Local SERPs

Local search engine rankings are how websites and webpages are ranked based on their geographic relevance and content relevancy to users. This includes physical location as well as keywords related to a specific area or locality. When searching for local business or service providers, local search engine rankings make it easier for the user to find exactly what they’re looking for without sifting through a global list of potential candidates. Search engine rankings also make sure users are presented with relevant and localized content, providing a personalized user experience.

How can I improve my local search engine ranking?

Improving your local search engine ranking is a great way to drive more organic traffic to your website.

Here are some ways to get started:

• Claim and optimize your Google My Business page. Make sure you create an accurate profile for your business on major listing websites such as Yelp and Google My Business. If you are based in the United Kingdom, Yell.com, formerly known as Yellowpages, is also a good place to register your business. More than a third of customers do a local search on a mobile device before they visit a business. These customers are often looking for critical information found on Google My Business, so having the correct information is very important.

• Local content strategy. Incorporate locally-oriented content, like news about your business or blog posts about local events into your website to increase your local search rankings. Have a good “homepage” and “about us” page, and make sure you link your website on your Google My Business profile to tell Google they are connected.

• Optimize for local search keywords. Be sure to research relevant keywords and incorporate them into your website’s content and titles. This can be anything from your local zip code to the type of services your business provides.

• Use local structured data. Adding local structured data to your website makes it easier for search engines to identify and pull in your business information for local search results. You can do this using either JSON-LD or Micro data.

• Invest in local link building. Connecting your business website to other relevant local websites can also increase your local search engine rankings. Look for opportunities to link your website with other local websites through online directory listings, local business reviews, and other related websites.

• Track your rankings and analytics. Regularly check your website analytics and local rankings to get an idea of how your efforts are impacting your local search rankings. This can help you adjust your tactics if you’re not seeing the desired results.

Many businesses struggle with having their business show up in local search results. This is due to competition in the area, limited content and a lack of reviews. It is important to understand that being found in local search requires a well-thought-out and thorough optimization strategy.

Related: Local SEO: How do you do local SEO?
Related: Website: What is Universal Search?