Local SEO: How to Get Found by Nearby Customers
Local SEO: How to Get Found by Nearby Customers
Introduction
When it comes to growing a small business, your local community is your most valuable audience. But how do you ensure those nearby customers find you when they’re searching online? That’s where local SEO comes in.
Local SEO is all about optimising your online presence to attract more business from relevant local searches. Think about it—when someone searches for "coffee shop near me" or "plumber in [your town]," you want your business to be at the top of those results.
In this post, we’ll break down exactly how local SEO works and the actionable steps you can take to make your business stand out in local searches.
What Is Local SEO?
Local SEO focuses on increasing your visibility in location-based searches. Unlike broader SEO strategies, it zeroes in on specific geographic areas, helping your business appear in searches from people nearby.
For example, if someone searches "best pizza in Brighton," Google’s algorithms will prioritise pizza restaurants in Brighton. With the right local SEO strategy, your business could be the first name they see.
1. Optimise Your Google My Business Profile
Why it matters: Google My Business (GMB) is the cornerstone of local SEO. A fully optimised profile can significantly improve your chances of appearing in local search results and Google Maps.
Actionable Tips:
Claim your GMB listing if you haven’t already.
Add accurate business information (name, address, phone number).
Upload high-quality photos of your business, team, or products.
Encourage happy customers to leave reviews—it’s a trust signal Google loves.
Pro Tip: Post updates, offers, or news to your GMB profile regularly to keep it active and engaging.
2. Use Local Keywords
Why it matters: Keywords tell search engines what your website is about. Adding location-based keywords helps Google match your site to local searches.
Actionable Tips:
Include your city, town, or neighbourhood in your website content.
Optimise titles, meta descriptions, and headers with local keywords (e.g., "Brighton coffee shop").
Use phrases like "near me" or "in [your town]" naturally throughout your content.
3. Ensure Your NAP Is Consistent
Why it matters: NAP stands for Name, Address, and Phone Number. Having consistent NAP information across your website, social media, and online directories builds trust with search engines and customers.
Actionable Tips:
Check that your NAP is the same everywhere it’s listed (including punctuation).
Add your NAP information to the footer of your website.
Use online tools to scan for inconsistencies in directories like Yelp or TripAdvisor.
4. Get Listed in Local Directories
Why it matters: Local directories like Yelp, Bing Places, and industry-specific platforms increase your online visibility and strengthen your local SEO.
Actionable Tips:
Submit your business to reputable local directories.
Include relevant details like your services, hours of operation, and contact info.
Add backlinks to your website where possible—these improve your SEO rankings.
5. Create Locally Relevant Content
Why it matters: High-quality content tailored to your local audience can set you apart. Google rewards websites that provide value and relevance to searchers.
Actionable Tips:
Write blogs about local topics, events, or community news.
Create location-specific landing pages for each area you serve.
Highlight testimonials or case studies from local customers.
Conclusion
Local SEO isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a must for small businesses looking to grow. By optimising your Google My Business profile, using local keywords, and engaging with your community, you can attract more nearby customers and stand out in a crowded digital landscape.
Want to boost your local SEO and save time? At Osborn Online, we specialise in helping small businesses get found online. Let us handle your SEO while you focus on what you do best—running your business.
