How To Do Local SEO Like a Pro

Here are some tips to help you optimize your local SEO like a pro:

1. Get on Google My Business

This free tool will ensure that your important details - address, hours, phone number, directions and website - are listed on Google Maps. Customers can also leave you reviews here. This is crucial because businesses with many reviews tend to rank higher in Google Maps. Strong reviews also increase your chances of snagging a coveted spot in the Local Pack. This Google feature showcases the 3 highest-ranked businesses on Google Maps at the top of SERPs.

2. Submit your site to local directories

Local directories list hundreds or thousands of websites and they often rank high up in search results. In addition to well-known directories like Yelp, TripAdvisor and FourSquare, you can find listings sites that are specific to your field. People searching for the best places to dine, shop, hang out and sleep often turn to these sites to help them make their decisions, making them an important space to list your website.

4. Be consistent with your contact details

Make sure you write your business name, address and phone number (NAP, for short) EXACTLY the same way across the Internet, whether it’s on Facebook, LinkedIn or your website’s header, footer and contact page. Use real addresses whenever possible and avoid P.O. boxes.

5. Create a great mobile site

People searching for local businesses are often on-the-go and more users search from mobile devices than from laptops. Because of this, Google’s algorithm is currently migrating towards a “mobile first” focus—meaning that it’ll be placing mobile-friendly sites higher in search results. Check out these best practices to boost the performance of your mobile site.

6. Use keywords about your location

Think how other people might to refer to your neighborhood or community and use them in your content. For example, your yoga studio may be located in the city of Springfield, but potential students may search by street, neighborhood, county or region. Include those in your content to make sure you cover all your bases.

7. Add a map to your contact page

This is a quick and easy way to show where your business is located. It can score you some Google points and boost your site’s visibility in search results.