If you want your local business to show up when people search “near me,” you need Local SEO — no tech degree required. Here’s the simple roadmap to get you found by the right people, at the right time, in the right place.
Step 1: Claim Your Google Business Profile (GBP)
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Go to google.com/business and claim your listing.
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Add your name, address, phone number (NAP), hours, website, and photos.
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Post updates and respond to reviews regularly.
Step 2: Use Local Keywords Everywhere
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Think like your customers: “pizza delivery in Springfield” not just “pizza.”
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Put your city or area in headlines, page titles, and descriptions naturally.
Step 3: Optimize Your Website for Mobile & Speed
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Mobile-friendly sites rank better and convert faster.
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Use tools like Google PageSpeed Insights to get under 3 seconds load time.
Step 4: Build Location Pages (If Needed)
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If you serve multiple towns, create a unique page for each.
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Include specific services, local photos, and maps for that area.
Step 5: Collect & Showcase Reviews
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Ask happy customers for Google reviews.
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Display them prominently on your site — trust drives clicks.
Step 6: Create Local Content
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Blog about community events, tips for locals, or case studies of local customers.
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Google loves fresh, relevant content.
Step 7: Get Local Backlinks
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Partner with local news sites, charities, or events to get mentioned (and linked).
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Even a link from your local chamber of commerce can help.
Step 8: Keep Your NAP Consistent Everywhere
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Your name, address, and phone number should match across your website, GBP, directories, and social media.
Step 9: Track & Adjust
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Use Google Analytics and Google Search Console to see what’s working.
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Double down on what brings in calls and clicks.
Bottom line: Local SEO isn’t about magic tricks — it’s about showing Google (and your customers) that you’re the most relevant, trusted choice in your area. Follow these steps, and you’ll start climbing the local rankings faster than you think.