You may have heard a thing or two about local SEO. But do you have any idea what it is? If not, and if you’re interested in knowing, you’re in the right place.
Below, we’re going to discuss the specifics of local SEO, describing not only what it is, but why it matters. Let’s go!
What Is Local SEO?
Local SEO stands for local search engine optimization. Search engine optimization is a marketing strategy wherein you try to get a website to rank high for specific keywords in search engines. Local SEO includes this, but on a local level as opposed to a global one.
Let’s say you’re a plumber in Rockford and that you want to gain exposure for your business through search engines. Your goal would be to have your website rank on the first page for keywords like “Rockford plumber” and “plumber in Rockford”. By ranking for these keywords, you would attract more attention, and make more sales.
There is quite a bit that goes into local SEO, but the main tenets include the following:
Keyword Usage
In order to pursue local SEO, you have to make use of local keywords. These keywords should be inserted not only on your website pages but in your blog posts and other content as well. As was noted above, a local keyword is something like “Rockford plumber” or “Rockford barber”.
Backlink Building
Vital to any local SEO campaign is backlink building. This is the process of getting links from other websites to your website. The more relevant and high-quality links you have, the better your website will rank.
How do you obtain backlinks? Through networking, guest posting, and a variety of other activities. A digital marketing agency can help you with the specifics.
Citation Building
Not only do you need to obtain backlinks but local citations as well. Local citations are online instances of your business’ contact information. This contact information best summed up by “NAP” or Name, Address, Phone.
The key is to get this information on as many business listing sites and online publications as possible. The more relevant citations your business obtains, the better off it will be.
Social Media Usage
Social media usage affects local SEO in a number of ways. In addition to providing social signals to search engines directly, it helps you to share articles and other relevant information.
The more articles you share, the more people who read them, and the more people who read them, the greater chance you have of getting relevant citations and backlinks.
Need Help With Local SEO in Rockford?
Now that you know what local SEO, you might be interested in implementing it. If so and if you need help with local SEO in Rockford, we here at Branddad Digital are the people to see.
We’ve provided local SEO services to countless Rockford area businesses. Regardless of your niche or industry, we can help you.
Contact us now to discuss!