What is Local SEO and How to Optimize Your Profile

SEO

Oct 23

TL;DR

Local SEO helps potential clients in your area find you online, and it’s easier than you think! This guide shows how to boost your business visibility through Google My Business.

Imagine someone in your area searching for services you offer, but instead of finding you, they’re discovering your competitors. According to Consumer Behavior Index (CBI) research found that 80% of U.S. consumers search for local businesses weekly, and 32% do so daily. In another study by Sagapixel, 46% of all Google searches have local intent .

This means nearly half of all Google searches are people looking for local businesses!

Local SEO helps make sure your business shows up in those search results. And the best part? Even if you’re not tech-savvy, it’s easy to do. Let’s go!

What is Local SEO?

Think of local SEO as the tool that helps your website show up in search results for people near you — it’s the neon sign in the online world saying, "Hey, I’m here, and I can help!"

So what does local SEO include?

Location-specific keywords (e.g., "wellness coaching in [your city]")

Google Business Profile optimization
Accurate business listings across the web

By optimizing these, you’ll increase the chances that potential clients in your area find you when they search online.

Easy Steps to Improve Local SEO

Step 1: Optimize Your Google Business Profile

Setting up or updating your Google Business Profile is an imperative step in boosting your local SEO. It lets Google know where you’re located and what services you provide. Make sure your address, business hours, and phone number are up to date. Add relevant keywords to your business description and services.

For example: If you host retreats in Boulder, CO, your profile might say, “Yoga and wellness retreats in Boulder, specializing in stress relief and relaxation.”

Step 2: Use Local Keywords on Your Website

Now that your Google Business Profile is ready, focus on your website. Add location-specific keywords to your site’s content. For example, if you're a yoga instructor in Miami, you might include phrases like "Miami yoga classes" on your home page, services page, and blog.

Tip: Keep your keywords natural. It should sound like you’re talking to a person, not a search engine!

Step 3: Make Sure Your NAP is Consistent

NAP stands for Name, Address, and Phone number. It’s important that these details are consistent everywhere they appear online—from your website to your Google Business Profile and even Yelp or other directories. Search engines love consistency.

Include Clear Call-to-Actions (CTAs)

When visitors come to your website, guide them with clear next steps. Add strong call-to-actions that encourage engagement, like "Book a free consultation" or "Find out more about my services."

In conclusion, boosting your local SEO can seem daunting, but it’s actually pretty simple when broken down into easy steps. With a little time and effort, you can ensure your website is reaching the right people—your local community—who are searching for services like yours. Remember, good SEO is like good wellness—it takes time and consistency to see the results, but the rewards are well worth it.