Local SEO Strategies for Better Online Visibility. (You can do these, Yes You!)

If you run a local business and want to be found online, local SEO isn’t optional—it’s essential. Whether you’re a contractor, boutique owner, or local service provider, showing up in search results when people are looking for what you offer can be the difference between a slow season and a booked-out schedule.

In this article, we’ll walk through clear, actionable local SEO strategies that help you rank higher, get more visibility, and bring more customers through your door.

What is Local SEO and Why Does It Matter?

Local SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is all about helping your business show up when people in your area search for your services. That includes optimizing your website, using the right keywords, showing up on Google Maps, and managing your reputation online.

Here’s a stat worth thinking about: 76% of people who search for something local visit a business within 24 hours. That means if you’re not showing up, you’re missing out on real business. The good news? With a few smart moves, you can improve your local rankings and start seeing results.

Charming local Utah shopping street

Step 1: Optimize Your Google Business Profile (GBP)

Your Google Business Profile (formerly known as Google My Business) is one of the most powerful tools for local SEO. It helps you show up in the map pack, on mobile searches, and when people are looking for businesses like yours nearby.

Here’s how to get it working for you:

• Claim and Verify your business (if you haven’t already). This builds trust with Google.

• Fill out all your info—name, address, phone number, website, hours, and business category. Use local keywords where it makes sense (e.g., “Ogden deck builder”).

• Add quality photos of your space, team, and work. Photos help listings get more clicks.

• Get reviews—and respond to them. Ask happy customers to leave reviews and always reply (even to the tough ones).

• Keep it updated. If your hours change or you’re offering new services, update your profile.

Clear business sign telling people when you are open

Step 2: Use Smart Local Keywords

The best strategy for local SEO starts with using the right keywords—terms your customers are actually typing into Google.

Here’s how to do it:

• Use tools like Google Keyword Planner or Ubersuggest to find high-volume local keywords like “plumber in Layton” or “best pizza Ogden.”

• Add those keywords to your homepage, service pages, meta descriptions, title tags, and even blog posts.

• If you serve multiple cities, create location-specific pages. That gives each area a chance to rank.

• Make sure your URLs, image alt text, and page headers reflect your location and services too.

It’s not about stuffing keywords—it’s about weaving them in naturally so search engines (and your customers) know what you do and where you do it.

Step 3: Optimize Your Website for Local Search

Your website is your foundation. If it’s slow, hard to navigate, or not mobile-friendly, it’ll hurt your rankings—and your conversions. We teach and build LaunchScape™ websites which are designed to decrease the friction so more visitors will do business with you. Read more here.

Here’s what to focus on:

• Mobile-First Design – Most local searches happen on phones. Make sure your site loads fast and looks great on all screen sizes.

• Create Local Content – Write blog posts or add sections about local events, partnerships, or industry news. This helps build authority and local relevance.

• Use Local Schema Markup – Add structured data that tells Google about your business: your services, location, hours, and more. This can boost visibility in rich search results.

• Build Local Backlinks – Get links from local newspapers, chambers of commerce, blogs, or community partners. Google sees these as trust signals.

Bustling urban intersection showcasing local businesses and community activity.

Step 4: Leverage Reviews and Build a Solid Reputation

Customer reviews are one of the top ranking factors for local businesses—and they directly influence buying decisions. Here’s how to make them work for you:

• Ask for reviews regularly – After a job or sale, follow up with a thank-you and a review request.

• Respond to every review – Positive or negative, a thoughtful response shows you care and builds credibility.

• Use review management tools if you have a lot to monitor (or hire a marketing partner to help).

• Highlight your best reviews on your website, in your emails, and even in paid ads. Social proof sells.

Step 5: Use Social Media to Strengthen Local Reach

Social media isn’t just for engagement—it helps with local SEO too.

Here’s how to use it strategically:

• Share local content – Post about neighborhood events, partnerships, and community stories. Use local hashtags to increase visibility.

• Engage actively – Comment, reply, and have conversations with your followers. Platforms like Facebook and Instagram reward engagement.

• Run local ads – Target specific ZIP codes or areas to reach your ideal customers.

• Partner with local influencers or businesses to cross-promote and expand your reach.

Lively cityscape filled with diverse local businesses and eateries.

Local SEO isn’t a one-and-done task—it’s a long game. But when done right, it builds a steady stream of organic leads and helps you dominate your local market.

Here’s a quick recap of Local SEO Strategies:

• Claim and optimize your Google Business Profile

• Use smart local keywords

• Keep your website optimized and up to speed

• Build and manage your online reputation

• Use social media as part of your strategy

Start small, stay consistent, and keep your focus on your customer. That’s how you grow in today’s local search landscape.

Need help implementing these strategies? At Ryan Spelts Marketing, we specialize in local SEO for service businesses just like yours. If you’re ready to get found online, let’s talk.