Local SEO Meaning
Local SEO, in essence, is a search engine optimization strategy that helps businesses to be visible in the local results on Google and other search engines. Any business that has a physical location or serves a specific geographic area is eligible for a Google Business Profile and can claim its own pin on Google Maps.
With this concise and incredibly important definition of what Local SEO is, let's explore why it's essential and how it can supercharge your business.
Why is Local SEO Important?
From Google's point of view, Local SEO revolves around understanding user search intent by addressing two fundamental questions: "What" and "Where."
By precisely defining "What" your business is and "Where" potential customers can find it, you become the go-to solution for relevant query, attracting new customers and retaining the existing ones.
Here is an example of a search query that pulls local results: “hotel near south beach”
First Steps in Local SEO
In order to rank for high-volume or in other words popular niche-related search terms, you must provide Google with crucial information that empowers its algorithm to comprehend your business deeply. In this way it will understand in depth where your business is, what the business purpose is and how it functions.
Below you can find some of the important factors:
- NAPW (Name, Phone, Address, Website): The essentials that let customers find and contact you.
- Category (Hotel, Hospital, Plumber, Real Estate etc.): Defining your industry
- Amenities (depending on Category): Highlighting what makes you unique.
- Reviews (Overall Rating, Comments): Building trust and credibility.
- Visual Assets (Images, Videos): Engaging and captivating your audience.
Location is a backbone in this optimization strategy. It determines how your business is positioned in a specific area, considering all the factors above. Thus, the optimization plan is tailored precisely to your business, its location, and its competitors.
This precision calls for a detailed SEO audit, revealing strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities. It's the path to enhancing local visibility, driving traffic, and attracting new customers both online and to your physical location.
