5 Important Local SEO FAQs

Google’s algorithm and search engine results pages (SERPS) have changed throughout the years to reflect the way that people search and find information on the web. One of these changes created a larger emphasis on local SEO. If you are still confused about the difference between local SEO and traditional SEO, here are four differences shared by a leading SEO agency.

1. What Is Local SEO?

When individuals search for services that are provided by local brick and mortar stores, Google thinks it’s best to share local results with searchers first. They’ve created an area at the top of the results pages that show addresses, phone numbers, and maps for local businesses. This differs from traditional SEO which is the practise of optimizing individual web pages so that they will rank higher in Google’s search engine.

2. What is Traditional SEO?

With traditional search engine optimization, the focus is on optimizing individual pages. Keywords are researched and strategically placed throughout your content. This type of SEO also includes the optimization of page titles and the creation of incoming links to build authority.

3. Will Your Business Results Be Displayed?

There’s a lot of competition for the local area that shows up in the SERPS. With so many businesses striving for this lucrative spot, the information for your business may not be used. Unfortunately, there’s no way to get Google to always show your business results. You must include this information on a profile page that’s connected to your website.

4. What Businesses Can Use Local SEO?

Only businesses that have a brick-and-mortar location are eligible for local SEO. As an example, if someone is searching for a hot serving of coffee to start their morning, they want to be connected with local coffee shops, not an organization that only sells coffee beans to online customers.

5. Can Your Business Compete in Nearby Towns or Cities?

Google wants to match customers with businesses that are close to their vicinity. If a person searches for a local donut shop, it’s more likely that Google will show them the closest donut shops. Google would not suggest shops located far away. If your business is located in another town, you won’t show up in the local search area of the SERPS in this type of scenario.

Both areas of search engine optimization are important for your business. One helps customers find your physical location when they are close to your brick-and-mortar store and the other ensures your brand can be found in the regular listings of the SERPS.

Local SEO helps brick-and-mortar businesses enhance visibility on SERP and easily promote their services or products. Reputed marketing companies do not neglect both types of local and traditional SEO to get their site ranked on different search engines such as Google, Yelp, or Foursquare.