Business owners these days know that search engine optimization (SEO) is an important part of any digital marketing strategy. One important part of good SEO is local SEO, which is especially useful for businesses that have brick and mortar stores, or who work within a specific area.
So here’s a little more about what it is, why it’s different from regular SEO, and how you can make some quick, easy changes to improve your local SEO.
What is local SEO
Local search engine optimization refers to all the actions you can take to make your business more visible in Google’s search engine results page in a specific area.
For example, a cafe in Squamish could employ local SEO techniques to ensure more people find them in Google search when they type in ‘cafe near me’ or ‘Squamish cafe’.
One of the goals of local SEO is to earn a spot in Google’s ‘map pack’. This is the selection of three results that are highlighted at the top of the page with a map. These results reportedly get as much as 44% of the overall clicks on a search page, so it’s well worth the effort of getting in.
The point of local SEO is to pick up more of the market who are searching with a specific area in mind, so it’s great for any businesses that have a physical location, or for businesses that work in a specific area, such as builders in the Sea to Sky.
As a great side effect, improving your local SEO tends to also help your general SEO as well.
How to improve your local SEO
There are plenty of ways to improve your local SEO, and most of them a relatively quick and easy.
Start by including more geographical terms across your website
One of the simplest things you can do is include more relevant area terms on your site. For example, include ‘Squamish’ or ‘Sea to Sky’ more often, to make it extremely clear to Google where your business is based.
Keep your Google Business Profile up to date
Your Google Business Profile is a free profile on Google that pops up whenever someone searches for you. It includes business basics such as photos, contact details, and a quick blurb. Make sure the information is correct (especially your business hours on public holidays), the links are up to date, and the photos are fresh. This will give Google a lot of information about what it is you do, so they can be confident that they’re connecting the right customers to your profile.
Ask for Google reviews
Google uses the reviews of your business as a search factor. That means if a lot of people are saying great things about your business on Google reviews, you are more likely to rank well. Offer clients little freebies – or simply ask nicely! - for reviews, as it can make a real difference to your digital marketing.
Improve your general SEO
A good SEO score in general can help your local SEO. There are some quick and easy things you can do to your SEO, so make sure you set aside some time each month to improve your website and stay competitive online.
Get your business listed on free directories
If your business is listed on another website, it can help give you more credibility as a business, according to Google. Therefore, if you are listed on a directory, it will help Google to see you as a great option for customers. Both the Squamish and Whistler Chambers of Commerce offer directory listings for Members, which is an easy win if you’re already signed up. Tourism Squamish also has a directory, and you may be able to find some that are specific to your business. Make sure you take advantage of these online opportunities by filling them up with information about your business, as it can help your SEO!
Get more marketing advice and business support from the pros
Community Futures Howe Sound is here to offer free business advice and support. Whether you’re starting out just wondering if your business pitch is a good idea, or already own a business and want a sounding board for growth or management, we’re here to help.
Book a free, no-strings-attached business advice session to chat to one of our friendly business coaches!
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