Local search is a vital part of the online marketing landscape. In fact, according to a recent study by Local Search Association, 97% of consumers use online search to find local businesses.
As a result, it’s more important than ever for businesses to optimize their websites and online presence for local search. But what are the most important factors that Google considers when ranking local businesses?
A recent survey by Whitespark, a leading local SEO company, provides some insights into the most important local search ranking factors in 2023.
Google Business Profile Signals
Google Business Profile (GBP) signals are by far the most important factor for local search ranking. This includes factors such as the completeness and accuracy of your GBP profile, the number and quality of reviews, and your proximity to the searcher.
On-Page Signals
On-page signals are also important for local search ranking. These include factors such as the use of relevant keywords throughout your website, the presence of a dedicated local landing page, and the number and quality of backlinks from other websites.
Review Signals
Review signals are also becoming increasingly important for local search ranking. This is because Google is increasingly using reviews to help users make informed decisions about which businesses to patronize.
Link Signals
Link signals are still important for local search ranking, but their importance has declined in recent years. This is because Google has become more sophisticated in its ability to assess the quality of a website’s content and backlinks.
Behavioral Signals
Behavioral signals are also becoming increasingly important for local search ranking. These include factors such as click-through rate, dwell time, and calls to action.
Citation Signals
Citation signals are still important for local search ranking, but their importance has declined in recent years. This is because Google is increasingly relying on other signals, such as GBP signals and on-page signals, to rank local businesses.
Personalization
Personalization is also becoming increasingly important for local search ranking. This is because Google is increasingly using factors such as search history, location, and device to personalize search results.
Conclusion
The 2023 Whitespark survey provides valuable insights into the most important local search ranking factors. By optimizing your website and online presence for these factors, you can improve your chances of ranking high in local search results.
Here are some additional tips for improving your local search ranking:
- Claim and verify your Google Business Profile.
- Complete and optimize your Google Business Profile.
- Get positive reviews from your customers.
- Optimize your website for local search.
- Build backlinks to your website from other local businesses.
- Track your local search ranking.
By following these tips, you can improve your visibility in local search results and attract more customers to your business.
Read more blog: Why Hire Australian SEO Company For Local SEO?