Local SEO for small businesses

Local SEO?

Being a small business, especially one with a physical storefront, means a smaller audience. So, it is especially important to get visibility to those potential customers. Local SEO is a strategy that targets your local audience through multiple steps. If you can optimize your site, you will be able to maximize your small businesses potential.

Why local SEO matters

The amount of “near me” and “near by” searches continues to increase year after year. People use search engines all the time to get information about shops and services in their area. I am personally guilty of spamming Google with “closest Chipotle near me?” and “best outdoor activities in my area” searches. So, optimizing your sites to fit those local searches in going to help you reach your potential audience.

2 Areas You Need To Focus On

Google Business Profile

This profile is the place where all your business info can be quickly accessed. Location, phone numbers, contacts, and more can be found by the user. Updating these aspects and making sure they are correct is the very minimum you have to do. Make sure to add new photos so customers can get a personal feel of your business. Also continue to gather reviews to compile in your Google Business Profile.

Google Local Map Pack

This is similar to the profile but instead uses the google map search engines. Optimizing this aspect in a similar way to your profile would be a great idea. Any information you add could be the deciding factor for if a individual chooses your business to visit, so make sure to be thoughtful about what your adding.