Ever wonder why some businesses dominate your local search results, while others struggle to be seen? Maybe you feel your business should be ranking higher in local searches. The answer often lies in local SEO. Determining who needs local SEO can be tricky, but it significantly affects small businesses with a physical presence.
Without a solid local SEO strategy, you’re likely missing out on potential customers. You need to implement local SEO to connect with people in your area. If you feel overwhelmed, consider seeking assistance from SEO professionals. So, if you are interested in attracting more local customers, you should consider if local SEO is right for you.
What is Local SEO?
Local SEO, short for local search engine optimization, enhances a business’s visibility in local search results. This helps ensure your business appears when potential customers perform local searches.
When someone searches for “coffee shops near me” or “best pizza in Philadelphia,” local SEO makes sure those businesses appear prominently in search results. Is local SEO important and beneficial for all businesses? If you aren’t sure, here’s a breakdown of why local SEO matters and how to determine if your business needs it.
Why Local SEO is a Game-Changer
Most of us don’t scroll past the first page of Google. According to Invoca, 92% of users will choose a business listed on the first page of search results. Achieving a high search ranking in local searches can greatly increase your search visibility.
Consider the numbers: a survey indicates that almost all people in the US use search engines to find information about local businesses. That’s a significant audience. Don’t let your business miss out; improve your search ranking with a robust local SEO strategy.
People use search engines with local intent, whether searching for business information or local products and services. Ensure your business profile is updated and ranks high on the page to take advantage of this.
The Mobile Connection
Smartphones have changed how we search by making it quick and convenient. People often search on the go, seeking nearby options.
Google’s research shows that mobile searches for “store open near me” have experienced substantial growth.
Those mobile searches grew by more than 250% between 2020 and 2022. Searches including “where to buy” and “near me” also jumped more than 200% in that period. Furthermore, 88% of people performing local mobile searches visit a related store within a week.
Building Trust
Local SEO is more than just about visibility because Bazaarvoice reports that 60% of consumers read responses to negative reviews. Responding to these reviews proves you value the customer experience.
A solid Google Business Profile informs potential customers that you’re reliable and current. Your Google Business Profile shows you care about your online reputation, which is crucial for attracting and retaining customers.
If you respond often, consumers are more likely to provide reviews; Backlinko found that 70% of them would provide reviews if asked. This highlights the importance of managing and responding to online feedback.
Figuring Out Who Needs Local SEO: Does Your Business Fit?
With the increase in digital and mobile adoption, local SEO is incredibly vital. But who really benefits from investing in it? Here’s a breakdown to help you determine if your business fits.
Local Businesses with a Physical Location
Does your business rely on local foot traffic? Then you should pay close attention to local SEO to bring in more visibility and traffic to your locations. Restaurants, retail stores, cafes, and bars are examples.
If you manage a plumbing company, display client testimonials to show you provide quality services. Potential clients can find you online using relevant keywords. Also, consider a USA-Based Local SEO Case Study to help learn even more.
Service-Area Businesses
These businesses may not have a storefront for customers to visit. However, they operate in specific geographic areas.
Home service contractors like plumbers, electricians, landscapers, and home cleaners fall into this category. Reviews are beneficial from a local SEO perspective, helping to build trust and credibility in your local market.
If you didn’t know the benefits of building local SEO, this is a great piece of insight. Knowing this information will give you the best local SEO strategy.
Healthcare Providers
People want healthcare that’s convenient and nearby. Doctors, dentists, and specialists can greatly benefit from appearing in local search results. You can always hire a healthcare SEO company like SEO Locale that can help increase your online presence.
Have satisfied clients post about your quality of services to increase visibility with prospective customers. These positive reviews can build trust and attract new patients.
Specific Industries That Thrive with Local SEO
While many businesses benefit from good SEO practices, some industries stand to gain even more from focusing on their local SEO.
Restaurants and Cafés
When people are hungry, they search. Bars, coffee shops, and cafes want to attract as many local community members as possible.
Restaurants and cafes are among the businesses that people read reviews for, according to a recent Brightlocal survey. Focusing on your local search visibility in organic rankings and searches is vital.
Real Estate Agencies
Real estate is all about location. Therefore, local SEO practices can work hand in hand for real estate services. Most realtors don’t even think about SEO since they are focused on their MLS listings or 3rd party sites like Zillow or social media. SEO can make a huge impact with the correct real estate SEO agency in their corner, give us a call today!
Smaller agents must implement effective local SEO strategies to climb high on Google ranking pages and draw attention. A good focus on relevant local SEO can do just that.
Law Firms
Legal services are generally needed nearby. That means appearing in local searches is crucial for lawyers.
An SEO company is crucial for lawyers to generate more leads. Hiring a SEO company that specializes in legal SEO can help increase those leads with the correct strategies in place.
Ensure your Google Business Profile is set up and that you have a well-made website optimized for local searches to maximize traffic and visibility. When these pieces work together, you are much more likely to get customers.
Pet Services
Pet-care related keywords are almost always demanded locally. Services like grooming, veterinary services, and pet-sitting are all very important when searching for relevant local businesses.
Showcase top website/blog content paired with your positive reviews, and more prospective clients will choose you. When potential customers read reviews, it is a big trust factor.
Auto Repair and Service
Experiencing car troubles? People search for help right away.
An optimized online presence allows you to reach prospective local customers, as well as potential partners and clients. Make sure your business is easy to find for those nearby who need your services.
Getting Started with Local SEO
If your business falls into any of these categories, local SEO should be a priority. Here are a few first steps to take.
Claim and Optimize Your Google Business Profile
It’s free and gets you into local search and Google Maps. Go to business.google.com and click Manage Now to start optimizing your online presence.
Ensure your information is complete and updated, including all relevant details. Keeping this up to date will increase your chances of getting customers.
Get Listed in Online Directories
Yelp and other online directories can increase local search visibility. Ensure your name, address, and phone number are consistent across all listings, including map listings.
This consistency helps search engines verify your business information, boosting your local search visibility. Utilize a variety of directories to maximize your online reach.
Encourage Reviews
Good customer reviews build trust and influence potential customers. Creating the right B2B SEO strategy can have a big impact.
Research shows that almost everyone looks at reviews before making a decision. Encourage satisfied customers to share their experiences online to attract more clients and boost your search ranking.
Use Local Keywords
Incorporate local SEO keywords that include your city, region, or neighborhood in your website content and listings. This helps search engines connect your business with local searches.
Google’s free Keyword Planner is useful for finding related phrases and industry-specific local SEO keywords. Identifying and using these keywords is essential for improving your local search visibility.
Create Location-Specific Content
When doing marketing analytics to attract an audience, focus on local events and news. Providing relevant and informative content about your business and community will attract more attention.
Regularly update your content to maintain relevance and freshness. Share insights about your local area to connect with potential customers and establish your business as a community resource.
The Stanley Tumbler Effect: A Case Study on Local SEO
What do the biggest water bottle brand and SEO have in common? They both thrive with strategic digital marketing.
In November 2023, a woman posted on social media about a car fire that completely destroyed her car. However, her Stanley Tumbler water bottle remained intact, even the ice inside hadn’t melted. Stanley’s sales increased by 275% because of their digital approach coupled with going viral. Even big brands can be inspired by how well digital marketing can work.
Conclusion
So, who needs local SEO? Businesses with a physical presence or those that serve a specific geographic area definitely need it. Local SEO helps them gain more traction with online prospects and generate awareness.
By prioritizing local SEO, you’re more likely to connect with local customers ready to buy or get service. Take those first steps and see how local SEO transforms your business’s online presence and drives foot traffic.
