People are increasingly using search engines to find what they want, be it a service or product. Therefore, it is crucial for businesses to make their online presence stand out along with their physical presence. For example, SAP is all about its online presence as it sells enterprise software solutions. However, to appeal to their target audience, they need to amplify their visibility; they need to work on their local SEO performance too.
Yes, you need to win the hearts of customers along with search engines like Google, Yahoo, Bing, and more. The higher you rank for a relevant search, the more you will attract customers, which will increase your local SEO.
What can you do to improve your local ranking? In this blog, we will help you understand ‘Top 5 ways to improve your local rankings’.
1. Optimize Google My Business Listing
Imagine you have a company that sells enterprise solutions, and you have a big board saying, “We have hardware, software, and services such as cloud computing, and AI.” Yes, this signpost will attract potential customers right to your doorstep. However, imagine if you optimised your Google My Business (GMB), which is free! All you need is to fill in the important details, and you’re good to go! Anyone searching for “Enterprise Solutions Near Me” or “Best Cloud Computing Agency in Illinois” will be directed to your business.
Here’s how to turn your GMB listing into a local SEO powerhouse:
- Claim and Verify: First things first, claim your GMB listing! Google will then send a verification code to confirm ownership. Yes, it is that simple and easy.
- Fill in the blanks: Provide all the essential details about your business, like a website link, clear directions, a proper description of what you do, your complete address, current working hours, and a functioning phone number. Most businesses fail to update their phone numbers, resulting in a huge bounce rate!
- Become a Visual Storyteller: Do you like clicking pictures of your coffee and croissants? Well, make your business more appealing by adding high-quality photos that showcase your storefront, products, team, or the warm ambiance of your establishment.
2. Optimize Website for Local Searches
People usually use specific words when searching online; hence, always make sure to optimise your website and on-page content with common or local keywords.
For example, if you run a manufacturing company in Chicago, target keywords like “Chicago manufacturing company,” “Industrial manufacturing Chicago,” or “Manufacturing services Chicago” on your website whether in the content, on-page SEO like H1 and H2 tags, and more. Most importantly, DO NOT STUFF KEYWORDS.
3. Optimize Local Backlinks
Imagine loads of websites praising you; that is how location citations work! It’s all about N.A.P., which is name, address, and phone number. Use these three in various online directories, listing websites, and other business platforms.
For example, if you own a database software and technology, you can add your complete information online with Yelp, Yellow Pages, or Google Maps, especially if you’re in the USA. It will make your business more trustworthy.
Here’s what you can do: ensure your NAP information is accurate and the same in all the platforms, because we don’t want search engines to get confused, as it can hinder your local SEO efforts.
Here are some popular citations building strategies:
- Claim listings on relevant industry directories and local business listing websites.
- Partner with local influencers or bloggers to get mentioned on their platforms.
- Network with other local businesses for cross-promotional opportunities that involve citations.
4. Optimize Mobile and User Experience
Each mobile user uses their phone to search literally everything from “the best CRM platform in WC” to “Remote CRM service“. Your website needs to be mobile-friendly, have a good navigational flow, calls to action, and more.
Here’s how to optimize your website for mobile users:
- Speed is King: Ensure your website loads quickly on all devices be it a phone, tablet, or desktop.
- Navigation Nirvana: Make navigating your website a breeze. Users should be able to find the information they need with minimal clicks. Minimalism is the ultimate key.
- Calls to Action that Convert: Tell visitors what you want them to do next, whether it’s booking an appointment, placing an order, or subscribing to your newsletter. Use clear and compelling CTAs. Also, while, you’re at it, do follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter.
5. Encourage Customer Reviews
Have you played online games where, after finishing a game, you get compliments? That’s how your website needs customer reviews. Encourage your customers to always leave a review! Why? It attracts your potential customers as others’ reviews create trust, credibility, and more.
Here are some tips to encourage customer reviews:
- Make it Easy: Include a link to your GMB profile or review platforms on your website and social media pages.
- Request Reviews Politely: Ask satisfied customers to leave a review after a positive experience.
- Respond with Grace: Address both positive and negative reviews promptly and professionally. Thank those who leave positive feedback and acknowledge concerns raised in negative reviews.
Final Takeaways
How did you like our ‘Top 5 ways to improve your local rankings’? Remember, your local SEO is important for the swarm of potential customers to fly in! Stay consistent with your efforts, keep your information updated, and adapt to evolving search engine algorithms. Also read the blog “Recover After Google core update”.
