Get Found! 3.5 Local SEO Tips

The internet is where people go to find local businesses, in fact a 2012 study found that approximately 43% of Google searches are local.  When considering mobile devices that number jumps to 61% for smartphone users and 64% for tablet users according to the Localeze/15miles Fifth Annual comScore Local Search Usage Study. Bottom line from Google: 97% of their users across mobile, PC, or Laptop search locally – typically within 15 miles of their location.

Businesses in Fuquay-Varina want to be found for their products and service online and we can help. These local SEO tips will improve your position in search engine results pages in your service area. Over the last five years I’ve talked with a lot of local business owners and when we talk about goals most all say, “We want to be number one on Google.” Getting to number one takes a bit of work and a solid understanding of what factors help you get there. But, using the following tips will do a lot to get you going in the right direction.

Step 1: Build a Professional, Optimized Website

The chance of your Fuquay-Varina business being found in search results is greatly enhanced by having a professional looking website that is optimized for products/services and local area.  Your website should be attractive and easy to navigate.  Make sure there are clear “Calls to Action” (what you want visitors to do) such as ‘Call Now,’ ‘Download Ebook,’ ‘Buy Now!’

To strengthen the likelihood of your page to be shown for a local searches also do the following:

If you need help with your Fuquay-Varina business website design contact us.

Step 2: Create a Mobile Version of Your Website

Since 61% of smartphone owners and 64% of tablet users search for local products or services using their device, you want to make sure your site displays well in those devices. In some cases your basic website will do just fine, but consider this: A recent study found that 55% of mobile search-driven conversions happen in one hour or less! Mobile users on the go are looking for NOW or very soon.  What that means for you is your mobile website needs to answer their needs and include a strong call to action right at the top of the page.  Hence, you may need to set up a web page or pages that address the needs of on the go prospects.

Step 3: Claim & Optimize Your Google+ Listing

In May 2012 Google converted all Google Places listing to Google+ listings if you haven’t claimed yours yet, or haven’t updated it in a long time now is the time to do so.  Once you’ve built the page and entered all the address, phone number, website and other information make sure you ‘Verify’ the listing with Google.  They will send you a postcard with a pin number you will then enter on your page.

Once verified your business will begin to show up in the local business listings Google provides and you pin will show on their map.  Studies show that 61% of users found local search results to be more relevant than paid ads while 58% found them to be more trustworthy.  So, make sure you show up!

Here’s your .5 Local SEO Tip

Don’t stop there! Build profiles for your business on as many directories as you can. There are many free ones, but definitely get listed on Bing, Yahoo, Yelp, and Merchant Circle.

Also, I strong suggest you consider a local directory such as Around Fuquay-Varina which focuses on your town will certainly help!

So, there you go, 3.5 tips to get you started with your local search engine optimization efforts. I’ll post more tips in the future, so stay tuned.

If you have any questions or comments, let me know in the comment section below.