So, local SEO. Where to start? Well, it’s probably best to clear up one of the most complex terms out there for people who don’t know a lot about marketing: SEO.
If you don’t already know what SEO is, check out our SEO services page to fill yourself in and then come back here to find out about local SEO services in the UK.
But we’ll give a very brief description here for you anyway. SEO stands for Search Engine Optimisation, and it really isn’t as complicated as it seems at first glance.
It involves the process of making your website, blog, ecommerce site, etc Google friendly so that it appears at the top of the search engine results pages (SERPS).
Higher search ranking, higher number of visitors. Higher number of visitors, higher number of conversions. Simple!
What is Local SEO?
Local SEO differs from normal SEO because it is about making your business Google friendly for your specific location, as opposed to nationwide or even internationally.
Say you’re a tradesman in Bootle, local SEO in Liverpool can ensure that you show up when people in your broader area search for a tradesman.
The same goes for physical stores too. If you’re an independent bookstore in Lenton then local SEO in Nottingham can help put you on the map – literally! Anybody in Nottingham searching for a bookstore will see your shop in Lenton with details on opening times, directions, reviews, the lot!
Why Local SEO is so crucial to your Business
This is a very specific type of SEO that has a fantastic potential of turning searchers into conversions. Did you know that nearly half of all Google searches are for local results? If you’re unsure about whether SEO Services are worth it, That’s absolutely massive news for anyone seeking new customers or clients on the web.
To continue with the examples above, the people searching for tradesmen or bookstores in your area are looking to find a quick result for what they need. Your business could be that result.
They’ll either search for something simple like ‘tradesman’, or they may be a bit more specific and search something like ‘bookstore near me’, or ‘bookstore in Nottingham’.
Because of the broad nature of these searches, you can assume that the people searching will not have made their mind up yet on what service to go for. So, when your amazing, high-quality business (with a top-notch local SEO team behind it!) shows up at the top of Google, your chances of being chosen are much higher than normal!
On top of this, the localised search results that Google show will appear where we like to call ‘above the fold’. This means that all the local search results appear above the organic results. So, if your business is optimised correctly, you have the chance of being the first business that these people searching will see, along with all the information they could possibly need to find you at just a glance.
Importance of Google My Business for Local SEO
The first step in getting your business’ local SEO up to scratch is setting up your Google My Business page.
Google My Business controls the local pack that shows your business on local search results alongside the map and all your relevant info. With a poorly optimised Google My Business page, customers could go to the wrong location or ring the wrong number, or just decide to choose a different service that looks more accurate.
Over the years, Google My Business has become more and more important and has added several features that benefit searchers and can benefit your business if you take advantage of them. For example, potential customers have the opportunity to quickly and seamlessly enquire about a booking or message your business directly straight from the Google page.
You really don’t want to miss out on these leads, so always stay on top of your Google My Business page!
Local SEO vs National SEO
The best part about both types of SEO is that they share a lot of the same signals for ranking such as content, backlinks and Digital PR, just local SEO is a little more specific.
Every business should be broadly optimised for search engines, that’s just a fact if you want to be successful.
However, it’s even more crucial that small businesses or service providers are locally optimised for search engines because this will bring you the most benefit.
You’ll find that you can rank a lot higher when optimising your business for local searches than you would rank for national searches, and you’ll see results quicker which means you’ll have spent less money to get yourself in the ranks.
Where Can I Get Local SEO Services?
The best part about things like local SEO are that you aren’t tied down to physical locations when making these changes to your business. If you’re looking for local SEO services in Dublin then there’s nothing stopping you choosing a local SEO Manchester based company
We have extremely knowledgeable staff here at Blaze Media who know all there is to know about local SEO and keep up to date with Google’s changes so contact us now if you want to find out how we can help your business!
How Much to Charge for Local SEO?
You’ll no doubt find that different business charge different amounts for their SEO services. Prices tend to be higher in the bigger, more metropolitan areas. If you’re looking for local SEO Edinburgh based business or local SEO services in London then expect to pay a premium.
At Blaze Media, our prices are competitive and reflective of the amazing work we can do for your business, so get in touch if you want to make an improvement to your service and your bottom line!