally in your content.
Having good content can help people stay on your website, and that can reduce your bounce rate. Your bounce rate is the number of people who leave your website without doing anything, like click on a different page. Lowering your bounce rate can also help with SEO.
Developing Your Local SEO Strategy
A local SEO strategy can help your business get more clients and customers. While keywords are a big part of it, you also need to consider your business location and keep your information relevant and up-to-date.
Soon enough, you can see an increase in customers and revenue. Then, you can watch your business grow and succeed.
Do you need help with local SEO? View our services and contact us to get started.
