How To Rank Within The Local Search

| SEO

How To Rank Within The Local Search

 

Google's localised SEO has become much more prominent which has led to many actively seeking those top 3 spots on Google but how can you achieve a ranking there?

Here are 10 essential local SEO tips to help your business achieve a top 3 local ranking:

1) Create a Google My Business page and complete it

Obviously, you need a Google My Business page which you are more than likely to have set up in the past or had someone else set up for you. However, what is less likely is that your Google My Business account is filled out completely. To stand the best chances of ranking ensure every section of your Google My Business account is filled out completely and correctly.

2) Claim and optimise local listings

Not only should you claim and fully complete your Google My Business profiles, but also claim any other local listings such as Yahoo Local, Bing Local, Yelp and any other local listing sites you can think of.

3) Build a solid Name, Address and Phone number citations

Anywhere your business is mentioned online your company name, address and phone number will be included. The more citations (mentions) you have the better as it validates your business in the eyes of Google. However, it is vital that all of your citations across the Internet are listed exactly the same, especially the name, address and phone number. Consistency is key and you’d be surprise by how often directory lists don’t match up.

4) Encourage customer reviews

You should always encourage your customers to leave reviews (especially on Google Plus). A consistent flow of customer reviews can help to boost your search rankings, as well as help draw in more potential customers.

5) Pick your keywords wisely

Keywords are the most important factor when it comes to what you want to rank for. If you don’t include them, you won’t rank. As an estate agent, your primary keyword should be “estate agents in (your office location)”. Your keywords should not only be included on your website but across all your local listings and social media accounts within the descriptions.

6) Create high quality, relevant content

Your website and how well it is optimised for SEO has a huge impact on your local SEO. You should be creating and posting high quality content that your audience will find interesting and useful on your website as often as possible.

7) Use images and videos

People love visuals. Images and videos will help people stay engaged on your website, keep them there for longer and grab their attention, all of which is crucial for SEO. Use visuals on your website, local listings and social media to ensure maximum effect.

8) Create a page of content for each location you cover

If you have multiple offices or cover a wide range of areas ensure you create a page of content on your website for each location. This could be in the form of an office profile page or an area profile page. Ensure all pages are optimised and include keywords.

9) Actively use social media

Social media isn’t just a great place to raise brand awareness; it also has an impact on your SEO. Ensure you are active on social media and engage with your audience as it is important to form relationships with your followers.

10) Go responsive

These days, most people are searching the web via a mobile device especially when it comes to local businesses. If someone is trying to find you online while they are using their mobile device it is vital that you have a mobile-friendly website. Not only will it make it easier for your customers to find what they are looking for but will give you a SEO boost! 

Luke Stanley