Why is Local SEO So Important?

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Have you ever searched for something “near me” on Google? You’re not alone. Searches like that have grown a lot in the last five years. Businesses that show up first in these local searches get exponentially more visitors both online and in person. It’s important for businesses, especially those with multiple locations, to know how to improve their local SEO.

What is Local SEO?

Before we dive in, let’s make sure we understand what local SEO is. It’s a way to make your local business show up in relevant search results on search engines like Google. This can help you get more customers to visit your store or website.

Why Does it Matter?

People usually click on the businesses that show up first. Our research shows that businesses that rank in the Google 3-Pack (the top three local businesses in a search) get significantly more clicks and actions like phone calls or driving directions.

Your Salem, Oregon Local SEO Checklist

• Claim and Update Your Local Listings

First, make sure your business info is correct on big online directories like Google, Apple Maps, Yelp, and Facebook. The most important one is your Google Business Profile because almost everyone uses Google to search.

• Pick the Right Keywords

To show up in searches, you need to know what words people use when they’re looking for businesses like yours. Use tools to find out what these words are and make a list. Include words that are specific to Salem, Oregon like “best pizza in Salem, Oregon.”

• Improve Your Local landing pages and Store Locator

Make sure you have landing pages for each of your locations, or a landing page for each of the areas you service. These should include important info like your business name, address, and phone number. Also, if you have a store locator on your website, keep it updated. This makes it easier for people in Salem to find you.

• Get the Basics of On-Page SEO Right

On-page SEO is about making sure your website is set up in a way that search engines like. This includes things like the title of the web page and a short description that shows up in search results. Make sure these include your chosen keywords.

• Get Good Reviews

Reviews can help you show up higher in search results. Try to get as many good reviews as you can. One more star in your Google Business Profile can really increase the number of people who click on your business.

• Create Content for Local SEO

Write articles, blog posts, or guides that people will want to read and share. Answer their most pressing questions about their needs and your solutions. This can help you show up in more searches and can even get other websites to link to you.

Build Local Backlinks

Backlinks are when other websites link to yours. The more you have, especially from respected local organizations, the better. You could partner with local nonprofits in Salem or even write guest posts for local blogs.

Here’s a recap of the checklist:

1. Claim and update your local listings
2. Pick the right keywords
3. Improve your local landing pages and store locator
4. Get the basics of on-page SEO right
5. Get good reviews
6. Create content for local SEO
7. Build local backlinks

The Small Business Guru can help you with all these steps. Our tools can keep track of how you’re doing in local searches and even help you respond to customer reviews quickly.

Start Boosting Your Salem, Oregon Business Today

Now you know what to do to get more people to find your local business in Salem, Oregon. Start working on these steps today to boost your business!