What is Local SEO you might ask? Local Search Engine Optimisation is an effective form of local online marketing. If you have a local business and are looking for customers in your area, it allows you to promote your products or services to those people at exactly the time they’re looking for your type of business.
In the old days we may have done a letterbox drop or placed an ad in the local paper – in these days of social media its possible to put your business name in front of local customers when they’re looking for your service.
Local online marketing doesn’t just promote your website, but gets your physical location, such as Address, Phone Number and Opening Hours across to the right people.
According to Bright Local, 64% of local customers use online search engines and directories as their main way to find local businesses – only 28% of people use old style paper directories as their preferred source of local information. Can you afford not to be thinking about Local SEO?
Probably the most important factor to consider with Local SEO is to have consistent local citations on directory sites, and to claim your Google My Business listing. Ensure you have indicated the services you provide, and the locations in which you provide them. Do you only provide services at your location, or do you travel to your customers location? Work towards as many citations as you can on local directories, industry focused directories, local business or Chamber of Commerce websites and review websites. CONSISTENCY IS KEY! Your NAP (Name, Address, Phone must match).
