FAQ

Local SEO FAQ

1. What is local SEO?

Local SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is the process of optimizing your online presence to attract more business from local searches on Google and other search engines. These include searches with geographic qualifiers like “near me,” “in [city],” or “[service] + [location].”

2. Why is local SEO important for my business?

If you serve customers in a specific area, local SEO helps you get found by nearby potential customers actively looking for your services. It increases your visibility on Google Maps, local search results, and mobile searches.

3. How does Google determine local rankings?

Google uses three main factors for local rankings:

• Relevance: How well your business matches what someone is searching for.
  
  

• Distance: How close your business is to the searcher’s location.
  
  

• Prominence: How well-known your business is, based on online reviews, directory listings, and overall presence.
  
  

4. What is a Google Business Profile and why do I need one?

Your Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business) is a free listing that lets you show up in local searches and on Google Maps. It's one of the most important tools for local SEO, allowing you to showcase your services, business hours, reviews, photos, and more.

5. How do online reviews affect my local SEO?

Positive reviews help build trust and improve your visibility in local search results. Google considers the quantity, quality, and frequency of your reviews when ranking local businesses.

6. Do I need a website for local SEO?

Yes. A website gives Google more information about your business and services, helping you rank for relevant local keywords. It also gives potential customers a place to learn more about you and take action (like calling or booking).

7. What keywords should I target for local SEO?

You should target keywords that include your services and your location. For example: “plumber in Charleston SC” or “emergency AC repair near me.” These are the terms your ideal customers are searching for.

8. How long does it take to see results from local SEO?

Local SEO is a long-term strategy. You may start seeing improvement in visibility within a few weeks, but meaningful results like increased traffic and leads can take 3–6 months depending on competition and consistency.

9. What’s the difference between local SEO and traditional SEO?

Traditional SEO focuses on ranking nationally or globally, while local SEO focuses on visibility within a specific geographic area. Local SEO emphasizes Google Maps, local listings, and location-based keywords.

10. Can I do local SEO on my own or should I hire someone?

You can do basic local SEO yourself—like setting up a Google Business Profile and asking for reviews—but for best results, many businesses hire an expert to handle the technical, on-site, and ongoing strategy needed for real growth.

11. What are local citations and do they matter?

Local citations are online mentions of your business name, address, and phone number (NAP), like in directories (Yelp, YellowPages, etc.). Consistent and accurate citations help boost your credibility with Google and improve local rankings.

12. Is social media important for local SEO?

Indirectly, yes. While social media activity isn’t a direct ranking factor, it helps with brand awareness, engagement, and sharing your content, which can boost your local visibility and trustworthiness.

13. What should I include on my website for local SEO?

Include:

• Your location and service area
  
  

• Local keywords in titles and content
  
  

• NAP (Name, Address, Phone) on every page
  
  

• Clear calls to action (like “Call now” or “Schedule an appointment”)
  
  

• Customer testimonials and local reviews
  
  

14. How can I track my local SEO performance?

Use tools like:

• Google Search Console for website performance
  
  

• Google Analytics for traffic data
  
  

• Google Business Profile Insights for local search visibility