If you’re running a small business, you need to be visible to your local target audience. Even if you cater to the global market, your local customers are the ones who will buy your products and visit your stores. So how do you reach them? Here’s the answer – Local SEO marketing.
The effectiveness of local SEO marketing lies in its ability to put your business in front of people who are looking for what you offer in their local area. It helps you optimize your online presence to match the search queries of local customers. In this article, we will discuss why local SEO marketing still works effectively in 2021.
1. Google’s Local Pack
Google’s Local Pack is the group of businesses that appear at the top of the search engine results page (SERP) when users search for a type of business or service in a specific location. It includes three businesses, their location on the Google Map, their reviews, and their contact details. Getting featured in the Local Pack is absolutely essential for local businesses, as users tend to click on these listings first. Optimizing your website for local SEO increases your chances of getting listed in the Local Pack.
2. Mobile Optimization
Most local searches are done on mobile devices. As more people use their smartphones to search for businesses near them, it’s essential to have a mobile-friendly website. Google rewards mobile-optimized websites by ranking them higher in the search results. Additionally, mobile-friendly websites load quickly, improve user experience, and increase engagement rates.
3. Online Reviews
Online reviews are becoming increasingly important in local SEO. Positive reviews boost your online credibility and help you rank higher in the search results. They also influence user behavior. A BrightLocal survey found that 88% of people trust online reviews as much as personal recommendations. Encourage your satisfied customers to leave reviews on your Google My Business listing, Facebook page, Yelp, and other relevant review sites.
4. Google My Business Listing
Google My Business (GMB) is a free platform that allows you to manage your online presence across Google, including the Local Pack, Google Maps, and Google Search. By claiming and optimizing your GMB listing, you increase your chances of appearing in the Local Pack and improve your local SEO. Make sure your listing contains accurate and complete information about your business, such as your address, phone number, website, hours of operation, and reviews.
5. Local Content Creation
Content creation is not just for global businesses. Creating locally relevant content is an effective way to attract local customers and improve your local SEO. Local content can include blog posts, videos, infographics, and social media posts that feature local news, events, community support, and other topics of local interest. By creating valuable content for your local audience, you increase engagement rates and build a loyal customer base.
Conclusion
Local SEO marketing is an essential strategy for small businesses to improve their online visibility and attract local customers. By optimizing your website for local SEO, you increase your chances of appearing in the Local Pack, improve your online credibility, and reach your target audience. Make sure your website is mobile-optimized, encourage online reviews, claim and optimize your GMB listing, and create locally relevant content. By following these tips, you can ensure that your small business stands out in the local market.