How Leicestershire Businesses Can Use Local SEO

As a local business, you’re well aware of the increasing importance of online visibility in the modern marketplace. Customers now use search engines, such as Google, more than ever when researching where to spend their money. 

It’s not enough to just have a website – without actively promoting it, you wont get any visitors and therefore no customers. While huge national companies may have the budget to outspend you on advertising, one area where smaller businesses can get ahead is using local SEO.

By focusing on local SEO strategies into your marketing efforts, you can reach customers right in your area and ensure your business stands out in the crowded digital marketplace. 

What is Local SEO?

Local SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is a targeted approach to optimizing your business’s online presence for a specific geographic area.

Local SEO focuses on promoting your products or services to local prospects and customers, and it can be an essential part of your overall digital marketing strategy.

The Importance of Local SEO

Why is local SEO so important? Consider these statistics:

• 81% of people conduct online research before making a purchase 
• 46% of all Google searches are looking for local information.

Your local customers are already searching for the products and services you offer. Local SEO helps them find you more easily. 

By utilizing local SEO strategies, your business can connect with customers in Leicestershire and the surrounding area, driving foot traffic to your website and boosting your revenue or lead generation. 

Strategies for Effective Local SEO

• Google My Business: First and foremost, claim and verify your Google My Business (GMB) listing. Ensure that your listing includes accurate information such as your business name, address, and phone number. Regularly update your GMB with posts, photos, and events to engage with customers.
  
  Also allow customers can contact you through the messaging service – an instant question & reply can lead to a prospective customer converting over one who has to wait 3-5 days for a reply via a contact form.
  
• Local Citations: A local citation is an online mention of your business name, address, and phone number. Ensure that your business information is consistently listed on popular local directories such as Yelp, Foursquare, and Yellow Pages.
  
• On-Page Optimization: Use locally relevant keywords in your website content, meta tags, and URLs. This includes the names of towns or cities where you operate.
  
  Additionally, optimize your website for mobile devices, as many local searches occur on smartphones.
  
• Create Local Content: Publish blog posts and articles that address the needs and interests of your local audience. This could include information about local events, community news, or resources related to your industry.
  
• Local Backlinks: Build backlinks from other reputable local businesses and organizations. Partner with local chambers of commerce, schools, or charities to build links and sponsor local events.
  
• Online Reviews: Reviews are a huge trigger to purchase – encourage your customers to leave positive reviews on Google and other platforms. Respond to reviews, both positive and negative, and showcase testimonials on your website.
  
• Use Social Media: Utilize social media platforms to engage with your local audience. Share local content, participate in local conversations, and promote local events.

By implementing these local SEO strategies, your local business can improve its online visibility and connect with local customers more effectively.

Full Gas Digital is committed to helping Leicestershire businesses grow and succeed in the digital marketplace. We offer comprehensive digital marketing and web design services tailored to your unique needs and goals. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your business reach new heights.