Local SEO has gone through a lot of changes over the last few years. As Google has continued to test different approaches to local search results, countless business owners have been left wondering what they need to do for their website to show up higher in Google.

Because Google’s algorithm has so many different factors, there’s not just one answer to that question. Instead, improving rankings for targeted local searches requires a variety of strategic elements. That’s why we compiled the checklist below.

Based on the latest factors that Google is placing the most weight on, here are the most important elements of local SEO for small businesses:

1. Consistent NAP Details on Every Page

One of the reasons Google has made so many changes to their local search results is they were having a lot of issues with spam. Since Google wants to ensure that these types of search results are populated with real businesses, your website needs to make that clear. The cornerstone of showing that you have a real business with a physical location is to include a consistent name, address, and phone number (NAP) on every page of your website. By including these details in a spot like your site’s footer, you can give Google some of the information needed to confirm that you have a legitimate business.

2. Relevant Citations

Reputable online directories and similar sources are another way Google confirms that a business is real. That’s why your business needs to get listed with its correct NAP information. Even if a directory doesn’t link to your website, Google will still put weight on the fact that your NAP details are listed.

3. Website Loads Fast on All Devices

Google wants its users to find what they need as quickly as possible. How fast a website loads and its mobile compatibility across different devices are factors that affect this goal. Ensuring that your business website is optimized to load quickly on all screen sizes and mobile devices is essential for finding success with local SEO.

4. Regularly Publish New Content

The local search results Google provides are more targeted than ever before. Sites that regularly publish new content in the form of blog posts are much more likely to show up at the top of those types of results than a site with only a few pages of content.

Get Professional Help with Local SEO Optimization

Finding success with local SEO can take some very serious effort. If you’re concerned that your business doesn’t have the resources to make this channel a priority, you can still get the results you want by hiring a local SEO service.

Recently named as one of the top SEO 15 companies in the U.S. Web Strategy Plus is a one-stop-shop, handling everything from SEO to website development to social media management to Google ads. Our team is ready to optimize your website so you can make more sales. Contact us for your free consultation today!