Local search engine optimization (SEO) has become more relevant over time because of changes in the search market, and Google+ Local has had a big impact on those results. On its own, Google+ Local offers some big benefits for local businesses, and it adds several elements that help your business succeed in local SEO.
What partnerships does Google+ Local offer for small businesses?
Google+ Local partners with third-party organizations and directories including Zagat, Yelp, Angie’s List, Yellow Pages, Citysearch, and Judy’s Book. All of these are authoritative sites with high reputations in local search marketing. As part of those partnership agreements, many of these associations provide Google+ Local with text links to their pages on their listings, and Google provides Google+ Local users with links in organic results, which increases exposure and creates additional opportunities to generate more traffic.
Why the Angie’s List partnership matters
The partnership with Angie’s List is particularly beneficial to small, local businesses. Being listed with Angie’s List puts you in front of a targeted audience of people who may be interested in your business. Being listed with a directory also increases your overall visibility when potential customers are searching for a business in your local area through an internet search, and with increased visibility comes more chances for more traffic and potential sales.
How does paid placement in Google’s organic results help local businesses?
By being listed in the paid portion of Google’s organic search results, your business will have increased visibility, which in turn increases your chances of generating more traffic. The two-way relationship between Google and these directory listings is beneficial to small, local businesses in addition to large companies, so local business owners should take advantage of being included in both the free and paid portions of Google’s local search optimization programs.
Why does building an online presence matter for local SEO?
One of the benefits of being listed with a directory is increased online presence, and having an online presence can allow you to reach more potential customers. By creating a blog, website, or social media page, a local business can build an online presence that increases traffic to its site. A well-designed online presence will also create an impression of a local business, increasing brand awareness. The more visible a local business is online, the greater the chances of success in generating sales.
How do local search keywords improve visibility?
A search engine optimization program that includes local searches will increase your visibility to searchers because the keywords used in local searches are geared towards your specific location. For instance, if a searcher is searching for pizza in New York City, they will most likely type in “Pizza in New York” or “Pizza restaurant in New York.” A listing that includes all of the words used in that search gives local businesses more chances of being selected.
Do local SEO programs really generate new customers?
Many people are turned off by search engines because they feel they have to pay for the top search results, but those who pay for the top search results get a lot of traffic and new customers. A search engine optimization program that includes local searches will not only improve your chances of ranking high in the search results, but it will also generate more traffic and lead to an increase in new customers. Business owners who want to use their website to reach people interested in their product or service should consider including a listing with a directory.
What results can you expect from a local SEO program?
With a proper local search engine optimization program, you will see an increase in organic traffic as well as a boost in new customers. Those who place an ad with a directory will see an increase in local traffic as the ad is listed with related keywords. The listing with a directory will be seen as relevant by the search engines, and the ads will be sent to websites with the highest ratings. The end result is a greater chance of reaching the audience you are looking for, and there are many benefits to a local SEO program.
FAQ
What directories partner with Google+ Local?
Google+ Local partners with Zagat, Yelp, Angie’s List, Yellow Pages, Citysearch, and Judy’s Book, all of which are described as authoritative sites with high reputations in local search marketing.
Why are local keywords important for SEO?
Local keywords are geared toward a specific location, so a listing that includes all of the words a searcher uses (for example, “Pizza in New York” or “Pizza restaurant in New York”) gives local businesses more chances of being selected.
Can a local SEO program bring in new customers?
Yes. According to the article, being listed in the paid portion of Google’s organic search results and in partner directories can increase visibility, generate more traffic, and lead to an increase in new customers.
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