Consumers turn to search engines every day for help finding products and services. Using search engine optimization services it’s possible to reach these people for the most relevant searches. However, the strategy to capture a customer searching for a local business differs significantly from working to be found in a more general search. Understanding the distinction between local SEO and traditional SEO is key to reaching the right audience at the right time.
How Local SEO Differs From Traditional SEO
While local and traditional SEO share similarities, they both require a unique approach in strategy and execution. Everything will vary based on your optimization goals – from the techniques used to secure rankings to where the listings appear on the search results page.
Target Audience
In recent years Google has focused on delivering more local results where it makes sense for the search query, and it’s not only when a searcher adds a location modifier. Google also uses a person’s geographic location and adapts the results to suggest hyperlocal businesses where it suits the query. In practice, this means your digital agency may need to change the SEO approach depending on whether Google determines your target keywords to have local search intent.
On-Page Optimization
Many SEO best practices (such as title tags, meta descriptions, internal linking and fast loading pages) are relevant for local and traditional SEO. However, to integrate local SEO into a website requires additional elements. Predominantly, your pages should include location-specific terms like city names within the title, H2 tag and main content.
Content and Keywords
While traditional SEO prioritizes evergreen content that demonstrates expertise, local SEO must include geographically relevant content as well. For example, city pages – locally optimized website landing pages – can capture audiences in your location and surrounding cities. This approach to local SEO is important to businesses as it lets them compete with large but less targeted brands.
Business Listings and Backlinks
Possibly the biggest difference between traditional and local SEO is the need for business listing management. To achieve significant local rankings your business will need a Google Business Profile (GBP) and citations across the major platforms. While traditional SEO relies on high-quality, authoritative backlinks for rankings, local SEO is more dependent on consistent name, address and phone number (NAP) information and a positive brand reputation.
Local Pack vs. Organic Results
The prime Google search position in traditional SEO is the top organic listing. In contrast, local searchers will usually see a Local Pack listing first. High-quality local SEO services dedicate a substantial amount of time to managing and optimizing the GBP for a prominent position in the Local Pack, Google Maps and the Local Finder, whereas the traditional approach focuses on keyword optimization, backlinks and on-page techniques.
Contact Us for Results-Driven Local SEO Services for Businesses
Rocks Digital is a leading digital agency providing SEO services for businesses across the country. We can increase your search visibility with local SEO strategies, listing management, content marketing and more. Call (214) 989-7549 or request a website evaluation.
