Local Search Optimisation

This Local Search Optimisation Guide is designed help you improve your position in local search queries, such as these:

Electrician in Dublin
Indian Takeaway Near Here
Web Design Wicklow

Nowadays Google serves up different search results depending on who is searching, and where they are. When a user enters a search query like the three above, Google understands that the user probably doesn’t want to order a takeaway from a restaurant on the other side of the world, they’re going to need to find a local restaurant if they want to get their dinner while its still warm.

So the first step in local search optimisation is ensuring that Google understands where your business is.

1. Get set up on Google My Business

You may have noticed that if you search for a service in an area, Google will often display a large map with the various businesses in the area. Getting your business properly set up on Google My Business is the first step on the road to getting a prime placement in this section of the search results.

Some tips for when you’re setting up your Google My Business account:

  1. Use the same business name as you do on your website.
  2. Add a great description for your business.
  3. Choose the correct category for your business.
  4. Upload some photos, logos and imagery so your business stands out in the search results.
  5. Add the same phone number(s) as you have written on your website.
  6. Add the same business address as you have written on your website.
  7. Add your opening hours.

When you submit your listing, it will be unverified until you prove to Google that your business is where you say it is. This is done by entering a confirmation code that will arrive on a postcard at the address you have specified. Once you’ve entered that code, your business will be verified and should soon be showing in the local search results, although it can take a little while to climb the rankings.

 

2. Establish your important business info

 

The business title is important to the search engines and consistency across data sources helps them establish trust in your business.

Your business title should be consistent across your website, social media accounts, Google My Business accounts etc.

Include your business name, address and phone number on each page of your website, perhaps in the footer.

 

3. use a local keyword in the title

Including a local keyword in the title of your page such as Coal Delivery Wicklow can work well, but overdoing this approach with hundreds of slightly different pages will probably get your site penalised.

 

Run a speedy website

Google likes fast websites, so building a performant website can pay dividends in the long run. Loading times matter when you’re making a first impression. Get in touch with us and we’ll help you turbocharge your website.

Ask your customers for reviews

If Google sees your business gets a lot of reviews from real people, it may improve your ranking. An abundance of positive reviews signifies a tested, trustable brand.

Get on the Local Directories