Businesses know that having a website is a crucial part of success. Even more important is having that website visible to potential customers. When it comes to local services, however, having targeted marketing in place will ensure the right audience sees the message.
In a nutshell, that’s why local search engine optimization (SEO) is so important—it’s about getting your website in front of the right people. Where competition is fierce, such as a thriving metropolis like Atlanta, investing in local SEO geotargeting is a must for businesses that want to be seen.
What is Local SEO?
Local SEO is a type of search engine optimization that focuses on keywords that target a specific location. When a user is looking for information on Google with a location-based search, local SEO will help a page appear higher in search results based on Google ranking established by usefulness and relevancy. This can, in turn, help drive traffic online and in person.
With local SEO, websites are optimized using specific location-based keywords, like “best digital advertising agency in Atlanta” or "SEO company near me.” Additionally, Google determines how credible the source is by incorporating things like reviews and Google My Business profiles. With these combined efforts, Google can produce the best results for queries with a location modifier.
How is local SEO different from general SEO?
While traditional SEO is similar, using specific keywords to drive results, it is not geographically targeted like local SEO. Traditional SEO is much broader, and the results compete against sites nationwide and, in some cases, even globally. The goals for traditional SEO are more focused on establishing the website as a content authority with relevant content.
Local SEO is perfect for businesses that rely on foot traffic or those that offer a local service, such as a restaurant, landscaper, or boutique. Conversely, businesses that are more focused on e-commerce, SAAS, tech, and consultants often find general SEO to be more beneficial because they do not rely on a local market to drive their profits.
Components of Local SEO
Because local SEO is nuanced to a geographical location, specific actions should be taken to enhance the performance of the website in response to local Google searches.
Google Business Profile
Businesses should create a Business Profile on Google. The business profile will show up in Maps when someone searches for a business type in a certain location in addition to Google search. The Business Profile also makes sure that the most current and accurate information is published about your business, giving businesses the opportunity to add details like hours and photos, as well as respond to reviews.
Local Keywords in Content
One of the best-known components of local SEO is the use of keywords that denote the location so that when a user Googles a product or service “near me” or uses the location as a keyword, the most relevant site will populate. For example, The Creative Momentum is an SEO company in Atlanta, servicing both the local business community and business owners nationwide. This means infusing keywords naturally into the content without keyword stuffing. It is also beneficial to include keywords in a way that could be answered by natural language to promote inclusion in voice searches.
Be Local
Local businesses that want to be recognized as a local authority need to embody being local. They need to participate in local events, charities, and causes. They should be involved in local events and the community. Google can spot frauds more quickly than ever, so being a genuine part of a community and an active member within it will go a long way in establishing local authority.
Online Citations and Backlinks
Completing your Google profile is a must, but creating profiles in other online directories can also be beneficial. Joining a local Chamber of Commerce, business bureau, or other organization can help add to credibility, and establishing a profile on directories like Yelp and the Yellow Pages (or similar directories) will also complement local SEO efforts. Additionally, finding opportunities for backlinks (a reference link to your site included on a different website) is also a significant part of local SEO. These can be found when participating in local events and finding ways to generate news.
Online Reviews
Reviews are an excellent way to build a business's reputation and credibility. The bonus is that those online reviews will also positively impact search results, helping your business appear sooner.
How Local SEO Helps Local Businesses in Atlanta
Near Me
For many users, including the name of the city or the language “near me” will help Google provide results from the geographical area the user is seeking. When your local SEO strategy uses location-based keywords, like in Atlanta, it can drive traffic to your business, giving customers in Atlanta the link to your site for the local products or services they seek. The right audience will find your site with “near me” local SEO.
Better targeting
Getting in front of the right audience makes all the difference when it comes to sales. While local SEO does focus on the geographical location, adding in the specific keywords that are relevant to your product or service means that you’re getting in front of the right people. With better targeting comes more traffic and more results.
Strong local authority
Every business wants to be the best of their industry. Adding content that establishes your business as knowledgeable, helpful, and informed will go a long way in the eyes of Google search. Part of local SEO is establishing a strong local authority.
Get Help Getting More Visibility For Your Business in Atlanta
If you’re looking for an expert in SEO strategies, you’ll want to work with an experienced Atlanta SEO company to help implement different local SEO tactics. Not only can a local SEO agency offer knowledge and expertise, but you’ll have the added benefit of knowing that you have real people you can talk with about your business.
Partnering with an agency like The Creative Momentum can give you a leg up on performance, getting the best in class strategies coupled with performance monitoring to ensure you’re seeing success. Focus on what you do best, and let The Creative Momentum handle your local SEO. Contact us today to learn more!