Introduction
Finding the right keywords for your service business is like hitting a moving target; it’s tough to stay ahead of the game. But if you’re not doing local keyword research, you might as well be shouting into a void.
Local SEO is more important than ever because 70% of people who search online for a product or service end up visiting a nearby business within a day. After reading this post, you’ll know exactly which keywords to target and how to optimize your Google Business Profile to attract local customers.
How Local SEO Affects Your Visibility
Local SEO is the backbone of getting found by potential clients in High Point or Thomasville who are actively searching for services like yours. According to a recent study by Search Engine Land, 1.8 million Google Business Profiles reveal that businesses with optimized profiles see an average increase of 50% in calls and visits from local customers.
If you’re not already using tools like Moz Local or Yext to manage your Google Business Profile details, now is the time to start. Ensure all your contact information—phone numbers, addresses, hours—is up-to-date and accurate. This small effort can make a big difference in how often people find and call you.
Conducting Effective Keyword Research
1. Identify Local Intent: Think about what phrases your potential customers are typing into Google when they’re looking for services like yours. For instance, if you run a lawn care service in High Point, someone might search “lawn mowing services near me” or “weed control High Point.”
2. Use Keyword Tools: Leverage tools such as Ahrefs, SEMrush, or even the free Google Search Console to find keywords with high local intent and low competition.
3. Analyze Competitors: Check out what your competitors are ranking for by using tools like SpyFu or Ubersuggest. This will give you insights into which keywords they’re targeting and how well they’re doing.
4. Optimize Your Website: Once you’ve identified the best keywords, incorporate them naturally into your website’s content, especially on pages dedicated to local services.
The Most Common Mistake in Local Keyword Research
The biggest mistake businesses make is focusing too narrowly on broad service terms like “lawn care” instead of specific location-based phrases such as “lawn mowing High Point.” This can lead to missed opportunities because your business won’t show up when someone searches for services in their area.
To fix this, you need to conduct thorough local keyword research and tailor your content to include both broad and location-specific terms. For example, if you’re a plumber in Greensboro, ensure that phrases like “plumbing repair Greensboro” are included alongside more general plumbing service keywords.
What to Do Next
- – Update Your Google Business Profile: Make sure all your details are accurate and complete.
- – Conduct Local Keyword Research: Use tools like SEMrush or Ahrefs to find the right keywords for your business.
- – Optimize Website Content: Include local keywords in your website’s pages and blog posts.
If you need help getting started, reach out to us at Libra Web & Marketing Solutions. We offer a free SEO audit that can pinpoint areas where your site needs improvement. Contact us today to set up an appointment.
Sources & further reading:
- – What 1.8 million Google Business Profiles tell us about local SEO success
- – Google expands direct booking for Local Services Ads
Next step: Get a free audit from Libra Web & Marketing Solutions