Local SEO is crucial for local businesses looking to attract customers in their vicinity. To achieve success in local search, businesses need to focus on local keyword research. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll discuss how to conduct local SEO keyword research to find the right keywords for your business and improve your visibility in search results.
Understanding Local Keywords
What are local keywords?
Local keywords are search terms that include location-specific information. They help local businesses target customers searching for local products and services. Keywords can be explicit (e.g., “pizza delivery in New York”) or implicit (e.g., “pizza delivery” when the searcher is located in New York).
Importance of Conducting Local Keyword Research
Keyword research helps you understand the search terms people use when looking for local products and services in your area. By targeting the right keywords, you can optimize your website for local results and attract potential customers who are searching for businesses like yours. Some reasons why keyword research is important include:
- increased web visibility
- improved web rankings
- Higher local traffic
- Better conversion rates
The Difference Between Explicit and Implicit Local Keywords
Explicit local keywords contain specific location information, such as city or neighborhood names. Implicit local keywords do not explicitly mention a location but have local intent. Both types of keywords are crucial for a successful SEO strategy.
Local Keyword Research Basic Steps to Follow
Step 1: Begin with Google’s Local Search
Google’s search results can provide valuable insights into keywords that people use when looking for local products and services. Type your target keyword into Google and analyze the local pack (the top three local results) and local results to find related keywords and phrases.
Step 2: Utilize Keyword Research Tools
Utilize online keywords research tools like Moz, Google Keyword Planner, AHREFS, or SEMrush to find keywords with high search volume and low keyword difficulty. These tools can help you identify relevant keywords, search volume, competition, and keyword modifiers that can improve your SEO efforts.
Step 3: Analyze Competitors’ Local Keywords
Study your competitors’ websites and online listings to identify the keywords they are targeting. This will help you understand the keyword landscape and discover additional keywords to target in your strategy.
Step 4: Create a List of Local Keywords
Compile a list of keywords, including both explicit and implicit local keywords. Make sure to include long-tail keywords, as they often have lower competition and higher conversion rates. The list should be comprehensive and cover all aspects of your product or service.
Tips for Finding the Best Local Keywords
- Focus on search terms with local intent: Look for keywords that people search for when looking for local products and services. These often include location-based terms or phrases like “near me” or “in [city].”
- Analyze your competition: Research your competitors’ websites and analyze their keyword targeting to identify potential keyword opportunities for your business.
- Consider search volume and keyword difficulty: Target keywords with high search volume and low keyword difficulty to improve your chances of ranking.
- Look for long-tail keywords: Long-tail keywords can have lower search volume but higher conversion rates, making them valuable targets for your strategy.
Website Optimization For Local Keywords.
- Incorporate local keywords in your content: Use the keywords you find to create high-quality, locally-focused content. Be careful not to overuse keywords, as keyword stuffing can negatively impact your rankings. Aim for a natural use of keywords within the content, including titles, headings, and meta descriptions.
- Optimizing your Google Business Profile: Ensure your Google Business Profile is complete and up-to-date, using the relevant keywords in your business description and services section. This will help improve your visibility in the local pack and search results.
- Include local keywords in your URL, title tags, and meta descriptions: Optimize your website’s URL structure, title tags, and meta descriptions with keywords to help search engines understand the geographical relevance of your content and improve your SEO rankings.
Monitor and Track Local Keyword Rankings
- Use SEO tools to track your rankings: Use SEO tools like Moz, SEMrush, or Ahrefs to track your keyword rankings and monitor your progress over time. This will help you filter which keywords are driving more traffic and conversions and adjust your strategy accordingly.
- Continuously update and refine your local keyword research: Local keyword research is a continuous process. As your business evolves and local search trends change, you need to regularly update and refine your keyword research to stay ahead of your competition. Keep an eye on new keywords, emerging trends, and changes in search volume to adapt your strategy accordingly.
Bonus Tips for Effective Local SEO Keyword Research
- Consider seasonal and event-based keywords: Seasonal and event-based keywords can drive additional local traffic during specific periods. Identify these keywords and create targeted content to capitalize on these opportunities.
- Use local reviews and testimonials for keyword ideas: Analyze customer reviews and testimonials to identify keywords and phrases that real customers use when describing your products or services. This can help you create more authentic and user-focused content.
- Don’t neglect voice search: As voice search becomes more popular, consider optimizing your keywords for voice search queries. Voice search queries are often longer and more conversational, so make sure to include natural-sounding, long-tail keywords in your strategy.
Final Thoughts
Conducting effective keyword research is essential for businesses looking to improve their visibility in local search results and attract more local customers. By following this step-by-step guide and using the right tools and techniques, you can identify and target the right keywords to boost your local SEO performance and stay ahead of your competition. You can buy our local SEO services here!
Need Help?
If you are looking to improve your local search engine rankings and increase visibility for your business online, Bywex offers expert local SEO services to help you achieve just that!
We understand the unique challenges and opportunities of local search, and we know what it takes to get your business noticed in your target market. We’ll work with you to develop a customized strategy that aligns with your business goals and targets the right audience in your area.
At Bywex, we’re committed to delivering results that drive real business growth. That’s why we use proven tactics and cutting-edge technology to help you outrank your competitors and attract more local customers.
