How to Create a Local SEO Checklist for UK Businesses
One of the biggest challenges you will face in local SEO is building visibility in the right places. Optimising for local search is one thing, but audiences are using a variety of channels these days to find local businesses. They use social media, Google search, business directories, and more.
In order to boost your online visibility with local SEO, you need to focus on a number of important assets and channels, including:
Our talented team have put an effective check-list in place to help you improve your local SEO effort as a UK business:
The first step to a successful local SEO strategy is to optimise your website for every location you cover, including:
Local keywords should be used throughout your content, optimising for local SEO success. This includes adding your location to each keyword. An example would be “Best SEO Agency London,” or “Top SEO company Mayfair.” When you add your location to your keywords, you increase the chances of appearing in local search results.
Add your chosen keyword and location into the title tag and meta description for best results. Remember to keep your title tags and meta descriptions clear and concise. Aim for between fifty and sixty characters for title tags and up to one hundred and sixty characters for your meta descriptions. These must be added to every web page you create.
Do not ignore the importance of claiming or creating your Google Business Profile. This is a valuable asset when it comes to your local SEO strategy. It helps to boost visibility in local results, along with Google Maps.
Local citations are online references to your business that includes your NAP information. These are important for local SEO in the UK. Search engines want to see your details listed across numerous platforms and directories, verifying you are a legitimate and active business. Ensure you maintain consistency with each citation, especially when it comes to your NAP details.
Backlinks are important to local SEO. You need to acquire high quality links from authoritative domains in your area. Sources can come from other local businesses, news publishers, local authorities, local charities, tourism websites, directory listings, and bloggers, for example.
The majority of online customers will rely on online reviews when searching for a local business. Local searches have high purchasing intent, therefore customers want to choose a business with confidence. You don't need perfect five star reviews, but you do need to take the time to respond to each review, whether they are good or bad. Reviews should be responded to in a professional manner, while bad reviews should try and fix the problem, showing you appreciate your clients feedback and are focused on improving your customer service and satisfaction.
Following the above local SEO check-list will get you on the road to success. Of course, with any SEO strategy, your local SEO strategy will need constant monitoring, reporting, and adjusting, keeping it fresh, current, and effective. If you are not achieving the results you deserve with local SEO, get in touch with the Genie Crawl today and see how we can help you gain the competitive edge you deserve.
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