Three steps to improve your local search ranking: create local content, build consistent citations and review signals, and optimize for mobile and voice search. Because 80% of mobile searches result in a purchase and the local pack shows 3 results based on a business’s location, getting these steps right puts your business in front of nearby customers who are ready to buy.
Create local content
By creating content in local languages, you will reach a wider audience. If a person is looking for a restaurant in Northern Virginia, they are more likely to choose a business located in their area. For example, if a person is looking for a fast-food restaurant, they will likely pick a nearby restaurant over one in the metropolitan area. This means that if you have a website with information about food delivery services, you can target the right audience by making sure you are easy to find.
Build consistent citations and review signals
In addition to your website’s content, consider integrating citations and review signals into your local SEO strategy. You should also consider Google My Business and other location-based factors. By using these factors, you can increase your site’s visibility in local search results, which will result in more visitors and improved local visibility. A local SEO strategy is effective when you use common citations on reputable sites, since Google’s algorithm recognizes common abbreviations and can rank sites accordingly. If your site has multiple locations, keep your NAP information consistent across every listing, because search engines can’t index citations that use a different name.
Why does local SEO matter for mobile and voice search?
Using local SEO on mobile is a smart move for local businesses. A mobile-optimized website can boost your ranking in local search, and Google uses different ranking factors for local queries than for non-local ones. The local pack displays 3 results based on the location of a business, which signals quality and accessibility to nearby customers.
Beyond mobile, 20% of mobile searches are voice searches. These searches tend to be longer and use natural language, so optimizing your site for local SEO with keywords tied to your location helps capture that traffic. Responding to reviews and customer comments also signals that you care about local customers, which makes your business more visible to people in the area.
Local SEO works just like normal SEO, but it is focused on reaching customers in the area where your business is located. The right approach drives more foot traffic to your store, strengthens your brand image in the community, and gives you a way to reach potential customers even if you don’t yet have a full online presence.
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Related coverage
- Local SEO Boosts Search Engine Visibility For Businesses With Bricks-and-Mortar Locations
- Local SEO Strategies That Actually Drive Revenue: A Business Owner’s Playbook for 2024