Local search engine optimization (SEO) is crucial for businesses looking to drive more foot traffic and increase local conversions. But what exactly should a thorough local SEO service from agencies like Websites That Sell contain? This guide covers the key elements on What Local SEO Services Should Include.
Understanding Local SEO
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Keyword Research
Thorough keyword research lays the foundation for an effective local SEO campaign. The first step is identifying the terms and phrases customers are actually using to find businesses like yours in your geographic region.
Identifying Relevant Keywords
Brainstorm words and phrases a customer might use when searching for your products or services near your location. These should include your most important products/services, brand names, business category terms (like “plumber”), and local area names (city, neighborhood, zip code etc). Tools like Google Keyword Planner and SEMRush can discover more keyword ideas.
Analyzing Keyword Search Volume
Once you compile keyword ideas, analyze monthly search volume data to gauge interest and refine your priorities. Focus on uncovering keywords getting significant traffic with low competition – these present the biggest opportunities. Use Google Keyword Planner and click “Get search volume data” to populate estimates.
On-Page Optimization
Next, optimize your website pages for those high-potential local keywords you found. This drives relevance so Google understands what your business offers locally.
Optimizing Title Tags and Meta Descriptions
Include your most important 2-3 focus keywords (including main service, brand name, and location) prominently within your page title tags and meta descriptions. This quickly tells search engines what the page offers.
Content Optimization
Craft unique, valuable content around your local SEO keywords, answering the searcher intent. Use keywords naturally within headings, opening paragraphs etc. Leverage tools like Surfer SEO and MarketMuse to optimize content.
Technical SEO
Get the technical foundations right so local customers easily access your website.
Site Speed
Google factors page speed into local search rankings. Use Google PageSpeed Insights to optimize load times on mobile and desktop. Leverage compression, caching, lighter assets etc.
Mobile Friendliness
Over 60% of local searches happen on smartphones. Ensure your website works seamlessly on mobile with Google’s Mobile-Friendly Test. Add responsive design, eliminate pop-ups etc.
Social Media Optimization
Optimize social networks to further amplify your local SEO push. Create properly optimized Facebook Business Page, Twitter Profile, LinkedIn Company Page etc. Fill out descriptions, link to your website, and highlight addresses.
Conclusion
Implementing these core local SEO components involving optimized on-page elements, technical improvements, local links/citations, schema markup, and social media signals will significantly bolster your local search presence. Monitor ranking progress in Google Maps and pivot efforts over time based on what delivers results. With a methodical approach, your desired local keywords and map pack visibility will gradually improve month-over-month.