More than ever before, local search engine optimization is becoming an integral part of every business, especially businesses with physical locations.

Established businesses and startups are leveraging keywords and search engine optimization practices; to be found easily; when users search for terms relevant to their website.

It is a commonplace for potential buyers and clients to look through search engines for products or services they require, but when that happens, will your business be found on the front page, or will they have to click on till the last page before your content pops up?

A great product or service is only effective when it is easily accessible to consumers, and that’s where Local SEO plays an important role.

Every day, billions of people are on the internet; in search of answers, and for some, they want to know the stores closest to them. Likewise, they want to know if there’s a photographer within their vicinity, parents want to find out if there’s a school around that they can enroll their kids in, and the list goes on and on.

Well, local SEO is a strategic form of online marketing. It allows you to position your business online to target local customers; in such a way that when they need services or products that are similar to yours, your page pops up in the nick of time.

The greater the visibility your business has on SERPs (search engine result pages), the easier it is for potential customers to find you. Since millions of people use their mobile devices to search for local information, you should take advantage of this large number combined with Local SEO to increase sales and brand awareness.

Local SEO was introduced by Google; as one of their algorithms. And businesses that are yet to take advantage of this local listing are missing out daily. The algorithm favors both the customers and businesses, as it helps those searching; to match their search requirements with results within their local area before showing results from other locations.

It also means that Google ranks your business in the local search results.

It helps ‘physical’ local businesses thrive as well because it focuses more on geographical searches. Also, local SEO uses Google, yellow pages, and other business directories to help millions of local daily users to find your business easily.

How Local SEO Works

Most ‘physical’ companies opt for the professional services of online marketing specialists to ensure that they are not side-lined from top search engines… and it always pays off.

But how does local SEO work? 

Since the need is to target searches in your area, you can start by turning your keywords into long-tailed keywords by adding a location to them. ( Check out this blog post we did on how to choose your long-tail keyword correctly )

Here’s an instance, instead of using ‘clothing shop,’ opt for a longer-term like ‘clothing shop in Maui,’ and that way, the search engine can easily identify what you do and your location; so that your customers won’t have a hard time finding you.

To support that, you’ll also need to add necessary details, such as your email address, phone number, and local address, to the pages of your website. Ranking each page is required if your website will be relevant to local searches, and if you do not know how to go about that, your best bet is to call in a professional.

What if your business covers more than one location?

With local SEO, you’ll have to ensure that the keywords you’re ranking for cover all the locations from where your business operates. That way, the search engine is aware of the areas that your business covers, and it will rank you in each location.

What about your social media campaigns; how can you integrate local SEO into them?

Very easy!

First, you need to ensure that every information you provide in the about section of your social media page is precise and accurate.  Also, you have to integrate location-specific keywords within your campaigns to help searchers find you through their social media handles, as well.

Another aspect of local SEO that can also help your business rank on the search engine is through enlisting your services with reputable online directories. This simple act can give your business a good boost amongst your competitors.

When Do You Know If You Need Local SEO?

At what point do you know that it’s time to give more attention to local SEO, and what are the major signs to look out for?

Well, you will discover the answers shortly as you read on:

• When your website is not optimized for “Near Me Search.“
• It would be best to have local SEO; when your competitors are ranking higher on the search engine for local searches.
• If the bounce rate on your website is rising continuously
• When all your business locations appear on a single webpage on your website
• You also might require a local SEO when you cannot tell if your online reviews are great or terrible. Same as when you cannot account for the traffic that your site gains from local search.
• And lastly, when you’re unable to manage your business citations.

Why Is Local SEO Important?

Highlighted below are some of the reasons; why local SEO is essential to the growth and success of your business:

• It provides better conversion than the conventional form of advertising.
• Local SEO works well on both mobile and desktop platforms. Thereby; making it easy for your business to target audiences of various age brackets and interests.
• Local customers depend more on the internet to find services and products within their locality.
• It provides great ROI because it is timely, highly targeted, and exposes your business adequately.
• It’s is a modern form of strategic marketing.
• Local SEO is a dependable means of brand awareness.

How Much Does Local SEO Typically Cost?

On average, the cost of local SEO is between $75 to $5,000 a month. And it varies according to the needs of your business. There’s always a need to update your local SEO practices continually, as the search engine algorithm keeps getting modified. Hence, hiring an expert to manage your local SEO is a wise investment.

Are You Looking For Local SEO Experts Nearby?

We know that keeping up with lots of SEO activities can be a lot to manage, especially if your business functions from several locations. Or even when your business is a startup. Our SEO solutions can work to bring you the online visibility you are looking for.

To take the burden off you completely, our team of expert online marketing specialists is what you need to increase your online presence and become a force to reckon with amongst your competitors.

We have achieved remarkable results with lots of Hawaii businesses, and yours wouldn’t be an exception. That said, do you want to rank higher for local searches? Do you want to be an authority in your niche? Do you want to improve user engagements on your website and sales conversion?

Well, look no further! We’re here to help.

– Shane Perry Marketing