Do you want to drive foot traffic to your local business? Then you need to start using local SEO. This strategy is the process of optimizing your online presence to increase local traffic, visibility and brand awareness. 

In order to have a successful local SEO strategy, you need to first do local keyword research. 

If you are a local business looking to enhance your online presence and attract nearby customers, this guide our Denver SEO expert created will show you the ropes of local keyword research and how it can significantly impact your SEO efforts.

Understanding the importance of local SEO

When it comes to attracting local customers, optimizing your online presence is key. Local SEO is the practice of doing just that by optimizing your website, Google Maps listing and business directories to increase visibility. This is especially important for businesses that rely on foot traffic, such as restaurants, retail stores and service providers like dentists and lawyers. By implementing local SEO strategies, you can appear prominently in local search results, making it easier for potential customers to find you.

Local keyword research explained:

Local keyword research involves identifying and targeting keywords specific to your location. These keywords typically include geographic terms like city names, neighborhoods, ZIP codes and even colloquial phrases locals use to search for products or services. By integrating these keywords into your website content, you signal to search engines that your business is relevant to local searchers.

Steps to conduct local keyword research

Identify core keywords

Begin by identifying core keywords related to your business. These are general terms that describe your products or services, such as “Italian restaurant” or “plumbing services.”

Add location modifiers

Next, add location modifiers to your core keywords. These modifiers can include the name of your city, town or neighborhood. For example, “Italian restaurant in New York City” or “plumbing services in [Your Town].”

Utilize keyword research tools

Leverage keyword research tools like Google Keyword Planner, Moz's Keyword Explorer or SEMrush. These tools can help you discover related keywords and assess their search volumes and competition levels.

Explore long-tail keywords

Long-tail keywords are longer, more specific phrases that often yield better results for local SEO. For instance, “best Italian restaurant in Brooklyn, NY” is more targeted than a generic keyword and can attract users who are closer to making a purchase decision.

Analyze competitor keywords

Investigate your local competitors and identify the keywords they are targeting successfully. This can provide valuable insights into what keywords are relevant in your industry and location.

Optimize your Google Business Profile

Claim and optimize your Google Business Profile listing. Ensure that your business name, address, phone number (NAP) and categories are accurate and consistent with your website and other online listings.

Incorporating local keywords into your strategy

Once you've identified relevant local keywords, it's essential to incorporate them strategically:

On-page optimization

Integrate local keywords into your website's content, including headings, titles, meta descriptions and body text. Be natural and avoid keyword stuffing, as it can harm your rankings.

Create location-specific landing pages

If your business serves multiple locations, consider creating separate landing pages for each. This allows you to tailor content and keywords to specific areas.

Google Business Profile

As mentioned earlier, optimize your Google Business Profile by listing accurate NAP information, business hours, photos and reviews. Encourage satisfied customers to leave reviews, as positive reviews can improve your local rankings.

Local citations

Ensure that your NAP information is consistent across all online directories, social media profiles and your website. This consistency reinforces your business's credibility and authority in local searches.

Mobile optimization

Given the prevalence of mobile search, ensure that your website is mobile-friendly. Google favors mobile-responsive websites in local search results.

Local link building

Build relationships with local businesses and websites for potential backlinks. Local links from reputable sources can boost your local SEO efforts.

Monitor and adjust

Regularly monitor your local rankings and website traffic. Use tools like Google Analytics and Google Search Console to gain insights into your performance and make necessary adjustments.

Hire a Denver SEO expert to help you conduct local keyword research!

In conclusion, local keyword research is a fundamental aspect of local SEO that can significantly impact your business's online visibility and success. If you need assistance with your local SEO, hire Denver Media Group. Contact us to get started!