For brick-and-mortar businesses, local search visibility is not an option. These companies rely on Google searches like “car mechanics near me” or “best pizza place in Dallas,” and by optimizing for local SEO, they can better attract these searching users and turn them into customers.
This article will provide actionable tips from MARION, a Texas SEO agency with a proven track record of helping businesses thrive with local SEO. Learn more about how you can better attract local customers and boost your business revenue.
Why Local SEO Matters
Local searches account for 46% of all queries made on Google, and 76% of these users initiated contact with a business in less than 24 hours. With such significant results, this means that simply appearing in these searches can translate directly to increased revenue.
Compared to traditional methods like TV and radio ads, local SEO lets you reach your target audience for a lower cost. So instead of spending $10,000 on a local TV commercial that might reach a broad audience, local SEO allows you to invest in optimizing your website and online listings, maximizing return on investment and eliminating wasted ad spend.
Putting Your Business on the Digital Map
As you can see, the advantages of proper local SEO are not to be ignored. So how do you capitalize on and reap the benefits for your business? Here are a few ways you can start today.
Create/Claim a Google Business Profile (GBP)
Considering that 91% of all online searches are done through Google, claiming and optimizing a Google Business Profile (GBP) is a critical first step. Think of your GBP as your digital storefront that allows you to manage and showcase essential information, including your address, phone number, website, and customer reviews. This convenience plays a significant role in attracting local customers.
Make Sure Your NAP Is Consistent
Maintaining NAP (Name, Address, Phone Number) consistency across all online directories is crucial. If your NAP is inconsistent across discrete sources, search engines may find it difficult to pinpoint your exact location, negatively impacting your local SEO ranking.
Generate Positive Reviews
Because 75% of consumers trust online reviews, encouraging satisfied customers to leave positive reviews can significantly impact your business. These reviews build your online credibility and social proof, making you a more trustworthy option for potential customers.
Create High-Quality, Location-Specific Content
High-quality, location-specific content is key to attracting local customers because it demonstrates your relevance to a specific area to search engine algorithms. This means that a Dallas pizza place should create SEO-rich blogs like “How Pizza Planet Serves the Best Pizza in Dallas, TX.” Because search engines prioritize content relevant to a searcher's location, your odds of appearing in local searches increase dramatically when you have robust location-specific content.
Target the Right Keywords
Incorporating relevant keywords into your content will improve your local search rankings. For example, if you’re a Dallas SEO company, you’ll need to use keywords like “SEO agency in Dallas.” You can use free tools like Google Keyword Planner to check for keywords that are relevant to your business. A good rule of thumb is to choose high-traffic, low-competition keywords to optimize your content and improve your search engine rankings.
Prioritize Mobile-Friendliness
Over 63% of online searches in the US happen on mobile devices. This means you must make sure your website is mobile-friendly so potential customers can easily access your business information. This seamless user experience can translate to higher customer engagement and a better chance of converting leads into customers.
Jumpstart Your Local SEO Success With MARION
MARION is a top-flight Texas SEO agency that understands the complexities of local SEO and its power to drive growth for local businesses. Its team of marketing specialists is dedicated to helping businesses achieve top rankings in local search results, leading to increased website traffic, enhanced brand visibility, and improved conversion rates.
In recognition of MARION’s tireless efforts in helping other businesses thrive digitally, the agency recently won the 2023 Local Excellence Award from UpCity, further solidifying its position as a powerhouse in the SEO industry.
Capitalizing on Local SEO for Positive Results
By leveraging the power of local SEO, businesses can significantly improve their search ranking, attract more qualified leads, and ultimately achieve their marketing goals.
However, SEO is an ongoing process, and regularly monitoring and refining your approach is crucial to maintaining a strong online presence. That’s why partnering with a reputable SEO agency like MARION is very beneficial — these experts can take the reins of your marketing strategy, helping you maximize your return on investment and ensure your business dominates local search results while letting you focus on running your business.
