What is the fastest way to improve local search rankings?

Start by auditing and fixing your NAP (name, address, phone number) on every directory, using Google My Business as the source of truth and Google Maps to verify consistency.

Why does NAP consistency matter for local search?

Inconsistent NAP information across listings confuses customers and search engines, which can cost you leads and revenue. A regular audit of your business listings fixes the problem.

Do mobile-optimized sites rank better in local search?

Yes. Many mobile devices and laptops use built-in NAP-enabled search engines, so a mobile-friendly site helps your ads appear more prominently and can increase revenue.

What is the fastest way to improve local search rankings?

Start by auditing and fixing your NAP (name, address, phone number) on every directory, using Google My Business as the source of truth and Google Maps to verify consistency.

Why does NAP consistency matter for local search?

Inconsistent NAP information across listings confuses customers and search engines, which can cost you leads and revenue. A regular audit of your business listings fixes the problem.

Do mobile-optimized sites rank better in local search?

Yes. Many mobile devices and laptops use built-in NAP-enabled search engines, so a mobile-friendly site helps your ads appear more prominently and can increase revenue.

How to Boost Your Local Search Marketing

January 30, 2022

Local search marketing helps your business show up when nearby customers search for the services you offer. The core tactics are using city- and state-specific keywords, keeping your business name, address, and phone number (NAP) consistent across every listing, claiming and updating your profiles on the major directories, optimizing your site for mobile users, and paying attention to online reviews.

Use local keywords your customers actually search for

Ranking for broad terms like “general liability insurance agents” is difficult, so layer in city or state terms to increase your chances of being found online. Your web design platform’s documentation is a good place to learn how to do this, or you can hire a professional to add the appropriate metadata to your website. Either way, the guide you follow should be easy to understand and apply.

Claim and fix your directory listings

Incorrect or outdated information on popular directories can hurt your local search ranking. If the listings are inconsistent, consumers won’t find your business, which hurts your online presence. A local search marketing company recommends checking the basic listings for any errors. If you’re new to the area, you’ll need to claim or verify pages and update your information on existing listings, and you can create new profiles to add more relevant details about your business.

Keep NAP consistent across every platform

Your NAP must appear consistently in all listings, because inconsistent information confuses customers and costs you revenue. The first step is auditing your business listings, and the best tool for that is Google My Business. To check that your NAP is consistent, use the Google Maps service, or use a free NAP-checking tool.

Optimize your website for mobile

Many mobile devices and laptops come with built-in NAP-enabled search engines, so optimizing for mobile users helps your ads appear more prominently and can increase your revenue. You can also promote other local businesses in the area, since these sites often offer complementary services that can grow your customer base.

Respond to reviews and watch for local keywords

Monitoring online reviews for local keywords is important. The best way to respond to complaints is to address the issues raised, and local search marketing gives you a direct channel to handle complaints and solve concerns. Doing this consistently improves your local reputation, and small, steady improvements lift your ranking in local search over time.

Maintain your local directories on a schedule

If a local search marketing strategy includes claiming your business listing, make sure you are listed in the directories that matter most. If your listings are in the wrong places, consumers won’t find them, so keep the necessary information on each popular directory and update it on a regular basis. Once you have reviewed the top directories, updating your listings becomes a routine task.