2. On-Page Signals
Various on-page factors are taken into consideration when your website faces analysis for local rankings. Firstly, is the use of relevant keywords. Search engines will look out for the use of keywords that are highly relevant and strategically placed in your page titles, content, and throughout your website help Google to determine where your site belongs. Relevancy is vital for local SEO as the right keywords can help get your site ranking in specific areas for your industry.
The presence of vital details such as name, address and phone number (NAP) on pages also assists in on-page ranking factors. Google uses this information to determine important proximity details for your rankings.
Another local SEO on-page ranking factor is the mobile-friendliness of your website. 30% of all Google mobile searches relate to location. Having your website easily accessible and fast on mobile devices is an essential factor for both local SERPs and user experience. People are always looking for products and services nearby; you can make it easier for them to find you by optimising your pages for local search.
3. Online Reviews
Customers will almost always read available information on a business before making a purchase. Positive online reviews help to paint your business as trustworthy, reliable, and legitimate. Having positive reviews online not only has a significant impact on the decision-making process for potential clients but will also contribute to local search ranking factors.
Businesses receiving frequent positive reviews and ratings online will benefit from ranking increases. Local SEO ranking signals consider the total number, frequency, diversity, and quality of reviews that are generated for the business.
When a business is frequently receiving genuine glowing reviews for their services, Google takes that as a sign that customers are pleased with the provided services. And because Google wants to put the user first, businesses with good reviews will be served to users higher in the local search rankings. A significant part of a strong local SEO campaign is encouraging satisfied customers to leave positive reviews and ratings with platforms such as Google Maps, Yelp, Glassdoor and Trip advisor.
4. Backlink Profile
Backlinks are an essential element of building authority for a local business. Local businesses should aim to attract links from local, relevant, and authoritative websites for positive impact on their site. Getting good backlinks can be challenging – it’s important to remember that when it comes to other sites linking to yours, quality is more important than quantity.