Local Search Engine Optimization for Small Business Use
Local search engine optimization, also called local SEO, is a set of optimization techniques used to gain a higher placement in Google search results for specific keywords. Local Search Engine Optimization is similar to organic SEO in the way that it also is a process affecting the rankings of a site or a page in the unpaid results of a search engine called the “organic” or “free” results of a search engine called “paid” or “sponsored” search engines. Organic SEO techniques involve various types of on-page optimization and off-page optimization. On-page optimization is SEO techniques such as placing a keyword rich meta tag on each page of a site or creating well written content. Off-page optimization would include such things as writing proper Meta tags, article submissions, directory submission, social bookmarking, blog commenting and the like.
With Local Search Engine Optimization, an individual or business must first determine their physical location. Physical locations include city, state, county and neighborhood. Once a site’s physical location is identified, the next step is to identify the most searched keywords related to that location.
Keywords are the words utilized in an individual’s or business’ online marketing campaigns. A good way to begin with Local Search Engine Optimization is to determine which keywords are most associated with the intent of your site. Keyword research tools can be accessed from the most popular search engines. Online tools provide data on the relative frequency as well as the volume and average price of searches for each of the most commonly searched keywords.
The second step to take in Local Search Engine Optimization is to position your site or page as being user-friendly for local customers. It is important to position your site as an accessible, convenient destination for those looking for your type of products or services. Many brick-and-mortar businesses struggle with their online presence because they do not know how to position their site for local customers. Fortunately, there are many online tools available to help with this process.
Third, when it comes to the goal of increasing Local Search Engine Optimization for businesses, it is important to develop a strategy to improve the visibility and reputation of your site in local search results. One strategy that many local business owners use is to partner with other businesses in their industry. The goal of partnering with others is to receive free marketing while achieving greater exposure in search results and increasing customer awareness of your business.
In addition to the basics described above, another strategy that many local businesses use in Local Search Engine Optimization is to engage in social media marketing. Social media allows you to create content that will allow your customers to connect with you, such as sharing stories about your region. A key strategy for increasing Local Search Engine Optimization is to develop strong social media relationships with businesses in similar markets. A great place to start would be on the business’s Facebook page.
Finally, many small businesses use local search engine optimization to attract new customers. One way that small business owners can market to their existing customers is through email marketing. Existing customers may also be interested in promoting your small business using email marketing, but it is best to begin this campaign by targeting customers who have shown interest in your company in the past. To further boost the success of this campaign, it is helpful to offer a small token of appreciation to every new customer that signs up using their email address.
Social media advertisements are great ways to promote your company and increase your visibility in Local Search Engine Optimization. There are a number of methods available that include pay per click, content advertising, and social media advertisements. Social media advertisements include the use of video ads on YouTube, podcasts, tweets, Facebook mentions, and image ads. Pay per click campaigns can often be a good choice for those small businesses that are not expecting to see a great deal of traffic to their website on a regular basis, while content advertising will likely require a larger budget in order to generate significant results. With a little research and determination, you will be able to maximize your local intent and increase your visibility in the future of Local Search Engine Optimization.