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Local SEO can transform the way small businesses attract customers nearby. For small business owners, mastering local search engine optimization is key to standing out in a competitive environment and driving foot traffic to your store or website. With nearly 46% of all Google searches looking for local information, it's vital to get this right. Let’s explore five lesser-known local SEO tips for small business. These quick tips can help your business shine in your community.
1. Optimize Google My Business Listing
Claiming and optimizing your Google My Business (GMB) listing is a fundamental step in your local SEO journey. This tool is pivotal for your online presence and significantly affects how potential customers find you.
To polish your GMB profile, ensure your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) are consistent across all platforms, as consistent NAP information boosts your ranking by up to 20%. Add vibrant images of your storefront, products, or services. For example, if you own a bakery, show off your best-sellers or a cozy image of your shop during peak hours. Write a captivating business description utilizing relevant local keywords. Regularly update your GMB listing with promotions or events, such as local fairs or holiday specials, to entice more customers. Businesses who regularly update their GMB tend to see higher web traffic.
2. Leverage Local Keywords
Local keywords are essential for increasing your discoverability in search results. These are the terms potential customers in your area might use when searching for products or services like yours.
Begin by researching local keywords relevant to your industry. Tools like Google's Keyword Planner or Ubersuggest can be invaluable in identifying popular search terms. For example, a local plumbing company might explore keywords like “emergency plumber in [your city]” to improve visibility. Naturally incorporate these keywords into your website copy, blog posts, and GMB listing to enhance your chances of ranking higher for relevant local searches.
3. Build Local Citations
Local citations refer to online mentions of your business’s name, address, and phone number. They are crucial in boosting your online visibility and credibility.
To create effective citations, ensure your business is listed in relevant online directories such as Yelp, Yellow Pages, and local business chambers. Research shows that businesses with consistent citations in a variety of directories increase their chance of ranking higher by up to 30%. Focus on the accuracy of your NAP across all listings and correct any discrepancies immediately to maintain your credibility.
Ensuring you are listed in multiple local directories will ensure to help your local SEO. For example at The LMB Marketing Group, our listing management will get you listed across 40+ directories, and even on audio directories like Alexa.
4. Encourage Customer Reviews
Customer reviews serve as valuable social proof and significantly influence local SEO rankings. In fact, about 84% of people trust online reviews just as much as personal recommendations. More positive reviews can enhance your GMB ranking and persuade potential customers in their buying decisions.
You can encourage reviews simply by asking customers after a purchase or sending them a follow-up email. For instance, if a customer buys a product, follow up a few days later with an email asking for their feedback. Responding to both positive and negative reviews shows you value customer feedback and places emphasis on your commitment to improving service and products.
We implemented our Reputation Management for our customers and some have doubled the number of monthly reviews. Our reputation management tool sends out a simple survey, "Would you recommend [your business name]? If your customer clicks yes, we route them to leave you a public review on Google or Facebook. If they click "no" we will route them to an internal survey, allowing you to address the concern behind closed doors. This is a great way to keep a steady flow of positive reviews coming in, but the negative ones out.
5. Create Localized Content
Producing content that speaks directly to your local audience can differentiate you from competitors. Consider blog topics that highlight local events, partnerships with nearby businesses, or community issues.
Creating localized content improves your chances of ranking for local search queries. For example, if you run a pet store, consider writing about your partnership with a local animal shelter for an adoption event or sharing tips on pet care featuring local veterinarians. Such initiatives help foster a connection with your local community, enhancing your brand’s reputation and visibility. Connecting with similar businesses that have a similar audience as your target audience will also help your reach. A pet store collaborating with a local pet groomer or pet shelter will have the same audience. This will not only help with brand and online authority but with your reach.
Apply These SEO Tips For Your Small Business
Mastering local SEO is essential for small business owners determined to succeed in their neighborhoods. By implementing these five overlooked tips—optimizing your GMB listing, utilizing local keywords, building local citations, encouraging customer reviews, and producing localized content—you can significantly improve your visibility to local customers.
Integrate these strategies into your marketing approach and watch your local presence thrive. Remember, local SEO is not just about technical improvements; it's about building relationships with your community. Happy optimizing!
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