SEO hacks: simple steps to rank higher on Google

Local SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) is key for small businesses that rely on nearby customers, like restaurants, shops, service providers, and local tradespeople. Getting your business to show up higher in local search results can drive more traffic to your website, increase footfall, and boost brand visibility.

The good news is that there are a few easy things you can do to improve your local SEO, even if you’re not a marketing expert.

Here’s a simple guide to improving your local search rankings:

1. Claim and optimise your Google Business Profile

One of the most important steps in local SEO is making sure your Google Business Profile (previously Google My Business) is fully set up. When someone searches for your business or services in your area, this profile is what shows up in search results and on Google Maps.

• Claim your listing: if you haven’t already, claim or create your profile.
• Fill out all details: add your business name, address, phone number (NAP), website, opening hours, and a short description. Use keywords naturally to help your profile show up in searches.
• Pick the right categories: choose categories that best reflect your business. This helps Google match you with relevant searchers.
• Add photos and videos: high-quality images of your business, products, or services attract more clicks.
• Encourage reviews: positive reviews build trust and improve rankings. Ask happy customers to leave a review and make it easy by providing a link.
• Respond to reviews: reply to all reviews, good and bad. It shows you’re active and care about customer feedback.

2. Make sure your NAP is consistent

NAP stands for Name, Address, and Phone number. This information needs to be the same everywhere online—Google, Yelp, Facebook, and any other directories you’re listed on. If it’s inconsistent, Google could think your business isn’t legitimate, which can hurt your rankings.

• Check your listings: use free tools like Moz Local to check for any discrepancies.
• Update inaccuracies: fix any differences in your business name, address, or phone number so everything matches.

3. Use local keywords

Local keywords include your location and what you offer. For example, “Balham bakery” or “best plumber in Hove.” Including these keywords on your website helps your business appear in local search results.

• Add local keywords to key pages: use location-specific keywords on your homepage, product pages, and in blog posts. Focus on areas like:
  • Page titles and meta descriptions
  • Headings
  • Body text
  • Image alt tags
  • URLs
• Create pages for each location: if you have multiple locations, create a separate page for each. Include the location in the URL and content.
• Target “Near Me” searches: many people search for businesses using phrases like “coffee shop near me.” Try to incorporate these terms naturally.

4. Get listed in local directories

Being listed in trusted directories helps build credibility and sends positive signals to Google. The more consistent and accurate your listings, the better for your local SEO.

• Submit to high-authority directories: make sure you’re listed on popular directories like Yelp, Yellow Pages, and TripAdvisor.
• Use niche directories: if you’re in a specific industry, look for niche sites. For example, OpenTable for restaurants or Next Door Fitness for gyms.

5. Create locally relevant content

Fresh, high-quality content can help you rank for local keywords and engage your audience.

• Write local blog posts: create content about local events or topics related to your industry. For example, a cafe could blog about food festivals in the area.
• Mention local partnerships: if you partner with local businesses or sponsor events, highlight this on your website.
• Create “Best of” lists: share posts like “Best Cafes in Wandsworth” or “Top 5 walks around Clapham.” These are highly shareable and rank well in searches.

6. Optimise for mobile

More than half of searches happen on mobile devices, especially local searches. Google prioritises mobile-friendly websites, so make sure your site is optimised.

• Responsive design: your website should adapt to different screen sizes, whether it’s a desktop, tablet, or smartphone.
• Improve page speed: use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights to check your site’s speed and make improvements.
• Add click-to-call buttons: make it easy for mobile users to contact you directly.

7. Build local backlinks

Backlinks from other websites are important for SEO, and getting links from local sites is even better.

• Reach out to local blogs or news Sites: offer to contribute a guest post or sponsor local events to earn a backlink.
• Work with local influencers: local influencers can help promote your business through mentions and links.

8. Encourage reviews across platforms

Good reviews don’t just attract new customers—they also boost your search rankings.

• Ask for reviews: after a purchase or service, politely ask customers to leave feedback on Google or other review platforms.
• Respond to reviews: engage with all reviews, whether they’re positive or negative. It shows you care about your customers’ experiences.