Local SEO is a big deal—no matter how good your product or service is, if people in your area can’t find you online, you’re missing out. Over 46% of searches on Google have local intent, so if you want to get in front of your customers, you need to dominate the local search results. That’s where this checklist comes in handy.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to crushing it with local SEO in 2024.
Understanding How Local SEO Works
Before you dive into the checklist, let’s get a few basics straight. Google’s local search algorithm focuses on three primary factors:
Proximity: How close is your business to the searcher?
Relevance: How well does your business match what they’re searching for?
Prominence: How well-known and trusted is your business?
Mastering these factors will push your business into Google’s Local Pack—the goldmine of local SEO that gets you more eyeballs and more business.
Initial SEO Strategy and Setup
1. Develop a Local SEO Strategy
Every successful campaign starts with a solid plan. Whether you’re working with a single location or multiple branches, you need to get the basics right. Make sure your business info (like phone numbers, addresses, and hours) is up to date.
2. Analyze Keyword Positions
Use a tool like BrightLocal’s Local Rank Tracker to see where your business stands. Knowing your keyword rankings across Google and Bing is essential for tracking progress.
3. Run a Local SEO Analysis
Get a detailed SEO report to identify gaps and opportunities. This is your map for the work ahead.
Online Directories and Citations
4. Scan and Find Your Current Citations
Google loves consistency. If your business has multiple phone numbers or addresses listed online, it sends confusing signals. Run a citation audit to find out where you stand.
5. Ensure NAP Consistency
Your Name, Address, and Phone number (NAP) need to be the same everywhere. No exceptions.
6. List Your Business on Top Directories
Get listed on big players like Yelp, Manta, and Foursquare. These citations boost your trustworthiness.
7. Remove Duplicate Citations
Duplicate listings are SEO poison. Clean them up to avoid confusion.
Google Business Profile Optimization
8. Set Up and Verify Your Google Business Profile
This is a no-brainer. Verifying your business on Google is crucial for visibility.
9. Fill Out Your Profile Completely
Google gives you tons of fields to fill out. Do it! Add photos, services, business hours, and more.
10. Use the Right Categories
Pick the categories that best describe your business, but don’t go overboard. Two or three well-chosen categories are usually enough.
11. Post Regular Updates
Use Google Business Profile posts to promote events, sales, or new services. It shows you're active and engaged with your audience.
Review Generation and Management
12. Get More Reviews
Reviews are gold for local SEO. Use tools like BrightLocal’s Get Reviews to encourage customers to leave their feedback.
13. Respond to Reviews
Engage with both positive and negative reviews. It shows you care about your customers, and that’s something Google loves.
Website Optimization
14. Create Location and Service Pages
Each location and service should have its own dedicated page on your website. This helps Google understand where you operate and what you offer.
15. Optimize Your Title Tags and URLs
Make your URLs clean and descriptive. Title tags should include keywords, but don’t overdo it.
16. Build Internal Links
Linking between pages on your site helps Google understand your structure and boosts rankings.
17. Use Schema Markup
Local Business schema markup is your secret weapon. It tells Google exactly what your business is about.
Local Link Building
18. Connect with Local Blogs and Influencers
Reach out to local bloggers and influencers for guest posts or collaborations. Local links build credibility and authority.
19. Sponsor Local Events
Getting your business name on event websites is a powerful way to earn local links. Plus, it gets your name out there in your community.
20. Leverage Local Directories
Beyond the big directories, find local, niche-specific directories to build links and visibility.
Content and Blogging
21. Create a Content Calendar
Consistency is key. Plan out content that targets local keywords and speaks directly to your audience.
22. Write About Local Topics
Content about local events, news, or industry trends gets more engagement. Plus, it helps build trust with your local audience.
Final Steps
23. Monitor Your Progress
Use tools like Google Analytics and BrightLocal’s Local Search Grid to track how your SEO efforts are paying off. Regular monitoring is essential to adapt your strategy.
24. Stay Updated
Local SEO is always evolving. Keep an eye on new features and algorithm updates by following industry news and subscribing to newsletters.
In Conclusion
This checklist is your roadmap to local SEO success in 2024. But remember, SEO is a marathon, not a sprint. Keep refining, optimizing, and tracking your progress.
In a digital world where visibility is everything, GMB Fox ensures your business isn’t just online—it’s the first choice customers make. Let us handle the complexities of digital marketing, so you can focus on what truly matters: growing your business.
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