The internet is a BIG place and that’s why it’s so important to start small. If you have a brick and mortar store or business location, local SEO should be your first step since four out of five consumers use search to find local information.

What is local SEO?

Local search engine optimization is how consumers find your business when they are nearby. For example, I was recently in Toronto and searched for “best donuts” since I was unfamiliar with the area. Google provided Glory Hole Doughnuts among others as recommendations (BTW, we stopped there and they were delicious).

These recommendations were provided by Google’s Local Pack. The Local Pack is a short list of options based on the business’ location to the searcher. If searchers aren’t familiar with your brand, but are looking for a specific product or service, this is the ideal time to get them to familiar with your business!

Optimizing your Local SEO Listing

Once you are listed, make sure your listing is optimized to stand out from the competition.

Google has ramped up their efforts to provide users with an improved local search experience. Local listings are more than just a direct link to your website. Google My Business listings include business hours, phone numbers, addresses, and reviews! Searchers can now find directions and call in just one click.

This is not a one and done approach. Although Google is the most familiar directory, there are countless others out there that will impact your domain authority. Domain authority is a search engine ranking that predicts how well a website will rank on search engine result pages (SERPs). Having other websites with a higher domain authority link back to you is a vital tool in increasing your local SEO visibility.

Where does your local SEO stand? Contact me regarding a local SEO audit and implementation plan to get your business listed!

For more information on search engine optimization, click here.