- Megan Nager
Dominate Local Search: Discovering the Best Local Keywords
In digital marketing, local keywords are crucial in helping businesses attract relevant and targeted customers in their geographical area. Whether you run a small brick-and-mortar store or a local service-based business, optimizing for local keywords can significantly boost your online visibility and drive more foot traffic. In this blog, we will explore effective strategies to discover the best local keywords and rank for them, allowing you to connect with your local audience and grow your business.
Table of contents:
How Do I Find Local Keywords?
Finding local keywords involves understanding the search behavior of your local target audience and identifying the terms they use to find products or services in your area. Here are some proven methods to discover relevant local keywords:
1. Google Autocomplete and Related Searches:
Start by typing relevant industry terms or services followed by your location in the Google search bar. Google's autocomplete feature will suggest popular search queries related to your industry and location. Additionally, scroll to the bottom of the search results page to find the "Searches related to..." section for more keyword ideas.
2. Google My Business Insights:
Leverage the data from your Google My Business (GMB) Insights to gain valuable insights into how people find your business on Google. The "Queries Used to Find Your Business" section lists keywords customers used to discover your GMB listing.
3. Local Competitor Analysis:
Analyze your competitors' websites and online content to identify the keywords they target. Tools like SEMrush or Ahrefs can help you uncover their top-ranking keywords and give you valuable insights into their SEO strategy.
4. Online Local Forums and Review Sites:
Browse local forums, community websites, and review sites to see how people discuss and review businesses in your industry. These platforms can offer valuable clues about your target audience's language and terms.
How Do I Pick the Best Local Keywords and Rank for Them?
Once you have compiled a list of potential local keywords, it's time to narrow your choices and optimize your website and content to rank for them. Here are three essential steps to help you pick the best local keywords and improve your search engine rankings:
1. Specify Your Location:
Be clear about the areas you serve and incorporate location-specific terms in your keywords. For instance, if you own a bakery in Chicago, use keywords like "best bakery in Chicago" or "Chicago bakery near me." Specific location targeting helps Google understand your business's relevance to local searches and improves your chances of appearing in local search results.
2. Focus on Industry-Related Keywords:
While location-specific terms are essential, remember the importance of industry-related keywords. Consider your products or services and create a list of primary and secondary keywords that accurately describe your business. For example, a local plumbing service may target keywords like "emergency plumber," "water heater repair," or "drain cleaning services."
3. Include Keyword Modifiers:
Keyword modifiers are descriptive words that enhance the specificity of your keyword phrases. Incorporating modifiers like "best," "top-rated," "affordable," or "24/7" can make your keywords more compelling and relevant to potential customers. For instance, "best Italian restaurant in Denver" or "affordable daycare services in Los Angeles."
Finding and ranking for the best local keywords is a powerful strategy to attract targeted customers and boost your business's visibility in your area. Understanding your local audience's search behavior, specifying your location, and focusing on industry-related keywords can create a strong foundation for local SEO success. Remember to continuously monitor your keyword performance and adapt your strategy based on your local market's evolving needs and trends. With dedication and a well-executed local SEO plan, you can propel your business to the top of local search results and gain a competitive edge in your community.
Going Beyond Local Keywords: Exploring Alternatives to Local Keyword Research
Local keyword research is a powerful tool for businesses seeking to connect with their local audience and boost their online visibility. However, other effective strategies exist to enhance your local presence and reach potential customers. This blog will explore alternatives to local keyword research that can complement your digital marketing efforts and help you establish a strong local online presence.
1. Claim Your Google Business Profile Listing
One of the most crucial steps in enhancing your local presence is to claim and optimize your Google Business Profile listing. This free tool allows you to manage how your business appears on Google Maps and local search results. When potential customers search for products or services in your area, your Google Business Profile provides essential information like your address, contact details, business hours, and customer reviews.
To claim your Google Business Profile, follow these steps:
Go to Google My Business (GMB) and sign in with your Google account.
Enter your business name and address.
Choose the appropriate category that best represents your business.
Verify your business through verification, which may involve receiving a postcard with a verification code or getting a phone call.
By optimizing your Google Business Profile with accurate and up-to-date information, you improve your chances of appearing in local search results and increase your business's credibility in the eyes of potential customers.
2. Run a Pay-Per-Click (PPC) Advertising Campaign
Pay-per-click (PPC) advertising is another effective way to reach your local audience and drive targeted traffic to your website. Platforms like Google Ads and social media channels offer PPC advertising options that allow you to create targeted ads based on specific keywords, demographics, and geographical locations.
When running a PPC campaign, consider the following tips:
Keyword Selection: Choose relevant keywords that align with your business and location. Use a mix of local and industry-related keywords to attract the right audience.
Geotargeting: Use geotargeting settings to display your ads to users in specific locations, ensuring that your ads reach the right audience.
Ad Extensions: Utilize ad extensions like location extensions, call extensions, and review extensions to provide additional information and boost your ad's visibility.
PPC advertising offers more control and immediate results compared to organic search rankings. By strategically selecting keywords and targeting your ads, you can drive more qualified leads and increase your local visibility.
3. Local SEO and Content Marketing
While local keyword research is essential, focusing on local SEO and content marketing can also enhance your local online presence. Creating high-quality, informative, and relevant content targeting your local audience can attract organic traffic and boost your search engine rankings.
Here are some strategies to incorporate local SEO and content marketing:
Localized Content: Develop content that addresses local interests, events, and news relevant to your target audience.
Local Citations: Ensure consistent business information (name, address, phone number) across various online directories, review sites and local business listings.
Customer Reviews: Encourage customers to leave reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, and Facebook. Positive reviews not only boost your credibility but also influence local search rankings.
Local Backlinks: Seek opportunities to earn backlinks from local websites, blogs, and community organizations. Local backlinks can improve your website's authority in local search results.
Start Using Local Keywords Today
While local keyword research is a powerful tool, incorporating alternatives like claiming your Google Business Profile, running PPC campaigns, and focusing on local SEO and content marketing can take your local online presence to new heights. By combining these strategies, you can reach a broader local audience, improve your website's visibility, and drive more traffic to your business.
Remember that building a solid local online presence is an ongoing process that requires continuous monitoring and optimization. Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and changes in local search algorithms to ensure your business remains visible to your target audience. With a comprehensive and well-rounded approach, you can make a lasting impact in your local market and establish your business as a trusted and prominent player in your community.
Wake & Make Media began in the heart of Los Angeles, California, by two passionate filmmakers who had spent over a decade working in front of and behind the camera. In 2019, founders Megan and Corey applied their knowledge of long-form, scripted content to short-form videos for brands and businesses looking to expand their reach.