10 Steps to Rank Higher for Local & "Near Me" Google Searches

According to a study conducted by Tech Report, over 40% of adults use voice search daily. Understanding key SEO details like these is essential for getting the desired outcome for your business, and this is especially true for local search. While this obligation might seem daunting at first, it's simpler than most people anticipate.

Focusing on Google Business and other location-based tactics will give your small business visibility that translates into more foot traffic and online conversions. We've created a detailed guide to help navigate the process and avoid potential pitfalls. Let's dive into how a local search service can help you climb the local rankings.

1. Claim and Optimize Your Google Business Profile

Claiming your Google Business Profile is the first step to improving local ranking. Once claimed, ensure all information is accurate and up to date, such as your:

• Business hours
• Phone number
• Website link

Including your business category and using relevant keywords can also help optimize local search results. Adding a detailed business description helps potential customers understand your services. Keeping your profile updated will keep your business appearing in more searches, as well.

2. Use Location-Specific Keywords

Incorporating location-specific keywords is crucial to boosting your local online presence. Tailor your content to include your city or even nearby landmarks to increase relevance in local searches.

Optimize local search by placing these keywords in your website's titles and meta descriptions. It's also important to use them throughout your content.

Remember, customers looking for services "near me" are more likely to choose a business that emphasizes its proximity. Integrate these terms naturally without overloading your content so you can seamlessly reap the benefits.

3. Encourage Local Customer Reviews

Positive reviews from local customers can significantly improve local ranking. Asking satisfied customers to leave a review helps build credibility and trust for potential clients.

Responding to both positive and negative reviews illustrates that your business values customer feedback. Reviews also play a role in how Google ranks businesses, so maintaining a steady flow of feedback is beneficial. Engaging with customer reviews will strengthen your connection with the community and boost your online reputation.

4. Ensure Consistency in NAP Information

Consistency is key when it comes to your business's name, address, and phone number (NAP). Having the same NAP information across all online platforms helps avoid confusion and is one of the most important local SEO tips. Google cross-references this information, so even minor discrepancies can hurt your ranking.

Keeping your NAP consistent helps potential customers easily find and contact your business. Make periodic checks to ensure accuracy across all channels.

5. Add High-Quality Photos to Your Profile

High-quality images on your Google Business Profile give potential customers a visual understanding of your business. Pictures of your storefront, for example, can make your profile stand out and attract more views.

Google favors profiles that are engaging and provide users with relevant information, and photos play a big part in that. Adding images also shows that your business is active and well-maintained, further improving your local online presence.

6. Utilize Local Business Listings

Listing your business in local directories strengthens your overall presence in local searches. Local business databases allow customers to find and review businesses in their area.

Maintaining accurate information across these listings helps improve your business's visibility in multiple places. Search engines often pull information from these directories, so ensuring your details are consistent can help improve local ranking. Leveraging these platforms can make a significant difference in getting discovered, so don't neglect them.

7. Create Location-Based Content

Location-based content can provide valuable information to customers searching for services nearby. Consider:

• Writing blog posts
• Creating videos
• Developing FAQs centered on your local area

Highlighting local events or collaborating with nearby businesses can further engage your audience. Google rewards businesses that produce relevant, local content, boosting your chances of ranking higher. Focus on providing genuine, helpful information about your area to improve local traffic and increase sales.

8. Leverage Google Posts for Local Offers

Google Posts is an effective tool for sharing updates, promotions, and events directly on your Google Business Profile. Regularly updating these posts with local offers keeps your profile fresh and relevant.

Customers searching for services in their area are more likely to notice your business if you feature limited-time offers or events. These posts also help engage your audience and improve your business's relevance in local searches. Use this tool to showcase what makes your business stand out.

9. Improve Your Website's Mobile Experience

A seamless mobile experience is crucial for attracting customers who search "near me" while on the go. Ensuring your website loads quickly and is easy to navigate on mobile devices can prevent potential customers from leaving in frustration.

Google prioritizes mobile-friendly websites in local search results, making it a key aspect of improving local ranking. Simple adjustments to your layout can significantly enhance user experience, leading to more conversions over time.

10. Engage with Local Communities Online

Building relationships with local communities can increase your business's visibility. Participating in local social media groups or online events helps create a strong presence in these spaces and improve brand notoriety.

Engaging with community members fosters trust and can lead to valuable word-of-mouth recommendations. Prioritizing this outreach also helps Google recognize your business as a relevant part of the local ecosystem. Staying active and involved in local discussions will keep your business top of mind and make customers far more likely to choose your company over a competitor.

Leverage a Local Search Service

By working with a local search service, you'll hit the ground running and strive toward your goals as soon as possible. It's crucial to remember, though, that handling your responsibilities with the right software goes a long way.

Jooice is an AI-powered platform that helps businesses manage their online presence by streamlining listings, reviews, and reputation across platforms like Google and Facebook. Automation saves time while enhancing visibility and disrupting complexity, and our software scales with your company as needed. You can start your free trial today to learn more about how we can help.

‍