Get Found Locally

If you've spent any time in the Finger Lakes, you know how much we take pride in being "local".  Whether it's a small cafe in Canandaigua, a winery overlooking Seneca Lake, or a boutique on the Ithaca commons, people here love supporting their neighbors - if they can find them.

That's where applying local SEO can help.

What is Local SEO?

Local SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, helps your business show up when someone searches for products in the area.  For example, "Coffee near Geneva", "Auto repairs in Newark", or "Best Restaurants in Penn Yan".

You want to make sure Google knows who you are, what you do, and, importantly, where you are.

Why does this Matter?

Nearly 50% of Google searches have local intent. Meaning, if someone in Auburn is searching, they're not looking for the big brands, they're looking for you. 

If you're not seen online, potential customers will go to your competitors instead.

How to apply Local SEO

Here's how to make sure your business shows up when and where it matters.

• Claim your Google Business Profile
• Make sure your business contact info is correct (name, address, hours, phone, website)
• Upload photos of your team, your store, your products
• Make sure your info is consistent across all platforms
• Get Reviews, and Respond
• Encourage happy customers to leave reviews.  Reviews build trust and increase your rankings.
• Respond to all reviews, especially the negative ones.  A simple thank you for good reviews and "how can we make this better" to negative reviews shows you care about your customers experience.
• Use Local keywords
• Including phrases like "[your product] in the heart of Waterloo" or "the top [your service] in the Finger Lakes" in your website, social posts, and other places online will help get you noticed in search.
• Get Your Business Listed in Local Directories
• Yelp, YP.com, your local Chamber of Commerce, TripAdvisor(if applicable), and any localized business directories.
• Create Local Content
• Post about community events, sponsorships, or customer stories.  SEO loves new, local, and relevant content.

Use Your Local Edge

Big national brands can't compete with your knowledge of your neighborhood, your customers, and what makes the Finger Lakes special.  Local SEO helps you amplify that online.

If you invest just a little time in your visibility, you'll be surprised how quickly new customers can find you.

Want a little help getting rolling?  Grab a slot on my calendar or email me at aaron@flworkplace.com to start the conversation.

Cheers!

Aaron